When we lived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Cava was one of our go-to restaurants for date nights and celebrations. Known as one of the best restaurants in Portsmouth, Cava is tucked into the heart of historic downtown, just steps from our SKORDO shop on Market Street. Between their creative Mediterranean-inspired menu and stunning vertical garden, it’s the perfect place to slow down and savor a beautiful meal.
After we opened our SKORDO spice shop in Portsmouth, a collaboration with Cava Restaurant Portsmouth just made sense. We share a passion for bold, layered flavors, and a love for bringing people together around food. Owner Jon’s Mediterranean roots align perfectly with SKORDO’s globally inspired approach to spices and ingredients. And from our very first meeting, we hit it off with Chef Hillary. She tested several of our blends, but it was our fiery, citrusy Piri Piri Seasoning—an African chile blend—that became her instant favorite.
Piri Piri Seasoning
Ingredients: Thai Bird Chile, Paprika, Salt, Garlic, Cayenne, Cardamom, Sugar, Oregano, Ginger, Lemon Zest, Cinnamon
Chef Hillary transformed it into a summer special that’s pure Cava magic: smoky grilled baby octopus glazed in bacon fat, paired with a crisp Brussels sprout slaw, tender potatoes, and a side of Piri Piri Aioli. The dish is spicy, savory, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re a local looking for your next Portsmouth dining experience or a visitor exploring the Seacoast food scene, Cava is a must-visit. With more than fifty wines by the glass, a menu inspired by Spanish tapas, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else, it’s one of the most unique restaurants in Portsmouth NH.
CAVA's Grilled Baby Octopus with SKORDO Piri Piri Seasoning
We’re thrilled to bring our worlds together in this collaboration and to share the recipe for the Piri Piri Aioli so you can recreate a bit of that Cava x SKORDO magic at home.
Smoky grilled octopus glazed in bacon fat, paired with a crisp Brussels sprout slaw tossed in red wine vinaigrette, and plated with potatoes for a satisfying finish.
