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Fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant expands with new Arden location

A growing national restaurant brand has brought more health-forward options south of the city. On June 28, Cava opened a new location at 1 Brian Blvd., Unit 100 in Arden. The fast-casual Mediterranean eatery offers a menu of customizable bowls, wraps, salads, and more.

Cava’s Mission and Menu

“Our mission is to bring heart, health, and humanity to food,” said Sarah Seale, communications and PR specialist for Cava. “Our food is bold and flavorful, and we serve a wide variety of ingredients where customers can build their own bowl or pita or choose from one of our chef-curated items.”

Proteins like harissa honey chicken, braised lamb, and grilled steak, along with ingredients like Kalamata olives, fire-roasted broccoli, corn, and pickled onions, can be selected to top an assortment of greens or grains to create a custom dish. Customers can finish their creation with a dip such as feta, tzatziki, and any of the dressings. Signature beverage options include strawberry citrus and cucumber mint lime flavored drinks made with fresh ingredients.

“There’s something for everyone. There’s something satisfying and healthy, and you don’t have to compromise between taste and health,” Seale said. The prices vary depending on the diner’s order as upcharges may apply to premium options for custom dishes. The restaurant’s concept is designed to cater to dietary restrictions and lifestyles like vegetarianism and veganism.

Expanding Presence

In March 2023, Cava made its Asheville debut with the opening of a location at 14 Swannanoa River Road in Biltmore Village. Seale said there are more than 325 locations, and the company is expanding across the state following positive customer feedback. Delivery is available via DoorDash and Uber. The Arden restaurant offers online ordering and pick-up by car window service as an added convenience.

Community Support

A day before the public opening, Cava reportedly distributed free meals to community members and promised to match donations up to $1,000 to gift to MANNA FoodBank. The company also donated hundreds of fresh meals to Western Carolina Rescue Mission during the pre-training period as part of its commitment to fighting hunger and reducing food waste.