Nice place to eat
Food is pretty good as far hotel restaurants go. I had the crab cake benedict, which was fairly tasty (although nowhere near the best in town).Atmosphere is decent. It's a classy 60s style place, with a simple but clean style.The biggest reason why this place is getting 3 stars instead of 4 is the price. It cost $60 for two people to eat breakfast! That includes $5 per person for coffee, which seems to be one of Starbucks' restaurant blends (which is nice enough, but not $5 nice)If you're staying in the Westin, and don't mind spending a bit extra for a convenient meal, Essence is not a bad choice. I would not, however, recommend this place for Calgarians or travelers with enough time to go to another restaurant downtown.
We had official team lunch here. The restaurant is brighter and quieter than some other downtown restaurants around the neighborhood. Service was somewhat slow but the food tasted fresh and nice.
We arrived late for breakfast and stayed for lunch. John the water's words as he brought our lunch was to prepare to unhinge your jaws. He wasn't kidding as my wife's turkey BLT was ginormous! My choice was perhaps a little self-inflicted : a cheddar burger that was a double patty with my own addition of a sunnyside up egg. I ended up having to use a knife and fork. Besides the excellent food, John our waiter was excellent. He brought me honey and lemon and a big pot of hot water as I was kind of struggling through a cold. Much appreciated! He even sent me on my way with some extra lemon slices and honey. Great guy. Thank you Essence for this really positive experience!
I thought this place was a spa, because it's in the back corner of the hotel. Was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was a restaurant. The food is delicious and the portion sizes are enough for lunch and dinner!
Great restaurant - great service and chef! The coffee, however, is ‘greatly’ overpriced at $5.00/cup!!!
Ordered the two egg breakfast. Everything tasted phenomenal. Butter not margarine. Eggs tasted amazing and the bacon was wonderfully crisp. Our Server was also excellent. Very attentive.
Portion sizes are enormous! I always end up with enough for another meal. Terrific place for conversation. Again, the food is delicious and the service is impeccable.
Yes, but I would be selective based on ambiance. The food was marvellous.
I do not recommend you spend your hard earned money at this restaurant. Food is not good and service is lacking. There were four of us for breakfast, we ordered off the menu and everyone was very disappointed with their food. The prices are way too high for the quality of food they serve. For a high end hotel we expected much more. Starbucks would've been a better decision.