Cava has cemented its place as a top fast-casual option by offering fresh, customizable Mediterranean fare. For newcomers, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. The key to discovering the best thing to get at Cava is to focus on a few stand-out ingredients and build your meal from there, aiming for a balance of textures and flavors.
Step-by-Step: How to Build the Perfect Cava Bowl
1. Choose Your Base
Your bowl’s foundation sets the stage for the rest of your meal. Cava offers several options, and many veterans opt for a mix of greens and grains to get the best of both worlds.
- Greens + Grains: A popular combination is SuperGreens (a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine) and Saffron Basmati Rice. This provides a hearty base that still feels fresh.
- Salad Bowl: For a lighter option, the Romaine and SuperGreens mix is a classic.
- Grains Bowl: If you want a more filling and carb-forward meal, the Saffron Basmati Rice alone is a fragrant and flavorful choice.
2. Select Your Dips & Spreads
This is where Cava truly shines. Unlike other fast-casual spots, Cava allows you to choose three spreads. The best strategy is to mix creamy, spicy, and savory options.
- The Crowd-Pleasers: You can't go wrong with a combination of Traditional Hummus (a classic), Crazy Feta (spicy and tangy), and Tzatziki (cool and creamy). This trio offers a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Another fan favorite, this offers a sweeter, smokier profile.
3. Pick Your Protein(s)
This layer provides the bulk and substance of your meal. You can choose one or, for a small upcharge, split two proteins.
- Harissa Honey Chicken: The most frequently recommended protein, known for its perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy notes.
- Grilled Chicken: A solid, classic choice that is lean and flavorful.
- Spicy Lamb Meatballs: A richer, more indulgent option for those who enjoy a bit of a kick.
- Falafel: An excellent, nutrient-rich vegetarian option made from chickpeas.
4. Load Up on Toppings and Dressings
Cava offers an array of fresh, vibrant toppings. The key is not to overdo it, but rather to select a few that complement your other choices.
- Recommended Toppings: Fire-Roasted Corn for sweetness, Pickled Onions for a tangy crunch, and Persian Cucumbers for a refreshing bite. Fiery Broccoli and Cabbage Slaw are also popular choices for adding texture.
- Finishing Dressings: A drizzle of Lemon Herb Tahini offers a bright, citrusy finish, while the Yogurt Dill adds a refreshing creaminess. For heat, try the Hot Harissa Vinaigrette or Skhug.
Popular Cava Orders: Pre-Set vs. Custom
For those who prefer not to build their own, Cava offers several pre-configured bowls that highlight popular flavor combinations. Here is a quick comparison.
| Feature | Harissa Avocado Bowl (Pre-Set) | Custom Harissa Honey Bowl |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Saffron Basmati Rice & SuperGreens | Saffron Basmati Rice & SuperGreens (Customizable) |
| Dips | Harissa & Avocado | Traditional Hummus, Crazy Feta, Tzatziki (Customizable) |
| Protein | Harissa Honey Chicken | Harissa Honey Chicken (Customizable) |
| Toppings | Fire-Roasted Corn, Avocado, Pickled Onions, Tomato + Onion, Feta | Persian Cucumbers, Fire-Roasted Corn, Cabbage Slaw, Pickled Onions (Customizable) |
| Dressings | Hot Harissa Vinaigrette | Skhug & Garlic Dressing (Customizable) |
| Pros | Quick, delicious, balanced by experts | Complete control, endless variety, exactly what you crave |
| Cons | Limited customization | Decision fatigue, potential for flavor clashes if inexperienced |
Conclusion: Your Cava Order Awaits
Ultimately, the “best” thing to get at Cava depends on your personal preferences. However, the Harissa Honey Chicken on a greens and grains bowl with a combination of creamy and spicy dips is a near-universal crowd-pleaser and a great starting point for new customers. Remember that Cava’s strength lies in its modularity, so don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations on subsequent visits. Whether you stick to a popular pre-set bowl or become a master of customization, a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean meal is waiting for you.
For additional nutritional details and allergen information on specific ingredients, you can always consult Cava's official website.
Build Your Cava Bowl: A Flavor Strategy
Here is a simple blueprint for building a memorable custom bowl:
- Start with the Base: A half-and-half mix of Saffron Basmati Rice and SuperGreens provides a fulfilling and fresh foundation.
- Add Your Dips: The 'holy trinity' for first-timers is Traditional Hummus, Crazy Feta, and Tzatziki. This combo delivers creaminess, spice, and tang.
- Choose Your Protein: Harissa Honey Chicken is the perfect introduction to Cava's bold flavors. Its sweet heat is balanced by the other ingredients.
- Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle on some Fire-Roasted Corn for sweetness and Pickled Onions for a bright, tangy crunch. Add a side of pita chips for dipping and texture.
- Finalize with Dressing: Drizzle with a mix of Yogurt Dill for coolness and a touch of Hot Harissa Vinaigrette for an extra pop of flavor.
Beyond the Bowl: Other Notable Cava Items
While the bowls are the main attraction, Cava’s menu offers other fantastic items worth exploring.
- Pita Wraps: You can get any bowl combination wrapped in a fluffy pita. The Steak + Feta Pita is a standout for meat lovers.
- Side Pita Chips: Crispy and perfect for scooping up any leftover dip.
- Kids Meals: A simplified option, such as a Pita with Falafel and Saffron Rice, makes Cava a family-friendly choice.
- Seasonal Items: Cava periodically rotates in limited-time proteins and toppings, so ask what's new to try something different.
