Do Cava Pitas Have Gluten? A Guide for Gluten-Free Diners

While Cava's allergen guide confirms that most of their menu items are free from major allergens, it's crucial for those with dietary restrictions to know which specific items contain gluten. So, do Cava pitas have gluten? The definitive answer is yes, they are not a gluten-free option.

Quick Summary

Cava's pitas, falafel, and pita crisps contain gluten and are not suitable for gluten-free diets. The restaurant offers numerous gluten-free bowls and sides, but cross-contamination is possible.

Key Points

• Pitas Contain Gluten: Cava's standard pitas, along with the falafel and pita crisps, are not gluten-free and contain wheat.

• Extensive Gluten-Free Menu: Many other menu items, including bases like salads and grain bowls, dips, and most proteins and toppings, are gluten-free.

• Cross-Contamination Risk: The kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, so cross-contamination is a possibility, especially during peak hours.

• Communicate with Staff: Inform Cava staff about your gluten allergy so they can change gloves and use fresh utensils to minimize risk.

• Avoid Gluten Items: Steer clear of the pita, pita crisps, and falafel, and stick to the bowl options for the safest experience.

• Check Grocery Products: Some packaged Cava products sold in stores are certified gluten-free, but always verify the label.

The Short Answer: Cava Pitas Are Not Gluten-Free

For anyone with celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or simply following a gluten-free lifestyle, the standard pita bread at Cava is off-limits. Pita bread is traditionally made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. This also applies to the pita crisps and falafel, which are fried and contain gluten. While this might be disappointing for those who love the traditional wrap, Cava offers an extensive menu full of delicious and naturally gluten-free alternatives.

Navigating the Gluten-Free Options at Cava

Instead of a pita, you can build a customizable and flavorful meal using Cava's gluten-free bases. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, allowing for a creative and satisfying dining experience. When placing your order, always inform the staff that you have a gluten allergy so they can take extra precautions against cross-contamination. The restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free bases, dips, proteins (excluding falafel and meatballs), and toppings.

The Realities of Cross-Contamination

For those with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, cross-contamination is a serious concern. While many Cava locations and staff are praised for being knowledgeable and taking precautions, the restaurant is not a certified gluten-free facility. The same assembly line and utensils are used to prepare orders with and without gluten-containing items, such as pitas and falafel. Several diners with celiac disease report positive experiences where staff changed gloves and used fresh utensils upon request. However, the risk cannot be entirely eliminated, especially during busy periods. To minimize risk, you can take steps such as clearly stating your allergy, asking for glove changes and fresh utensils, and requesting your bowl be made away from the pita assembly area. Considering ordering bowls during busy times may also help.

What About Cava's Grocery Products?

It is important to differentiate between the restaurant's offerings and the packaged products sold in grocery stores. Some of Cava's grocery products, such as their traditional hummus, are certified gluten-free. However, always check the packaging for official gluten-free certification and ingredient lists, as processes and formulations can vary between products and the restaurant environment.

Gluten-Containing vs. Gluten-Free at Cava

Item Category	Contains Gluten	Gluten-Free Alternative
Bases	Pita Bread	Salad Greens, Greens & Grains Bowl, Grain Bowl
Crisps	Pita Crisps	None offered; choose fresh vegetable toppings instead
Proteins	Falafel	Grilled Chicken, Braised Beef, Braised Lamb, Roasted Vegetables
Toppings	Fried items, if any	Most fresh vegetable toppings, feta, olives, pickled onions
Dips	None known	All dips and spreads, including hummus, tzatziki, and Crazy Feta
Dressings	None known	All dressings, such as Lemon Herb Tahini and Greek Vinaigrette

Making an Informed Choice

Dining out with dietary restrictions requires diligence and communication. While Cava's pitas are not gluten-free, the wealth of other menu items means you don't have to miss out on the flavor. By building a customized bowl and communicating your needs to the staff, you can have a safe and delicious meal. For more information on Cava's official allergen policies and ingredient details, you can visit their website.

Conclusion: Enjoying Cava Safely

To summarize, the answer to 'Do Cava pitas have gluten?' is an undeniable yes. However, this fact doesn't close the door on enjoying a meal at Cava for those who must avoid gluten. The restaurant offers a wide array of gluten-free options that serve as excellent substitutes. The key is to be proactive: communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff to help mitigate the risk of cross-contamination and ensure a worry-free experience. Cava can be a great, fresh option for gluten-free diners with the right approach.

What to Order When You Can't Have the Pita

Safe options at Cava when avoiding pita include the Greens & Grains Bowl, the Salad Bowl, or custom bowls built with gluten-free bases, proteins, and toppings. Requesting extra sides like roasted vegetables can also ensure a filling meal. Remember, a delicious gluten-free Cava meal is possible with mindful choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cava pitas gluten-free?

No, Cava's standard pitas are not gluten-free. They are made with wheat flour, which contains gluten, and are not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Can I eat at Cava if I have a gluten allergy?

Yes, you can eat at Cava with a gluten allergy by choosing a bowl base (salad, greens and grains) and avoiding the pitas, pita crisps, and falafel. It is also important to inform the staff of your allergy to help prevent cross-contamination.

Are Cava bowls gluten-free?

Many of Cava's bowl components, such as the salad greens, rice, most proteins (except falafel), and toppings, are naturally gluten-free. You must ensure you choose a gluten-free base and toppings and communicate your allergy to staff to avoid cross-contamination from the pita.

Is the falafel at Cava gluten-free?

No, the falafel at Cava is not gluten-free. Like the pitas, it contains gluten and should be avoided by anyone with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.

How can I avoid cross-contamination at Cava?

To minimize cross-contamination, inform the staff that you have a gluten allergy. They are often trained to change gloves and use fresh utensils for your order. Requesting they build your bowl away from the pita station can further reduce risk.

Are Cava's dips and dressings gluten-free?

Most of Cava's dips and dressings, including hummus, tzatziki, Crazy Feta, and various vinaigrettes, are gluten-free. Always verify with the restaurant or check their official allergen guide for seasonal or new items.

What are safe alternatives to the pita at Cava?

Safe alternatives to the pita include building your meal on a base of salad greens, a greens and grains bowl, or a grain bowl. You can then add any of the gluten-free proteins, spreads, and toppings available.