For anyone who loves the slow-roasted lamb, lemony potatoes, lots of olives, and drinks tzatziki dressing like lemonade, we’re going to let you in on a secret: the fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant CAVA is opening up its first Midwestern store in Wicker Park tomorrow.
You might have heard of CAVA—the Mediterranean eatery that people can’t stop discussing. While it’s not a Michelin-starred restaurant, some people treat it like it is. Luckily for Chicagoans, CAVA is entering into the upper Midwest market.
CAVA was opened more than two decades ago in Maryland by founders Ike Grigoropoulos, Dimitri Moshovitis, and Ted Xenohristos. Co-founder and chief concept officer Ted Xenohristos spoke at the CAVA Wicker Park opening, citing the demand from consumers for one in Chicago. “The Greek community has been hounding me to open,” Xenohristos said. “On our social media, it’s one of the most-requested cities. We’ve always been excited to get here.”
The fast-casual Mediterranean eatery is revered for its authentic Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. CAVA features curated and customizable bowls and pitas, with various mains such as harissa honey chicken and spicy lamb meatballs, flavorful greens and grains, dips, spreads, dressings, and toppings.
The 3,100-square-foot location will have a 30-seat dining room, digital order pick-up and delivery, and an expanded kitchen for catering.
Where will CAVA be located?
CAVA’S address is 1484 N. Milwaukee Ave. Its daily hours are 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.