CAVA — Restaurant in Manheim Township

Came in with my mom and dad and we ordered 3 bowls and my dad got a large cup for a drink. spent around $50. It was my parents first time so my mom wanted to try the drinks when she seen my dad picking his out so she asked if I can go get her a cup. I wait back in line even tho all I wanted was a cup and I told every employee I spoke to that all I wanted was a cup. When I get to the cashier(a young skinny brunette girl) who just rung me and my parents out not even 5 minutes ago, She asks me if that was everything (implying the bowl that was getting passed down) i told her oh no I just wanted another large cup. and she says oh okay! and tells me I can go ahead and pay so I tap my card and I realized I was charged $23.64. So I tell her I said all I wanted was the cup and she instantly starts panicking. When who I assume the manager comes out to refund me, they only refund me $16 and I say why am I being refunded $16 when I was charged almost $24? and he also goes into a panic and then starts to gaslight me telling me that their bowl was $16 and then it went to $20 with tax and the remainder was how much my drink was. which in Pennsylvania tax is only 6% so how is there $4 in tax on something $16? The line is starting to get very long and the peoples who's bowl I paid for were ready to get their food and leave, so I just dead the situation and realize the managers are just purposely trying to make them not refunding me the whole amount justified. A good leader who would care about the integrity of the business would've refunded me the whole amount and just gave me the cup for free (not saying I expected that). But that situation put a very bad taste in my mouth for this location as there was no type of consideration of if that could've been my last, and now I have to wait probably & days for a partial refund and my alleged $7...

Background: Sunday Evening roughly 6-7pm, First time at cava after hearing about the hype online, the mediterranean “Chipotle “ with a twist. Been following the hype for a min and was just waiting for a more closer spot to open up.

Initials thoughts: The place is very minimalistic with little art, Has plenty of seating to accommodate large crowds during rush hours. Very well organized & clean in the front. The drink station is stocked & kept up with a plethora of drinks choices.

Ambience: The crew working dinner shift were very underwhelming expect, the two black people on the front. They were helpful and accommodating despite me being new & having no idea what to order. All other members didn’t offer no greetings or anything upon entering. I know every place is different but you should at-least have people who are friendly & interactive to make you feel welcomed.

Food: I got an arugula rice bowl with lamb meatballs with hot harrisa chips. Portions decently okay, Only got 4 meatballs so i paid extra for 3 more. The quality & flavor is unreal tho, The lamb was hitting, The garlic dressing was slapping, The greens were fresh & crunchy. The sides/ toppings are different & interesting. The only thing was the hot harissa chips. They were lukewarm & crunchy but spicy? I was under the impression for them to be “made fresh to order” not left under a heating lamp stale & soggy. Not sure if they are meant to be lukewarm but i got handed another batch “fresh off the fryer” and they were still lukewarm.

Final comments: Bathrooms were disgusting, not sure who used it before me but it was an utter mess, Trash overflowing & on the floor, toilet seat was pissed on.

I’m pretty sure they are better CAVA’s out there with better guest service & more cleaner but for this location 3.8/5. Food was amazing everything else was...

My experience at Cava was nothing short of extraordinary. The flavors that danced in my mouth were luxurious and unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. Every bite was a unique experience, blending vibrant Mediterranean flavors with such passion that it’s clear this food is made with love. The atmosphere was just as comforting—stepping into Cava felt like stepping into a cozy, welcoming haven. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel like I belonged, and that sense of warmth carried through every part of my meal.

The variety on the menu is incredible. Whether you stick with your favorites or venture into something new, you’re guaranteed satisfaction because there’s always something unique to appreciate. Even if a flavor doesn’t hit the mark for me, the quality and care behind every dish are undeniable, and there’s always another option waiting to surprise and delight.

Now, let me tell you about Sam. Sam, who was working the floor and keeping the space spotless, truly made my experience unforgettable. He welcomed me with the biggest smile and shared some fun stories that added a personal touch to my visit. It’s rare to find someone who takes such pride in their work, and it was clear that Sam’s energy and attention to detail elevated my time at Cava. I’ll always remember this meal, not just for the incredible food, but for the hospitality Sam brought to it.

All in all, Cava exceeded every expectation, and I know I’ll be returning many more times. The food was great, the service impeccable, and the atmosphere unforgettable. If you’re looking for a place to feel happy and at...