Cava menu prices are designed to fit a variety of budgets, from a simple pita to a loaded grain bowl. Whether you are grabbing a quick lunch or feeding a family, Cava offers a Mediterranean-inspired experience that does not break the bank. The key is knowing what each item costs before you walk in.
This guide breaks down every price, combo, and add-on so you can plan your meal without surprises. You will see exactly how to build a bowl, what dips cost extra, and which drinks pair best with your budget.
Understanding The Cava Menu Structure
Cava uses a build-your-own model. You start with a base, choose dips and spreads, pick a protein, then add toppings and dressing. Each step has a set price, but the total depends on your choices.
The menu also includes pre-designed bowls and pitas for those who want a quick decision. These combos often save a dollar or two compared to building from scratch.
Base Options And Their Prices
Your base is the foundation of the meal. Cava offers several choices, each with a different cost:
- Greens (romaine and arugula mix): included in the base price
- Brown rice: included
- Black lentils: included
- Spicy rice: included
- Half greens and half grains: included
- Pita (one large or two small): included
- Pita chips: included
No base costs extra. You can mix greens and grains at no additional charge. This flexibility helps you control calories and texture without affecting Cava menu prices.
Dips And Spreads Pricing
You get two dips or spreads included with any bowl or pita. The standard options are:
- Hummus
- Tzatziki
- Roasted red pepper hummus
- Eggplant dip (baba ganoush)
- Harissa
- Crazy feta (jalapeño and dill feta)
If you want a third dip, it costs an additional $1.50. Some locations charge $1.75 for extra dips, so check your local menu. The included two dips are generous portions, so most people do not need a third.
Protein Prices
Protein is the main cost driver on the menu. Here are the standard prices as of 2025:
- Grilled chicken: $9.95 for a regular bowl or pita
- Spicy lamb meatballs: $10.95
- Braised lamb: $11.50
- Harissa honey chicken: $10.50
- Roasted vegetables: $8.95
- Falafel (vegetarian): $8.95
These prices are for a standard bowl or pita. A double protein option costs an extra $3.00 to $4.00 depending on the protein. For example, double grilled chicken adds $3.50 to your total.
Cava Menu Prices For Bowls And Pitas
The most popular items are the custom bowls and pitas. A standard bowl with one protein, two dips, and unlimited toppings costs between $8.95 and $11.50. A pita with the same ingredients costs the same price.
If you order a “mini” version, the price drops by about $2.00. Minis are available for smaller appetites or lighter meals. They include one dip and fewer toppings, but the base and protein portions are smaller too.
Pre-Designed Bowl Prices
Cava offers several signature bowls. These are pre-set combinations that often include premium ingredients. Prices vary by location but generally fall in this range:
- Grilled Chicken Bowl: $9.95
- Spicy Lamb Meatball Bowl: $10.95
- Harissa Honey Chicken Bowl: $10.50
- Roasted Veggie Bowl: $8.95
- Falafel Bowl: $8.95
Each pre-designed bowl comes with specific dips and toppings. You can customize them by swapping proteins or adding extras, but that will change the final price.
Pita Prices And Sizes
Cava pitas are stuffed, not wrapped. They come in two sizes:
- Regular pita: same price as a bowl
- Mini pita: $2.00 less than regular
A regular pita holds about the same volume as a bowl but in a different format. The pita bread itself is included in the base price. If you want extra pita on the side, it costs $1.00.
Kids Menu Prices
Cava has a kids menu for children under 12. Options include:
- Kids pita with grilled chicken: $5.95
- Kids bowl with grilled chicken: $5.95
- Kids pita with falafel: $5.50
Kids meals come with a small drink and a side of pita chips or fruit. Portions are smaller but still filling for young eaters.
Add-Ons And Extras
Beyond the base meal, Cava offers several add-ons. These can increase your total but also add variety.
Toppings And Dressings
All toppings are included in the base price. You can add as many as you want without extra cost. Common toppings include:
- Tomatoes and cucumbers
- Pickled onions
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Pita chips (crumbled)
- Fresh herbs
Dressings are also free. Options include:
- Lemon herb tahini
- Greek vinaigrette
- Spicy harissa vinaigrette
- Lemon vinaigrette
You can get multiple dressings on the side or drizzled on top. No charge for extra dressing.
Extra Protein And Premium Toppings
If you want more protein, the cost is:
- Double chicken: $3.50
- Double lamb meatballs: $4.00
- Double braised lamb: $4.50
- Double falafel: $2.50
Premium toppings like avocado or extra feta cost $1.00 each. Some locations charge $1.25 for avocado. These add-ons can quickly raise your total, so consider if you really need them.
Side Dishes
Cava offers a few sides that are not part of the main meal:
- Pita chips: $2.50
- Hummus with pita: $3.95
- Spicy feta dip with pita: $4.25
- Side salad: $3.50
These sides are good for sharing or adding to a light meal. The hummus and pita is a popular choice for a quick snack.
Drinks And Desserts
Beverages at Cava include both standard and specialty options. Prices are competitive with other fast-casual chains.
Cold Drinks
- Fountain soda: $2.50
- Bottled water: $2.00
- Iced tea (unsweetened): $2.75
- Lemonade: $3.25
- Sparkling water: $2.50
Specialty drinks like the Cava Spiced Iced Tea cost $3.50. These are made in-house and change seasonally.
Hot Drinks
- Hot tea: $2.50
- Coffee: $2.75
- Latte: $4.25
Hot drinks are available all day. The latte is made with oat milk by default, but you can request dairy milk at no extra cost.
Desserts
Dessert options are limited but satisfying:
- Chocolate chip cookie: $2.50
- Brownie: $3.00
- Baklava: $3.50
Baklava is the most popular dessert. It is sweet and flaky, perfect for ending a meal. Prices for desserts are consistent across most locations.
Catering And Group Orders
Cava offers catering for parties, office lunches, and events. The pricing is different from individual meals.
Catering Packages
Basic catering packages start at $12.00 per person. This includes a choice of two proteins, two dips, and a selection of toppings. You also get pita bread and a side of pita chips.
Premium packages cost $15.00 per person and include three proteins, three dips, and all toppings. Dessert is also included in the premium option.
Minimum order for catering is 10 people. You can order online or call the location directly. Delivery fees vary by distance.
Build-Your-Own Bar
For larger groups, Cava offers a build-your-own bar. This is priced at $18.00 per person for a 2-hour event. It includes all proteins, dips, toppings, and drinks.
This option is popular for corporate events and birthday parties. You need to book at least 48 hours in advance.
Regional Price Variations
Cava menu prices are not the same everywhere. Locations in high-cost cities like New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. charge about 10-15% more than the national average.
For example, a grilled chicken bowl in New York City might cost $11.50, while the same bowl in Atlanta costs $9.95. Always check the local menu before ordering.
Suburban locations tend to have lower prices than urban ones. Airport and mall locations also have slightly higher prices due to rent and foot traffic.
How To Save Money
Here are practical tips to keep your Cava meal affordable:
- Stick with one protein and two dips
- Skip extra toppings like avocado
- Order a mini instead of a regular
- Use the app for exclusive coupons
- Visit during off-peak hours for faster service
The Cava rewards program gives you points for every dollar spent. After 125 points, you get $10 off your next order. Signing up is free and takes two minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest item on the Cava menu?
The cheapest item is the kids pita with falafel at $5.50. For adults, the roasted veggie bowl at $8.95 is the most affordable option.
Are Cava menu prices the same for online orders?
Online orders through the app or website have the same prices as in-store. However, delivery services like Uber Eats add a markup of 15-20%.
Does Cava offer any discounts for students?
Some locations offer a 10% student discount with a valid ID. This is not advertised widely, so ask at the register.
Can I get a refund if I dont like my meal?
Cava has a satisfaction guarantee. If you are not happy, they will replace your meal or refund your money. Just bring the receipt.
How often do Cava menu prices change?
Prices typically change once a year, usually in January. Some locations adjust prices more frequently due to supply costs.
Cava Menu Prices Compared To Competitors
Compared to other Mediterranean chains, Cava is mid-range. Chipotle-style bowls at similar restaurants cost between $9.00 and $12.00. Cava falls in the same range but offers more topping variety.
Local Mediterranean restaurants often charge less for similar items, but the quality and consistency vary. Cava provides a standardized experience with fresh ingredients.
For fast food, Cava is more expensive than a burger combo but healthier. The protein portions are generous, and the vegetables are always fresh.
Is Cava Worth The Price?
Most customers say yes. The ingredients are high-quality, the portions are filling, and the customization options are extensive. You get what you pay for.
If you are on a tight budget, stick to the basics. A greens and grains bowl with chicken and two dips is under $10.00 and provides a balanced meal.
For those with more to spend, the lamb options and extra dips add flavor without breaking the bank. The braised lamb is particularly tender and worth the premium.
Final Tips For Ordering
When you walk into Cava, know your base and protein before you reach the counter. This speeds up the line and reduces decision fatigue.
Ask for dressings on the side if you are taking your meal to go. This prevents sogginess and lets you control the amount.
Check the app for daily specials. Some locations offer a “bowl of the day” at a reduced price. These change frequently, so check before you go.
Remember that Cava menu prices include tax in some states but not all. Factor in an extra 8-10% if you are budgeting precisely.
If you are feeding a group, the catering option is often cheaper than ordering individual meals. The per-person cost drops significantly with larger orders.
Finally, tip your server if you receive good service. Cava employees work hard to keep the line moving and the food fresh. A dollar or two per meal is appreciated.
Summary Of Cava Menu Prices
Here is a quick reference table for the most common items:
- Regular bowl or pita (chicken): $9.95
- Regular bowl or pita (lamb meatballs): $10.95
- Regular bowl or pita (braised lamb): $11.50
- Mini bowl or pita: $7.95-$9.50
- Kids meal: $5.50-$5.95
- Extra dip: $1.50
- Double protein: $2.50-$4.50
- Side of pita chips: $2.50
- Fountain drink: $2.50
These prices are averages. Your local Cava may have slight differences. Always verify before ordering.
Cava menu prices are designed to be transparent and fair. You know exactly what you are paying for at each step. With this guide, you can navigate the menu confidently and get the best value for your money.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, understanding the pricing structure helps you make smarter choices. Enjoy your meal without worrying about the bill.