Cava Mezze Grill, DC #2

After my recent review of Cava Mezze Grill, their marketing department immediately contacted me asking if I wouldn't give it another try. Sure, why not. I'm not sure what difference it will make, but I'll take a free meal when I can get it. So they gave me a few tips that I wasn't aware of and I headed back over to Cava Mezze in Columbia Heights for a quick Monday night meal.

As I mentioned in my last review, Cava Mezze Grill is a Greek-inspired Mediterranean cafe. What I didn't realize is that there is a salad option for which you can choose from a number of healthy greens including a supergreens mix, romaine, arugula, mesclun, or baby spinach. One of the things I didn't like about my last visit is that they loaded my bowl with way too much rice and there weren't many veggies at all. I didn't even see the lettuces!  So this time, I still ordered a bowl, but I asked for only one scoop of brown rice along with the supergreens mix. Then, I added hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, and harissa. For my protein, I chose their delicious falafel. And for the toppings, I loaded it up with tomato & cucumber, cucumbers, pickled onions, quinoa tabbouleh, kalamata olives, and more. This time, they asked me if I wanted a dressing and I chose the lemon herb tahini.

Was I pleased this time? Yes!  The supergreens mix was chock full of shredded kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage and chicory and was really good. That mixed with just the right amount of rice and quinoa and all the veggies I desired made for a delicious bowl. I still think the harissa is a bit too strong of a flavor for the bowl, but there are only three spreads that are vegan so I had to choose that one again.  I also loved the lemon herb tahini -- a great dressing! My only recommendation is to start allowing quinoa as a substitution for the rice. Right now, it is just a topping they sprinkle on top. If they had allowed me to sub a scoop of quinoa for the rice, it would have made this meal perfect.

I really like the unlimited toppings for just one low price as well. So, Cava Mezze and your marketing team, you have turned me into a fan. Well done.

Cave Mezze
3105 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20010
(202) 695-8100

Full Disclosure: Although the meal was provided to me for free to review, that in no way influenced my veracious opinion.