Overview: Cava Mezze commemorates its 20th anniversary in Olney with a curated menu and signature cocktails. The full-service dining concept, established in Rockville in 2006, distinguishes itself from the fast-casual chain expansion occurring simultaneously.
The Full Story
Founded by three Montgomery County natives—Ted Xenohristos, Ike Grigoropoulos, and Chef Dimitri Moshovitis—the restaurant introduced a menu of small plates inspired by their Greek heritage. The trio opened the original Rockville restaurant in 2006, marking two decades since the establishment began operations. While CAVA has grown into an national fast-casual brand, Cava Mezze has remained a full-service dining concept offering a different experience from the quick-service restaurants that followed.
The Olney location opened in late 2015 and continues to operate today. To mark the milestone, the Olney location is offering a special anniversary menu featuring five dishes and two cocktails. Gus Moshovitis, brother of co-founder Dimitri Moshovitis, has been with the restaurant since it first opened in Rockville in 2006. Although he can still occasionally be found at the original Rockville location, Gus now spends most of his time at Cava Mezze in Olney.
Production & Profile
The anniversary cocktail selections include cucumber gin, made with gin, elderflower, lemon, cucumber, Luxardo, and simple syrup ($13). A second option features spiced pear vodka, lime, elderflower, and cinnamon syrup ($13). Food selections include Mr. Fred’s Fish, featuring pan-roasted fish of the day with herb yogurt, cremini mushrooms, and crispy potatoes (market price); the return of lollipop chicken with Greek yogurt, honey, and walnuts ($17); shrimp saganaki with grated tomato, feta, mint, and grilled sourdough ($18); lamb kapama with braised lamb shoulder, orzo, tomato, and kefalograviera cheese ($23); and chickpea fritters served with hummus, green harissa, and tahini ($16).
Brand & Industry History
Ted Xenohristos graduated from Paint Branch High School, Ike Grigoropoulos graduated from Gaithersburg High School, and Chef Dimitri Moshovitis attended Quince Orchard High School. In the same year that CAVA celebrated the opening of its 500th restaurant nationwide, the full-service restaurant that started it all is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
What This Means
The celebration highlights the distinction between the full-service dining concept and the quick-service restaurants that followed. While CAVA has grown into an national fast-casual brand, Cava Mezze remains a full-service dining concept, offering a different experience from the quick-service restaurants that followed.
Consumer Takeaway
Drinkers can access specific anniversary cocktails and dishes like Mr. Fred’s Fish or lamb kapama at the Olney location.
Source: Read the original article
