Ann Arbor might be known for its thriving university scene and eclectic restaurants, but it is also one of the best places in Michigan to find a truly memorable salad. Whether you want a quick, healthy lunch between classes, a chef-crafted entrée salad for dinner, or a grab-and-go option on your way to the Arb, Ann Arbor’s salad scene has you covered.
Table of Contents
- sweetgreen – Custom Bowls & Seasonal Greens
- Sava’s – Upscale Salads in the Heart of Campus
- The Produce Station – Ann Arbor’s Classic Salad Bar
- Zingerman’s Delicatessen – Big Bowls & Deli-Driven Salads
- Sports Bar Westside – The Famous Chop Salad
- Chop Ann Arbor – Hearty, Protein-Packed Salads
- How to Choose the Right Salad Spot in Ann Arbor
- FAQ: Salads in Ann Arbor, MI
sweetgreen – Custom Bowls & Seasonal Greens
Location: 305 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Situated just steps from the University of Michigan campus, sweetgreen is one of Ann Arbor’s go-to spots for build-your-own salads and grain bowls. The fast-casual chain is known for using whole produce delivered daily, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients and clean eating.
The menu features signature salads like the Harvest Bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, apples, goat cheese, and warm wild rice, or the Kale Caesar with a lighter, tangy dressing and parmesan crisps for crunch. You can also completely customize your bowl by choosing a base (romaine, spinach, spring mix, kale, or grains), then layering on proteins, toppings, and house-made dressings.
sweetgreen is particularly popular with students and downtown workers because of its quick service and app-based ordering. If you’re looking for a salad that’s nutrient-dense, easy to customize for dietary needs (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free), and consistently fresh, this is one of the best choices in Ann Arbor.
Sava’s – Upscale Salads in the Heart of Campus
Location: 216 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Sava’s is a beloved downtown Ann Arbor institution, offering a polished yet approachable dining experience just off the Diag. While the restaurant is known for its eclectic menu, the salads here are standouts—beautifully plated, generously portioned, and full of interesting textures and flavors.
Expect options like a bright, herb-forward Greek Village Salad with feta and olives, a hearty Grain & Greens bowl with roasted vegetables and tahini dressing, or a classic Cobb Salad with high-quality bacon, avocado, and blue cheese. Many salads can be upgraded with salmon, chicken, or steak, making them substantial enough for a full meal.
Sava’s is ideal when you want a salad in a more social setting—think brunch with friends, a business lunch, or dinner before a show. The spacious interior and large windows create a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, and there are plenty of options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners.
The Produce Station – Ann Arbor’s Classic Salad Bar
Location: 1629 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
If you’re craving a traditional salad bar experience with a local, gourmet twist, The Produce Station is a must-visit. This specialty market and café on South State Street is known for its ultra-fresh produce, deli case, and what many locals call “Ann Arbor’s best salad bar.”
The self-serve salad bar typically features a wide range of greens, chopped vegetables, beans, cheeses, nuts, and house-made dressings. You’ll also find prepared salads—think quinoa tabbouleh, pasta salads, and marinated vegetable mixes—that can be combined into a custom plate or taken to go.
It’s a favorite for grab-and-go lunches, especially if you’re heading to a nearby park or back to the office. Because it’s attached to a full produce market, the ingredients are notably fresh, and the selection changes with the seasons. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free eaters will find plenty of options here.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen – Big Bowls & Deli-Driven Salads
Location: 422 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Zingerman’s Delicatessen in Kerrytown is famous nationwide for its sandwiches, but its salads are equally worthy of attention. If you like your salad loaded with high-quality deli meats, artisan cheeses, and house-made dressings, this is the spot.
Menu offerings rotate, but you’ll typically find options like a robust Cobb-style salad with Zingerman’s bacon and blue cheese, or Mediterranean-inspired bowls with chickpeas, feta, and bright lemony dressings. The portions are generous, and the ingredients—from cured meats to pickled vegetables—are crafted with the same care that made Zingerman’s a culinary landmark.
The outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy a salad on a sunny day, and the location in Kerrytown makes it easy to combine your meal with a stroll through the Ann Arbor Farmers Market or nearby shops.
Sports Bar Westside – The Famous Chop Salad
Location: 5510 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
For those on the west side of Ann Arbor, Sports Bar Westside has developed a local following for its Chop Salad, often mentioned by residents as one of the best salads in town. While it’s a sports bar at heart, the kitchen turns out a surprisingly fresh and satisfying salad menu.
The Chop Salad is typically packed with crisp lettuce, diced vegetables, cheese, and protein options, all finely chopped so every bite has a mix of flavors. It’s a great choice if you’re out with a group watching a game but still want something on the lighter side. You’ll also find other entrée salads that can be topped with grilled chicken or steak.
This is a top pick if you want a salad in a casual, laid-back environment with plenty of TVs and pub-style comfort food for the rest of your party.
Chop Ann Arbor – Hearty, Protein-Packed Salads
Location: 1101 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (Chop Ann Arbor, part of Chop Detroit)
Chop Ann Arbor, from the Chop Detroit group, is known for simple, satisfying sandwiches and salads that don’t skimp on protein. Located close to campus, it’s a convenient stop for students and anyone craving a filling but relatively balanced meal.
Salads here lean into hearty, deli-style combinations—think grilled chicken, turkey, or steak over mixed greens with robust toppings like roasted peppers, cheese, and crunchy add-ins. Dressings are flavorful without being overly heavy, and portions are generous enough to keep you full through an afternoon of classes or meetings.
If you’re the type who wants your salad to eat like a full meal, with plenty of meat and bold flavors, Chop is a strong contender among Ann Arbor salad spots.
How to Choose the Right Salad Spot in Ann Arbor
With so many good options, it can be hard to decide where to go for salad in Ann Arbor. Here are a few quick tips to help you choose:
- For full customization: Head to sweetgreen or The Produce Station if you like to control every ingredient in your bowl.
- For a sit-down meal: Sava’s and Zingerman’s Deli offer salads in a more relaxed, restaurant-style setting.
- For hearty, protein-heavy salads: Check out Chop Ann Arbor or the Chop Salad at Sports Bar Westside.
- For grab-and-go: The Produce Station and sweetgreen are excellent for quick takeout.
- For entertaining visitors: Zingerman’s Delicatessen and Sava’s give out-of-town guests a taste of iconic Ann Arbor dining along with great salads.
FAQ: Salads in Ann Arbor, MI
For nutrient-dense, customizable salads with lots of fresh vegetables and whole grains, sweetgreen and The Produce Station are excellent choices. Both emphasize fresh produce and offer plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
sweetgreen, Sava’s, and The Produce Station all have strong vegetarian and vegan selections. sweetgreen clearly labels vegan ingredients, Sava’s offers creative plant-based salads and grain bowls, and The Produce Station’s salad bar lets you build entirely plant-based plates.
Yes. sweetgreen and Sava’s are both on South State Street near campus, while Chop Ann Arbor sits on South University Avenue. All three are popular with students and staff looking for a quick but satisfying salad.
Many locals point to The Produce Station as having one of the best salad bars in Ann Arbor, thanks to its fresh produce, rotating prepared salads, and wide variety of toppings and dressings.
Most of the spots listed offer gluten-free salads or can modify existing salads to be gluten-free. sweetgreen and Sava’s are particularly good about labeling allergens and accommodating dietary restrictions. Always confirm with the staff about dressings, croutons, and any processed toppings.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen and Sava’s are top picks. Both offer excellent salads alongside broader menus and give visitors a sense of Ann Arbor’s food culture and atmosphere.
On the west side, Sports Bar Westside is known for its popular Chop Salad, and it’s a convenient option if you want something fresh while still enjoying a classic sports bar environment.
