Do NOT come here if you want to pickup. They'll tell you, "Next time you can come help us too" as a response to their subpar service -Manager Victoria. I placed a pick up for 6:30. I didn't get my order until 7pm. I asked if they had my order in the at 6:29 and they confirmed. I wasn't rude or belligerent, I stood back and waited patiently. They gave me that response when I brought up how long I'd been waiting. The people who went in line at the same time as me to place their orders, received their orders and transactions much before me. Even people who came after me to pickup were serviced before me. read more

The first thing I noticed was the aroma of the proteins. My belly was so ready. I love the option to customize my food and this spot makes Build-Your-Own easy. For a Thursday night, it was very busy, with lines to the door. There is some seating inside but it seemed like many customers got their orders to-go. When we got to the front, the staff were friendly and patient with us asking questions and not knowing what we wanted to add to our orders. You can choose to get a pita wrap, rice bowl, salad, or a mix of rice and greens. They have many options to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings. I like that you can pick up to 3 dips per entree and a side of pita is included. However, when we ordered several things were out, including the protein my friend wanted. Other items were running low, which we feel impacted the amount we received in our orders. My partner asked for lettuce and since it was running out, he got like four cut pieces (see photo). It was my first time visiting so we asked the staff if they are always so busy. Their honest answer was yes but they were also backed up. They apologized for the wait and one staff member offered to make one of our entrees free but I had paid already. It was still a nice gesture and not something we were seeking or expected. As for the food, it was great. Everything was fresh and the meats were flavorful. I liked the harissa honey chicken but it definitely has a kick to it. The lamb meatballs are delicious as well. Since they were out of the lemon herb tahini dressing, I got the tahini caesar and it was creamy and rich. I really liked the variety of food you can select depending on how you're feeling. As we ate our food, we noticed later customers (as the line thinned out) receive significantly larger bowls. It made us feel like we paid the same amount of money for less. However, I think the employees were doing the best they could with the crowd and kitchen being behind. I hope that my next visit will be better because the food was definitely way better than I would expect for "fast food" Mediterranean. read more

CAVA - Lamb meatball bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

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I have been hearing my friends rave about CAVA and didn't realize there was one at mission valley mall! Saw the restaurant and knew I had to stop by and grab a bite for lunch. The prices for the bowls are a good deal about $13-18 depending on what you decide to opt for. I ended up getting a DIY bowl and chose the sides / salads / grains / protein and sauces I wanted for my bowl. The line was out the door and took me about 10 - 15 minutes to make it to front and order. I chose the mixed power greens and black lentils for my base and then I got the option of 3 scoops for spread and of course I chose the spicy hummus and tzatziki sauce. For my protein I chose grilled chicken and grilled mixed veggies. For the veggies I added cucumbers, pickled onions, and corn. Since the mixed grilled veggies were enough for me I didn't focus so much on adding on more. Then I added garlic sauce on the whole thang. The amount you get is so much I had to take a break then finish up the whole bowl.. their pickled radish is def on the sweeter side and like how their Persian cucumbers were seasoned. The chicken was good, it was a bit too grilled for me where I felt like it tasted kind of burnt. The bowl was very filling and definitely kept me full afterwards. They also have bottled / can drinks you could select from while you're in line. I bought sparkling water but if I knew they had some house juices, I would have just grabbed a cup up front and purchased a reg size drink to try out some of their juices, it looked good and will have to try next time. There is plenty of seating as well from inside of the restaurant and also outside - def a nice outside seating area on a sunny day. While I was there enjoying my food, the line continued to be out the door - peeps just kept coming in. read more

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The kids meal is such a good deal. I got the sweet potato as the protein, red pepper hummus, basmati rice, pita chips, cucumber and tomato mix, and roasted corn. Their white sweet potatoes are delicious I wish they had them year round. Cava has the best pita chips ever too! read more

CAVA - Kids meal - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Lisa and the staff were amazing today After an unfortunate Uber eats issue, I had a last minute large order that they helped me expedite with such professionalism and grace. They could tell I was in a panic and they made it so easy for me. The food was fantastic too! Thank you!! read more

Solid 3.5 stars. The food was good. Love their variety of beverage options. Just not giving higher rating because some of the food may have been sitting a while. Service was great as was the sitting area. read more

If I could give 0 stars I would. After working a 12.5 hour shift, I decided to get some CAVA to go since I haven't had it in a while. I expected my order to be filled but this bowl wasn't even filled HALF WAY. I am very disappointed and unsure on whether I'll return. Paid way too much for the quantity of it. read more

CAVA - Bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

One of the worst meals I've had in 2022. This was my second visit to Cava. The first time I couldn't even order from here because they were refusing to accept cash at the time. This time I was able to order food but boy was that a mistake. I just wanted something simple and easy and the spicy meatball pita sounded perfect. Cava has a Chipotle style ordering system. Because I orderd a curated menu item (they've already selected the ingredients) I was able to quickly walk down the line as my pita was being manufactured. Red flag- Their sneeze guard is disgustingly dirty. This isn't something that happens overnight, they're simply not cleaning it nightly as they should be. When you can see dirty streaks on the glass you know they're not cleaning it with windex or antibacterial cleaners. Looks like a rag was used to smear off the sneezes. Red flag 2 - The way they display their proteins just looks unappetizing. My meatballs were floating in something that looked like black water. Other items weren't much better. Red flag 3 - Food temperature wasn't right. My meatballs were lukewarm at best. They were cooked at one point but how long were they floating in lukewarm water? Red flag 4- My wrap was so flooded with sauce it went everywhere. My pictures, and those of other yelpers don't lie.. sloppy mess, soggy wad of pita, yuck. - If there's one positive about Cava it's that their bowls looked good. Everyone here had a bowl. - Make sure you request sauce on the side. - Several reviews mention that this location isn't a good representation of the other restaurants in this chain. I hope that's true because this place is 1 star quality. read more

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We ordered pick up from this location and I wish we didn't first and last time we buy food. There was a giant blonde hair that got stuck in between my husbands teeth on his bowl. Disguisting. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

NO MILITARY DISCOUNT. No healthcare discount. They revoked for military and healthcare workers. It is now only for cops. No notice, they just spring it on you at the register after the food is already made. They give NOTHING now ZERO discount. ZERO STARS. They also have really cheaped out on portions lately. Greedy and ungrateful. read more

Cava is great for a quick meal at a good price. I always "build my own bowl" and pretty much add all of the toppings that they offer. I typically do a salad base with chicken, red pepper hummus, fire feta, tzatziki, all the toppings, and the garlic sauce. read more

Always love this location. One of the line workers, Des, has amazing customer service, efficient and absolutely deserves a raise. Everything tastes delish and fresh and my bowl is bussing every time read more

Good tasting Healthy food. This place is like the chipotle of mediterranean food. The line gets pretty long so, most likely you will have a bit of a wait .The place is clean and simple and they were playing some good music. Lol Oh yeah, the cucumber lemonade is delicious. read more

CAVA - Yummmm - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

I got to choose 2 meats for my wrap--the gal behind the counter was stingy by giving me only 2 meatballs but she did okay with the chicken. Liked that the wrap was homemade and that you have your choice of wrap vs bowl and your own fillings, which include lettuce, sauces, crispy pita chips, and can eat on the healthier side. Nice patio to eat outside. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

If I could do half stars, I would probably give Cava 3.5. The food is good - it almost reminds me of a burrito bowl restaurant but Greek style. The lamb was a little dry and with all the other ingredients honestly made the whole bowl feel dry - the sauce was not enough to negate the dryness. The flavors were delicious though, so that definitely made up for some of the textures. It does get pretty busy during peak hours, but the staff is pretty efficient. read more

The Mission Valley is the best location in San Diego. It's always busy, but the staff handle the pressure extremely well and manage to provide a friendly atmosphere. I have been there a few times and have had the pleasure of interacting and being helped by Sammy. He's been very friendly each time I've visited this location. Thank you guys. I appreciate your hard work. read more

It ain't bad, it's just strange to me... I think overall cava is DRY tasting-- the meats and combo with sauce options just always feel dried out. This may be personal preference since I love saucy foods, but most of their sauces are chunky and not runny if that makes sense. Have tried a variety of bowls over the years, it's just still not my go to. Good quality food and healthy-ish options. I like that they have ordering online for pickup. read more

This shit ass. Rice like mash potatoes, never have lettuce, line always out the door.

The food here is always sooooooo good and fresh. Eva took my order and was so friendly.

I ordered on line at 1230. Showed up. Waited 30 minutes. Still waiting at 106. They don't have the rice I ordered so they are not properly prep cooking. They don't utilize the pick up window. They are asking people what orders they have and handing them out rather than keeping the flow of pick up orders going. Put them on the shelf and let us grab ourselves. I honestly can't say I've been more disappointed and dissatisfied. I won't even be eating this. I'm forced to take this as they will not refund me and cava as a business is useless to consumers. They do not have a customer service number to contact about issues with your order not refunds. It's honestly the worst experience and I'd recommend any place but here on a lunch break. read more

The Tahini Caesar has to be my favorite bowl here!! I ordered ahead of time, and came early, but ended up waiting an extra fifteen minutes on top of 20. This location is very busy on a Saturday night. Delivery orders went ahead (i.e., Uber eats, door dash) and the staff were doing all they could given the excess orders! I waited in line twice, but a staff said they would double charge so.....Word of advice.... Wait in line don't pre order ahead of time!! The line is faster than it looks!! Overall... love the food here :) read more

CAVA - The Tahini Caesar bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

$20 salad and it's only half filled. Almost no lettuce for the "salad" bowl. Considering how much they charge you'd think the salad would be at least to the halfway line if not completely filled. read more

CAVA - "Salad Bowl" - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Let me start by saying I love the food here. For a fast casual spot, it is healthy and flavorful, and I love that there are some suggested bowls, but you can also cream your own. The problem is that every time I order online, my order is never right. It's always missing a topping and a sauce, and often the pita that I request. Most recently my order was missing 2 toppings and 2 dressings, as well as the pita. I went in, and pickup is always confusing because sometimes orders are set on a shelf and sometimes not. Mine was not on the shelf, and after 10 minutes of waiting, someone finally acknowledged me. Others had the same problem. When I order ahead, it's because I am in a hurry, as others who were on a lunch break were as well. I am sure they struggle with staffing, as many places do. I just wish they could be a little more organized and double check orders. If you have time, just go through the line rather than ordering ahead. read more

Totally recommend this please they are fraindly people and good customer service and delicious food with fast delivery

I go to the CAVA in Mission Valley all the time, and it's hands down one of the best! The team is always super friendly and efficient. No matter how long the line looks. The food is consistently fresh and delicious every single visit. Bonus: if you're in the military, don't forget to ask for the military discount! read more

CAVA - Build your own bowl Steak - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

This cava is located at mission valley mall. During lunch there is always a line. Parking also sucks. I suggest parking around the corner near Jerome's furniture. Despite the busy location the taste and quality is the same. You can customize your own bowl or pita wrap. Must get is the harissa hummus!! You get to pick up to 3 dips and the toppings are unlimited. The lemonades are refreshing. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Ameya is half way asleep and the topping portions consist of two cucumber pieces and four seeds of corn. For the price point that's outrageous activity. It has never happened with other staff though - food and staff - great. Perhaps it's just a training opportunity and a reminder that a $25 bowl should resemble at least somewhere close to the value that even a child is able to eyeball better. read more

I loveeee Cava. I always crave it from time to time. I always create my own bowl, recommend doing that if you're picky with toppings! It's always such a healthy and filling meal, I'll never get sick of it. The only thing though is that the Mission Valley location can have a pretty long line. But I personally don't mind too much because I am the most indecisive person so I need that time to read the menu and decide between all the yummy toppings. The parking SEEMS bad but you'll definitely find a spot. I kind of wish I didn't know how Cava tasted because now I can never go back to Chipotle. Cava is so refreshing and the hummus tastes so good I could drink it like water. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Came here for the first time Thursday night. It's basically like a Chipotle BUT better. I loved how you could choose your lettuce, vegetables, hummus, protein and dressing. They also give you a piece of pita bread. The price is definitely not bad since they give you a decent amount in your bowl. If you haven't had the chance to try this place please come by you won't be disappointed. Thank you Cava for a yummy first time experience, I will definitely be back. read more

CAVA - Outside - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

I frequently come to Cava for a bowl for lunch. You can build your own bowl/pita however you want. Depending on what time of the day you go you could walk in and out in 5 minutes or wait in line for 30+. The line will sometimes even be out the door. It really depends. The restaurant is a more causal vibe and has a good amount of seating both inside and out. It has good variety of ingredients and so far I haven't tried anything I don't like there. There's a lot of healthier options to choose from as well. I really love their lavender lemonade, I could probably it everyday if I could. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Harissa Avocado Bowl & Custom Harissa Chicken Pita I love Cava. Always so delicious and great portions for the price. Obsessed with the harissa chicken!! read more

CAVA - Harissa Avocado Bowl & Custom Harissa Chicken Pita - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

We love Cava. Love the chipotle-esque concept but Mediterranean. And I love Mediterranean food so this place wins for me over chipotle. Really love the amount of choices when it comes to every stage. And their sauces are very tasty. The only thing was that my husband wanted to get a blueberry drink from the dispenser and it was out so he went to try another flavor and it was also out. So that was kind of disappointing. Regardless, we'll be back. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

Got the Greek chicken pita. The chicken was so gritty and disgusting I had to pick it out. I bit into a couple of pieces and got fatty parts and bones and had to keep spitting it out. Also, ask for Greek dressing on side... it was completely soggy and super messy. Taste would have been better without the chicken. Husband got a falafel bowl and he liked his better. Unfortunately most of mine went in the trash. read more

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After long drive from Los Angeles was looking forward to a nice Mediterranean salad for dinner before going to hotel. They were out of feta @7pm and they close at 10. Good food but disappointed read more

So first and foremost I got lentils and they scooped 2 huge scoops and the lentils were hard. I would not have ordered lentils if they didn't cook them.... 2nd in a loud atmosphere employees should be willing to speak up and not be rude when asked what something is a second time. 3rd the girl cleaning the overspill between different food items attempted to use the same gloves to put the lit on my bowl without changing gloves. These gloves were covered in random food particles.... She washed her hands and put new gloves then put the contaminated top on... I didn't even bother saying something because I could tell she washed annoyed. Throwing this full bowl in the trash, don't want to break a tooth on a lentil. read more

CAVA - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

so i don't write reviews in general but i wanted to give a huge shoutout to this location compared to downtown at least because of how friendly the staff are (especially ava (i think that's her name?)) and how they never fail to make my greens/grains bowl correctly whereas downtown has let me down twice in a row. however, i understand that the tomato/onion and tomato/cucumber are very similar so its easy to mix them up, and i received the tomato/onion mix instead of the tomato/cucumber mix in my mobile order greens/grains bowl. ava was more than happy to remake my bowl and let me keep my original one even though i was totally fine disposing of it and felt bad for keeping extra product. she was very sweet and heard me out on my bad experience from the downtown location as of today (july 7th, 2025) and suggested that i contacted cava support, which i had done already. regardless though, shoutout to ava for being so sweet :) read more

A good addition to the fast casual rotation for fresh and feel good food. The concept is like Chipotle. Go down the line and create your own pita or bowl. The ingredients are all well spiced and packed with flavor so nothing boring here. There are a few items that will cost you an up charge. If you don't want to have to think about it, they also have predesigned menu items that you can order. I enjoyed a greens and grain bowl with the spicy lamb meatballs (extra cost). I love the crazy feta and the multitude of add ins like the cucumber tomato salad and cabbage slaw. You can get dressings on the side to mix and match. Great that a pita side is also included. This place can be packed and get super crowded. The line can move slow so give them some patience. read more

My friend and I waited in line for 30 minutes to have a bowl of food that consist on mainly pre-prepped ingredients. There were exactly 6 people in front of us and I counted at least 7 employees. 7!! I don't understand what was going on specifically today within the staff, but all of us in line were absolutely shocked by the complete laziness and lack of care by every person working there. Either something happened amongst the staff, or this company treats their employees like shit and that's why they're miserable. Regardless, it was one of the worst meal experiences I've ever had. All the tables were greasy and dirty. Food tasted alright but was overpriced. $20 for a bowl with grilled chicken and a soda is a lot, nonetheless after such terrible service. read more

CAVA - Grilled chicken bowl with basmati rice and red pepper hummus - Mediterranean Near Me - San Diego, California

While the line moves pretty fast there seems to always be a line. I love all of the choices and combinations I can make. The pickled onions are great! I took a friend yesterday and she loved it too. Wish there was a cava in Chula Vista. read more

Visited here after trying CAVA once during our trip and we are addicted it is SO good and worth the price we were like we gotta have it again before we leave. I'm upset this doesn't exist in the bay area! read more