Yesterday evening, I popped into Cava because I was craving a Greek chicken pita. This is my go-to order but it was my first time visiting the Potomac Yard location. Upon approaching the counter, I immediately noticed the small menu signage. The font was very tiny for being so close to the ceiling & the lighting made it even tougher to read. The staff member who took my order heated the pita & then added the chicken filling. I didn't pay attention to how little was being added, as I began eyeing the various toppings. The pita was left on the counter for a little while before the next staff member in the assembly line began adding toppings. I ordered the feta, Kalamata olives, fire-roasted corn, cucumbers, tomato + onion, tzatziki & Greek vinaigrette. Now that I think about it, I don't recall seeing shredded romaine as an offering but that wasn't a big deal to me. I was home in about 15 minutes & anxiously unwrapped my pita. To my dismay, everything was very cold. I figured the containers that held the toppings in the restaurant were on ice or had been refrigerated so I just quickly warmed my sandwich up, sliced it in half & proceeded to put it on a dinner plate. To my dismay, the pita bread was gummy but what was even worse was that I literally had five (5) small cubes of chicken; you read that correctly...FIVE. Apparently, the young man who scooped the chicken filling onto the pita didn't fill the spoon with my protein of choice. Had I seen this in real time, I would have stopped him right there. All in all, I paid just over $13 for a cold veggie pita despite ordering a Greek chicken pita. There was so little chicken, it was as if the chicken was accidentally included as leftover crumbles. This has never happened to me at any other Cava location & I sincerely hope it isn't the norm here. When people order specific food items, it's because they look forward to enjoying them. The merchant isn't supposed to skimp on product. I submitted my complaint to Cava online & an agent named Leslie issued a partial refund. So I ended up paying just over $6 for a cold veggie pita when I specifically ordered a Greek chicken pita. read more

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This location is currently open from 10am - 10:30pm for their summer hours. It is always clean when I come here and the staff is very nice. The food is great and you really can't complain for this being a fast food chain. Their hummus and tzatziki are tasty and their garlic dressing is the best one out there and the free side pita is delicious as well. 4 stars though because I stopped ordering online from this location as they never get my order right and something is always missing. So I would highly recommend going inside to order your food to go. If you want to dine in they have spacious seating inside and some tables with umbrellas outside. read more

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Melvin took care of us as well as being very polite. The food was hot and seasoned well. We always get ours to go but, one day we plan to sit in and eat. The atmosphere is nice. Did I say that Melvin made us feel welcome! read more

CAVA - Waiting to pay. - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Over the years, it seems like the service and food have gotten a bit worse. I'm just not that into this place. I tried the chicken and rice bowl this time There is too much going on in one bowl. The hummus is enough with the feta. I don't need a gallon of dressing over the already flavored chicken and pickled onions to saturate it. It's too many flavors. The place is clean and fine but not overly welcoming. read more

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We got cava to go on the app and picked it up at this location. It was ready and correct in less than 15 minutes! We got bowls that were delicious but don't sleep on the pita chips. They are amazing, crunchy, and perfectly flavored! read more

I've always loved this Cava. This one has been the closest to my home for a few years now. It's always really clean and the staff is always really nice. I like the flavors and the line is never long when I come. Def recommend for a quick healthy meal. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

My family and friends have been raving about Cava Restaurant, especially this location, so I was excited to try Cava for the first time. I had heard about the "love button" and how my meal would be free since it was my first visit. When I informed the cashier, Carlos, about the love button, he rudely refused to honor it. He stated that he gets to decide when to use it and chose not to use it for me. I was upset and discouraged by this experience; his demeanor and customer service were poor, ruining my first visit. Such behavior should not be accepted by Cava, as no matter the outcome, he shouldn't have been rude. read more

CAVA - Make your own bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I don't usually care for service as long as the food is good but the experience was so horrible and humiliating that it needs to be addressed: first off, it was my first time trying Cava here and I let them know right away to expect some questions-- I asked about 3 questions and kept apologizing for asking each question (again, reminding them it's my first time)-- instead of being helpful, all the workers were irritated/impatient with exasperated sighs and giving each other looks. I ordered a chicken bowl and there were about 4 small pieces of chicken in there so I asked them if they could add a bit more.. they let me know I would be charged an extra $3 for it. I bought it anyways since I had little time between flight departure to find another spot. I would not recommend this place with their current staff and stingy portions. read more

This is a really good Cava location. The service is really good - their staff clearly has great synergy with one another. they move very fast and the food is fresh! read more

Great food quality and service. One of the better in the area. Thank you team for the speedy good work!

First, i want to share that i loooooove Cava! This location is wonderful and Angels service is amazing!!! I took my sister here for the first time and she feels in love! We will be back! read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Great food! Great location! I love being able to choose exactly what I want! This location has a parking lot.

Recently went here and had a horrible experience. The food was very bland compared to other cava locations I've visited before. The staff was the only redeeming factor very charming and kind. My only other issue was the sticky and wet tables I sat down to eat at. read more

Walked in and saw that the soda machine was out of order. Immediately walked out again. No interest in buying an overpriced can/bottle (not that the fountain is cheap either). No reason to waste time at a restaurant that can't maintain basic equipment. read more

I had a pleasant experience at the location in Alexandria. I do love those scrumptious pita chips. They make them like no other. I may go back a time or two before heading back home. That Jasmine tea was an interesting, acquired taste. read more

CAVA - Made my own bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Great service overall. Angel is a very respectable manager and has personally helped make my experience great on several occasions.

First time trying Cava and my experience was not the greatest. I let them know it was my first time and the first guy was nice and instructed me on which green to pick. After that, everyone was annoyed or just in a plain bad mood. Not what you want when traveling and are already stressed as it is but I was polite. The bowl I got was good but management should be concerned. read more

If you want a quick meal that is a Mediterranean style, cava is a good option. I usually get a rice bowl and it's the type of serving that you eat in one sitting. It's counter service so you tell them what you want when you're at the counter rather than having a wait person. The ambiance is fine, nothing to write home about but nice windows. At lunch if you eat in, it can get very busy. Personally I like Roti better but this one is still good. read more

My first time trying this place. It was quite tasty and light. I enjoyed the spicy hummus in my bowl. The chicken didn't have that much flavor but the hummus and roasted eggplant helped to offset the flavor. I topped with vinaigrette dressing and feta cheese. They had quite a selection for picking drinks. Citrus or mint lemon water along with sodas. I would definitely visit again. read more

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12/11/21 In my creative mind, I had meantioned not going to to HomeGoods when you are hungry. Well we learned the hard way and now find ourselves in Cava. This restaurant was busy with a lot of people. This place really does remind me of Chipotle. Ironically there is a Chipotle three doors down...okay maybe a little farther. Still, I thought about these two stores being g right next door to each other. I wondered how business would be? I wasn't familiar with Cava, but the brown rice, Cava's little black beans and non-stick chicken looked tasty in a bowl. I went with the white sauce and feta cheese for the final touches. Since the rice, beans and chicken were hot, the feta cheese melted and was terrific in every bite. However, we did not like that Cave had no spoons or knives. This could have come in hand for the type of burrito my wife ordered. The sauce was dripping and she did not want that sauce dripping on her. I ended up getting a knife from Five Guys and the problem was taken care of. This place isn't slow, and I saw heavy traffic in the two unisex bathrooms. Women and women were doing their duty in there, so like the character in the book The Whipping Boy, Hold Your Nose Billy/Billie. This place is worth coming back to no matter how busy it gets. I did notice; however, the associates were getting very stingy on the portion sizes. It reminds me how Chipotle was and how they changed. I get the cost of doing business and the cost of products going up. However, if I am now paying 16.XX for food, I don't want spoonful sugar to help the medicine go down. Giving less while spending more is unacceptable. read more

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I visited Cava for the first time this past Sunday, after having gone to Cava Mezze multiple times and loving it. Sure they aren't the same but I figured they would at least be good. NAH. When I first got in line (line meaning just me) the service person didn't even greet me. It seems he was possibly doing online orders but he did around 4-5 before even acknowledging I was standing there if only to say "I'll be right with you." Then once I finally got my food, the cashier rushed me and didn't offer a bag. When I requested one she handed it to me and threw away my receipt. I actually wanted that. Just seems like the Sunday evening staff isn't the best. The food itself was good though! A bowl full of fresh greens, chicken and vegetables. For that I will be back, but likely not on a Sunday. Worth giving a try if you're looking for a Med version of a chipotle bowl! read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

First and foremost. This location is too expensive. I spent 26 dollars on two bowls. That is highway robbery. The staff were not helpful at all. They even tried to charge me twice. Because supposedly my card wasn't going through. Also the bowls half empty. How do you expect me to get full when the bowls are half empty. Workers talking to me with an attitude was not very much appreciated. I love cava but this location can use some work. DO BETTER! read more

Very delicious, well fresh and made !!!! Very friendly service !!! Always greets when I enter!!?

You can't go wrong with this place!...It's fast, healthy, quality ingredients and most of all...delicious!! I travel quite a bit back and forth from my office in the Arlington VA area to an office in DC for work; and often times in need of "healthy" fast food options while on a limited time window for lunch. CAVA has slowly become one of those places that fits the bill. It's fast food, on the healthy-casual tip. The meals are definitely filling and the portions are more than enough for two to almost share in my opinion.....but, trust, there's no complaints there by me or my inner-fat kid belly! The food at CAVA is very fresh made of high quality ingredients. The meats, sauces and dressings are seasoned and has really good flavor. There are vegetarian options too. The prices is very reasonable for the large portions. The service is fast, friendly and efficient. I have been to several CAVA locations around the city and they all are good....and the consistency is there too! This Potomac Yards location is no exception to this observation too. They have a pretty focused menu where you choose greens or rice bowl...or both! You work you way down the down selecting ingredients for your meal and over 13+ toppings....like Lentils, Eggplant + Roasted Red Pepper, Harissa, Organic Roasted Garlic Hummus, Olives, Tomatoes, Pickeled Peppers, Cucumbers....Meats: Grilled Chicken, Spicy Lamb Meatballs, Roasted Vegetables Vegetarian options. Think of a Mediterranean version of Chipolte. I typically get the the Splendid Greens & Rice Bowl with a mix of lentils, hummus-harissa dips, couscous, plethora of veggies...all with the Spicy Lamb Meatballs!....It is nothing but the truth!! A healthy gospel of goodness in a bowl. I opt for the grilled chicken at times with this combination, to change things up every now and then. In all, it is an excellent and tasty meal at a great value --considering its the healthy way to go. I will admit thought that it is a bit pricey when it comes to looking for a economical, cheap lunch options....but for the portion size and healthy option aspect...it is totally worth it! * TIP: I am such a fan....in that I use their app frequently to earn rewards and free meals! Also, free bowl ($9.00) credit for your Birthday!! read more

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Service: the gentleman here were so utterly kind during my recent visit to this Cava. I appreciate their attention to the ingredients and my bowl, especially when one ingredient was still being prepared. Kudos to the manager for speaking kindly with his staff, I'm sure it's a positive work environment. Food: I think Cava could improve here overall (not only at this location). The flavors could be stronger in the sauces and I couldn't really taste the spice part of the Market Spice bowl. Otherwise, it was perfectly edible and healthy. Ambience: the place was clean and I was happy to see many families enjoying a meal out together here. read more

CAVA - Chef curated Market Spice bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Awful experience- the portions were extremely small. My bowl was half empty. Guess the inflation is hitting CAVA hard.

First time ever trying out a CAVA and it was okay. Liked all the choices of veggies, dips and sauces. The chicken I had in mine was not seasoned well, and maybe even a little over cooked. Not sure if CAVA would be my first choice with the amount of other great places around but if you are in the area and want something quick and healthy, this is not a bad option. read more

CAVA - Cava bowl with chicken! - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

First time trying CAVA which was recommended by a friend from NoVA. I recently moved here about two months ago and have heard good things so had to try! The style is similar to chipotle. Pick a base, protein, sauces and toppings. I got white rice, harissa, tzatziki, harissa chicken (spicy), pickled onions, cucumbers, and garlic sauce. It was the perfect amount of spice and adding two sauces really made it the perfect ratio to the rice and chicken. I loved my bowl!! My experience with this location was good, employees were quick and prepared everything well. It's the closest location for me so I'll definitely be coming back! read more

Cava is a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant that makes Mediterranean food accessible. I enjoy it, but I wouldn't want it weekly. However, I would want Cava weekly (or more!). This location is near Crystal City (or "National Landing" as Amazon would call it) in the Potomac Yards shopping complex. There's ample parking and seating inside (booths, window seating, and a patio outside). The design is slick and inviting. They have a variety of bowls you can choose from or you can make your own. They have greens, grains, or a pita. I always get the warm pita with braised beef and lots of toppings! They change their toppings seasonally and always source locally. If you haven't been to a Cava yet, definitely give it a go! read more

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I absolutely love this place. Super healthy with plenty of options. Their in-house brewed drinks are also super tasty. Service is fast as the restaurant fashions itself to a line order style. Also restaurant is clean and ambience is welcoming. read more

Service was prompt & efficient, but I felt rushed the entire duration of my order. Salad dressing was missing & the lamb meatballs were not done. The price has also increased & it just didn't taste that great for me to travel to eat again. I moved to a rural area & was craving cava for some time, but I don't think I'll return anytime soon. read more

CAVA - Raw Spicy Lamb Meatballs - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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I got the spicy lamb meatball pita and it was delicious! Definitely exceeded my expectations. The order was made very quickly and the staff were super friendly. We loved that there was an outdoor option. We will be back! read more

The customer service that I experienced was excellent, especially from those two young gentlemen Jordan and Nixon. I ordered a steak salad and they gave me great portions and the steak was cooked to perfection. Overall a fantastic experience would definitely recommend checking this location out! read more

So I usually come to this location right when they open at 10:45 to get lunch before the rush because my meetings are usually heavy with meetings. Like clockwork these guys offer flawless service!! Food is always fresh and the customer service is excellent. I like you get a reward during your birthday. At the specific location I've also gotten a free bowl before just because their machine was down for accepting the app payment and I didnt bring any cash with me. The workers are so kind and patient. They move quickly. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I'm wasn't a big Cava fan initially. I recently stopped by to try the new Balsamic Date Chicken Salad. I loved the salad. I've been back three times in the last two weeks. I usually go before noon and the staff is always kind, helpful and pretty energetic. The line moves fast, the food is fresh and sweet potatoes are amazing! Keep up the good work. read more

I'm pretty fond of Cava, since it's inception. However this particular one seems to be very skimpy on the items. This is about the 3rd time, I've gotten a salad with less than a handful of spinach. Literally, they take half a handful of spinach and sprinkle it in the bowl. If I wasn't hungry I probably could have counted 10-12 piece of spinach. My bowl was light as a feather. For nearly 11 bucks; I would really hope that I had a decent salad. I also tend to go at peak hours between 12-1, so I get the staff is rushed--but I don't want to be cheated. My salad was more so chicken with spinach, the spinach was unnoticeable!! I won't be back anytime soon; the allure of healthier options just isn't worth it. read more

My first time ordering here and I chose White sweet potato + feta bowl and Harissa Avocado bowl to share. Both were very good and full of flavors that were tangy, spicy, sweet and savory all together with textures both crunchy and creamy. The Harissa was a bit spicier than I expected but not like, on fire kind of burn that water can't put put. I think I enjoyed the sweet potatoes and feta the most. As I was checking out they were cooking and the aroma was amazing. I look forward to dining there soon. Like, tonight for dinner LOL. read more

For the first time I was a bit disappointed by Cava. I ordered their lemon chicken bowl today. The vegetables and sauces all tasted wonderful, as I'm used to at Cava, but the quality of the chicken was less than stellar. It was all very dark meat, and not just because of the flavorings/sauce it had been cooked in. It was just completely little bits of dark meat. Also some bones and cartilage in it - a couple of mouthfuls. Sadly looks like quality has gone down as they're probably more concerned with saving costs these days. read more

When did it become okay to play with and hold your phone while checking food temperature. I inquired and I was told the young lady was not touching the food. The phone was sat on the counter and the same hand the phone was in, was used to wipe off the device before testing additional food. I'm sure her hand touched the bottom of the testing device. I chose to eat else where, nevertheless, why are we playing with our phone and texting during testing temps? read more

Came here with a friend for quick service and food! Got the chicken bowl with half white rice and greens. Healthy, Mediterranean, and a lot of food - couldn't even finish all of it! Great price for the portion size. Casual dining with open seating. Would recommend if craving cheap, healthy, good food in the area. read more

CAVA - Chicken bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia