In 2006, three lifelong friends who worked in the food biz decided to open a Greek restaurant in Rockville. Not Greek fusion, not overly glammed up dishes posing as Greek (D.C.'s got enough of those overpriced joints, thank you very much), but authentic fare inspired by the mezze they found in Greece and on their own tables growing up courtesy of their mothers. And thus Cava was born.

 

Now it's the District's turn to relish in the deliciousness that is Cava, as they recently opened their second installation of the locally renowned restaurant in Capitol Hill. The sky's the limit in your pursuit of the perfect mezze, as the variety of these small but substantial dishes is vast but in no way overwhelming here. Lightly glazed jumbo scallops on a bed of creamy mushroom risotto and pan seared lamb chops marinated in olive oil, pepper and oregano are just a snapshot of the amazing dishes you'll find on the menu courtesy of chef Dimitri Moshovitis. Mezze are intended to be shared, but with plates like "disco fries" - crispy, hand cut potato sticks adorned with braised pork and veal ragout and a smattering of crumbled, salty kefalograviera cheese - it's easy to imagine becoming a bit selfish with your dining companions. It would also be a crime not to mention that the watermelon salad, composed of fresh watermelon, mint and dodonis feta is so mouthwatering that you may seriously want to hug the plate after you've finished devouring it. The owners source local farmer's markets whenever possible and use the freshest ingredients, not to mention import many of their ingredients directly from Greece, so you know these guys mean business when it comes to putting quality food on the table.

 

But dining isn't the only reason you'll want to check out Cava, as the venue doubles as a serious wine bar (over 90 wines available, including a big chunk of Greek imports) and lounging destination. Whether kicking back at the impressively spacious bar area downstairs (which seats about 20 comfortably) or soaking up the summer temps in the soon to be opened rooftop deck upstairs, Cava is the perfect place to grab a drink. Signature cocktails like the passion fruit nectar martini and the apricot mint julep strike the perfect balance of flavors that are sophisticated but not too flirty - nicely sweet without sending you into sugar shock.

 

The interior at Cava is best described as modern but earthy, with dark wood tables and mahogany hued seating, complimented by geometrically carved wood paneling that beautifully separates, but in no way obscures, the main dining room from the bar. Wood floors and exposed brick round out the décor, and the warm vibe continues with great family photos of the owners scattered about the walls.  Rare is the restaurant and lounge that can be deemed the perfect spot for pretty much any occasion - be it a date, a small get together of friends or a birthday dinner - but somehow the atmosphere seems like it can accommodate just about any kind of diner.  

 

Mezze dishes here run anywhere between $6 and $17, and don't be surprised if you find one of the friendly owners, such as Ted, Ike, Andreas or George, stop by your table to chat you up while you're chowing down. After all, they were raised well - and fed well - by thier great Greek mothers. And now the rest of us can be, too...minus the pinching of the cheeks.

 

Cava Mezze and Wine Bar is located at 527 8th St. S.E., Capitol Hill; within walking distance of Eastern Market Metro stop, and is open for lunch and dinner in addition to Sunday brunch.

 

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