Esencia Urban Kitchen

“Happened upon this place while passing through Chicago.”

Happened upon this place while passing through Chicago. They had a very solid take on eggs benedict (poblano eggs), the poblano cream sauce was absolutely stunning. The house potatoes had such good crunch and seasoning. Highly recommend.

E. W.

Dec 2025

“Omg! Fall coffee & pancakes ! Absolutely: recommended!”

Life Coach Mentoria

Nov 2025

“I couldn't decide between anything on the menu but, thus far - everything has been amazing.”

I couldn't decide between anything on the menu but, thus far - everything has been amazing. French toast and one of the delicious homemade Hispanic savory items (sorry - I don't remember which one). But i ate the entire thing and will be back. Great service, friendly staff and outside seating. Tasty coffee and non dairy options - which are not easy to come by. Thanks guys 🌻

Someonethatdoesntmatter

Nov 2025

“Esencia Urban is a snug brunch spot with warm service and a Latin-inspired menu.”

Esencia Urban is a snug brunch spot with warm service and a Latin-inspired menu. The space is tight and often crowded by lunchtime, but we were able to get a seat right away around 9 am on a Sunday. The chilaquiles were the standout - crispy, flavorful, and full of satisfying texture. A charming neighborhood spot for a cozy and flavorful brunch.

Bill

Aug 2025

“What a great local spot.”

What a great local spot! The tacos are awesome. I also really like the poblano eggs. The mocha I got was gorgeous and delicious. I will be back.

Michael

Jul 2025

“This is our favorite neighborhood spot.”

This is our favorite neighborhood spot. We have been many times and it never disappoints! You may have to wait on weekends but it’s worth it. The pablano eggs or the pesto egg sandwich are our go-tos and a specialty coffee with house made simple syrups

Jeralyn Pautler

Jul 2025

“Small diner food restaurant.”

Small diner food restaurant. Good service and food. Ordered the morning wrap and 2 eggs any style with some sweet hibiscus tea.

Eran Dromy

May 2025

“SUCH a cute location, and the food was truly amazing!”

SUCH a cute location, and the food was truly amazing!! I got the chilaquiles and my wife got the carnitas. It was easily the best chilaquiles I’ve had! It was so good, that I forgot to take a picture… The atmosphere is also amazing - great music, slow pace, cozy ambiance.

Zane Bauman

Feb 2025

“I really enjoy eating here.”

I really enjoy eating here. Very nice people. Great food. Very close to where I live. My favorite is the poblano eggs and the orange juice. I did take a picture of the orange juice today but not the eggs

Fred B

Jan 2025

“Cozy atmosphere, nice staff, delicious food.”

Cozy atmosphere, nice staff, delicious food. The breakfast tacos were ON POINT. I got a side of bacon and potatoes that were great too. This place is a local gem

Joe Balich

Nov 2024

“I have heard amazing things about Esencia, but it took me far too many months to finally go.”

I have heard amazing things about Esencia, but it took me far too many months to finally go! On a whim, my friend and I went for a post-workout brunch, and it slapped. I got the huevos con chorizo torta (similar to a breakfast sandwich, with eggs, chorizo, cheese, crema, avocado/guac, and more. Sooo good. It was recommended by our server, Tomás. He took great care of us, was happy to recommend, was attentive, not pushy (we were there when it was close to closing time), and he even asked if he could bring my dog a treat! Excellent service. No wonder there’s always a wait! Just get your name in, go check out the local coffee shops or farmers market, and wait your turn. It’s so worth the wait!!! Enjoy!!!

Hayley Rozman

Sep 2024

“Woah! Came here and was impressed how good it was. The greek yogurt and the sandwhich, along with...”

Woah! Came here and was impressed how good it was. The greek yogurt and the sandwhich, along with the potatoes, were amazing. Perfectly seasoned. Just right. Staff was nice. Vibes felt great. Only thing I'd suggest that for the greek yogurt should have less banana pieces 🍌 more berries 🍓 instead.

Gladys

Aug 2024