ESSA provides a distinctive haven from the mundane, much like the rugged interiors it occupies. The restaurant's culinary philosophy revolves around working together with nearby farmers, hunters, and suppliers to foster an eco-friendly approach to the menu. The menu is driven by seasonal harvests, which serve as the foundation for ESSA's ever-changing dining experience.
Located just off the James St precinct in Fortitude Valley, ESSA offers a feast for the senses from the food to the décor. The restaurant features an intimate architecturally designed split-level space. Tucked behind a custom-created brass mesh window, past the entry is the street-level seating area. Within the mid-level dining space, the bar encased in striking green Verde Alpi stone takes centre stage, while zinc-lined walls, exposed brickwork, and steel alcoves are softened by warm lighting and leather-lined banquettes. Continue past the open kitchen to find the intimate upper dining level set against the backdrop of a lush green garden.
ESSA's menu offers unexpected but familiar flavor combinations, with raw, pickled, smoked, and wood-fired dishes featuring throughout. Expect bold and unique flavors with dishes like spatchcock quail with brown butter, caper leaves, and saltbush, organic pork chop served on the bone, and smoked potato agnolotti with parmesan and kombu emulsion.
ESSA's kitchen ethos embraces collaboration with local farmers, hunters, and providores, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to the menu. You can taste the difference in their carefully curated menu, as they transform seasonal produce into simple dishes, heroing the ingredients themselves rather than fancy cooking techniques. To finish unexpected ingredients are paired with intentional dissonance - the Jerusalem artichoke cream bun is a must-try.
ESSA is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5 pm till late and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday lunch from 12 pm. Bookings are best made online, as the restaurant can fill up fast.
One of the best things about ESSA is the drinks menu, which is carefully curated to match the kitchen’s ethos and dishes. You can work your way through a wine list that complements the food perfectly while the cocktail list is refined in its simplicity and creativity. A stand-out is The Love Bird, which pairs rose, strawberries, and white chocolate utilizing a milk wash technique.
One year after opening, Fortitude Valley's dark and moody ESSA was named Queensland Restaurant of the Year in Gourmet Traveller's Restaurant Awards for 2023. This prestigious award is a testament to the quality of food, service, and ambiance that ESSA offers. If you haven't been yet, it might be time to make a booking and experience it for yourself.
The executive chef and co-owner of ESSA is Phil Marchant, who has worked as Head Chef at Gauge, under Shane Osbourne at the Michelin-starred Pied à Terre in London, and The French Cafe, arguably New Zealand's most celebrated dining venue. With such an impressive culinary background, you know you're in good hands when dining at ESSA.
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