Essence Kitchen + Bar

Very small place, reservations recommended. Cocktail/ wine choices are fantastic . Prices moderate. Had to wait a bit for the food, but food was great and fresh. Definitely will go back! Place is bringing a little "upscale dining" to Chino👍🙂Chef came out to ask how things were!

The food was excellent. We weren't really happy with the seating arrangements, but overall it was a really nice evening. We really hope this place can expand at some point. It's nice to have a rather upscale restaurant in town.

Essence Kitchen + Bar is a wonderful and unexpected little gem of a restaurant tucked away in a strip mall in Chino Valley. The food is amazing - fresh, well seasoned and well prepared. There is a nice variety to choose from, everything from burgers to steaks and seafood. The desserts are to die for. Essence is as good or better than many of the high end restaurants you might find in Scottsdale or another large city. The restaurant is on the smaller side, so I would recommend making a reservation for dinner, especially on the weekend. Even though it is small, Essence has a very nice atmosphere and décor.

1st time here based on a referral. Food and service was awesome! Julia(owner) is very personable and took the time to ask about us and our meal. Darren was our server. He was fantastic. The food and drinks were excellent! Highly recommend the pork sliders and bread pudding.

3/14/2022. Make a reservation before going. We were lucky to get in & it was Tuesday early afternoon. Our server was excellent!! Be aware high prices! Inside is very nice & small.