Essence Kitchen + Bar

1021 AZ-89 #104, Chino Valley
(928) 925-3888

Recent Reviews

Sort by
Caren Spotnitz

We sat at the chefs table, this was our first time there. Everything was spot on as far as getting us sat, our food and drinks delivered. For an early Sat night dinner, the restaurant was packed. You can see it thrives because the entire team works as one. The owners have invested their expertise to insure their restaurant is a success. We will with out a doubt go back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Kelly Coe

I’m pretty sure there’s not a bad or even mediocre dish in the house! I’m not the biggest fan of seafood and the Ahi Tuna was very good! You absolutely have to have the dates and if you’re in the mood for a big juicy steak, GET THE RIBEYE! The staff here is amazing. Attentive, light hearted, and engaging. I happen to be a problem child (Gluten Sensitive) and they ensure you have no issues and nothing to worry about. This was our first visit and we will definitely be returning! Julia and Jason deserve your patronage!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jessica Saucedo

Great place to celebrate something special. Food was delicious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Samantha April Cea

We made a reservation at 11AM and were seated right away. It was my first time here, and I have to say, the place is cozy with near fine-dining vibes.. I loved it! Our server (unfortunately I didn’t catch his name) was very attentive throughout our meal, and I’m truly thankful for that level of service.

Here’s what we ordered:

• Crab Dip (Small Plate) – $20
9.5/10. The dip was delicious! The crab was tasty, the cheese flavorful, and it came with garlic bread. The bread was a bit chewy, but still had a really nice flavor overall.

• Lobster Bisque – $10
10/10. Wow! Absolutely worth ordering—flavorful, rich, and filling. The peppery kick was perfect, and the croutons added a nice touch.

• Fettuccine Alfredo with Applewood Bacon (+ Cajun Chicken +$8) – $18
9.5/10. This was a new dish I found on their Facebook page. The pasta was creamy and perfectly cooked. The Cajun seasoning on the outside of the chicken was excellent, though the chicken itself could’ve used a bit more flavor inside. Still, I enjoyed it a lot.

• 12oz Ribeye Steak with Wild Mushrooms – $47
My friend ordered this and it was cooked perfectly well-done—just the way she likes it. The meat was tender and flavorful, and she really enjoyed it.

• Shrimp Scampi – $28
Another friend tried this dish. The cilantro lime rice was a highlight—fresh and flavorful. The seafood was fresh as well, but the dish itself was a little too oily. Still, she enjoyed it and finished the whole plate.

• Fudgy Brownie with Ice Cream & Whipped Cream – $8
10/10. The perfect way to end the meal! The brownie was warm, fudgy, and not overly sweet, paired beautifully with the ice cream on top. Loved, loved, loved this!!

We were also celebrating a friend’s birthday, and they surprised her with a complimentary dessert :) such a sweet and thoughtful gesture.

Overall, an amazing first visit. Great food, cozy atmosphere, and wonderful service. I’ll definitely be coming back!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

scot magill

Great place!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Lilah Cole

I have diet restrictions and the owner and staff were absolutely wonderful! They went above and beyond to make sure that the order was correct. My family and I had a wonderful experience dining here. Highly recommend!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Nancy Gamez

This is a hidden gem in Chino. I am so happy to stumble in this great restaurant. The service was outstanding and friendly. They make you feel welcome and part of the family. Loved this place ❤️

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Linda H

Sept 2025 - Back to Essence after a sort of remodel. It is now a more cafeteria like atmosphere. Music was very loud and hard to talk over. Food was excellent and server was very good.
Prior to redecorating - We have been in for lunch 3 times and the food and staff have been excellent. Had chicken sandwich the first time and Hamburger the other times. Very good. A little chilly inside. I suggest bringing a jacket or sweater.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 5

Service: 5

Christina Kelley

My favorite gluten free friendly restaurant in the Prescott area. I have celiac and do not react when eating here. The food is fresh and delicious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ida Woll

Beautiful surroundings, cocktails, delicious dishes with thoughtfully curated ingredients, and efficient, knowledgeable staff. I felt very spoiled and left happily stuffed. Will definitely be back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

kim fischer

Mostly excellent place to dine. Best to have a reservation but we'll worth the time

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Lori Murray

Came here for the first time today for our anniversary! We live in Prescott and I had seen this recommendation multiple times. I have to say it absolutely lives up to all the hype!! My husband started with the lobster bisque, the best he’s ever had and the dinner salad, the dressing was amazing! We share the Ohana Cheesesteak Sandwich, so unique and tasty as well as the Parmesan crusted chicken breast. We finished off with the skillet brownie a la mode. Everything was outstanding from beginning to end…food, service and entire experience!! We will be back very soon!!

Lori Murray

Came here for the first time today for our anniversary! We live in Prescott and I had seen this recommendation multiple times. I have to say it absolutely lives up to all the hype!! My husband started with the lobster bisque, the best he’s ever had and the dinner salad, the dressing was amazing! We share the Ohana Cheesesteak Sandwich, so unique and tasty as well as the Parmesan crusted chicken breast. We finished off with the skillet brownie a la mode. Everything was outstanding from beginning to end…food, service and entire experience!! We will be back very soon!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Holly Pfeifer

Simply amazing! We had the ahi appetizer and sea bass entree. Both were fantastic!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ayesha McDowd

Can't complain food and service was top notch love the new decor! The bacon wrapped shrimp was the best I think I've had anywhere 😋

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Loading...