CAVA Group, Inc. (CAVA) Announced Q1 2026 Earnings on May 19, 2026, Reporting "CAVA revenue in the first quarter of 2026 grew 32.2% year-over-year to $434.4 million"

CAVA Group, Inc. reported first quarter 2026 revenue of $434.4 million, representing a 32.2% increase year-over-year.

Same-restaurant sales increased 9.7%, driven by traffic growth of 6.8%.

The company reported net income of $23.6 million for the first quarter and diluted EPS of $0.20.

Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $61.7 million, a 37.6% increase over the prior year period. CAVA restaurant level profit was $108.9 million, or 25.1% of revenue.

The company opened 20 net new restaurants during the quarter, ending the period with 459 total locations.

Key strategic updates included the launch of Cavacor, a modern data platform, and Cava current, a modular real-time commerce platform designed to integrate AI into operations.

Management also highlighted the expansion of the Assistant General Manager position through the Flavor Your Future initiative, which is now in place in over 50% of restaurants to support leadership development and operational integrity.

Culinary innovation was marked by the nationwide launch of Pomegranate salmon, the company's first seafood offering, and the seasonal return of roasted white sweet potato.

For the full year 2026, CAVA raised its guidance to expect 75 to 77 net new restaurant openings and same-restaurant sales growth of 4.5% to 6.5%.

Management projects full year adjusted EBITDA between $181 million and $191 million and common restaurant level profit margin between 23.7% and 24.3%.