Wild Business Growth #340: Ted Xenohristos – CAVA, Mediterranean Food Defender
Aug 27, 2025
Ted Xenohristos, Co-Founder & Chief Concept Officer of CAVA, shares his inspiring journey from a family restaurant to scaling CAVA to over 400 locations. He discusses maintaining food quality and innovative culinary offerings, ensuring the brand stays fresh while avoiding menu creep. Ted highlights the essence of Greek culture, including beautiful islands and the influence of basketball star Giannis on identity, alongside delicious Mediterranean dishes. He also provides advice for aspiring restaurateurs on passion and the art of hospitality.
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Raised In A Restaurant Family
- Ted grew up working in his aunt and uncle's restaurant and loved the hospitality and energy.
- Those early jobs seeded his passion for restaurants and serving people.
Hospitality Drives Repeat Business
- Ted realized diners often return for hospitality as much as the food.
- Personality and treating people well created lines out the door at his uncle's restaurant.
Kava Began As A Handbuilt Meze Spot
- The first Kava was a small plates sit-down called Kava Meze with 20–25 dishes and a jovial, generous environment.
- They opened it for under $10k, treated customers like family, and built buzz by giving away food and experiences.