Chipotle Mexican Grill ( CMG ) has indisputably made its mark as a fast-casual dining icon, with its stock surging over 4x in the last five years and a staggering 130x from its IPO price of $22 in 2006. Investors, seeking the next big thing in the industry, now turn their gaze toward the Mediterranean fast-casual operator Cava Group ( CAVA ). But can Cava replicate the soaring success of Chipotle? Let's delve into the parallels between the two and examine whether Cava could indeed be the next Chipotle. A Strategic Match: Cava vs. Chipotle In the fast-paced realm of fast-casual dining, Chipotle Mexican Grill has long been the gold standard for success and innovation. Enter Cava Group, challenging norms with its dynamic, health-focused approach. Here's a comparative analysis of Cava's business model, growth strategies, and potential as a smart long-term investment, pitted against the industry titan Chipotle. 1. Strategic Menu Design for Health-Conscious Diners Cava's men