ESSA Restaurant & Bar

Highly anticipated restaurant ESSA has opened its doors to a luxe new level of bespoke dining, just off the James St precinct in Fortitude Valley.

A feast for the senses from the food to the decor, ESSA features an intimate architecturally designed across split levels. 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.

On the menu exquisite menu you'll find unexpected but familiar flavour combinations, with raw, pickled, smoked and wood-fired dishes featuring throughout. Think delicate Kohlrabi burnt in the fire then pickled alongside Wild Venison tartare with bergamot, toasted buckwheat and hibiscus.

From the wood-fired grill, expect bold and unique flavours with dishes like spatchcock quail with brown butter, caper leaves and salt bush and organic pork chop served on the bone.

To finish unexpected ingredients are paired with intentional dissonance - the Jerusalem artichoke cream bun is a must try.

The kitchen ethos at ESSA embraces collaboration with local farmers, hunters and providores, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to the menu, while harvest driven dishes provide the creative parameters for ESSA's ever evolving dining experience.

The carefully curated wine list 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 utilising a milk wash technique.

Good to know - Co-owner and executive chef 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.

Need to know - Limited on street parking is available.

Images and info supplied by ESSA Restaurant and Bar

Still hungry for more suggestions on where to eat out in Brisbane, head to our comprehensive Eat & Drink section HERE! Happy grazing!