One of our customer favorites, falafel has been a Mediterranean staple for generations. These chunky, protein-packed balls of goodness are made from a flavorful blend of chickpeas, fava beans, fresh herbs, and aromatic ground spices, then fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, falafel delivers a balance of texture and flavor that never fails to satisfy. It’s hearty, comforting, and also completely plant-based.
Part of falafel’s charm lies in its incredible versatility. Whether you enjoy it wrapped in warm pita bread, served over fluffy basmati rice, tossed into a bright salad, or tucked into a hearty sandwich, falafel seamlessly fits into any meal. Pair it with labneh, hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce, and you have a combination that’s as rich in flavor as it is in nutrients. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity, freshness, and balance, three principles at the heart of Mediterranean cooking.
Origins and Journey
While the exact origins of falafel are somewhat mysterious, most historians believe it began in Alexandria, Egypt, where it was traditionally made from fava beans. Egyptian Christians are thought to have enjoyed falafel as a meat substitute during Lent. As the dish travelled across regions and cultures, it evolved in each community, adding its own local twist. In places like Lebanon, Yemen, Turkey, and Libya, chickpeas replaced fava beans, creating the lighter, nuttier version loved around the world today.
Today, falafel stands as a symbol of connection and culture, a humble street food that has become a global favorite. At Cava, we honor that history by preparing our falafel fresh every day, crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or it’s already your go-to order, adding falafel to your bowl or pita is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of tradition, reimagined for modern life.
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The content presented is for educational purposes only and is part of a project for my Public Relations and Advertising studies at the University of Southern California (USC). All material related to the CAVA brand was created exclusively for this project. I do not have any affiliation with, nor am I employed by, any of the brands or entities discussed in this presentation. The views expressed are solely my own and do not represent the official positions or opinions of USC, the brands mentioned, or any related organizations. All trademarks, logos, and brand names used in this presentation are the property of their respective owners
AI Disclaimer
This content was originally written by me and subsequently enhanced with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools.