Thinking about owning a CAVA franchise? You are not alone. With the rising interest in CAVA franchise alternatives, more entrepreneurs are exploring ways to tap into the Mediterranean fast-casual trend that has taken over the U.S. dining scene.
CAVA’s popularity is no surprise, it offers bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and a build-your-own bowl model that feels both gourmet and convenient.
But here is the twist. CAVA does not currently offer franchise opportunities. Every location is company-owned and operated. That leaves many investors and aspiring restaurateurs looking for other ways to enter this fast-growing market segment.
In this guide, we explore profitable CAVA franchise alternatives. We will unpack why CAVA has chosen not to franchise, what makes a great alternative, and the top fast-casual Mediterranean food franchises you can actually invest in.
From startup costs to market trends and business model insights, this is your roadmap to building a brand that serves fresh, fast, and in-demand food, without needing to own a CAVA store.
See also: Best Franchises to Own for Beginners: Top Opportunities for First-Time Entrepreneurs
Key Takeaway
- Entrepreneurs can also launch their own Mediterranean restaurant concept with the right plan, branding, and location strategy, supported by tools like the Entrepreneurs.ng Business Plan Template and Advertising Packages.
- CAVA does not offer franchise opportunities, but demand for Mediterranean fast casual dining continues to grow across the U.S. market.
- Several profitable CAVA franchise alternatives—like The Halal Guys, Garbanzo, and Naf Naf—offer similar menu styles and customer appeal.
- Opening a CAVA-style food franchise typically requires an investment of $250,000 to $900,000, depending on the brand and location.
Why Everyone Wants a CAVA Franchise
CAVA has quickly become one of the most talked-about brands in the U.S. restaurant space. With more than 300 locations and a successful IPO that raised over 300 million dollars in 2023, its rise reflects a growing consumer appetite for healthy, customisable, and globally inspired meals.
For entrepreneurs, the buzz around CAVA is not just about food, it is about business potential.
At the core of CAVA’s appeal is its fast-casual model, which combines the convenience of quick service with the quality of premium ingredients. This is especially attractive to millennials and Gen Z consumers, who are driving demand for more health-conscious and sustainable dining options.
According to a report by IBISWorld, the fast casual segment in the U.S. generated more than 125 billion dollars in 2023 alone, with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines among the fastest-growing categories.
Many investors and aspiring food entrepreneurs begin their research looking for CAVA franchise cost or ownership details. What they quickly find out is that franchising is not an option.
Still, the high volume of searches around CAVA franchise alternatives shows that people are eager to replicate or invest in a similar concept.
If you are one of them, you are not chasing hype, you are following a proven consumer trend. The opportunity now lies in finding the right franchise brand or launching a CAVA-style business of your own.
See also: A product on how to become a successful franchise owner.
Why You Can’t Buy a CAVA Franchise (At Least Not Yet)
Despite the massive interest and a proven track record of consumer loyalty, CAVA remains a fully corporate-owned brand. That means it does not offer any franchise opportunities, at least not for now.
If you have been looking up CAVA franchise cost or franchise requirements, you have probably hit a wall. That is because the company has made a strategic decision to retain full control over its operations, quality, and customer experience.
CAVA’s leadership has openly stated that keeping ownership in-house allows them to scale at their own pace and maintain consistency across all locations.
It is a strategy that mirrors other powerhouse brands like Chipotle, which also grew through corporate ownership rather than franchising. For CAVA, it is about protecting the integrity of their brand and avoiding the potential dilution that can come with franchise models.
While this may sound like a dead end for entrepreneurs interested in the fast casual Mediterranean space, it is actually a green light. The fact that CAVA does not franchise opens the door for other forward-thinking restaurant brands and for you as an investor or business owner.
This is where CAVA franchise alternatives come in. You still have the chance to build something similar, tap into the same consumer demand, and ride the wave of health-focused dining that continues to reshape the U.S. restaurant industry.
See also: Waffle House Franchise Alternatives: Top Picks to Profit
What Makes a Good CAVA Alternative?
When evaluating CAVA franchise alternatives, it is important to understand what exactly makes CAVA so successful and how to identify those same traits in other brands.
You are not just looking for a restaurant that serves hummus and pita. You are looking for a concept with the right mix of brand appeal, operational structure, and market fit.
Below are the essential elements that define a strong alternative to CAVA in the U.S. food franchise landscape.
Fast Casual Format With a Customisable Menu
Consumers love control, and CAVA nailed this by allowing customers to build their own bowls with fresh, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
A good CAVA alternative should offer a similar fast-casual experience – quick service, modern design, and a customisable menu that gives guests the power to mix and match proteins, grains, veggies, and sauces.
Health-Conscious Ingredients and Clean Eating Focus
One of the biggest drivers of CAVA’s popularity is its health-forward branding. Americans are more focused than ever on eating clean, especially millennials and Gen Z.
Look for Mediterranean restaurant franchises that promote wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, vegetarian and vegan options, and sustainable sourcing. These traits resonate with today’s diners and can increase your restaurant’s appeal.
See Also: Chipotle Franchise Alternatives- Top Fast-Casual Restaurant Franchise Investments For 2025
Strong Branding and Scalable Operations
CAVA’s sleek branding and scalable business model are central to its national growth. If you are investing in a franchise, evaluate how well the brand communicates its identity and whether its operations are structured for multi-unit growth.
You want a franchise that has already done the groundwork in terms of supply chains, marketing, and support systems.
Demand for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Cuisine
Consumer data shows increasing interest in global and ethnic cuisines. Mediterranean food is particularly popular due to its reputation for being both delicious and healthy.
In 2023, Yelp’s “State of the Restaurant Industry” report highlighted Mediterranean cuisine as one of the top emerging food trends in the U.S. That demand should inform your decision when choosing a franchise opportunity.
Reasonable Franchise Investment and Support
A promising CAVA-style food concept should offer a fair entry cost and strong franchisee support. Be sure to consider initial fees, royalty structures, location assistance, training, and ongoing marketing help.
This is where brands focused on fast casual food franchises really stand out—they are often more affordable to launch and easier to manage than full-service restaurants.
See also: Proven steps to start a successful business.
Top CAVA Franchise Alternatives You Can Own in 2025
If you are searching for CAVA franchise alternatives that offer a similar mix of health-conscious dining, customisable menus, and fast casual convenience, there are several standout options in the U.S. market.
These Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food franchises are thriving on the same wave of consumer demand that made CAVA a household name.
Each franchise listed here is a strong contender for those looking to own a Mediterranean franchise or invest in fast-casual food franchises with high growth potential.
We have outlined key information, including franchise costs, menu style, brand appeal, and what makes each concept a worthy alternative to CAVA.
The Halal Guys
Originating from a New York City food cart in the 1990s, The Halal Guys has grown into a powerhouse brand with a global footprint.
Known for its crave-worthy platters of gyro meat, rice, and signature white sauce, this franchise blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours into a fast-casual format that has earned a cult following.
Why is Halal Guys a Top CAVA Alternative?
The Halal Guys hits many of the same notes – customisable meals, bold flavours, quick service, and a health-conscious angle. It also has strong brand recognition and a proven operating system. It is ideal for urban centres, college towns, and areas with a diverse demographic base.
Franchise cost: Estimated $370,000 to $1.5 million, including franchise fee and build-out costs.
Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh
Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh is built around clean eating and nutrient-rich ingredients. Its menu includes pitas, shawarma, falafel, and hummus bowls, all prepared fresh daily.
The brand positions itself as a modern, tech-enabled fast casual chain with a focus on transparency and guest experience.
Why is Garbanzo a Top CAVA Franchise Alternative?
Garbanzo leans heavily into the same health and flavour-driven narrative that powers CAVA’s appeal. It is also relatively young, making it attractive for franchisees seeking early growth potential. It is ideal for entrepreneurs looking for a modern Mediterranean restaurant franchise with tech integration and a younger brand image.
Franchise cost: Ranges from $386,000 to $865,000, depending on location.
Pita Mediterranean Street Food
Founded in Georgia, Pita Mediterranean Street Food has grown steadily across the southeastern U.S. It offers a diverse menu featuring shawarma wraps, rice bowls, gyros, and family-style platters.
The focus is on bringing the vibrant experience of Middle Eastern street food into a fast casual environment.
Why Pita Mediterranean is a CAVA-style Food Concept
It blends authentic flavours with a build-your-own bowl format. Pita’s franchise system is also known for being flexible and franchisee-friendly, making it easier to enter the business. It is ideal for first-time restaurant investors or food entrepreneurs seeking a smaller, more flexible brand.
Franchise cost: Typically $250,000 to $600,000.
Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill
Naf Naf began in the Midwest and has since expanded across multiple states. The brand centres on freshly baked pita, grilled meats, and scratch-made toppings. It uses a counter-service model similar to CAVA’s, with a clear emphasis on authenticity and quality.
Why Naf Naf is One of the Top Fast Casual Food Franchises:
Naf Naf offers a polished brand experience while retaining the warmth of traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. The menu, operations, and scalability make it a strong alternative for investors eyeing the healthy fast casual market.
It is ideal for multi-unit investors looking for operational efficiency and brand support.
Franchise cost: $325,000 to $750,000 initial investment.
Hummus Republic
Hummus Republic is a fast-growing franchise that champions plant-based eating and sustainability. Its build-your-own Mediterranean bowls appeal to vegans, vegetarians, and health-conscious consumers.
The interiors are modern, and the branding leans into lifestyle more than tradition.
Why Hummus Republic Is a Great Alternative to a CAVA Franchise:
It shares many of CAVA’s brand values—clean eating, customisation, minimal environmental impact—and speaks directly to the wellness-minded millennial and Gen Z audience. It is ideal for entrepreneurs passionate about wellness, sustainability, and conscious food trends.
Franchise cost: From $226,000 to $500,000.
Pita Pit
A veteran in the fast-casual space, Pita Pit has built a solid foundation across North America. It serves grilled meats, fresh veggies, and sauces wrapped in pita bread.
With a streamlined operational model and simple build-out requirements, it is designed for ease of management and scalability.
Why Pita Pit is a Viable CAVA Franchise Alternative:
It may not be as new or buzzworthy, but Pita Pit has staying power. It is well-suited for entrepreneurs who want a stable investment with broad market appeal.
It is ideal for business owners seeking a lower-cost Mediterranean restaurant franchise with brand longevity.
Franchise cost: $216,000 to $435,000, depending on size and location.
Each of these franchise brands has its own strengths, but they all cater to the same consumer profile that made CAVA a success: people who want real food, fast, and full of flavour.
By choosing the right concept, location, and brand, you can build a profitable business that taps into one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S. food industry.
What It Costs to Own a CAVA-Style Franchise
If you are seriously exploring CAVA franchise alternatives, understanding the cost to launch and operate a similar fast-casual food franchise is essential.
One of the most common searches—CAVA franchise cost—often leads entrepreneurs to a dead end since the company does not franchise.
However, you can still get a detailed picture of what it would cost to build or buy into a Mediterranean-style food franchise that mirrors CAVA’s format.
Franchise investment levels vary widely depending on the brand, location, build-out requirements, and whether it is a single-unit or multi-unit operation.
Based on industry averages and public franchise disclosure documents, here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
Average Startup Investment Range
Most reputable fast-casual food franchises similar to CAVA require a total initial investment ranging between $250,000 and $900,000.
This includes everything from franchise fees to build-out costs, equipment, signage, and opening inventory.
Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Franchise fee: $25,000 to $40,000 (one-time payment to the franchisor)
- Build-out and leasehold improvements: $150,000 to $400,000
- Equipment and kitchen setup: $50,000 to $120,000
- Initial inventory and supplies: $10,000 to $20,000
- Marketing and grand opening costs: $10,000 to $30,000
- Working capital (first 3–6 months): $50,000 to $150,000
These numbers align with what most CAVA-style food concepts, like Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh or Naf Naf Grill, require to open a single location.
Royalty and Marketing Fees
In addition to your initial investment, franchise brands typically charge ongoing royalty fees of 5% to 7% of gross sales.
Many also require a marketing fund contribution, usually between 1% and 3%. These costs help maintain brand awareness, fund national campaigns, and support your local marketing efforts.
If you plan to invest in a franchise like Pita Pit or The Halal Guys, be sure to review their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for a full cost breakdown. Always factor in both upfront and recurring costs when comparing CAVA franchise alternatives.
Real Estate and Location Costs
Another major consideration is your physical location. Rent and property improvements can quickly push your total investment higher, especially in high-traffic urban areas.
A store in Los Angeles or New York will naturally cost more to open than one in a suburban Midwest city. Choosing a location with strong foot traffic and high demand for Mediterranean or healthy food options is crucial to maximising your ROI.
Staffing and Training Costs
Hiring and retaining staff is a core part of running any fast-casual restaurant. Most brands offer detailed onboarding and training programmes as part of their franchise support.
Be prepared to invest in initial training fees and ongoing team development. Fortunately, many Mediterranean restaurant franchises include these services in their franchise packages.
Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs
If you are considering launching your own Mediterranean food concept instead of franchising, you can use our Business Plan Template available in the Entrepreneurs.ng Shop to build a solid financial plan.
You will also find resources for branding, logo design, and marketing tools that help you stand out in the competitive food business.
We also recommend subscribing to our newsletter to stay updated on emerging franchise opportunities, restaurant funding trends, and expert strategies for growing your business in the U.S. market.
How to Choose the Right Mediterranean Franchise for You
Once you have explored the best CAVA franchise alternatives, the next step is to determine which one fits your goals, budget, and vision.
Not all Mediterranean restaurant franchises are created equal. Some offer robust support and national brand recognition, while others are newer players with niche appeal or regional focus.
Choosing the right fast casual food franchise requires a mix of market insight, financial clarity, and alignment with your personal values as a business owner. Here are the key factors to consider.
Understand Your Budget and Investment Capacity
The first step is to assess how much capital you can realistically invest. Whether you are considering franchise brands like CAVA or newer entrants like Hummus Republic, your budget will influence the type of franchise you can afford and whether you go for a single unit or multi-location strategy.
CAVA-style food concepts typically require an investment starting from $250,000 and going up to nearly $1 million. You should also plan for an additional financial buffer to cover working capital, unexpected expenses, and your own salary until the business turns profitable.
Evaluate Market Demand in Your Area
Location can make or break a fast-casual franchise. You need to research whether there is existing demand for Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine in your target city or region.
Look for areas with health-conscious demographics, young professionals, students, or culturally diverse populations. These are the customers most drawn to build-your-own bowl formats and healthy food franchise opportunities.
Many franchise systems offer territory analysis or assist in site selection. Do not skip this step. Data-backed location decisions are key to sustainable growth.
Assess the Franchise Support System
The level of training and ongoing support offered by the franchisor should be a major part of your decision. Ask about:
- Onboarding and staff training
- Marketing support and national campaigns
- Supply chain and inventory systems
- Technology integration (online ordering, POS, loyalty apps)
The more comprehensive the support, the better positioned you will be to scale the business, especially if you have limited experience in food service.
Consider Menu Flexibility and Innovation
Consumers evolve quickly, and your franchise partner should too. Look for brands that are actively updating their menus to meet dietary trends, such as plant-based, gluten-free, or keto-friendly options.
Being able to cater to a wide range of dietary needs will increase your reach and long-term relevance in the market.
Some brands also allow limited menu localisation, giving you the flexibility to tailor offerings based on regional preferences or seasonal demand.
Think Long-Term: Brand Vision and Scalability
Ask yourself if the brand you are considering aligns with your long-term vision. Are you hoping to open one location or expand to multiple cities?
Does the franchise encourage multi-unit development? How adaptable is the concept to future consumer trends?
Franchise brands like CAVA are admired for their scalability and market timing. If you are going to commit to a concept, make sure it has room to grow with you.
Can You Start Your Own CAVA-Style Business Instead?
Not every entrepreneur wants to join a franchise system. Some prefer to build something of their own from the ground up. If that sounds like you, the good news is that it is entirely possible to create a successful fast-casual concept inspired by CAVA.
With the right planning, branding, and positioning, you can enter the market with your own take on the Mediterranean bowl experience.
While CAVA franchise alternatives offer plug-and-play models, starting your own CAVA-style food concept gives you complete control, from the menu and pricing to the customer experience and marketing voice.
Define Your Unique Concept and Menu
The first step is to craft a concept that is both familiar and fresh. CAVA-style food concepts work because they strike a balance between customisation, health, and bold flavour.
Your menu should focus on Mediterranean staples, grains, grilled proteins, dips, roasted vegetables, and house-made sauces, while offering enough flexibility for customers to personalise their meals.
Do not just copy CAVA. Think about what you can offer that stands out. Can you focus on locally sourced ingredients?
Can you offer fusion options that mix Mediterranean flavours with Southern or Latin American influences? These creative touches will help you compete in a saturated market.
Develop a Solid Business Plan
Like any business, your Mediterranean restaurant needs a roadmap. A comprehensive business plan will guide every decision, from funding and equipment purchases to location scouting and staffing.
If you need a head start, Entrepreneurs.ng offers a ready-to-use Business Plan Template in the Shop. It walks you through everything you need: cost analysis, marketing plan, target market definition, and financial forecasting.
Build a Memorable Brand
Today’s customers do not just buy food, they buy stories. Your brand must connect emotionally while looking polished and professional. That includes your logo, store design, packaging, and online presence.
Whether you go for a modern minimalist vibe or something vibrant and rooted in tradition, consistency matters.
We offer brand asset design services through our creative network. If you need help creating a compelling brand identity, logo, or menu board design, we can support you every step of the way.
Secure a Strategic Location
CAVA-style restaurants thrive in busy, high-footfall areas – think near universities, office parks, gyms, or in shopping centres. Look for a spot that has a strong lunch crowd and evening traffic.
If real estate is a challenge, starting with a ghost kitchen or food truck can be a smart way to test your menu and grow your following.
Invest in Marketing and Community Building
You are competing with big brands, so you need to punch above your weight in marketing. Focus on digital-first strategies: Instagram, local SEO, influencer collaborations, and be active in your community.
Partner with fitness studios, yoga centres, or wellness events to attract your ideal customer.
If you want to reach a wider audience of business owners and foodies, consider our Advertising Packages. We help entrepreneurs like you showcase their products and services to a highly engaged, business-minded audience. From sponsored articles to targeted content placements, it is an effective way to get noticed.
Stay Flexible and Customer-Focused
Trends change. Menus evolve. Listen to your customers and stay adaptable. What makes many CAVA franchise alternatives successful is not just the food, it is the ability to evolve quickly with consumer expectations. Adopt that same mindset as you grow your brand.
Conclusion
There is no denying the appeal of CAVA and its influence on the fast-casual dining space in the U.S. Even though CAVA does not franchise, the demand for similar Mediterranean-inspired food concepts continues to grow.
If you have been searching for CAVA franchise alternatives, you are already aligned with a strong consumer trend- one built on health, speed, flavour, and convenience.
Whether you invest in an existing Mediterranean restaurant franchise or build your own CAVA-style business, the key is in choosing a model that fits your vision, capital, and long-term goals.
The brands we have highlighted, from The Halal Guys to Hummus Republic, offer scalable opportunities in locations where health-conscious dining is booming. And if independence is more your style, starting your own concept gives you room to innovate and create something uniquely yours.
The path you choose should reflect your strengths as an entrepreneur.
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Frequently Asked Questions About CAVA Franchise Alternatives
Can I own a CAVA franchise?
No, CAVA does not currently offer franchise opportunities. All of its locations in the United States are company-owned.
This has led many aspiring restaurateurs and investors to search for CAVA franchise alternatives that offer a similar menu, branding appeal, and fast-casual experience.
Why doesn’t CAVA franchise its restaurants?
CAVA follows a corporate-owned business model to maintain full control over its brand, operations, and customer experience. This allows them to ensure consistency and quality across all locations.
While this limits opportunities for franchise ownership, it creates space for other fast-casual food franchises to meet the growing demand for healthy Mediterranean-style dining.
What are the best CAVA franchise alternatives?
Some of the top CAVA franchise alternatives include:
- The Halal Guys
- Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh
- Pita Mediterranean Street Food
- Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill
- Hummus Republic
- Pita Pit
These franchises offer Mediterranean or Middle Eastern menus, fast casual service, and business models that are available to U.S.-based franchise investors.
How much does it cost to open a Mediterranean food franchise?
The average cost to open a Mediterranean restaurant franchise ranges between $250,000 and $900,000. This includes franchise fees, real estate build-out, kitchen equipment, initial inventory, and working capital. The exact amount depends on the brand, location, and size of the operation.
Are Mediterranean restaurant franchises profitable?
Yes, Mediterranean restaurant franchises can be profitable if they are located in the right market and managed well.
The demand for healthy food franchise opportunities has grown consistently in the U.S., and Mediterranean cuisine is seen as both delicious and nutritious, making it a strong category within the fast-casual segment.
What makes a good CAVA-style food concept?
A strong CAVA-style concept should offer:
- A customisable menu
- Fast casual service
- Fresh, health-forward ingredients
- Transparent nutrition and sourcing
- Tech-enabled ordering and loyalty programs
These features are what draw customers to brands like CAVA and are key traits to look for when evaluating franchise brands like CAVA.
Should I franchise or start my own Mediterranean restaurant?
This depends on your goals, experience, and available capital. Franchising provides structure, brand recognition, and support, while launching your own concept offers full creative freedom.
If you decide to start your own CAVA-style food business, make sure you begin with a solid business plan. Entrepreneurs.ng offers a comprehensive Business Plan Template tailored to restaurant startups in the Shop.
How do I market a Mediterranean food franchise?
Effective marketing strategies for Mediterranean food franchises include:
- Local SEO and Google Business Profile optimisation
- Social media campaigns on Instagram and TikTok
- Loyalty programs and mobile app integration
- Partnerships with local wellness communities
- Paid content placement through platforms like Entrepreneurs.ng Advertising Packages to reach a targeted business audience
