Situated in Ikeja, Essence Lagos is the epitome of fine dining on the mainland, offering a refined culinary experience without the need to journey across Lagos to the more typical island locations. Founded in 2021 by a visionary foodpreneur, the restaurant aims to cater to residents in GRA Ikeja and its surrounding areas, providing an elegant dining option right at their doorstep.
Essence Lagos
Stunning Decor and Cozy Ambiance
Essence Lagos is more than just a restaurant; it’s a space designed to evoke comfort and elegance. The interior features minimalist yet stylish decor, with soft lighting and tasteful furnishings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
As you step into Essence Lagos, you’re immediately enveloped by an air of sophistication and warmth. The soft lighting, modern decor, and carefully curated furniture create a welcoming yet refined ambiance.
A Culinary Haven for Mainland Residents
Before Essence Lagos opened its doors, residents of Ikeja and its environs often found themselves needing to travel to Victoria Island, Lekki, or other island destinations to enjoy a premium dining experience. The founder of Essence Lagos saw this gap and decided to provide a solution. With its contemporary design and well-curated menu, this restaurant brings the luxury of fine dining to the mainland, allowing residents to enjoy high-quality meals in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting.
The menu at Essence Lagos is a delightful mix of both local Nigerian flavors and international cuisine. From expertly grilled seafood to rich, hearty stews and salads made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the food reflects the diversity and richness of Lagos. The chef’s creativity shines through in every dish, offering a gastronomic journey that celebrates both tradition and modernity.
Patrons can enjoy signature dishes like grilled lamb chops, fresh seafood platters, and carefully prepared pasta. Vegetarians and health-conscious diners will also find options that cater to their preferences. Of course, no fine dining experience is complete without a stellar drink menu, and Essence Lagos does not disappoint. Their cocktail list includes both classic and creative options, while the wine selection ensures the perfect pairing for every 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, 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, walnut 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 plantain. |
| Butcher Rice | 15,000 | Basmati rice cooked in sweet sesame broth with colored bell peppers, chicken and beef cutlet, 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 mushroom 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
The bar at Essence Lagos is a stylish centerpiece, offering an inviting blend of sophistication and comfort. Expertly crafted to serve both classic and contemporary drinks, it features a selection of fine wines, spirits, cocktails, and mocktails, making it the perfect spot for unwinding after a long day or complementing your meal.
Perfect for Date Nights and Solo Dining
Essence Lagos is designed to cater to a variety of dining experiences. If you’re planning a romantic evening, this restaurant offers an intimate setting, ideal for date nights. The mood lighting, tasteful decor, and excellent service create an atmosphere that makes it perfect for couples. The menu features a range of gourmet dishes and carefully crafted cocktails, ensuring that your night is both romantic and delicious.
For those who enjoy dining alone, Essence Lagos is equally suited for solo dates. The calm and inviting ambiance makes it a great spot for some quiet time, whether you want to read, work, or simply enjoy a meal on your own.
Ideal for Small Gatherings and Private Events
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Beyond its appeal for intimate dinners, Essence Lagos is also a great venue for small gatherings and private events. With a seating arrangement that allows for privacy without being overly formal, the restaurant provides a warm and inviting space for family dinners, birthday celebrations, and small business meetings. The restaurant can accommodate group reservations and offers personalized service to ensure your event goes off without a hitch.
Get in Touch
Open: Monday – Sunday from 9 am – 10 pm
Address: 15a, Sasegbon Street GRA Ikeja, Lagos Nigeria
Phone: 08118877188
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @essencebythegrid
Website: www.essencebythegrid.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Essence Lagos
1. What type of cuisine does Essence Lagos offer?
Essence Lagos specializes in fine dining with a focus on contemporary Nigerian and international dishes, making it a great spot for various palates.
2. What are the opening hours of Essence Lagos?
Essence Lagos is open every day from 9 AM to 10 PM.
3. Do I need to make a reservation?
While walk-ins are welcome, it’s advisable to make a reservation, especially during peak hours or for special occasions, to ensure you have a table.
4. Is Essence Lagos suitable for large groups or events?
Yes, Essence Lagos is ideal for small gatherings, date nights, and events. You can inquire about private dining options for larger groups.
5. Is there a dress code?
Essence Lagos has a smart-casual dress code, encouraging guests to dress comfortably while maintaining a stylish appearance.
6. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, Essence Lagos offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes to cater to different dietary preferences.
7. Does Essence Lagos have a bar?
Yes, Essence Lagos features a well-stocked bar with a selection of wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages to complement your meal.
8. Can I order food for takeout?
Yes, Essence Lagos offers takeout services. You can place your order over the phone or through their website.
9. What payment methods are accepted?
Essence Lagos accepts various payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments.
10. Where is Essence Lagos located?
Essence Lagos is located at 15a, Sasegbon Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
Essence Lagos stands out as a unique fine dining destination on the mainland. Its combination of elegant ambiance, excellent service, and a diverse menu make it a must-visit for anyone in the Ikeja area.
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