Dimitri Moshovitis is one part of the holy trinity behind CAVA, your new favorite fast-casual Mediterranean dining experience that makes hummus better than your ya-ya. Moshovitis and the other two parts of this tantalizing triad, Ted Xenohristos and Ike Grigoropoulos, grew up together in Maryland, (cue Drake repeating “imagine if I never met the broskis”.) CAVA is where you eat when you want a bowl overflowing with locally-sourced vegetables and slow roasted meats, topped with housemade dressings and spices. Their menu is customizable--with literally millions of possible meal combos to make so you can reach Mediterranean nirvana your own way. According to Moshovitis, the dishes are inspired by his mother’s Greek cooking and the tastes of his childhood.
Image courtesy of Dimitri Moshovitis
Image courtesy Dimitri Moshovitis
“Hummus — among other traditional dips and spreads — were commonplace in my home when I was a kid,” Moshovitis told Citizine. “For me, the secret is the right balance of flavor and texture. Knowing how much garlic and lemon to use is something we have definitely mastered at CAVA.”
If he’s not eating his own creations, the chef enjoys mezze-style dishes, like the one named after him at Cava Mezze, CAVA’s full-service restaurant in DC: “it’s the ‘Chef D’ and includes three lamb chops, two chicken souvlaki, four grilled meatballs, gyro, fries, tzatziki, pita, onions, and tomatoes.”
When it comes to LA, Moshovitis has some go-to Mediterranean spots. Prepare to start planning your next local getaway when you’re done reading.
CAVA
Various Locations, $
Dimitri Moshovitis: There are so many different options — so my order often changes based on what I’m in the mood for. Right now though my perfect bowl usually includes some of our saffron Basmati rice, black lentils, lamb meatballs, seasonal roasted vegetables and some of our famed Crazy Feta. I generally pair it with one of our seasonal house-made juices to bring the whole meal together perfectly
Dune
Atwater Village, $
DM: This little spot always has a line out the door, but it’s worth it. They serve up some of the most flavorful falafel you can find in Los Angeles. It’s crisp and fluffy, and is best served in a pita wrap with onions and hummus.
Kismet
Los Feliz, $$
DM: Whenever I’m in Los Angeles, I try to stop by Kismet. It’s always interesting to see how chefs can really elevate Mediterranean cuisine and make it their own. I’m a big fan of the jeweled crispy rice dish with egg yolk. The crispiness of the rice paired with the yolk is the perfect explosion of texture and flavor.
Ta-eem Grill
Melrose, $$
DM: This place does not skimp on the portions. Try the chicken shawarma, they marinate it with their own secret blend of Mediterranean spices. It’s a must try.
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean
Downtown, $$
DM: Get the sabich. It’s a traditional dish consisting of pita stuffed with [both] fried egg and hard-boiled eggs. It’s rare to find a dish like this in Los Angeles, and when you happen to find one on a menu, I highly recommend you go for it.
Bowery Bungalow
Silver Lake, $$
DM: They have the best Middle Eastern breakfast you can find in Los Angeles. This dish really takes me back to my childhood. The selection of pickled veggies, soft-boiled eggs and labneh among house-made jam is unbeatable.
Header image courtesy of Dimitri Moshovitis
CAVA courtesy @cava
Dune courtesy of @cibobuonophotography
Kismet courtesy of @cheraleelyle
Ta-eem Grill courtesy of @madisonraeholler
Soom Soom courtesy of @soomsoomfresh
Bowery Bungalow courtesy of @bowerystmideast
