Great news for Cava fans: the popular fast casual Mediterranean restaurant chain has launched its biggest menu update to date, and along with introducing new flavors, it’s also bringing back a beloved menu item that customers have been hoping would return.
Fan-favorite white sweet potato is available again at Cava locations after its initial debut in 2021, and to celebrate, the chain is offering two new high-protein bowls that feature the item prominently.
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There’s the Spicy Lamb and Sweet Potato Bowl with spicy lamb meatballs and white sweet potatoes alongside power greens, brown rice, tzatziki, red pepper hummus, sumac slaw, pickled onions, feta, cucumber, tomatoes, and tahini Caesar. The Harissa Chicken Power Bowl brings a sweet heat with harissa honey chicken, white sweet potato, power greens, hummus, new sumac slaw, tomato and onion, broccoli, cucumber, avocado, skhug, yogurt dill dressing, and Cava’s iconic Crazy Feta.
As true Cava fans know, menu items at the chain are customizable, so if you’d like to try the sweet potatoes but aren’t craving those specific power bowls, you can always make your own and add the returning root vegetable to a combination of your choice.
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When Cava announced the news on Instagram, fans poured into the comments to write, “I love you so much cava thank you,” calling it the “best news to start the year.” “I wish I knew how to express the excitement I’m feeling,” said a third commenter.
In addition to the white sweet potato, there are new menu items, including the previously mentioned sumac slaw, which is made with cabbage tossed with sumac, parsley, and red wine vinegar. Sumac, a deep red spice that adds a tangy, citrusy taste to food, is also featured on the new limited-time Sumac Sour Cream + Onion Pita Chips.
Cava Sumac Sour Cream + Onion Pita ChipsCava
The popular power greens base is getting an update and is now made with butter lettuce, baby kale, spinach, and heritage greens, and last but not least is a new sweet drink with a kick made with tangerine and Aleppo-style pepper.
“These new offerings and curated bowls bring the bold, bright flavors of the Mediterranean straight to our guests, and truly elevate our entire lineup for 2026,” said Ted Xenohristos, Co-founder and Chief Concept Officer at CAVA, in a statement shared with Parade. “We’re excited to start the year with flavors that not only pair beautifully together but also make it easy to eat well with more protein and veggies. When your food tastes good and leaves you feeling good, that’s a win; and this menu delivers exactly that!”
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This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the Food & Drink section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Dining and Cooking