More Fast-Casual Mediterranean Lands in Austin

Mediterranean restaurant Cava announced plans to open two locations in Austin. The DC-based fast-casual chain will open at 515 Congress Avenue and Urban Outfitters’ Space 24 Twenty on Guadalupe. Both locations are scheduled to open in February 2018.

Cava offers a build-your-own menu, starting with bases like a grain bowl, pita, or salad, and adding spreads (hummus, harissa), proteins (falafel, braised lamb), and toppings. There are also rotating seasonal offerings of juices, soups, and roasted vegetables.

When the two Cava restaurants debut in Austin, it will host a free community lunch prior to opening days. The chain has 35 locations around the country, and it sells a line of dips and spreads available at Whole Foods and other retailers.

Space 24 Twenty has undergone changes of late: After Pizzeria Vetri and Symon’s Burger Joint closed, Lucky Lab Coffee and Frank announced they were moving in. Lucky is open already. Cava will be going into the former Mellow Mushroom space, but will be a part of 24 Twenty.

Cava will be the latest in Mediterranean restaurants with customizable offerings, joining MezzeMe, which opened in June, local chain Verts, and food truck Kebabalicious, which has a location downtown. Full-service Darna Mediterranean Cuisine, an expansion of Almarah, also opened downtown in May. Other recent fast-casual additions to the area include Modern Market and Newk’s Eatery.

• Homegrown Chain Cava Is Headed North and South in 2018, Plus More Intel [EDC]