A black owned business I am honored to support! Any meal prepared by Chef Walker will be a delight. He pays very close attention to details and makes all his food with passion. The quality of take-out during COVID has not changed. Love the high quality food and service he has brought to the community. read more

Excellent dinner. Very attentive and professional wait staff. Grilled octopus was one of those dishes you will remember for a while! Beet nachos were also out of this world. Dinner was fantastic as well. Definitely going back! read more

Terrific food in a lovely, cozy environment. Essie's is a not-so-hidden gem just 3 minutes from the Hudson River Walkway. Delicious, exciting food prepared by Chef Walker. read more

Essie's Restaurant - New American Near Me - Poughkeepsie, New York

Please believe the HYPE! I've had this place on my radar since opening night. I had heard great things about the chef and FINALLY 3 years later I am about to confirm !! The food was amazing, way above standard for the area, the service was equally impressive. read more

We love Essies! It's become our place for a nice date night or special occasion! Everyone is extremely friendly, our first time there they treated us very well and we felt very welcome something that makes me continue to come back. Food is always delicious and worth every penny! We love the toast and cheese board! Those are 2 things we get every time. We always recommend Essies as a place to go in the area. read more

The old saying is the way to a guy's heart is through the stomach...the same holds true for women. When my boyfriend told me he made reservations here for our second anniversary I couldn't have felt more Loved! A good restaurant has the usual things atmosphere, friendly staff, etc. A GREAT restaurant tells you a story with their food - Essie's is a GREAT Restaurant. From the cocktails to the entrees (we ran out of room for dessert) every bite conveyed the love taught to the Head Chef. Some of what I gleaned - savor life, take each moment as it comes, and stop to enjoy the people around you. I will forever remember the meal my boyfriend and I shared here and can't wait to try dessert. read more

First time here and super impressed. Enjoyed the jerk ribs - which were delicious and just fell off the bone, and beet nachos that were awesome too. Loved this place, will definitely recommend. read more

Poughkeepsie is my home away from home, so I'm happy to see more restaurants are opening in the city. During my visit earlier this month, I made it a priority to stop by Essie's. Though the menu was limited (take out only) I was able to enjoy one of the best chicken sandwiches I've ever tasted. I can't wait until COVID ends so I can get the full Essie's experience. Not only did I enjoy my food, but my mom enjoyed her jerk ribs as well. Check them out! #blackowned read more

I am currently eating a delicious meal at this fine establishment. The food is tremendous. The jerk ribs are very special - among the finest ribs I've eaten. The grits croquettes are a scrumptious treat. The waitstaff is highly professional, courteous, and attentive. The kitchen and server Cait did a wonderful job. I shall eat here again soon. read more

Essie's Restaurant - New American Near Me - Poughkeepsie, New York

My girlfriend and her friend came to Essie's for Sunday Brunch. We made a reservation at 11:30am. We had high expectations coming in since it has 5 stars on Yelp and the atmosphere was nice. Boy we were in for a surprise. First of all, the waiter, I assume his name is Carlos (that's the name on the reciept) just ignored us the entire time we were there. We weren't sat down by him but by a younger lady (bartender perhaps, wish she was our server, she did a great job around the place.) Instead of greeting us and giving us our menus and water, he passes us a couple of times to clean the table or make small talk with other customers. He didn't even make eye contact with us, it was quite odd. We finally got the menus and he ran off concentrating on others. Second, the food took forever. We literally almost fell asleep. The food came out for everyone who came AFTER us. Carlos didn't come check up on us nor find out what happen to the food. We ordered two pork hashs and steak and eggs. He just put it down on table like nothing happened. Anyways, the portions were tiny and the steak was well done to burnt rather than medium. We finished it in about 5 minutes and left immediately. Never had a worse experience than this. I'm only giving an extra star to the bartender. We still have to give a min 15% tip but come on Essie's... read more

Just returned from Sunday brunch and it was delicious! Essie's is truly one-of-kind; you can tell that Brandon really cares about his food and cocktails! I don't know how so much scrumptiousness can come out of that tiny kitchen! Toast of the day was sooo good, as was my orange daiquiri! Fried chicken and waffles: best fried chicken I've had since my Nanny died (sounds morbid but it's true.). My friend loved her steak and eggs; no one disappointed! Great service, great atmosphere, great music! Note: if you're in a hurry or are always in a rush, please realize that eating at Essie's is not an experience through which you should be rushed. CHILL AND ENJOY! The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because (full disclosure) you are charged for coffee refills. I understand that this isn't IHOP, but (especially at brunch) I think you should be allowed a 2-cup max for the price. Gotta have my morning fuel! Always awesome. Great job Brandon and staff! read more

This place has a classy yet casual feel to it. You can tell the dishes are of quality and the service is very friendly and laid back. I went in for Sunday brunch, and maybe it was because I was very hungry but I thought their portions were too small for the price. Maybe dinner is different, but their food was so good that I have to return to try their other dishes. read more

The food was delicious, and the service was great. Contactless ordering was easy and fast. We will absolutely be back!

Came here this last Saturday night while staying in the New Paltz area. APPETIZERS: Started out with the octopus, toast of the day (ricotta with asparagus and lavender), and Jerk Petite ribs. Octopus was good but only about the size of a breakfast sausage on a bed of beans with bits of chorizo. It was a tad salty but flavorful. The toast of the day wasn't described correctly by the waiter but still delicious. Asparagus were cooked perfectly and the ricotta was a nice touch. We were under the impression it was the other way around. All good though so no worries! Jerk petite ribs were out of this world and strongly recommended! ENTREES: My SO and I both got the flat iron steak. It melted in your mouth like butter. Extremely tender and perfectly marinated with a nice rub on the top as a final touch. The bed of potatoes and peas underneath made it a perfect summer entree. DESSERT: The Cheesecake was light (like an Italian Cheesecake) but delicious and enough to split for two. SERVICE: I think our waiter was new as he was not familiar with the wines on the menu in addition to small mistakes like filling my glass with water but not my SO. He made a lot of unnecessary trips to the table and back but his strong effort to course correct was evident and for that, I can't really complain. I will certainly return when I am back in the area but more importantly, you should definitely make an effort to stop here too! read more

Still just as good as ever! Stopped in for a quick bite and a beer. They had an amazing beer from Threes Brewing, spectacular. Had a crab salad, jerk ribs, and grilled octopus to start. Snappy seasoning on a very fresh salad featuring local ingredients. The grilled octopus and softshell crab made me feel like I was at a backyard barbecue. The jerk ribs' glaze is amazing every time I come here. My wife and I finished with the pork loin and skirt steak, which will ruin every skirt steak I have henceforth. It was perfectly cooked and I've never seen such a meat cooked as thin and perfectly as this was. read more

My husband and I have been to Essie's before and have always been impressed with the service and delicious food. We recently took our three kids and dined outside. Weeks later our kids are still raving about the delicious fried chicken. It was moist and juicy on the inside crispy and flavorful on the outside. It was perfect! read more

Just coming back a year later to say I went for brunch this time, and it was incredible. This is a really special place and I am glad it exists. The chicken fried chicken of the woods mushrooms (yes you read that correctly) were some of the best things I have ever eaten in my life. It also helps that they have the most PLEASANT and friendly staff ever. Run here!!!!!!!! read more

At Essie's the food is amazing! Great atmosphere and the chef came to our table to ask how our meal was. The ribs appetizer was out of this world delicious. Everyone needs to experience this! #teamBrandonWalker thank you! I'll be back! read more

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Very good flavors! Ribs were spicy and delicious along with the pork shanks plate! All good ! Go there! Also, loved the music.

Was first introduced to the existence of this restaurant a few months back when I saw an advertisement for a beer/food pairing but was unable to attend, however, Essie's was now on my radar to give a try. We would often point to it down below when walking on the Walkway. My wife and I decided to give it a try on a Wednesday night. Small, but open feeling space where you don't feel cramped with a nice look and feel- exposed brick, nice pictures and art work. Excellent background music. We tried a craft cocktail and two appetizers prior to our meal. Each offering was better than the next! Incredible flavors and spices. Chef/Owner came over to introduce himself and we were able to chat about the history of opening the restaurant and his menu offerings. Very impressive guy. Would highly suggest that you give the place a try. read more

I came across Essie's on Yelp while searching for the best rated restaurants in the area, and this place did not disappoint! Delicious food and great ambiance. We ordered the linguine and the steak and both were outstanding. Would definitely recommend. read more

Chef Walker makes the best food around. I've gone in for brunch and dinner and it certainly did not disappoint. I loved the atmosphere sitting indoor, but outside is just as lovely. The staff is wonderful and very kind. I would definitely have to say that the waffles are the best I've ever had around this area for brunch AND do not skip dessert here. I don't even eat cheesecake, but it was amazing here. Also, the mixed berry sorbet is perfection in a dish. I would recommend this place to anyone. read more

Essie's Restaurant - Desserts - New American Near Me - Poughkeepsie, New York

Had dinner here tonight with my wife and our friend, amazing as always. We sat outside on the front patio on a beautiful early fall evening. Chef Brandon is fully running the show - waiting tables, tending bar, serving, cooking, and casually chatting with guests.. What a powerhouse. Food, as always, was spot on, soulful, and obviously cooked with love and true craft. Mushroom and grits appetizer is not to be missed and the pork shank was tender as can be with delicious roasted fall veggies, stewed greens, and an amazing sauce. Dessert and drinks added to a great evening out. Masks, hand sanitizer, contactless menus (QR code) show a business dedicated to customer health and safety. Chef Brandon is so personable and really makes you feel welcome. Thanks Essie's! read more

It's great to see Mount Carmel Square coming alive again. Essie's is a great addition to the food scene! We arrived early and sat at the bar before our friends arrived. We got to taste a sample of the wine we were thinking of ordering (It was from Lebanon and was delish). A great menu that takes the ordinary out of eating. Chef Brandon puts all his love and soul into the dishes he creates and it shows. The Grit Croquettes were great and my husband said the octopus was outstanding (sorry can't do octopus). The fish special, Pork Osso Buco and the Goat Bolognese were fantastic. Our server was great and attentive. Can't wait to go back! read more

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Wife and I got to sneak out on a dessert date night a few weeks ago and this place came up on our yelp search. The place was not too busy and the decor was pretty modern. We had a salty craving and the savory bread pudding caught our eye. This is normally served as a side dish but we asked the waiter if the chef would allow it as an appetizer side dish and they graciously allowed it. We also ordered the seasonal pumpkin dessert. Both dishes were amazing! The bread pudding came with an au jus and the pumpkin dessert was sweet but not too sweet. Chef Brandon also came over to personally welcome us to the establishment. My only suggestion is to have more desserts! We'll definitely be back to try more of the menu. read more

This is an amazing place! We had dinner with a friend. We ate vegetarian fare and our friend had a meat dish. We've never seen her finish her meal. Ours was awesome tasting, cooked to perfection and delicious. The food was unique! The waitress was knowledgeable, professional and took great care of us, explaining the dishes. I loved not being called, "guys." The owner/chef made rounds of the tables asking people how their food was and made interested conversation. We will be back again and again. I recommend Essie's and encourage you to try their food and atmosphere. Lovely place. read more

We had one night in Poughkeepsie, and Yelped our way to Essie's! We're ecstatic we did. It's in the little Italy section, who knew? Surrounded by other restaurants, looking good but not as unique as Essie's. It was late so we split the grilled octopus, the beet nachos, and the roast chicken! Wow every dish was perfectly prepared and packed with interesting flavors. The service was very friendly and attentive. We met the chef and owner, he was charming, and his product comes from loving his work. In the mid-Hudson? Make your way to Essie's! read more

Tastiest fried chicken I've had anywhere! Plantains and green beans were also delicious. We took our enormous meal to upper landing park nearby, and enjoyed leftovers the rest of the weekend. read more

Everyone reading this seriously needs to get to Essie's. This place is such a refreshing gem for the city of Poughkeepsie! The food is delicious, the drinks are amazing, and the service is impeccable. We've tried mostly all of the appetizers here: Grit Croquettes, Ham Cheddar Muffins, Pork Lardons (a must try), and the cheese plate. For entrees, we've had the Osso Buco (twice for me), Chicken & Dumpling, and the Goat Bolognese. My favorite dinner here consists of the Pork Lardons, the Osso Buco, while drinking a Poughkeepsie Pioneer. The staff is SO friendly and SO knowledgeable. The owner is awesome and frequently stops by tables to check on everything and just to say hello. read more

Excellent! Poughkeepsie gets another terrific 'foodie' option. Although I would probably lean towards 4.5 stars (I'll detail my dings in just a second.) Here's the wisdom I have to hit you with from our trip there: The food is generally terrific. Almost everything we ordered was perfect, the one minor disappointment were the dumplings in the chicken and dumplings I ordered, which were extremely dense. That being said, the chicken was possibly one of the most temperature-perfect pieces of chicken breast I've ever been served. And the chef knows how to 'bring it' with the flavor on every dish. The space is very nice, modern, and cozy. Only disappointment here is that it's a loud room, with all the hard surfaces it can get noisy in a hurry. The curated cocktail list (all the rage these days...) is a little precious for my taste. That being said, I ordered a Manhattan and it was so good that very little enticement was required for me to get a second, which is pretty rare for me! Service is attentive and friendly; neither overbearing or rushed. In short: welcome to Po-town, Essie's! We'll definitely be back and look forward to our next visit. read more

Had to order from their site while sitting at their outdoor seating, but they said their WiFi was private. Canned Rose' wine?. Food was overpriced. Not well planned to respond to COVID read more

Another great meal. The scallops were superbly prepared. My husband's chicken dish was delicious. The service provided by Katherine was amazing. I'm never disappointed here. read more

I caught Brunch at 1.30pm on Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend for a relaxing treat of Artisanal delicious menu varieties [e.g. Grits Croquettes on a tasty bed of Garlic Aioli!!!] My Wife and Son are Organic Vegans who completely enjoyed a shared tasted of each Entree plus their own orders. I started off with a local Artisanal (canned) Newburgh Cream Ale, a very pleasant sipping option! (Note to Self) Unexpectedly, After my Wife had requested a refill of her (non-bitter) Regular Coffee we were billed for the refill. . . . Desserts were a delight to Us. [i.e. Apple Sorbet] Most Entrees were in double-digits which can substantially add up to Something which may become Expensive depending on your own viewpoints. . . read more

Even with outdoor dining opening up, my husband and I have been hesitant to eat out. We visited the Hudson Valley this weekend for our first wedding anniversary and decided to make an exception. What a great decision! We made a reservation ahead of time and specified that we wanted outdoor dining. Their no contact ordering system was great and the staff were very helpful and warm. Everything was delicious but Essie's grit croquettes were so good we put in a second order! We'll be back! read more

I live literally within a 5 minute walk of Essie's. There have been at least three different restaurants at this location in the last four years, one of which never made it to opening, so when I saw a new name on the place I didn't hold much hope for it. I was wrong. There are 20 other reviews here telling you how good the fare, and more importantly to me, the service is, so I won't rehash it all, except to say they're right. If Essie's was in midtown Manhattan it would probably be a six month wait for a reservation. Don't let Essie's location in the City of Poughkeepsie deter you. It's in the "Little Italy" section and very quiet. If you enjoy a truly cosmopolitan dining experience that won't break the bank, you owe it to yourself to try Essie's. You won't regret it. I love the fact that they are so close. read more

Wow. My husband and I did not expect the food to be this amazing. We sat outdoors with our pooch. Appetizer: Grit Croquettes. As the waiter said, and he was totally correct, "it's good for one but enough for two". The portion was just right for the two of us. We didn't want to order another serving considering it was just an appetizer and we were looking forward to our Entree. Entree: Belgium Waffles (wife) and Chicken N' Waffle (husband). The Belgium Waffles was so good. The portion was on point and the preserved apples was such a nice touch. Although I wasn't too keen on having chicken on a waffle, my husband loved his chicken n' waffle. The chicken was crispy, not burned, and tender. For him, it meshed well with the waffle, honey, and preserved apples. We are definitely coming back here whenever we are exploring the hudson valley towns. read more

**Edited Review** A few months ago, I came to Essie's to grab a quick bite and sit at the bar. Behind the bar was a young woman being trained by the restaurant owner. From the start, the owner had been antagonizing the bartender while she was attempting to make a cocktail. After each step she took, he picked up one of those small drink straws, covered one end with his finger and tasted the drink. Each time, he yelled at her because it didn't taste exactly how he wanted it to taste. I have never witnessed a manger/owner of a business absolutely berate an employee like this, in front of a patron nonetheless. Entirely disrespectful and made me feel very uncomfortable and sad for this poor girl. That is not how you treat your employees. The owner should be ashamed! Edit: While I can understand taking pride in your restaurant and what it produces, yelling at and embarrassing one of your employees in a restaurant full of customers is not how you teach or train someone. It takes a lot for me to leave a review such as this and I can honestly say I felt very uncomfortable when I had left. You could see how embarrassed the girl was. Who knows how you treat your employees behind closed doors! Please take my words into consideration. I know what I saw and heard and definitely do NOT appreciate witnessing employees be verbally abused by their employers. read more

Having read the previous 17 reviews I found it hard to believe that all but one gave them 5 stars.... Well, now I know why! We had the pleasure of dinning here last night and it was truly as near to perfect as I have ever had. The restaurant is cozy and very comfortable we were warmly greeted and were given a choice of tables even though they were fairly busy when we arrived. Our server Emily was a little tied up when we were first seated but she did come by to acknowledge us and said she would be right back, which she was. Emily asked if this was our first time there she was very knowledgeable about the menu the preparation of the food. We ordered drinks which arrived promptly and were very well prepared, we decided to share the cheese plate and the Shishito Peppers appetizer both were simply fantastic. We have had Shishito Peppers before and they were simple blistered with Maldron Salt and we liked them, but the combination of spices used as Essie took them to a whole new level. For dinner I had the Pork Osso Bucco and my wife had the fish of the day and I must apologize I do not remember the name of the fish....but it was damn good! Actually both our meals were incredible, seasoned perfectly and so good you were sorry to finish them. Dessert was equally as good as the first two courses my wife had the peaches and cream and I had the chocolate brownie, if we could have licked the bowls we may have! Anyone that has read any of my previous reviews knows I put a premium on good service. Good service can make a meal even if the food isn't perfect but bad service can ruin even the best of meals. I found the service here to be simply fantastic! Emily took great care of us, we were never left wondering where she was, she was fun to talk to and knows how to make you feel welcome! Pretty simple I would say Essie is the best restaurant in Poughkeepsie and is definitely in contention for the best in the county! And I am fairly certain it will be a reservation only restaurant on the weekends very soon! But they take reservations online at their website or though an app called Resy. read more

A good spot for brunch....would have loved to taste their non brunch menu. The food was excellent but the waiter was a bit spacey.

A very nice little place tucked in on a side street in old Poughkeepsie. Good food, but a bit pricey and portions were small. The menu is eclectic and is divided into appetizers, small plates and entrees. We walked in on a Thursday night with a party of 6 at 7:30 and were seated right away. Four of us ordered two small plates and two ordered entrees. The small plates were very good but indeed small. It wasn't enough for a meal. The entrees, chicken pot pies were small and looked more like the small plates. While they were good, neither of the diners in our party that ordered them were full. I had the black bean soup and grilled octopus. The soup was excellent. The one very small Octopus leg for $17 was a bit over cooked. $37 for a $10 bottle of Malbec... we were disappointed. Service was good. We selected Essie's based on Yelp reviews, but in my opinion, this place is overrated. read more