Cheap Eats 2007: Cava

Reviewed by Cynthia Hacinli , Michele Kayal , Todd Kliman , Ann Limpert , Don Rockwell

Cava

9713 Traville Gateway Dr.
Rockville, MD
Phone: 301-309-9090

Cuisines:
Greek/Mediterranean, Tapas/Small Plates

Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Nearby Metro Stops:
None nearby

Price Range:
Inexpensive

Dress:
Informal

Noise Level:
Rowdy

Reservations:
Not Accepted

Special Features:
Kid Friendly

Website:
Click here to open in new window.

Best Dishes


Price Details:
Mezze, $3.95 to $10.95.


Forget Zorba the Greek clichés. Think instead of the ouzeri you’d find in Athens’s stylish Kolonaki neighborhood.

Mezze rules at this lively restaurant and nightspot owned by three second-generation Greek-Americans. From the tangy grilled baby octopus and the mini souvlakis to the charcoal-grilled loukanika (orange-scented sausage), the cooking is always gutsy and frequently interesting. Doughnut fans will want to indulge in Greece’s take on fried dough: loukoumades kissed with honey and cinnamon.

Portions are generous, and most dishes are under $9. The deal gets even better Mondays with $5 martinis and Tuesdays with half-price bottles of wine, including lots of interesting Greek picks.

Open weekdays for lunch, Monday through Saturday for dinner.