Cava, a popular Mediterranean food chain, recently opened up two locations in Central Ohio. 

   Founded in Maryland in 2010, CEO Brett Schulman plans to expand Cava nationwide, according to NBC4.  Cava, which is Washington, D.C. based, offers an assortment of Mediterranean style spreads and protein. 

  Cava is a great addition to the chain of central Ohio restaurants with a more diverse style of food. Cava has over 400 locations across 28 states and plans to expand to allow more people to get the taste of fast casual Mediterranean food. 

  Cava started to become popular as people chose this option over other fast food chains since it has more inclusive options, as there are healthier choices and customizations available especially for people who have dietary restrictions. With choices from entrees, choices from greens to pita wraps, protein choices chicken to falafel, and lots of toppings like onions, lettuce, and dressings; there is something for everyone.  

  A Mediterranean restaurant in Columbus named Brassica also offers cuisine similar to Cava. A little comparison between the two is Brassica is sandwiches and salads just the Mediterranean version. Perhaps Brassica is also more of a fast casual sit down rather than Cava which is like fast casual to go. Brassica may be higher quality since the menu is more concise and the prices are a little higher compared  to Cava. 

 “As someone who visits Brassica frequently, I am excited to see what Cava offers as the new location will be closer to me than Brassica,” said Greta Green ‘26. 

  According to NBC4 , one of the new locations plans to open in Polaris in 2026 where the chain Shake Shack used to be; the second location in Hillard, which used to house Skyline Chili, which also doesn’t open until 2026.

*Information from: https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/hilliard/after-permits-revealed-cava-coming-to-polaris-chain-planning-another-local-spot/