Fast-casual Mediterranean concept Cava is adding a high-protein, lower-carb rice option to its menu chainwide, the chain announced Wednesday.
Washington, D.C.-based Cava becomes the first national restaurant chain to serve RightRice, a shelf-stable rice made with lentils, chickpeas, green peas and a small amount of actual rice. The product has twice as much protein, five times the fiber and nearly 40% fewer net carbohydrates than a bowl of white rice.
“Our guests are seeking more plant-forward options,” Cava CEO Brett Schulman said in a statement.
The high-protein rice is featured in Cava’s new Chicken + RightRice Bowl, which also includes arugula, grilled chicken, tzatziki, hummus, feta, cucumber, tomato, onion and Greek vinaigrette.
RightRice will also be offered as a base for customizable bowls and pitas.
The rice was developed by Keith Belling, the inventor of Popchips. RightRice is carried at Whole Foods and other retailers.
Cava has more than 100 units around the country. In 2018, Cava acquired Mediterranean chain Zoes Kitchen.
Consumers continue to be interested in plant-based alternatives. Earlier this summer, Chipotle Mexican Grill said it would test Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice as a grain-free, low-carb option at 55 units.
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