This isn’t your average dining spot when you step inside Essence Lagos, which is nestled in the vibrant heart of Ikeja. With its elegant ambiance, culinary excellence, and top-notch service, it has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of Ikeja’s top fine dining destinations. There is no better place to indulge in a memorable meal if you’re a foodie, traveler, or simply someone who wants to have a memorable experience. The restaurant boasts delicious dishes crafted by renowned chefs as well as an atmosphere that exudes class.
Essence Lagos, located in Ikeja, is the epitome of fine dining on the mainland, offering a refined culinary experience without the need to travel across Lagos to the more typical island restaurants. The restaurant was founded by a visionary foodpreneur in 2021, providing an elegant dining option to residents of GRA Ikeja and its surrounding areas.
Key Takeaways:
- Location: Situated in the bustling Ikeja district, Essence Lagos is easily accessible, whether you’re staying in the area or coming from other parts of Lagos.
- Ambiance: A mix of elegance and warmth, perfect for both casual and special occasions.
- Menu: Offers a diverse range of dishes, blending local and international flavors with high-quality ingredients.
- Prices: Expect to spend around ₦50,000 to ₦70,000 for a full fine dining experience for two.
- Service: attentive and professional, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and eager to help.
The Ambiance
There’s an air of sophistication in Essence Lagos from the minute you walk in. Its design blends contemporary chic with cozy comfort, making it a perfect place for a business lunch or an intimate dinner. Daylight streams in through the large windows, while soft lighting transforms the space at night, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere.
A tasteful mix of modern art, sleek furniture, and earthy tones creates a calming atmosphere. In this environment, you can dress up and feel stylish while still feeling comfortable enough to relax and enjoy yourself.
My personal insight:
Being familiar with many upscale restaurants, I was particularly impressed with Essence’s balance of luxury and warmth. The staff’s welcoming demeanor adds to the welcoming atmosphere. It’s a refreshing take on fine dining without being too stuffy or formal.
Here’s what’s on the menu: a culinary adventure
Essence Lagos is known for its food. Featuring a creative fusion of international and traditional Nigerian flavors, the menu has been carefully curated by a team of expert chefs.
Appetizers: Starting with a Bang
Start your meal with their Spicy Calamari (₦7,500) or the Shrimp Avocado Salad (₦9,000). Both are light, flavorful, and the perfect way to kick off your culinary journey. The calamari is crispy and perfectly seasoned, while the shrimp salad, with its zesty citrus dressing, is refreshing and indulgent at the same time.
Mains: The Real Deal
For mains, the Grilled Salmon (₦18,500) stands out as a crowd favorite. Cooked to perfection, the salmon is moist on the inside with a crispy outer layer, served with a side of sautéed vegetables and a creamy herb sauce that elevates the dish to another level. If you’re in the mood for something more traditional, try the Essence Jollof Rice (12,000), which comes with perfectly spiced chicken or beef. It’s one of the best takes on Jollof rice in Lagos, hands down.
Desserts: The Sweet Finish
Dessert lovers won’t be disappointed. The Molten Chocolate Lava Cake (₦6,500) is rich, gooey, and paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—an absolute must-try. For something lighter, go for the Passionfruit Cheesecake (₦7,000), which offers a refreshing burst of flavor to end your meal.
Top Picks from The Menu;
| Menu Item | Price (₦) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Full English Breakfast | 9,500 | Toast bread, choice of egg, grilled bacon, sausage, grilled tomato, grilled mushroom, baked beans. Served with butter. |
| American Breakfast | 8,000 | Either pancake or waffles, syrup, sunny side-up egg, and baked beans. |
| Tradie | 7,000 | Options of boiled yam/plantain/Irish potatoes, served with egg and pepper sauce. |
| Seafood Pasta | 17,500 | A tender mix of prawns, calamari, and fish fillet cod, cooked with garlic and sweet sauce or creamy sauce with long ribbons of pasta. |
| Chef’s Bobotie | 15,500 | A tender mix of chicken strips, smoked mushroom, and prawns, cooked with garlic and creamy gravy sauce with fusilli pasta. |
| Chicken Pesto Pasta | 13,000 | Fresh basil mix, shredded chicken breast, parmesan cheese, and walnuts cooked with garlic and creamy sauce. |
| Hangla Rice | 17,500 | Asian-style rice mixed with veggies, calamari, king prawns, and white fish cod garnished with herbs and plantains. |
| Butcher Rice | 15,000 | Basmati rice cooked in sweet sesame broth with colored bell peppers, chicken and beef cutlets, garnished with plantain and herbs. |
| Prawns Goons Saroon | 16,000 | Deep-fried king prawns wrapped in crispy rice steak. Served with hot chili sauce, lemon aioli sauce, and french fries. |
| Chicken Masala | 13,000 | Italian-American golden pan-fry chicken cutlets and mushrooms in a rich masala wind sauce, served with turmeric rice. |
| Chicken Schnitzel | 12,000 | Panko-breaded chicken mallet breast, marinated and buttered in egg, served with a side salad. |
The Bar
Essence Lagos’ bar combines sophistication with comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere. Featuring a selection of fine wines, spirits, cocktails, and mocktails, it is the perfect place to unwind after a long day or complement your meal.
Suitable for date nights and solo dining
A variety of dining experiences are available at Essence Lagos. A romantic evening at this restaurant is ideal if you’re planning a date night. It’s perfect for couples because of the mood lighting, tasteful decor, and excellent service. Featuring gourmet dishes and carefully crafted cocktails, your night will be both romantic and delicious.
Essence Lagos is equally suited for solo dates for those who enjoy dining alone. This is a great place to read, work, or simply enjoy a meal alone, due to its calm and inviting ambiance.
Suitable for small gatherings and private events
Essence Lagos is a great venue for small gatherings and private events in addition to intimate dinners. Providing a warm and inviting space for family dinners, birthday celebrations, and small business meetings, the restaurant has a seating arrangement that allows for privacy without being overly formal. A group reservation can be accommodated at the restaurant, and personalized service is available to make your event a success.
Get in Touch
Open: Monday-Sunday from 9 am – 10 pm
Address: 15a, Sasegbon Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
Phone: 08118877188
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.essencebythegrid.com
Reviews & Ratings: What People Are Saying
With an average rating of 4.7/5 on Google Reviews, Essence Lagos is beloved by both locals and tourists alike. Many customers rave about the exceptional service, with staff going above and beyond to make guests feel special. Others highlight the consistency in the quality of the food, praising the flavors and presentation.
One customer review noted:
“Essence Lagos is where you go when you want to spoil yourself. The food is amazing, the ambiance is beautiful, and the service is top-notch. It’s worth every penny!”
Another review praised the variety of the menu:
“As a foodie, I’m always on the lookout for places that offer unique flavor combinations. Essence Lagos has nailed it. The fusion of Nigerian and international dishes is done perfectly here.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional food quality: Every dish is crafted with care, making it a culinary experience to remember.
- Beautiful ambiance: The decor and atmosphere make it ideal for dates, celebrations, or business meetings.
- Professional service: Staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and go the extra mile to ensure a great dining experience.
Cons:
- Pricey: It’s a high-end restaurant, so the prices might be steep for some diners.
- Limited seating: Due to its popularity, the restaurant can get crowded, so reservations are highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to make a reservation at Essence Lagos?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or holidays when the restaurant tends to get busy. You can book through their website or by calling ahead.
2. Is there parking available?
Yes, Essence Lagos provides valet parking services for its guests, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot.
3. Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, the menu includes a range of vegetarian dishes, such as the Grilled Vegetable Platter (₦10,500) and the Vegetarian Pasta (₦9,000).
4. Can I host a private event at the restaurant?
Absolutely. Essence Lagos is a great venue for private events, from birthday dinners to corporate events. Contact the restaurant in advance to discuss your requirements.
5. What’s the dress code?
Smart casual is recommended. You don’t need to dress too formally, but it’s not a place for flip-flops and shorts either.
Final Thoughts
Essence Lagos offers more than just a meal—it’s a dining experience that combines incredible food, a luxurious atmosphere, and impeccable service. Whether you’re a local looking to treat yourself or a visitor eager to explore Lagos’ fine dining scene, Essence is a must-visit. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but every bite, every sip, and every moment spent there makes it worth the splurge. If you’re in Ikeja and craving something special, Essence Lagos is undoubtedly the place to go.
