They do so many things so well here! Sauces, jams, biscuits, potatoes, Mexican dishes- they're all top notch. Nothing is poorly done. Even the espresso is great. If I lived here, I'd make a point of trying everything on the menu. It's also a warm and very hospitable, friendly vibe. For the whole fam, it was our favorite! read more

Really enjoyed the brunch here. The french toast with peaches & almonds was fantastic. We visited two days in a row, sitting outside one day and inside another. Both were great for people watching as it's a fantastic neighborhood. The staff was very friendly and very attentive even when it got busy. I would highly recommend and can't wait to visit again next time I'm in Chicago. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Peach and Almond French Toast - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place has to be one of the best kept secrets in Chicago. Esencia Urban Kitchen hit all the marks- phenomenal food, great service, all inside a quaint little space. My one wish would be expanding to a bigger location to accommodate more tables! We had a short wait around 10:30am on a Saturday, but walked to a few shops down the street to pass the time. The chilaquiles were the star of the show. The portion was big enough that I had leftovers, and they were also pretty spicy (I'm a baby when it comes to spice but it wasn't unbearable!). I'd also recommend getting an order of the homemade biscuits before they run out for the day, they were probably the best biscuits I've ever had. My table also had the morning wrap and pancakes (they were able to accommodate our request to make them plain). Everything was delicious. I will absolutely be going back soon!! read more

See all

We came here for an early Sunday morning breakfast. The place is small inside, and they also have an outdoor patio but was full when we arrived. We were fortunate enough to still get a table. Everyone that arrived us had to wait. Overall the service was great and the food was good as well. My son ordered their Peach Almond French toast, my wife ordered their Sunnyside Huevos Rancheros and I ordered their Breakfast Tacos. The French toast were served with amaretto custard, peach compote, whipped mascarpone and topped with toasted almonds. A very delicious and sweet dish. My wife's Huevos rancheros came with two crispy corn tortillas, topped with two sunnyside up eggs and salsa roja and served with a side of rice and black beans. This dish was good as well, but the salsa roja needed some more heat. The breakfast tacos was a first for me. I can't think of a time where I have ever order breakfast tacos at a restaurant. These were good though. The tortilla tasted great, and it was served with scrambled eggs, chorizo, spinach and tomatoes topped with queso fresco and a side of salsa. Was pleasantly surprised and wouldn't hesitate ordering these again if I were to return. read more

See all

I can't believe it took me so long to try this restaurant, but I am so glad I did. This little restaurant has a fantastic menu and coffee selection. We came here for breakfast, and I got the eggs and pesto sandwich. The sandwich was so tasty, and even better perhaps were the side potatoes. The drip coffee had a hint of cinnamon flavor and was bottomless for ~$5. The staff was friendly and the pricing was right for the quality and quantity of food. The only downside is the seating area is quite small, so it might be hit or miss whether a table is available. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Egg and Pesto - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I rarely go out to brunch anymore because I feel like it's overpriced and not good, but this place was great?? It's a very small Mexican fusion brunch Café in Lakeview right on Broadway. The service was very kind and we had to wait around 45 minutes for a four top on a Sunday around 11:30 so not horrible. They are walk in only. I got the omelette and it was very good, but the star of the show for me were the potatoes that were seasoned perfectly and the biscuits??? I will be coming back here and bringing everyone out here because of the biscuits- Definitely the best ones that I've had outside of the south. They also had this incredible homemade jam that came with it. Just a great experience and the perfect international woman's Day celebration! read more

See all

Stopped in for weekday lunch, their breakfast offerings sounded scrumptious. I was seated immediately in their charming café dining space and received prompt service. I had trouble between choosing between chilaquiles and the chorizo hash, and the chilaquiles were recommended. I went with the green sauce and poached eggs. Presentation was beautiful, like a sculpture of smothered tortilla. The taste overall was good, not mind-blowing. The verde, creme, and cheese was heavy on the sour-tangy notes, and overwhelmed the dish. I also though the beans and rice weren't spectacular, good though. Maybe could have used slightly more quantity. I craved some sort of meat to accompany you to this meal. The poached eggs were elegantly prepared and the runny yolk helped level off some excess tang. The size of the dish itself was fine. Value-wise it's decent for the area. I also ordered butter milk biscuits with a runny strawberry spread. These were excellent. Definitely worth a visit, I'd be interested in trying other dishes here. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Chilaquiles and biscuits. - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is one of the best places for breakfast in the Lakeview neighborhood. I've been venturing to Esencia for the last 6+ years, even before COVID. They offer amazing food and if nothing are consistent with their menu options and their great service. I ventured here this past week with long-time friends and ordered the breakfast wrap. Most, if not all, of their menu items come with potatoes and a side salad. Everything was especially great during our time, including their coffee, which has a hint of cinnamon in it. The space is very quaint, so if you are expecting to come here with a larger group, make sure you build in time for some waiting or you get their earlier to grab a table. I can't wait to come back again soon! read more

I did not realize how small a place this is, it is so cute and the vibes are immaculate. The service was friendly and fast without feeling rushed. The food was delicious, and everything the surrounding tables had looked great read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Breakfast Tacos - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Cute little space. Would love to sit out on the patio on a warmer day. The brown sugar sage latte was good and not super sweet. I really like the Cubana. I got no pickles so it could've used an extra crunch, but that's what I get for not liking pickles. The breakfast Torta was also really good but the tomato's were a little big for me. read more

See all

Sooooo good! Lemon ricotta pancakes, bacon and chilaquiles were all so good. Service was great :) read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Bacon, Chilaquiles, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Esencia has quickly become my favorite breakfast spot in the city. I've loved everything I have tried - the pancakes, the tacos, the poblano eggs - they all have so much flavor and the textures and temperatures of their dishes are perfect. Their coffee is also extremely good and they offer homemade syrups, which is always a plus in my book. The service is friendly and attentive, and the restaurant itself is bright and cozy. A neighborhood staple! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - poblano eggs, pancakes - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I stopped by Esencia Urban Kitchen for lunch after a workout class a few weeks ago and thought it was so cute and inviting. I got a diet coke with the Cubana Torta and fried potatoes which was honestly one of the best cozy meals I had that week. The seating area is a bit tight, so I can imagine that it gets pretty busy on the weekends, but this would be a perfect weekday solo lunch spot. The waitress was also very sweet. Will definitely be back! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - La Cubana Torta - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This cute little corner restaurant had such great service and a great vibe. The playlist they had going in the restaurant was full of my favorite songs. My fiance and I stopped in closer to the afternoon. He ordered the chorizo and egg torta and I had the Milanesa torta. Both were so good and the bread was perfectly buttered and toasted. I had the rice and beans as my side. The beans were a bit salty and the rice had some harder bits. Other than that the food was great. I would definitely visit this spot again. read more

See all

We loved being able to walk the neighborhood and grab breakfast here. The food was fresh, the outdoor seating was great and we only had to wait a few minutes. I could see how it might be a long wait on a busy day so just be forewarned. The service was friendly and quick. Will visit again! My only thought to share is that we ended up having to put the umbrella down because it was too light and when a breeze came by it tried to flip the table. The breeze wasn't super strong, the umbrella and table just had no ballast. So that might help in the future as with it down I felt like I couldn't see my date across the table! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Huevos con Chorizo Torta - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Smol (heart eyes emoji) cute (heart eyes emoji) neighborhood brunch spot of my dreams! It's perfect for a catch up with a pal or a sweet lil date. They've got solid Mexican-inspired brek&lunch plates with chill ambiance and friendly service. Their lavender oat milk latte is a faaave. Super tasty & not overly sweet. I also love their tacos- I've had the butternut squash and rajas con papas ones for lunch and the breakfast tacos. All were delish, especially when paired with their salsaaaa... it's YUM! It's a mini little place, so on weekends, I'd recommend going in small parties & getting there 20-30 mins early to put your name in (& pop into Unabridged bookstore or Windy City Sweets down the street while you wait!). read more

See all

We had a great meal today on the patio. It's wonderful to eat outside with family and friends. I had the breakfast torta. It was awesome. The Huaracha was the best I've ever had also. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Price - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

delicious & fresh :) biscuits were amazing- i got their classic breakfast w/ eggs, toast, bacon & potatoes. highly recommend!

We live in Lakeview and pass Esencia on a regular basis, and every time we stop in is amazing. This time we got the chilaquiles and the breakfast tacos, they were both delicious. My husband also got the brown sugar and sage latte, which was great (and not too sweet!) as always the service was delightful, can't wait to be back! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Salsa Verde chilaquiles - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I was super shy here and wasn't even sure what to order for a drink or for a food. Even tho I was shy, I still enjoyed my meal. The potatoes will change the way you think about politics and other stuff. I wonder if they use kewpie mayo to get those eggs creamier and fluffier but maybe that's just a hidden trick that I do at home for myself read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Huevos con Chorizo Torta - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great food, cute space, and super friendly service! We split a plate of green chilaquiles and a slice of key lime pound cake- it was all delicious. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Chilaquiles, key lime pound cake - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I've lived in Lakeview for years and always pass by wanting to try, but it's gets packed so quickly! Food was great - sat out on the patio! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Chorizo Hash - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We walked right and were seated immediately. We chose to sit inside but they also had outdoor seating available. We could people watch all the folks walking by the window. Our order was taken quickly and we had drinks on the table in short order. We got an extra side of biscuits and holy cow were they great! Hot and steamy. I ordered the poblano eggs and my wife ordered the breakfast wrap. Again, we quickly had our food on the table. Both were fantastic! I highly recommend this place and look forward to returning the next time I'm in the neighborhood. read more

Early morning wait was a long time so we decided to sit at the bar. Staff was extremely friendly and talkative read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Brunch menu (08/03/25) - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Sweet and simple little cafe. Coffee drinks were a hit all around: lavender lattes both hot and cold, cafe con leche. Food was just wonderful-- chilaquiles were so good, chips still crispy after getting the salsa treatment; egg and pesto sandwich was simple and delicious, and pancakes were good. Amazed at how busy the place was at 10a on a Thursday morning, and the lone front worker kept it running smoothly. read more

A lovely spot for brunch! Wonderful service and a bright, cozy interior. They have a patio as well, but we opted for the a/c since it was a hot summer day. The lavender latte had a good balance of espresso and lavender taste - not too sweet or milky. The poblano eggs were delicious. It was something I hadn't tasted before, and I enjoyed the subtle kick of the creamy poblano sauce. The potatoes were well seasoned, crispy, and had a good amount of salt. They were amazing dipped in the poblano sauce! The portions are on the smaller side; I was satisfied but definitely did not have any leftovers. Overall, a nice spot for a twist on traditional brunch. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Poblano eggs - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Delicious Mexican breakfasts. I really enjoyed the chilaquiles. Service was good Great neighborhood spot. read more

Cute spot! Great atmosphere, decor, and windows with roughly as much outdoor seating as indoor. The pesto egg sandwich, which was FANTASTIC: perfectly cooked egg, fresh sourdough, evenly spread and the perfect amount of pesto, and light cheese on the egg itself. Thick cut bacon tasted local and the greens added just enough freshness. Excellent composition! Also EXCELLENT potatoes on the side. Just the right crispy on the outside with great seasoning (and not too salty), soft and almost creamy inside. They were also generous with their fresh squeezed oj (and room temp, not cold, so extra points!!). Oh, also, FABULOUS biscuit. Worth getting potatoes and some biscuits as sides if they're not with your entree (though you may end up with a take home box then!). I also ordered the lemon ricotta pancakes! Really fluffy and moist with well defined flavor (more vanilla bean than lemon). The jasmine syrup was very light (thin) and the ginger butter flavor was very subtle. Both of these dishes were split with a friend, which was a great call. Trying both and getting savory plus a little sweet was an excellent balance to kick off the day. I'm going to be thinking about the egg and pesto sandwich for a long while though... Would definitely come back!! read more

So good! A small place with so much flavor. Their lavender latte was divine and the breakfast potatoes....yummy!!!

Amazing. We stopped in on a gray, chilly Chicago morning and the atmosphere here was so welcoming and friendly. The staff were all kind and efficient, so we were seated right away. It's a smaller space, but that helps give it its charm. We ordered drinks and food all in one fell swoop, and they brought out drinks first. Loved my latte, and the OJ was fresh-squeezed- amazing! I got the chilaquiles to eat which were delicious. Not too soggy like they sometimes can be! My date got the poblano eggs, and I was lucky enough to get a bite of a potato with the poblano sauce - so good. I will definitely be back here! read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Chilaquiles - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Incredible food service and outdoor seating. Lives it. Went twice in one long weekend!

Very good. Brunch menu is a bit short but the quality of the kitchen's output is there. Potatoes were special. Delightful cafe latte.

We love coming here, but the service wasn't great today. We waited over 25 minutes just to get our order taken... that included our order for coffee. However, the food is excellent so it's still worth the wait if you aren't in a hurry. Definitely try the chilaquiles with the verde sauce and chorizo. read more

Super friendly wait staff who make you feel right at home and do a great job of filling up your water and checking on you :) I got the lemon ricotta pancakes and I thought they were just ok - wish they came with some fruit or something! My friend got their cranberry pancakes and they were delicious(i recommend over the lemon ricotta) Their house potatoes and eggs are delicious. It's ambiance is small + cute, modern, and comfy! read more

For starters the coffee and espresso was delicious! The lavender latte was very flavorful without the paver being too overpowering. The bread on both of these sandwiches was so fresh and crisp that honestly they could've put anything on this sandwich and we would've loved it. However, the Milanesa and Cubana were both perfectly constructed and asking for us to come back and try more items on the menu. My husbands only complaint is that he wanted more pickle on his Cuban but he knows that is his personal preference as he is a big time pickle guy. Definitely would recommend for you to give this place a try if you are in the area. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - La Cubana Torta - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I'm here nearly every Saturday. Absolutely love Esencia. Love and thought put into the food and it shows. Great flavor combinations and amazing service. Highly recommend the poblano eggs, hibiscus enchiladas, chilaquiles, pumpkin pancakes, lemon ricotta pancakes, horchata, and the lavender latte. If there's a wait, wait! It's worth it. Just walk around Broadway to the local shops nearby while you wait. AMAZING read more

Such a cozy and cute brunch spot in lakeview east! I went around 11:30 and didn't have to wait for a table which was nice. I ordered the pesto and egg sandwich which was filling and flavorful, wish there was a bit more pesto since it seeped into the bread too much. Also got an iced lavender latte that was made well. Everything was fresh and delicious plus service was top notch. One thing that was weird was how you had to go outside the restaurant to use the bathroom which is all the way in the back of the restaurant. Overall had a great brunch here and can't wait to come back. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Egg and Pesto Sandwich - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Lovely outdoor seating on leafy quiet street. Arrived around mid day on Sunday, put in our name on the waitlist and it was only about 20 minutes before we were seated. Small amount of seating inside, but we chose for the outdoor patio it was such a beautiful day. Only serving brunch on the weekends which was fine, because there was quite a variety to choose from breakfast items right up to lunch items. We had the Hibiscus iced tea which was refreshing, not too sweet with a nice flavor. My husband ordered that chilaquiles with eggs anyway, he chose poached and claimed it to be yummy. I chose the seared salmon sandwich with pickled onions and capers and a jalapeño spread. It was perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious. Came with a side of roasted potatoes and leafy mixed greens. Really pleasant waitstaff. Would definitely go again. read more

The food here was phenomenal and the staff are so friendly. It's very small inside but the service is quick and the wait is minimal. This is now one of our favorite breakfast spots. read more

Really cute and cozy breakfast spot. Kind host and servers and unique menu items. Salmon sandwich wasn't my favorite combination of flavors and the potatoes were a little too crunchy with seasoning that was also not my favorite, but the torta was very good and filling. They also have specialty lattes and a pick up window. read more

Esencia Urban Kitchen - Huevos con Chorizo Torta - Cafes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all