When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Sava's
Why Sava's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sava's is a well-loved restaurant located in Ann Arbor that offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends. Known for its diverse menu, Sava's seamlessly blends American classics with global cuisine, providing a wide range of options to suit many tastes. Whether you're meeting for a casual lunch or a lively dinner, the restaurant's modern and cozy setting creates a welcoming ambiance perfect for social gatherings. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are a hallmark of their dishes, ensuring each meal is flavorful and satisfying. Additionally, the restaurant is praised for its excellent service, enhancing the overall dining experience. Its reputation as one of Ann Arbor’s most spirited dining institutions makes it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a great meal with friends.
Here's what people think of Sava's
As of recent, Sava's holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2482 reviews.
Reviews of Sava's highlight a fast-paced and fun environment that emphasizes a culture of hospitality, which greatly contributes to the overall positive dining experience. Many visitors appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, noting that the service adds to the enjoyment of their meals. Positive reviews often mention the ability to enjoy a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, alongside a menu that offers a satisfying variety with fresh, high-quality ingredients. However, some comments touch on high employee turnover, which might occasionally affect consistency in service. Despite this, the majority of customer feedback is favorable, focusing on the great food and warm ambiance rather than operational challenges. In conclusion, while there might be some variability in staffing experiences, Sava's remains a highly recommended spot for its great food, welcoming atmosphere, and the spirited vibe that keeps patrons coming back.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shivani Saxena
We went for a family dinner. The out of the box menu delighted me. I ate the Hippie Bowl, which is a mix of healthy ingredients complementing each other subtly. I also loved the Artichoke dip, which bursts upon your tastebuds as a pleasant surprise. Do try out this restaurant with a character of its own. Highly recommended.
Jacob Hyzer
Went there in the summer and enjoyed lunch outside. The outside area is cute clean and well maintained. The food was quite good too. I was happy they had a vegan item with protein, the Hippy Bowl. It’d be great if there was more than one vegan item but it was good. My friends ate other dishes with meat and enjoyed them. The cocktails were very good too and the service was good our server was helpful sweet and funny. My friends ordered the pistachio tiramisu which looked good but they didn’t love it and said they wouldn’t order it again. But otherwise it was a good place for lunch and I’d go back. My friends also had
Lisa Terauchi
Impressed by Elliot’s service tonight. He was so thoughtful checking in, offering recommendation to protecting my husband when it came to food allergy. Honestly the atmosphere of the staff there seemed positive and probably ran by great leadership. Highly recommend for food, service & atmosphere!
Ned’s Eats Detroit
Sava's has been a mainstay in Ann Arbor since 2007. The interior is elegant, and notably has two levels. The cuisine is primarily American, but there are some Mediterranean options, as well. It's also worth mentioning that brunch takes place on Sundays. The fried dill pickles are a simple, but great way to start a meal. The half order of the mac & cheese is another great option. It's baked with 4 cheeses and topped with bread crumbs. As for entrees, Sava's burger is legit. The dijonaise and shallots on it are what stood out to me the most. Although they don't come with the burger, I recommend ordering the shoestring fries. I've also had the lamb shank. This is the most expensive dish on the menu, but it's worth it. The lentil ragout and veggies the lamb is served with compliment it so well. The dessert menu occasionally rotates. I've tried the raspberry pot de crème and the blueberry cheesecake. The bites of the pot de crème with raspberry were significantly better than the ones without. As for the cheesecake, its fluffy texture was the highlight. The combination of the beautiful ambiance and the high quality food make Sava's a desirable destination.
Mo Patellio
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Sava’s and it was an outstanding experience. The lunch menu boasted a variety of dishes crafted with incredibly fresh ingredients, which truly elevated the flavors. Each bite was vibrant and satisfying, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality. The service was impeccable friendly and attentive. If you're looking for a place with fresh, flavorful food and top-tier service, Sava’s is a must-visit! Check out the pictures associated with this review and follow on IG @ifooditravel
How to reach Sava's
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Why Sava's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sava's with your friends? Because Sava's offers a unique combination of a lively yet cozy atmosphere that perfectly strikes the balance between casual dining and a special occasion spot. Located in the heart of Ann Arbor on State Street, it’s a beloved local favorite known for its diverse menu that blends American classics with global flavors, appealing to many tastes at once. Whether you are gathering for a birthday celebration, a casual weekend brunch, or a laid-back dinner, Sava's has a welcoming vibe that encourages conversation and connection. The spacious yet stylish setting with rustic wood accents and a contemporary design invites groups to relax and linger over delicious food and drinks. The overall experience is enhanced by attentive service and a drink menu that many guests have praised for its creativity and quality. With a strong rating of 4.4 across almost 2,500 reviews, the restaurant's consistency in quality and atmosphere makes it a trusted choice when looking for a place to gather with friends or family and make memories.
What kinds of activities and experiences can you enjoy at Sava’s? Sava’s isn’t just about eating out; it’s about enjoying a full, engaging experience with your group. For starters, their Sunday brunch is legendary, featuring a buffet with hot, freshly prepared items like pies, corned beef hash, various egg dishes including poached eggs, and an assortment of house-made pastries such as flaky, fruit-filled poptarts that guests rave about. This makes brunch a great casual activity where you can enjoy a relaxed but indulgent meal while catching up with friends. Throughout the week, the dining experience shifts to a more intimate and calm dinner vibe, ideal for enjoying their diverse menu options that range from comforting American favorites to inventive global dishes. Sava’s also offers a spirited cocktail selection, making it perfect for those who want to start or end their evening with a creative drink in hand. Groups can stay for hours, chatting over drinks and food, soaking in the ambient music and warm lighting. Whether your group prefers a lively Sunday brunch or a more refined dinner setting, Sava’s adapts seamlessly to your social needs.
Why is Sava’s perfect for group meetups? The answer lies in its capacity, layout, and welcoming service. Sava’s restaurant is spacious with seating arrangements that accommodate everything from small groups to larger gatherings comfortably. This large capacity means you don’t have to worry about finding space for your whole crew, an important consideration for meetups. Despite its size, the restaurant manages to maintain a cozy atmosphere that doesn’t feel overwhelming or noisy except at peak Sunday brunch hours, where the hustle adds to the vibrant energy. The staff at Sava’s are known for their friendly and efficient service, accommodating group needs with attentiveness that makes everyone feel valued. Reservations are recommended for brunch, which speaks to the restaurant's popularity but also means the team is skilled in managing peak times to ensure smooth group dining experiences. Additionally, the drink menu and diverse food choices allow everyone in your group to find something they love, making it an inclusive environment for friends or family with differing tastes.
How does the atmosphere at Sava’s contribute to the quality of your meetup? Atmosphere is a critical factor when choosing a venue for gathering with friends or family, and Sava’s excels in this regard. The restaurant sports a modern yet warm decor, with subdued tones and wood accents that create a relaxed, inviting environment. Guests often describe the ambiance as calm and peaceful during dinner, providing the perfect backdrop to unwind and engage in meaningful conversations. For those who visit during peak brunch hours, the lively buzz from a full house might sound a bit intense, but it enhances the feel of a popular, happening spot, which can be energizing rather than stressful for many groups. The space’s layout encourages flow and interaction, while still allowing for privacy between tables. Sava’s balances being trendy and comfortable, making it an ideal environment for groups that want a memorable dining experience without a loud nightclub vibe or a too-quiet formal setting.
What sets Sava’s food and drink offerings apart for group dining? Sava’s menu is carefully curated to appeal across tastes and diets, which is crucial for group meetups where everyone’s preferences vary. From well-executed American classics to global influences, the variety ensures that picky eaters and adventurous diners alike find star dishes they’ll enjoy. Notably, their brunch pastries, especially the homemade poptarts and sweet potato fries, are repeatedly highlighted by guests as must-try items. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident on every plate, helping Sava’s maintain its reputation as a top dining destination in Ann Arbor. Beyond food, Sava’s cocktail menu receives special praise for its creativity and quality, adding a sophisticated element to the group gathering. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying crafted cocktails after work, this drink selection enriches the social experience. The combination of great food, tasty drinks, and accommodating staff turns any visit into a celebration worthy of sharing.
How does Sava’s support a positive group dining experience through service and staff? One of Sava’s standout features is its service. According to many customer reviews, the staff consistently provides prompt, friendly, and attentive service that enhances the overall experience without being overbearing. This kind of hospitality is crucial when dining with a group because it helps things run smoothly—from seating all members together efficiently to handling multiple drink orders and special food requests without hassle. While some reviews mention occasional slow service during busy times, most patrons appreciate the care and effort the team puts into their work. The management fosters a culture of hospitality, ensuring employees are motivated to provide a warm welcome and excellent assistance. This attention to service detail is essential for groups who want to focus on each other rather than on restaurant logistics, making Sava’s a worry-free place to host your meetup.
Why is Sava’s location ideal for meetups with friends or family? Situated on State Street in downtown Ann Arbor, Sava’s benefits from a central and easily accessible location, making it a convenient meeting point regardless of where your friends or family are coming from. The area is lively yet manageable for parking and logistics, which helps reduce the stress of organizing group outings. Its proximity to local landmarks and other entertainment venues allows your meetup to extend beyond the meal if you choose — whether it’s a walk downtown, catching a show, or continuing the night at nearby bars. The location also places Sava’s amidst the pulse of the city, enhancing the dining experience with vibrant street life outside the windows. This accessibility and centrality are key factors that make Sava’s a practical and attractive option for groups looking to connect in a fun, but convenient, setting.
How has Sava’s reputation evolved as a destination for group dining? Over the years, Sava’s has solidified its standing as a community staple known for quality, variety, and a congenial atmosphere, which naturally draws groups of friends and families looking for a dependable gathering place. Despite some early critiques about service speed and noise levels during peak brunch hours, the restaurant has refined its operations to meet the needs of its diverse clientele. The overwhelmingly positive volume of reviews now reflects satisfaction not only with the food but with the environment and overall experience. Community involvement and support of local vendors add an extra layer of goodwill, making guests feel like part of a larger family. Many repeat visitors note the consistent quality and the spirit of the place, emphasizing why it’s a favored choice for celebrations, casual meetups, and special evenings alike.
What special occasions or group events work best at Sava’s? Thanks to its size and versatility, Sava’s is well-suited for a variety of special occasions and group events. Whether it’s a birthday dinner, a corporate team outing, a family reunion, or a casual get-together, the venue accommodates your needs gracefully. Their menu flexibility allows for customized group orders or sharing plates, and the staff is experienced at managing the flow of larger parties. The airy, yet inviting space can be decorated or adapted for more formal group events or kept casual depending on your preference. The availability of a well-regarded brunch buffet on weekends is particularly popular for celebratory gatherings that favor relaxed, all-you-can-eat experiences. For anyone seeking a reliable, friendly, and delicious destination to mark a meaningful moment with friends or family, Sava’s offers the right mix of food, ambiance, and service.