Earthen Jar

Earthen Jar

⭐ 4.5/5 (312 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Indian

📍 311 S 5th Ave, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5.0 • 312 reviews
📍 Address
311 S 5th Ave
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Indian

⏰ Opening Hours

WednesdayClosedThursday12–6 pm
Friday12–6 pm
Saturday12–6 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Earthen Jar, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, cozy ambiance that invites you to linger and savor the flavors of its vibrant Indian cuisine. The restaurant's casual, trendy atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful dining experience, appealing to both university students and tourists alike. With its intimate seating and soothing decor, Earthen Jar creates a welcoming and comfortable space for solo diners, families, and groups to enjoy a memorable meal.

The menu at Earthen Jar is a testament to its commitment to serving high-quality, plant-based fare. As a vegan establishment, the restaurant takes pride in offering a diverse selection of authentic Indian dishes that cater to a variety of dietary needs, including halal and vegetarian options. From comforting curries and aromatic rice dishes to satisfying small plates and healthy offerings, the menu promises a flavor-packed journey for every palate. Signature items like the flavorful chana masala, the creamy daal, and the indulgent vegan desserts have earned Earthen Jar a loyal following among discerning diners.

The service at Earthen Jar is attentive and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're dining in, ordering for takeout, or utilizing their no-contact delivery options, the staff strives to provide a high level of customer service. With its reasonable prices and generous portions, Earthen Jar offers exceptional value, making it a popular choice for both quick bites and leisurely meals. Overall, the combination of delicious food, cozy ambiance, and friendly service makes Earthen Jar a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable vegan Indian dining experience in Ann Arbor.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Has outdoor seating Has no-contact delivery Offers delivery Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food Serves halal food Serves healthy options Quick bite Serves small plates Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves lunch Serves dinner Has catering Serves dessert Has seating No table service
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Popular with tourists Popular with university students
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Earthen Jar is like entering a cozy, vibrant oasis amidst the bustling streets of Ann Arbor. The restaurant's decor exudes a warm, earthy aesthetic, with walls adorned with vibrant Indian-inspired artwork and an abundance of natural light streaming in through large windows. The soft, diffused lighting creates a serene, calming atmosphere, inviting guests to unwind and savor the flavors of the menu.

The seating arrangement at Earthen Jar is designed to foster a comfortable and intimate dining experience. Intimate tables for two are scattered throughout the space, while larger communal tables encourage lively conversation and a sense of community among the patrons. The overall ambiance is casual and relaxed, making it an ideal destination for a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a gathering with friends and family.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - Offers a variety of gluten-free Indian dishes made with rice, lentils, and vegetables.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw salads, chutneys, and dips made with fresh produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free curries, dals, and rice dishes available upon request.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb vegan entrees featuring coconut oil, avocado, and high-fat plant-based proteins.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Earthen Jar's menu offers a wide selection of hearty, plant-based Indian dishes, making it an ideal spot for a quick and nutritious midday meal during the workweek.
  • Friday dinner - As the weekend approaches, Earthen Jar's cozy, casual atmosphere and diverse menu of flavorful vegan and vegetarian options make it a popular choice for a relaxed, end-of-week dining experience.
  • Weekend brunch - On weekends, Earthen Jar's menu features a range of satisfying, meat-free breakfast and brunch items, perfect for starting the day with a nourishing and delicious meal.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Extensive Vegan and Vegetarian Menu: Earthen Jar offers a wide variety of authentic Indian dishes, with a strong emphasis on plant-based options. The menu features an impressive selection of curries, rice dishes, and savory small plates, all crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Innovative Fusion Cuisine: The restaurant's chefs blend traditional Indian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, creating unique fusion dishes that cater to a diverse range of palates. Diners can expect to find unexpected flavor combinations and creative presentations that elevate the dining experience.
  • Commitment to Sustainability: Earthen Jar is committed to sustainable practices, sourcing ingredients from local and organic suppliers whenever possible. The restaurant also uses compostable and eco-friendly packaging, further reducing its environmental impact.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Earthen Jar is located in the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of downtown Ann Arbor, just a short walk from the University of Michigan campus. The area is known for its lively mix of independent shops, eclectic eateries, and cultural attractions. Nearby, visitors can explore the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, browse the shelves of the iconic Literati Bookstore, or catch a performance at the Michigan Theater, a historic art deco cinema.

Earthen Jar's clientele is a reflection of the university town's progressive and health-conscious community. The restaurant is a popular lunch and dinner spot for students, faculty, and local residents alike, drawn to its delicious and affordable vegan Indian cuisine. The cozy, casual atmosphere and welcoming service make Earthen Jar a go-to destination for those seeking a quick, satisfying, and plant-based meal in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Located in an old building with lots of charm and character. The owner is very nice. I was so excited to see all the veg..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thrilled that you enjoyed your experience and loved the vegan options! Please stop by next time you are in town😊 …"

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Earthen Jar serves up the best Indian food in Ann Arbor. Everything is vegetarian (and most are vegan) but you won't mis..."

— Customer #3
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you so much for your thoughtful and glowing review! We’re delighted to hear how much you enjoyed our dishes and t..."

— Customer #4
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This place is iconic, amazing, delicious, heaven on earth kind of food. I love every single dish they have. My favorite ..."

— Customer #5