I had dinner at Cava during my first extensive test of the Leica D-Lux 8. It was an opportunity for both sustenance and photography. I would refrain from shooting inside the restaurant if I had my full-frame Sony or medium-format Fujifilm with me. Those cameras seem too large and imposing for this environment.

With the compact D-Lux 8, I felt more comfortable. Of course, these impressions could just be in my head. However, shooting with confidence has a significant, tangible effect on photography.

Cava is like a Mediterranean version of Chipotle, with a build-to-order selection of fresh options. I’ve greatly reduced my fast food consumption except for Chipotle and Cava, which seem like healthy alternatives.

Shooting here by the prep line is the most obvious, but I felt more emboldened using a smaller camera.

Here’s my masterpiece of a bowl with as many vegetables and lentils as possible with a helping of chicken. I picked a seat by the window facing Congress Avenue, though I didn’t shoot outside.

I shot this broad perspective of the interior, however. It’s modern and barebones, keeping with today’s aesthetic. It’s certainly not gourmet dining, but it’s probably better than a fast-food burger.

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