We have worked with Essence Catering for some time now - most recently they catered our daughter's wedding. They are, in a word, outstanding. From the elevated menu, to the impeccably executed food, to the incredible staff, they just never disappoint. Our guests remarked that it was the best wedding meal they had ever experienced. If I could give them 15 stars, I would!
Leslie Kirk
just wow. from planning to organizing to perfect execution, essence was there.attention to detail was superb. received so much feedback on the food experience at my wedding - evereyone was floored. they blew my mind as I expected. highly recommend.
dianne clarke
Days after the event, my guests are still talking about the fantastic food and service offered by Essence Catering. Beautifully prepared and presented. Impeccable service. You won’t be disappointed!
J “Mac”
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
Joey Larry
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
Jacob MacDonald
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
reg
We had a small 50-person wedding where we wanted the emphasis to be on fantastic food.... and we could not have chosen better than Jason and his team. Service was exceptionally attentive, presentation very attractive and the food amazing. Even a few weeks after the wedding, people were still raving about the food and how delicious it was. Some are asking for the recipes and the amazing choice of interesting ingredients that satisfied the taste buds of our friends (including vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians and the plain picky eaters). The Sumac salmon was especially a hit.Interactions with Jason and Tanya were pleasant, timely and professional. We may just decide to get married all over again, to have Jason cater the next one!We could not be more pleased or recommend them more highly
Laurent-Philippe Veilleux
Chef Jason prepared a wonderful meal for our family at home recently. Would highly recommend.
Linda Savard
What a beautiful evening it was... Everything was perfect, from the food which was excellent, to the service which was attentive, but not intrusive, to the originality of the dishes. We wanted to thank our colleagues and partners for their hard work over the last year. A nice small reception in or backyard, five service meal. They took care of all our food restrictions but did not lack originality..... Everything was perfect. Thanks Jason and Sarah...I would recommend Essence Catering anytime! And a plus, all were bilingual and able to serve us in the language of our choice.
Marie-Joe Nemnom
I experienced some fabulous appetizers followed by a 5-course dinner prepared by chef Jason in an intimate backyard gathering. The presentation, taste and service were all excellent. Every bite burst of flavors and originality. Wine pairing was also available, with a non-alcoholic option.
Jason, Tanya and the team at Essence are truly exceptional. I reached out to them to cater a celebration of life event for my Dad in my parent’s backyard. Not only did they handle the catering with incredibly delicious food, but they arranged everything else that was required — a tent, tables, chairs and even audio/visual equipment. Then, the day before the event, we had the May long weekend storm.My parent’s neighbourhood was hit hard by the storm and many trees were down. We were without power and the audio-visual equipment, that had already been set-up, was damaged by the storm. Jason and Tanya came by the night before the event (immediately after the storm) and the morning of the event to make sure damaged items were replaced and that everything was in place and ready for the celebration of life. Thankfully, Jason’s power was not affected by the storm and the food was able to be prepared and they utilized a BBQ for on-site reheating. They were even able to get the A/V equipment replaced and working with the help of a generator, curtesy of my Dad, who was always prepared.Jason and his team really helped turn a sad and stressful time into a celebration. Every detail was taken care of pleasantly, professionally, and effortlessly. The event day staff were fantastic. And despite some rain and drizzle, we were still able to have a perfect event the day after a terrible storm.I cannot thank Jason, Tanya and their team enough. I truly believe the event would have not come together without them. If I could, I’d give them 6 stars out of 5. They really saved the day. And the food was fantastic (I know I said that already).
Alex Harder
Jason and Tanya were such a wonderful part of our small family wedding (14 people) at our cottage. Jason is a dynamic and talented chef, and prepared a beautiful meal of passed canapes and 3 small plate courses. I don't think I can do the food justice in words - it was absolutely spectacular and everybody raved about it. Jason also did a wonderful job of accommodating food restrictions - one of our guests who is vegan and one who has some very restrictive food allergies. I also really appreciated Jason's suggestion of doing a cocktail-style meal instead of a plated dinner - having small plate courses and the ability to move around the cocktail tables and lawn at the cottage was perfect to allow for lots of mingling among our small number of guests, and we would not have thought to do this had he not suggested it. We would highly recommend Essence Catering!
Marlene Cross
We found Essence Catering through a Google Search and contacted them to cater an intimate immediate family only wedding at our cottage at Lac Sainte Marie, PQ, after reading the many glowing reviews. They exceeded expectations. Though communication was a bit delayed during COVID lockdown periods, they more than made up for it during the event itself. They were on time, well organized, courteous, COVID sensitive, and provided canapés and small plates that were interesting and excellent. Jason was unfazed by the unique dietary requirements of some of the guests and produced the same quality of dishes to meet their needs. We were all super impressed...and the kitchen was left spotless! Highly recommend Essence Catering for your event.
Carine Redmond
We recently moved to Ottawa and were looking for a wedding caterer for a small reception. The food reviews for Essence are great overall and we heard the owner on a local radio show, were impressed with his apparent approach/attitude and reached out. The team did willingly set up a phone call to talk about our event and had availability- we were not following up and email interaction was fine/short/professional - what one should and can expect. We never did get to speak about food or potential cartering, or even actually what we were looking for at all. The point of contact (owner) was more focused on talking down to me, talking about himself. and expressed a lot off anger on the call. I don't doubt their food and supporting staff Is amazing but I would not want someone like this at a private event or work function. I did follow up and the owner did apologize but with that much initial ego and hostility I wouldn't want them on site.
Andria Caletti
We will forever be looking for reasons to hire Essence for catering again. Jason and Tanya and their team catered our (COVID) wedding, and we cannot stop gushing over the experience of working with them, nor have we fully stopped salivating over the memory of the food. Following our first call and brief consult with Jason, he came up with a menu that so perfectly fit our tastes and reflected the style of our wedding that we had almost no choice but to tell them yes!
Their experience in this industry shines through in their interactions during planning. While they were always receptive to our requests, they also did not hesitate to provide suggestions not only for the food but for the schedule and flow of the event entirely. When COVID restrictions threw a wrench into our plans, Jason and Tanya suggested a way to tweak the menu and the courses, which definitely made a difference in our guests' positive experience. Their staff were lovely and professional. They were also quickly able to accommodate when our Grandparents unexpectedly decided that they wanted to stick around past the ceremony, and even made us our favorite cocktail as a late night treat (Tanya, when you appeared with a second one for us on the dance floor I could have hugged you). They are true professionals and we felt zero worry placing our trust in them for both the menu and logistics.
And the food was fantastic- we've had lots of positive feedback from our guests both on the quality and the uniqueness (without being off-putting for the pickier eaters among our guests) of the menu. We felt the price was (very!) fair for the quality of the food, the creativity, intricacy and labour behind the small plates courses and for their attentiveness and care during planning. If you’re looking for a wedding (or event) food experience that is elevated beyond the standard fare, look no further. Thank you Jason and Tanya for everything that you did to make sure that the food service was not on our list of stresses and for making our wedding day so memorable!
We have worked with Essence Catering for some time now - most recently they catered our daughter's wedding. They are, in a word, outstanding. From the elevated menu, to the impeccably executed food, to the incredible staff, they just never disappoint. Our guests remarked that it was the best wedding meal they had ever experienced. If I could give them 15 stars, I would!
just wow. from planning to organizing to perfect execution, essence was there.attention to detail was superb. received so much feedback on the food experience at my wedding - evereyone was floored. they blew my mind as I expected. highly recommend.
Days after the event, my guests are still talking about the fantastic food and service offered by Essence Catering. Beautifully prepared and presented. Impeccable service. You won’t be disappointed!
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
I’ve experienced first-hand the professionalism and care with which Chef Jason, Tanya, and the whole team handle their events. Truly top notch. Essence catering should be your first choice!
We had a small 50-person wedding where we wanted the emphasis to be on fantastic food.... and we could not have chosen better than Jason and his team. Service was exceptionally attentive, presentation very attractive and the food amazing. Even a few weeks after the wedding, people were still raving about the food and how delicious it was. Some are asking for the recipes and the amazing choice of interesting ingredients that satisfied the taste buds of our friends (including vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians and the plain picky eaters). The Sumac salmon was especially a hit.Interactions with Jason and Tanya were pleasant, timely and professional. We may just decide to get married all over again, to have Jason cater the next one!We could not be more pleased or recommend them more highly
Chef Jason prepared a wonderful meal for our family at home recently. Would highly recommend.
What a beautiful evening it was... Everything was perfect, from the food which was excellent, to the service which was attentive, but not intrusive, to the originality of the dishes. We wanted to thank our colleagues and partners for their hard work over the last year. A nice small reception in or backyard, five service meal. They took care of all our food restrictions but did not lack originality..... Everything was perfect. Thanks Jason and Sarah...I would recommend Essence Catering anytime! And a plus, all were bilingual and able to serve us in the language of our choice.
I experienced some fabulous appetizers followed by a 5-course dinner prepared by chef Jason in an intimate backyard gathering. The presentation, taste and service were all excellent. Every bite burst of flavors and originality. Wine pairing was also available, with a non-alcoholic option.
Restaurantji Recommends
Jason, Tanya and the team at Essence are truly exceptional. I reached out to them to cater a celebration of life event for my Dad in my parent’s backyard. Not only did they handle the catering with incredibly delicious food, but they arranged everything else that was required — a tent, tables, chairs and even audio/visual equipment. Then, the day before the event, we had the May long weekend storm.My parent’s neighbourhood was hit hard by the storm and many trees were down. We were without power and the audio-visual equipment, that had already been set-up, was damaged by the storm. Jason and Tanya came by the night before the event (immediately after the storm) and the morning of the event to make sure damaged items were replaced and that everything was in place and ready for the celebration of life. Thankfully, Jason’s power was not affected by the storm and the food was able to be prepared and they utilized a BBQ for on-site reheating. They were even able to get the A/V equipment replaced and working with the help of a generator, curtesy of my Dad, who was always prepared.Jason and his team really helped turn a sad and stressful time into a celebration. Every detail was taken care of pleasantly, professionally, and effortlessly. The event day staff were fantastic. And despite some rain and drizzle, we were still able to have a perfect event the day after a terrible storm.I cannot thank Jason, Tanya and their team enough. I truly believe the event would have not come together without them. If I could, I’d give them 6 stars out of 5. They really saved the day. And the food was fantastic (I know I said that already).
Jason and Tanya were such a wonderful part of our small family wedding (14 people) at our cottage. Jason is a dynamic and talented chef, and prepared a beautiful meal of passed canapes and 3 small plate courses. I don't think I can do the food justice in words - it was absolutely spectacular and everybody raved about it. Jason also did a wonderful job of accommodating food restrictions - one of our guests who is vegan and one who has some very restrictive food allergies. I also really appreciated Jason's suggestion of doing a cocktail-style meal instead of a plated dinner - having small plate courses and the ability to move around the cocktail tables and lawn at the cottage was perfect to allow for lots of mingling among our small number of guests, and we would not have thought to do this had he not suggested it. We would highly recommend Essence Catering!
We found Essence Catering through a Google Search and contacted them to cater an intimate immediate family only wedding at our cottage at Lac Sainte Marie, PQ, after reading the many glowing reviews. They exceeded expectations. Though communication was a bit delayed during COVID lockdown periods, they more than made up for it during the event itself. They were on time, well organized, courteous, COVID sensitive, and provided canapés and small plates that were interesting and excellent. Jason was unfazed by the unique dietary requirements of some of the guests and produced the same quality of dishes to meet their needs. We were all super impressed...and the kitchen was left spotless! Highly recommend Essence Catering for your event.
We recently moved to Ottawa and were looking for a wedding caterer for a small reception. The food reviews for Essence are great overall and we heard the owner on a local radio show, were impressed with his apparent approach/attitude and reached out. The team did willingly set up a phone call to talk about our event and had availability- we were not following up and email interaction was fine/short/professional - what one should and can expect. We never did get to speak about food or potential cartering, or even actually what we were looking for at all. The point of contact (owner) was more focused on talking down to me, talking about himself. and expressed a lot off anger on the call. I don't doubt their food and supporting staff Is amazing but I would not want someone like this at a private event or work function. I did follow up and the owner did apologize but with that much initial ego and hostility I wouldn't want them on site.
We will forever be looking for reasons to hire Essence for catering again. Jason and Tanya and their team catered our (COVID) wedding, and we cannot stop gushing over the experience of working with them, nor have we fully stopped salivating over the memory of the food. Following our first call and brief consult with Jason, he came up with a menu that so perfectly fit our tastes and reflected the style of our wedding that we had almost no choice but to tell them yes! Their experience in this industry shines through in their interactions during planning. While they were always receptive to our requests, they also did not hesitate to provide suggestions not only for the food but for the schedule and flow of the event entirely. When COVID restrictions threw a wrench into our plans, Jason and Tanya suggested a way to tweak the menu and the courses, which definitely made a difference in our guests' positive experience. Their staff were lovely and professional. They were also quickly able to accommodate when our Grandparents unexpectedly decided that they wanted to stick around past the ceremony, and even made us our favorite cocktail as a late night treat (Tanya, when you appeared with a second one for us on the dance floor I could have hugged you). They are true professionals and we felt zero worry placing our trust in them for both the menu and logistics. And the food was fantastic- we've had lots of positive feedback from our guests both on the quality and the uniqueness (without being off-putting for the pickier eaters among our guests) of the menu. We felt the price was (very!) fair for the quality of the food, the creativity, intricacy and labour behind the small plates courses and for their attentiveness and care during planning. If you’re looking for a wedding (or event) food experience that is elevated beyond the standard fare, look no further. Thank you Jason and Tanya for everything that you did to make sure that the food service was not on our list of stresses and for making our wedding day so memorable!
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