I have a confession to make… I never outgrew my plushie phase. If anything, adulthood just gave me more spending power to feed it. I’ve hunted down retro Pikachu plushes from the 90s (including a grey Japan-exclusive I scored in an eBay bidding war), and my dog Tiger is obsessed with the dino nugget plush I impulse-bought from TikTok Shop. My giant Kirby plushes have doubled as back support more times than I’d like to admit, and I’ve lost count of how many Build-A-Bear outings I’ve had with friends. Blind bags? Even more dangerous. I’ll happily tear into TokiDoki, Deadpool, Kirby, or Stitch collectibles like it’s a holiday morning, and now restaurants are getting in on the fun? Let’s just say my wallet might be in trouble.
Today, CAVA rolled out its new Hot Harissa Meal, available exclusively in restaurants. The combo includes their Harissa Avocado Bowl, Hot Harissa Pita Chips, and, plot twist, one of four limited-edition blind bag plushies. Yes, CAVA has officially entered the plushie chat, and we’re here for it.
Is Pita the next Labubu?
The plushie lineup comes courtesy of a collab between CAVA and Thaddeus Coates, the NYC-based creator behind Hippy Potter, who also happens to be a former CAVA team member. Each squishy star is modeled after one of the chain’s pita chip flavors: the classic Original, Garlic Ranch, fiery Hot Harissa, and a yet-to-be-revealed mystery flavor.
Meet the crew:
Peter Chip is the wholesome main character. Jimmy Harissa is Peter’s spicy bestie. Garlic Gus is Peter’s social butterfly of an uncle. Sweet Sammy is Peter’s sweetheart of a sister.
The plushies are already earning their cult status, with creator @snackwithzach dubbing them “Labubu style” but “a little bit better though.”
Meanwhile, user @elisaraine coined the name “cavubu.”
Judging by CAVA’s Instagram posts, think glam mixed with a bit of chaotic charm. The comparison feels pretty spot-on.
How can I get the CAVA Blind Bag Pita Chip Plushies?
The only way to get one of the plushies is with a purchase of the Hot Harissa Pita Meal. They’re limiting it to just one per person, and it is sadly not available to order in advance online. Once it’s gone, it is gone.
What can I do if I miss out?
Don’t stress if you miss out, though! CAVA’s menu still has plenty of flavor-packed options to keep your taste buds happy, like the Crispy Falafel, which features a variety of veggies, cabbage slaw, and garlic dressing. You can also build your own pita masterpiece, treat yourself to a Greyston blondie or brownie, and sip on one of their house-made beverages.