Manhattan at Seva in Ann Arbor – A Surprising Cocktail Gem

Seva: A Hidden Gem for Cocktails in Ann Arbor

Seva is a lesser-known restaurant on the west side of Ann Arbor. Specializing in vegetarian and vegan fare and tucked away in the Westgate Shopping Center, you may not have heard of it—especially if you’re a carnivore. Which I am. That said, their kitchen does amazing things with the food they create, and their appetizer menu could be your whole meal. Seva also has a full bar and a menu of 10-12 cocktails that changes fairly regularly.

A Classic Done Right: The Manhattan at Seva

One of my favorite cocktails, and one I often make at home, is the Manhattan. This 19th-century cocktail, named after the New York club that popularized it, is a platform for experimentation. While its recipe seems simple on the surface, small tweaks can make it a dramatically different drink.

The Manhattan at Seva

Manhattan
Bulleit bourbon and Carpano Antica vermouth stirred with Angostura bitters, on ice, with a Luxardo cherry — $14

This drink closely resembles the one I make at home. Carpano Antica absolutely brings this cocktail together—its subtle vanilla notes create a slightly sweeter, less bitter Manhattan than you might otherwise experience. Bulleit bourbon serves as a fantastic base spirit, providing the structure needed to balance the rich vermouth and bitters.

This all comes together in a no-nonsense rocks glass with a large ice cube and a Luxardo cherry. The cherry flavors the drink with its syrup, even if you choose not to eat the garnish itself.

Worth the Price?

This drink hits the spot I want a Manhattan to hit—boozy, slightly sweet, complex, and timeless. At first glance, fourteen dollars seems a bit high for this drink. However, compared to Manhattans from Sava’s, Raven Club, The Last Word, and The Gandy Dancer, this price is the going rate. The Manhattan at Seva definitely holds its own among contenders from those better-known cocktail establishments.

How Does Seva’s Manhattan Compare to Others?

If you’re used to the Manhattans served at high-end cocktail bars, you might wonder how Seva’s version stacks up. The biggest difference is the use of Carpano Antica, which adds a richer depth compared to standard vermouths. Some bars opt for rye whiskey over bourbon, which gives a spicier bite, but the smoothness of Bulleit bourbon makes this an approachable option for newcomers to the drink.

Who Would Enjoy This Manhattan?

This is a fantastic choice for anyone who appreciates a well-balanced, spirit-forward cocktail. If you prefer sweeter drinks, the vanilla notes in the Carpano Antica make this an excellent stepping stone toward stronger classics. For seasoned Manhattan drinkers, it’s a great example of how ingredient selection impacts the final product.

Final Thoughts

The next time you’re looking for a quality cocktail on the west side—or if you’re taking a vegan friend out for drinks—you should absolutely stop by for a Manhattan at Seva. Whether you’re a longtime Manhattan drinker or just getting into classic cocktails, this one is worth trying.