The casual Mediterranean restaurant Cava opened its first Long Island location in August and it’s already a hit. Newsday reported long lines from the day it opened in a new shopping center on Walt Whitman Road in Melville.

 

The menu consists of build-your-own bowls that are popular with many newer food joints of differing styles (think Chipotle or your favorite Poke bowl place). You start with a base, then add dips and spreads, proteins, toppings, and dressings. You can then add side orders like hummus, pita chips, pita, and chocolate chip cookies or chocolate fudge brownie for dessert.

 

Photo: Cava Facebook page.

 

On Yelp, Meaghan M, from West Islip, gave it five stars.

 

“It's only been a few days since they've opened and I've already been three times,” she wrote. “The food is fresh and delicious, the service is quick and easy, the staff is super friendly, and the restaurant itself is nice and clean. I highly suggest adding the pita chips to your order- they're addicting. Definitely worth the hype.”

 

Alyssa M ageed.

 

“Absolutely love Cava, this new location is great,” she wrote. “Highly recommend the spicy lamb meatballs and crazy feta. If you get a bowl it comes with a small pita on the side which is great. The food tastes very fresh and there are a lot of toppings/dressings/dips/mains etc to choose from. The portions are a good size and the flavors are fantastic.”

 

Location: 834 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, (631) 301-3809.