Some people consider Seva the epitome of an Ann Arbor institution.
Starting out as a fresh and imaginative vegetarian restaurant in 1973, it was located at 314 Liberty Street, where Jerusalem Garden currently resides. In 2013, Seva relocated to the Westgate Shopping Center. On February 28, they announced the closing of their Detroit location and, in a heartfelt message, expressed uncertainty about the future while emphasizing their deep appreciation for their patrons, and inviting the community to help sustain them. For them, it has always been about the people.
We recently enjoyed Seva for a family dinner. The atmosphere still retains much of the charm of the original Liberty location, with an abundance of living plants, vibrant stained glass/lighting, and a warm, LGBTQ+ friendly environment.
It happened to be “Thirsty Thursday,” which features $2 off cocktails and mocktails. One of us ordered a Cherry Amaretto Sour, while the other two chose mocktails: the “Persephone Punch” (a lively mix of pomegranate, cranberry, lime and zesty draft ginger beer) and the “Iced Ginger Spitzer” (with ginger, lemon, agave and soda). All the drinks were both refreshing and original.
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For our entrées, we ordered the North African Couscous, the Burrito Chihuahua, and the Pad Thai. The couscous featured tempeh with green beans and garbanzo beans. The burrito was stuffed with beans, corn and rice, and topped with a savory red tomato sauce. The Pad Thai was moist, flavorful and included generous tofu.
As we looked around the relaxing setting, we reflected on the name “Seva,” which comes from the Sanskrit word for “selfless service.” The concept of Seva resonates across many religious and spiritual traditions — Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and others.
Seva is proudly 100% vegetarian, with many vegan and gluten-free options available. It’s also family-friendly, offering kid favorites like mac and cheese alongside healthy veggie options. Accessibility is clearly a priority, with wheelchair-friendly seating and highchairs available.
Since their public call for support, many in the community have been making a point to dine in, order takeout or delivery, and even purchase their 50th anniversary cookbook and merchandise from the website. Their Monday through Friday Lunch Special — from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — is a popular choice, featuring a lunch-sized portion of mac and cheese (vegan option available), soup or salad, and a garlic bread wedge.
Seva is more than a restaurant — it’s a space built on compassion, creativity and community. As they navigate an uncertain future, every visit, order and show of support helps keep this Ann Arbor treasure thriving. In the spirit of Seva, perhaps the most nourishing thing we can do is give back to the places that have fed us in more ways than one.
Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.
