Our Story
Welcome to Sava’s, Ann Arbor’s most spirited restaurant and dining institution since 2007; catering to a fusion of clientele including University of Michigan students and professors, locals and visitors looking to enjoy one of the town’s most beloved restaurants and memorable dining experiences.
How it Started
I was 23 when I started Sava’s, after working in restaurants for over a decade, starting at just 13. My journey began even earlier, when my family fled communist Albania and immigrated to the Bronx with nothing but the belief in the American Dream.
Those early experiences shaped how I see opportunity, risk, and possibility. I’ve always believed that if you give yourself permission, you can build something meaningful.
In 2007, with little money and no formal training, I found a closed-down Pita Pit in Ann Arbor and took a chance. After two challenging years, I lost that space and had to start over. Soon after, I found the location we’re in today.
What began as a small lunch spot has grown into a 300-seat restaurant and a true community mainstay. Along the way, it’s become more than my dream, it’s created opportunities for so many others.
Everything we’ve built since has been rooted in that same resilience, belief, and desire to take care of people.
Our Founder
Sava’s began as a humble 23 seat café across from our current space on State Street. We started small, every year adding, changing, and engaging with our guests to achieve an atmosphere and menus that were unmatched in their authenticity and creativity. Sava’s has terroir. It is a local restaurant serving the best the region offers while pushing the conventional boundaries all along the way.
In August of '09 we doubled down on our early success when we moved in the beautiful space we occupy today, making a serious name for ourselves based on our uplifting hospitality, and exceptional food & drink.
Our vibrant two-story space is the perfect place to visit for any occasion, offering a wide range of experiences which are ever evolving, much like the town itself. We do that while remaining grounded in the purpose we serve as a hospitality driven community restaurant.
Sava’s Throughout the Years
2007
Sava’s opens across State Street as a small neighborhood café near U-M’s campus, quickly becoming a favorite for students and locals alike.
2009
Sava’s moves into the former Zanzibar space at 216 S. State, expanding into the iconic downtown location it still calls home today.
2021
After the challenges of COVID-19 and a beautiful remodel, Sava’s reopens and continues its legacy as a longtime Ann Arbor gathering place.
2027
Sava’s will celebrate 20 years of serving the Ann Arbor community on State Street.
