Essence Restaurant + Bar

Review summary

1. OT

   OpenTable Diner

   Indiana2 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 2 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The dinning experience is better than a Michelin. We enjoy everything at essence from the food , wonderful wait staff and the ambience. I highly recommend!!
   

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2. B

   Bil

   Chicago4 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Essence is one of the region's premier places for fine dining. The menu is varied; the service is top notch. The owners are delightful.
   

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3. R

   Renee

   Indiana3 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   A Memorable Evening at Essence Restaurant and Bar Our recent visit to Essence Restaurant and Bar was nothing short of exceptional. With four of us dining—two celebrating birthdays—the restaurant made the occasion feel truly special. A thoughtful birthday card was waiting at the table, and the celebrants were treated to complimentary desserts, a gracious and much-appreciated gesture. We started the evening with expertly crafted cocktails. The Cosmopolitan, topped with vapor bubbles, was as visually stunning as it was delicious, and the option to have bourbon in our Manhattans smoked added a sophisticated touch. From appetizers to entrées, the food was outstanding—beautifully prepared, full of flavor, and served in generous portions. The wine service was impeccable, enhancing an already elevated dining experience. Desserts were both inventive and indulgent, a perfect finale to the meal. The atmosphere at Essence strikes a perfect balance between elegance, coziness, and sophistication, making it an ideal setting for a special night out. With entrées averaging around $50, it’s a worthwhile indulgence. We look forward to returning as soon as possible!
   

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4. C

   Chris VIP

   Indiana7 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on March 6, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   Our third time dining here and we will continue to come back. We always feel so welcomed and cared for while at Essence. They pay attention to the details and desire everything to be perfect. We enjoyed our conversations with Brad (aka Bow tie Brad- the owner) and his intentional way of noticing the details and taking care of us. The food was perfection. We ordered the Japanese sweet potatoes and carrots for appetizers. Delicious! The whipped butter that comes with the rolls is always divine. Entrees were Sea Bass and Seafood- both so good! Of course we will be back. Elkhart is lucky to have this gem.
   

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5. KE

   KaleighE

   Indiana4 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on March 6, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   We always enjoy our date nights at Essence. The food is fabulous and the staff is top notch. This is our favorite place to dine in Elkhart.
   

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6. DW

   DougW

   Chicago3 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 28, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Brad and his team are amazing! They are all very welcoming and kind. Everyone that we came into contact with spoke with us and asked how our day was. Our dinner and drinks were delicious! Everyone went above and beyond to ensure that we enjoyed our 45th anniversary celebration. Brad even gave us a very nice hand written note wishing us a Happy Anniversary. And thanks to him and his wonderful crew it was!! 5-stars plus!
   

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7. m

   michael

   Chicago1 review

   5.0

   Dined on February 27, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great attention to detail and you can really appreciate the care all staff take in their work. Changing menu, amazing cocktails and they truly make you feel like a welcome guest throughout your dining experience. Can;t wait to go back and bring more friends.
   

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8. K

   Kristin

   Indiana2 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 26, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Another wonderful experience at this Elkhart gem! The food was excellent and the service was impeccable! We were so happy to have Claire as our server again…she’s the best!
   

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9. RS

   RobertS VIP

   Indiana7 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 26, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Excellent service and food - server Claire is great
   

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10. J

    Jessica

    Indiana1 review

    5.0

    Dined on February 22, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    Outstanding food and service. Every dish is packed with amazing flavors.
    

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