Very disappointed in CAVA. The food while generous in portion was bland and chewy, almost as if it’s been microwaved over and over again. Service was the only highlight.
Wouldn’t return
I like the quick service concept for Mediterranean food. So many options that fit all the preferences for the entire family. Food is always fresh and delicious, but I do have to agree with another reviewer that mentioned the inconsistency of the flavors at times. I had an experience where the food was saltier than usual, which overpowered the freshness of the ingredients. The drinks options and flavors are great for both adult and kids. We love jasmine green tea and blueberry lavender. Refreshing and delightful! However, the cleanliness of the tables and seating area need some improvement. It is always pretty messy and dirty during meal time. If it can be check and clean more frequently, it would be better.
JK
Jaskaran “Jesse” Kohli
Nov 4, 2025
Great experienced and customer service getting dinner. Jan’s, dudu, erick, megan were all fantastic and genuinely amazing. My favorite Cava on Long Island and better than Westbury.
I’ve been to CAVA in Melville many times because I love the concept — fresh Mediterranean flavors, customizable bowls, and quick service. When everything is on point, the food is absolutely delicious. The pita chips in particular deserve a special shoutout — they’re perfectly crisp, lightly salted, and completely addictive. The toppings and dressings are flavorful, and the variety of options makes it easy to mix things up and build something new each visit.
That said, my experience here has been inconsistent over time. Some days, the food tastes fresh and perfectly prepared, but other times, the quality drops noticeably. The biggest issue tends to be the lettuce, which has often been wilted or browning — something that really takes away from the overall experience, especially since it’s the base of most of their bowls. It’s disappointing because when the ingredients are fresh, the food is genuinely great.
The staff is generally friendly and efficient, though the line can move slowly during peak hours. The space itself is clean and modern, with plenty of seating and a bright, upbeat atmosphere that makes it a nice spot for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
Overall, I’d say CAVA Melville has a lot of potential — and when they get it right, it’s one of the best fast-casual options around. I just wish the quality was more consistent, particularly with the greens. A little extra attention to freshness would make a big difference, because the flavors and concept really are fantastic.
BD
Briana Dilone
Oct 27, 2025
I don’t even live near this CAVA, it’s a solid 25–30 minute drive for me but I still make the trip because it’s that good. The food is always fresh, the vibe is great, and the staff are so friendly. I actually met Joanna there, and she’s the sweetest! She once complimented my little animal charm on my phone, and now every time I come in, we recognize each other. She needs a raise fr. Lovee this place so much!!