Cava - Winter Springs FL

By Melanie Courcy | December 6, 2022

This week, we decided to dine at Cava, which is a Mediterranean restaurant that recently opened in Winter Springs. This was my husband's suggestion, which was surprising, as this is not his favorite cuisine. However, this is what New Restaurant Tuesday is all about - trying things that we wouldn't normally eat. I'm glad we did, because it was very tasty.

The Digs

The format of this restaurant is similar to a sub or burrito shop where you order at the counter. Starting with a base item, toppings are then chosen as you move your way down the case toward the cash register. The dining area is decent sized, accommodating both small and medium sized groups. There is a self-service area where drinks and utensils are acquired. The lighting was good, and tables were clean.

The Service

We waited in line for a bit, and it seemed at first glance that the staff was focused on putting together to-go or online orders, as people were waiting for service. Once those were in order, the staff began taking orders from folks in line. They were very efficient at knocking out multiple orders once they got started with people in line. The staff was helpful in answering questions about the menu items and process. However, some of the items we wanted were either out of stock or we had to wait longer for it to be prepared. One item I ordered, I asked to be brought to my table once it was ready, and it was delivered hot when I was about halfway through my meal.

The Tastebud Delights

I ordered a build-your-own bowl, and my husband chose the build-your-own gyro. The menu also had pre-defined combinations. In addition, Cava has a variety of juices in bottles and fresh-made juices at the drink bar.

The first stop is to choose a base, followed by three sauces, then meats, and finally toppings. My husband's base was the pita. From there he chose Tzatziki, Crazy Feta, and Harissa (a Greek spin on spicy chili pepper paste) as his sauces. We both wanted the Braised Lamb, but they were out of that and not expected to get it back in until January. He opted for the Harissa Honey Chicken instead. Cucumbers and pickled onions were chosen as toppings. He could definitely feel the spiciness in the Harissa. The Tzatziki added a nice coolness to the spice. The flavor combination was good, but the chicken was on the dry side.

For my bowl, I chose the basmati rice as a base. I went with the Tzatziki, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, and the Roasted Eggplant Dip as my toppings. Not only did they not have the Braised Lamb, but they were also temporarily out of roasted veggies (they were being cooked), so I asked for those to be delivered to me once they were ready. I went with half veggies, half Spicy Lamb Meatballs (which were not super spicy - just a mild kick). For toppings I went with cucumbers, tomatoes, avocado, cabbage slaw, lentil tabbouleh, and pita crisps. The sauces, meat, and toppings created a savory flavor combination. The texture was smooth, due to the sauces, and the pita crisps added a nice crunch. The meatballs were tender and had a great flavor. I enjoyed the bowl very much, and even had leftovers for lunch the next day.

We both ordered the juices as well. I tried all of the flavors, but my favorite was the Cucumber Mint. It was a refreshing drink to go along with my meal, and even had little bits of cucumber for a pulpy like texture. My husband liked it so much, he took his home and made it into a sorbet with our Ninja Creami.

The Takeaway

Our overall impression was that the food was good, but we wish the Braised Lamb had been available. The staff was very friendly, helpful, and were very efficient once they started putting our meals together. The juice was surprisingly refreshing, and all at a very reasonable price. This also seemed to be a diet friendly place, as they offer healthy options like salad bases and lots of veggies. I would definitely return.

The Restaurant Info

Address: 5930 Red Bug Lake Rd, Winter Springs FL

Phone: 689-229-2168

Website: https://cava.com