The Experience
Cava is quick-service Mediterranean done the way airport meals should be: fast, fresh-tasting, and customizable enough to handle whatever kind of travel day you’re having. You move down the line Chipotle-style—pick a base, pile on spreads and crunchy toppings, choose a protein (or skip it), and finish with sauces that actually taste bright instead of muted “airport spicy.”
The vibe is upbeat and practical: a clean counter, a steady flow of travelers, and food that smells like lemon, garlic, and warm pita instead of fryer oil. What people love here is consistency—your bowl is built to order, portions are filling, and it’s easy to get something that feels lighter than typical terminal fare while still keeping you satisfied until landing.
Location & Access
- Where: Orlando International Airport (MCO), Orlando, United States. Cava is part of MCO’s broader dining expansion slated across Terminals A and B, with openings expected in the 2026–2027 window.
- Landmarks/gates: MCO has not published a confirmed gate-adjacent description (for example, “near Gate B12”) in the available official/announced materials.
- Security: Pre- vs. post-security placement has not been confirmed in currently available airport listings.
- Seating/waits: Seating capacity and typical wait times haven’t been posted yet; expect the usual counter-service rhythm with a lunch and early-evening rush once it opens.
Menu Highlights
- Build-your-own bowl: Start with greens and/or grains, then load up with hummus, spicy spreads, pickled onions, cucumbers, crumbled feta, and finishing sauces. If you like punchy flavor, go heavy on lemony dressings and a spicy drizzle.
- Pita wrap: A great option when you want something portable for the walk to your gate—especially if you’re juggling kids, a roller bag, and a boarding group that’s already lining up.
- Dips + pita: Ideal “snack meal” for shorter hops—hummus plus a second dip gives you variety without committing to a big bowl.
Dietary options: Cava is typically very friendly for vegetarian and vegan travelers thanks to its spreads, legumes, and veggie-heavy toppings. Many guests also find it workable for gluten-free needs by choosing a bowl and skipping pita, but always confirm ingredient and cross-contact details on-site. Halal availability at this specific airport location has not been confirmed in published information.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not confirmed yet for the MCO location.
- Reservations: No—this is counter service.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Aim for an early lunch (before noon) or mid-afternoon (2–4 p.m.) once the restaurant is operating; airport dinner surges tend to hit hard around 5–7 p.m.
- Power outlets: Outlet availability at Cava’s seating area (if provided) hasn’t been published—plan on charging at gate seating as a backup.
Quick Verdict
Best for: anyone who wants a quick, filling, not-too-greasy meal—business travelers trying to stay sharp, families looking for customizable options, and health-minded flyers who still want bold flavor.
Skip if: you need a guaranteed sit-down, linger-for-an-hour experience or you’re on a tight connection and can’t risk a peak-time line—until MCO confirms exact placement, hours, and service flow for this location.