Essence Restaurant – A Culinary Jewel in Historic Woodbridge Tucked away in the heart of Woodbridge’s charming historic district lies a hidden gem for discerning food lovers: Essence Restaurant. This intimate spot doesn’t just serve dinner; it curates an experience that feels worthy of a Michelin nod.
Our evening began with an eggplant appetizer that set the tone for the meal—delicately prepared, with a perfect balance of smokiness and subtle sweetness. The mushroom risotto followed, and it was nothing short of exquisite: creamy, perfectly al dente grains infused with earthy, umami-rich mushrooms that seemed to melt into every bite. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, the finale arrived—pistachio cheesecake so velvety and decadent that it felt like the culinary equivalent of a standing ovation.
The service elevated the experience further. Ryan, our server, was courteous, attentive, and intuitively present without being intrusive. To our delight, the chef personally visited our table, eager to know if we were enjoying the creations—a rare and thoughtful gesture that reflected genuine pride in the craft.
Essence is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience—a true jewel of Woodbridge that blends warmth, artistry, and flavor in every dish. For any foodie seeking a memorable dining adventure, this hidden treasure is an absolute must-try.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Iana Malik
Food is amazing! You should try , we went big company and all food was just perfect!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tia Cammalleri
My first dinner at Essence, and what a truly amazing experience. The staff is timely and very attentive with a smile for all who come through the door. The food was quality for the price and each dish was meticulously assembled to perfection! Please give this little bistro your time and attention, and I promise you won’t be sorry! I cannot wait for our next visit!
My first time here for dinner and I was absolutely blown away. From the outstanding service and incredible food to the warm, inviting atmosphere—everything was phenomenal. Our waitress was so kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The food was to die for, and the chef even came by to greet us toward the end of our meal—he was genuinely kind and gracious. We were also offered several in-house dishes and desserts to sample, which we truly appreciated. This place is a must-try, and we’ll definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops, Grilled Cornish Hen
Ivana Tarantino
Amazing customer service. Amazing food. Great job to the chefs.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Patty
Absolutely beautiful restaurant! The food presentation was incredible! The attention to detail and the flavours are stunning. Friday nights, there is a DJ and he was amazing. Played great music. I just wanted to dance! The service was fantastic as well. Highly recommend this venue!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Alessia Romita
The food was absolutely delicious, worth every penny!! Sofia was an amazing server! She was so accommodating, friendly and we enjoyed her company! Amazing job to the chefs! We will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mila
Amazing restaurant, the food and the presentation are exceptional! Our new favorite restaurant in the area!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jervase Anderson
What can I say about this place? The food is excellent. atmosphere is very rich on a Friday night. The desserts are very outstanding Staff is amazing and the DJ amazing
Very nice brunch with family! Lots of food and drink options. Good burger and great service!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Melissa D
Loved it! Good and beverages were great. Gorgeous atmosphere. Highly recommend
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A P
Great food atmosphere and staff.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Banker Chick
My client raved about the black cod (Alaska caught) that night. I had something else but every course was perfect. Heading there with another client. Chef is amazing! Truly underrated restaurant in terms of food quality.
Great patio. Friendly service!
Essence Restaurant – A Culinary Jewel in Historic Woodbridge
Tucked away in the heart of Woodbridge’s charming historic district lies a hidden gem for discerning food lovers: Essence Restaurant. This intimate spot doesn’t just serve dinner; it curates an experience that feels worthy of a Michelin nod.
Our evening began with an eggplant appetizer that set the tone for the meal—delicately prepared, with a perfect balance of smokiness and subtle sweetness. The mushroom risotto followed, and it was nothing short of exquisite: creamy, perfectly al dente grains infused with earthy, umami-rich mushrooms that seemed to melt into every bite. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, the finale arrived—pistachio cheesecake so velvety and decadent that it felt like the culinary equivalent of a standing ovation.
The service elevated the experience further. Ryan, our server, was courteous, attentive, and intuitively present without being intrusive. To our delight, the chef personally visited our table, eager to know if we were enjoying the creations—a rare and thoughtful gesture that reflected genuine pride in the craft.
Essence is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience—a true jewel of Woodbridge that blends warmth, artistry, and flavor in every dish. For any foodie seeking a memorable dining adventure, this hidden treasure is an absolute must-try.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food is amazing! You should try , we went big company and all food was just perfect!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My first dinner at Essence, and what a truly amazing experience. The staff is timely and very attentive with a smile for all who come through the door. The food was quality for the price and each dish was meticulously assembled to perfection! Please give this little bistro your time and attention, and I promise you won’t be sorry! I cannot wait for our next visit!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops, Farm Chicken Roulade
My first time here for dinner and I was absolutely blown away. From the outstanding service and incredible food to the warm, inviting atmosphere—everything was phenomenal. Our waitress was so kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The food was to die for, and the chef even came by to greet us toward the end of our meal—he was genuinely kind and gracious. We were also offered several in-house dishes and desserts to sample, which we truly appreciated. This place is a must-try, and we’ll definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops, Grilled Cornish Hen
Amazing customer service. Amazing food. Great job to the chefs.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely beautiful restaurant! The food presentation was incredible! The attention to detail and the flavours are stunning. Friday nights, there is a DJ and he was amazing. Played great music. I just wanted to dance! The service was fantastic as well. Highly recommend this venue!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food was absolutely delicious, worth every penny!! Sofia was an amazing server! She was so accommodating, friendly and we enjoyed her company! Amazing job to the chefs! We will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing restaurant, the food and the presentation are exceptional! Our new favorite restaurant in the area!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
What can I say about this place? The food is excellent. atmosphere is very rich on a Friday night. The desserts are very outstanding Staff is amazing and the DJ amazing
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Very nice brunch with family! Lots of food and drink options. Good burger and great service!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Loved it! Good and beverages were great. Gorgeous atmosphere. Highly recommend
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great food atmosphere and staff.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My client raved about the black cod (Alaska caught) that night. I had something else but every course was perfect. Heading there with another client. Chef is amazing! Truly underrated restaurant in terms of food quality.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing food & service! Highly recommended!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Loading...