Mediterranean Fast-Casual Chain CAVA To Open Next Week In Crystal Lake

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — A new dining option is coming to Crystal Lake as Mediterranean fast-casual chain CAVA prepares to open its first restaurant in the community next week.

The restaurant is scheduled to open on Monday at 5689 Northwest Highway and will operate daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., according to the company.

CAVA is known for its customizable Mediterranean-inspired bowls, pitas, salads, dips and dressings. The rapidly growing chain has expanded across the country and continues to add locations throughout the Chicago area, according to a news release.

"Our mission is to bring heart, health and humanity to food, and everything we do at CAVA is grounded in that spirit of generosity, to our guests, our team members and our community," Regional Director Gino Carlin said in a statement. "We couldn't be more thrilled to be in Crystal Lake and continue growing our presence in the Chicago area."

The Crystal Lake location is expected to employ between 25 and 40 people. The company said it offers benefits including paid time off, healthcare, early wage access, an employee assistance program and free mental health support.

CAVA Community Days: Free Meal

CAVA will host a Community Day event in Crystal Lake on Sunday, inviting residents to get a preview of its new restaurant before the official opening. The event will be held at the company’s new location at 5689 Northwest Highway, Suite G, where guests can sign up for a free lunch or dinner as part of a celebratory “meal on the house” ahead of the grand opening, according to CAVA officials.

The Community Day is designed to welcome neighbors into the space while also supporting Food Rescue US–Chicagoland, which works to redirect surplus food to people experiencing food insecurity. Guests are encouraged to make optional donations during the event, which CAVA will match up to $1,000.

To manage attendance, the company is asking guests to register in advance through online and reserve a specific time slot, with options running from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Attendees are limited to one meal per person and are asked to arrive during their selected window to ensure smooth service.