Though an Ann Arbor staple for four decades,
Seva has been growing and changing for some time. The vegetarian restaurant has expanded within it's own space multiple times, and nearly two years ago opened a location in Detroit. The next phase of Seva's evolution will take the original restaurant to the Westgate Shopping Center.
"We evolved from about four booths in 1973, and then eventually took over the entire space," says Jeff Jackson, who owns the business with his wife, Maren Jackson. "We've putting these spaces together and trying to make it work. This is actually better use of space and we'll be able to make it the way we'd like it to be."
With 500 to 600 extra square feet, the new Seva will have larger kitchens, which will help with preparations for the Detroit location, and will help the restaurant branch out into catering. Jackson says the look and feel of the new Seva will be a blend of the stained glass-adorned original and the more urban feel of the Detroit restaurant.
With renovations happening off-site from their current location, Jackson intends to keep the restaurant open for as long as possible until the Westgate Seva is ready to to.
"I bet we'll be closed at least a week," he says. "We hope to be open in the new spot by the beginning of December."
The new Seva will seat about 150 diners and will have a private dining room parties and gatherings. Jackson anticipates retaining his same staff in his new location.
Source: Jeff Jackson, Seva
Writer: Natalie Burg
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