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ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Pasadena
Best Mediterranean in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
CAVA
7.8
Fast-casual Mediterranean chain offering customizable grain bowls and pitas with quality ingredients and modern sensibility. Build-your-own format features fresh roasted vegetables, house-made dips, and protein options with over 50 million possible combinations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Harissa Avocado Bowl, Chicken Shawarma Pita, Crazy Feta
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Chipotle-style customization with Mediterranean flavors and premium ingredients
Who should go: Health-conscious diners wanting fresh, customizable Mediterranean bowls
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner to avoid peak crowds
What to order: Greens & grains bowl with harissa, falafel crunchy pita chips
Insider tip: Download the app for faster ordering and loyalty rewards
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking and public lots nearby - metered until 8pm, generally available. Paseo Colorado garage within 2 blocks
Dress code: Casual comfort - athleisure, jeans, work casual all fine
Noise level: Moderate - counter-service vibe with music, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 5-10 min during peak (6-7pm), moves quickly
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min line 12-1pm, order-ahead recommended
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - falafel, grilled vegetables, multiple dips and grain bases
Vegan options: Very good - falafel, hummus, roasted veggies, tahini (skip feta/tzatziki)
Gluten-free options: Yes - rice and greens bases available, most proteins and toppings safe (confirm at counter)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates or daytime coffee alternatives - fast-casual format lacks romantic ambiance but shows you're health-conscious and low-pressure
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - counter service with open seating. Grab your bowl and find a spot, usually available even during lunch rush
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - build-your-own format lets picky eaters customize, quick service keeps restless kids happy, casual atmosphere welcomes families
How does it compare to other fast-casual Mediterranean? More polished than local shawarma spots, fresher ingredients than Daphne's, similar model to Sweetgreen but Mediterranean focus. Best in category for customization
Can I eat here if I'm watching calories? Excellent choice - nutritional info displayed, can build sub-400 calorie bowls easily with greens base and grilled proteins, plenty of vegetable options
Best For
Better for: Healthy customization, dietary restrictions, solo dining efficiency, consistent quality across locations, macro tracking
Skip if: You want authentic sit-down Mediterranean with full service, traditional preparations, or romantic date ambiance - head to Gale's or Levant instead
Hours
Monday10:30am - 11pm
Tuesday10:30am - 11pm
Wednesday10:30am - 11pm
Thursday10:30am - 11pm
Friday10:30am - 11pm
Saturday10:30am - 11pm
Sunday10:30am - 11pm