Hear ye, hear ye — a new counter service Mediterranean spot recently opened its doors in Jersey City. If you’ve ever been to the CAVA at Union Square or if you’re from the DC area, you’ve probably been stalking their new Jersey City location for weeks {like we have}. Originally started by three first-generation childhood friends, this Maryland-based chain has made its way up to Hudson County {30 Montgomery St., JC}. We stopped in to see what the newest location is all about {hint: it’s way more than good food}.
First, let’s talk mission. CAVA isn’t just a great new place serving up tasty varieties of traditional Mediterranean flavors. As stated on their website, CAVA is a place “for those who savor.” Their credo goes on to read, “For those who sing and dance while the world sleepwalks by. Those who wring meaning from their minutes, while others just count them. To the appreciators, the embracers, and the devourers, you have come to the right place. Because here, we serve lamb, not sheep. We made this food for you, friends. Because while others are content to feed their faces, you desire food that feeds your spirit. Food that fills you and fulfills you, too.”
They’ve also partnered with local non-profits to help fuel the movement towards healthy eating and urban gardening skills. The guys at CAVA are serious about taking care of the community — and not just by feeding it well, though they’re doing plenty of that, too. {Anybody else already feeling inspired to head out of work and over to CAVA??}
Now that your soul is fed, let’s feed those bellies. CAVA gives you the option to make your own bowl, salad, or pita by picking a base and then piling it high with your choice of toppings, dips, spreads, and proteins. Since all of the ingredients are locally sourced from New Jersey farms, CAVA is also able to offer some seasonal additions. The summer extras include a white bean salad and spicy apricot dressing. And major bonus: you can actually walk out without having consumed a million calories.
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The Crazy Feta — a combination of chopped banana peppers with feta — is a must try. You can also mix grains and greens in your bowl and try multiple proteins. We had the falafel and chicken, topped it with hummus, Crazy Feta, tzatziki, a cucumber tomato salad, quinoa, pickled onions, olives, and added a Greek vinaigrette. You really can’t go wrong in building your bowl as all of the ingredients are fresh and flavorful.
Oh, and if you looove their dips but can’t stop by the store front, you can pick up their products at Whole Foods.
The JC location is bright and airy which makes for a nice dine-in experience. They also have some amazing juices and teas to so don’t forget to grab a fountain drink and try the peach green tea or watermelon mint juice. Yum!
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Just steps from the Exchange Place PATH, CAVA is a great lunch spot, and because they have a super convenient order-ahead app, great Mediterranean food is now an easy pickup on your way home. They are open daily from 11AM – 10PM. This is going to be your new go-to spot for a quick + tasty weeknight meal. Enjoy!
Have you been to CAVA? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
