First of all, the food is absolutely amazing. It's hard to decide what item you want to choose because they all sound so good. Then the service!!! I don't think I've ever been to a restaurant where the service has been so good. They are on top of everything, but are not bothering you. Our server tonight, EV, was amazing. This young lady couldn't have been more delightful. Probably one of the best servers we've ever had anywhere! If anybody is needing to decide if they should go to Essence, there should be no question about it. Get going because if you don't, you're going to miss out on incredible food and service! 
Adora
We had dinner here Saturday night with some friends, and once again, everything was absolutely perfect. We've been here several times, and each visit just reminds us why we keep coming back. The food is amazing, the drinks are amazing, and the atmosphere is amazing — truly a gem in our area! What really sets this place apart, though, is the staff. Every single person we've interacted with has been top-notch — friendly, attentive, and clearly proud of where they work. It's rare to find a team that consistently delivers this level of service. We're so lucky to have such an incredible restaurant close to home. Highly recommend!
Minh
Absolutely the best restaurant in Elkhart!!! The menu may be small, but every dish sounded so good it was hard to choose! We started with four appetizers — tuna tartare, pierogies, bao buns, and crab hush puppies — and each one was amazing. For dinner, we had the short rib, elk, and boar, and everything was cooked to perfection. Dan and Brad made the experience even better with their great service and personality. Can't wait to come back!
Amy
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating our anniversary at Essence Restaurant and Bar.
Scott
Essence always exceeds our expectations and has become our favorite dinning experience. This time instead of a fine Scotch, I got a cappuccino martini and would highly recommend that drink. My wife got a Perfect Pear-ing that had bubbles when popped smoke would come out. Our entree was the Chilean Sea Bass and Gnudi wonderful presentation and flavor. We go for the food, but just as equal is the ambiance and impeccable service.
Mark
I had a great experience like always, there is just no other restaurant in the area that comes close to Essence!
Tyler
Dan was an amazing server. He was very knowledgeable and accommodating. He presented himself and the establishment very well. The food was very tasty and had great attention to detail. The crust on my grouper was spot on. The Japanese sweet potato was too perfection. They even had a sentimental greating card waiting for us as it was our first night out in a while and the entire experience was worth the price.
Brenda
Another great experience at Essence! Everything was exceptional - the welcome, service, food, and connection. They really go all out to make you feel special and valued customers. Continues to be our favorite restaurant. If you haven't been, you need to go. So many things to choose from on the menu; it'll keep you coming back. We have always been extremely satisfied! Thank you to the team! Outstanding as always!
Deb
It was our first time visiting and it won't be our last. We went for our anniversary. Such an enjoyable evening. Staff were attentive, food was outstanding and the atmosphere was relaxing. I had the fillet and my husband had the sea bass. Looking forward to going back and trying different menu items. Five stars.
Marcello
Amazing experience, food was crafted perfectly. Outstanding service and great wine and spirits selections. Ambience matched the overall experience. Definitely a fantastic dining experience to enjoy again.
Essence never fails to provide the best evening for food and an enjoyable experience! The service is absolutely top notch - we always look forward to our opportunities to eat at Essence!
Drew
Always excellent. Brad is an excellent host, food is always top-notch. Drinks are excellent and ambience is great.
Angela
One of, if not the best restaurant in the area. They have an ever-changing thoughtfully curated menu, providing a dining experience that is top tier. We will definitely be returning.
Heather
Every single time we eat here we have amazing food, drinks, and service. We all make sure to order something different so we can try each others and everything is always delicious! I always try something I've never had before and am have never been disappointed... and thats coming from a very picky eater!
Hunter Houser
I cannot recommend this place enough! The staff, atmosphere, and vibe are top notch along with awesome food and drinks. You can't ask for much more than that!
First of all, the food is absolutely amazing. It's hard to decide what item you want to choose because they all sound so good. Then the service!!! I don't think I've ever been to a restaurant where the service has been so good. They are on top of everything, but are not bothering you. Our server tonight, EV, was amazing. This young lady couldn't have been more delightful. Probably one of the best servers we've ever had anywhere! If anybody is needing to decide if they should go to Essence, there should be no question about it. Get going because if you don't, you're going to miss out on incredible food and service! 
We had dinner here Saturday night with some friends, and once again, everything was absolutely perfect. We've been here several times, and each visit just reminds us why we keep coming back. The food is amazing, the drinks are amazing, and the atmosphere is amazing — truly a gem in our area! What really sets this place apart, though, is the staff. Every single person we've interacted with has been top-notch — friendly, attentive, and clearly proud of where they work. It's rare to find a team that consistently delivers this level of service. We're so lucky to have such an incredible restaurant close to home. Highly recommend!
Absolutely the best restaurant in Elkhart!!! The menu may be small, but every dish sounded so good it was hard to choose! We started with four appetizers — tuna tartare, pierogies, bao buns, and crab hush puppies — and each one was amazing. For dinner, we had the short rib, elk, and boar, and everything was cooked to perfection. Dan and Brad made the experience even better with their great service and personality. Can't wait to come back!
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating our anniversary at Essence Restaurant and Bar.
Essence always exceeds our expectations and has become our favorite dinning experience. This time instead of a fine Scotch, I got a cappuccino martini and would highly recommend that drink. My wife got a Perfect Pear-ing that had bubbles when popped smoke would come out. Our entree was the Chilean Sea Bass and Gnudi wonderful presentation and flavor. We go for the food, but just as equal is the ambiance and impeccable service.
I had a great experience like always, there is just no other restaurant in the area that comes close to Essence!
Dan was an amazing server. He was very knowledgeable and accommodating. He presented himself and the establishment very well. The food was very tasty and had great attention to detail. The crust on my grouper was spot on. The Japanese sweet potato was too perfection. They even had a sentimental greating card waiting for us as it was our first night out in a while and the entire experience was worth the price.
Another great experience at Essence! Everything was exceptional - the welcome, service, food, and connection. They really go all out to make you feel special and valued customers. Continues to be our favorite restaurant. If you haven't been, you need to go. So many things to choose from on the menu; it'll keep you coming back. We have always been extremely satisfied! Thank you to the team! Outstanding as always!
It was our first time visiting and it won't be our last. We went for our anniversary. Such an enjoyable evening. Staff were attentive, food was outstanding and the atmosphere was relaxing. I had the fillet and my husband had the sea bass. Looking forward to going back and trying different menu items. Five stars.
Amazing experience, food was crafted perfectly. Outstanding service and great wine and spirits selections. Ambience matched the overall experience. Definitely a fantastic dining experience to enjoy again.
Restaurantji Recommends
Essence never fails to provide the best evening for food and an enjoyable experience! The service is absolutely top notch - we always look forward to our opportunities to eat at Essence!
Always excellent. Brad is an excellent host, food is always top-notch. Drinks are excellent and ambience is great.
One of, if not the best restaurant in the area. They have an ever-changing thoughtfully curated menu, providing a dining experience that is top tier. We will definitely be returning.
Every single time we eat here we have amazing food, drinks, and service. We all make sure to order something different so we can try each others and everything is always delicious! I always try something I've never had before and am have never been disappointed... and thats coming from a very picky eater!
I cannot recommend this place enough! The staff, atmosphere, and vibe are top notch along with awesome food and drinks. You can't ask for much more than that!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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