Why Can't I Stop Eating Tacos?

I was waiting to put out a review of this relatively new Lakeview restaurant, but after my meal there this week, I was compelled to do so. It's one thing to go to a restaurant on your own and be blown away by the food, but when you take your Mother to this restaurant, and the place lives up to your hopes and recommendations, you just have to spread the word.

Esencia Urban Kitchen is a very small Mexican "inspired" restaurant located on the corner of Roscoe and Broadway. It's right by that tiny Starbucks that does probably the best business per square footage in Chicago. You know, the spot that used to be a cupcake place and a sandwich shop before that.
With the change in the weather from unbearable to delightful, Esencia has added a few outdoor tables on the North side of the building. Why does that matter, you ask? Because it gets hot here in Chicago and those tables in the shade are a perfect spot to eat and chill. They are also better than sitting at any outdoor tables directly on Broadway where you are continuously wondering if some moron is going to hit you while he parks his car or if a landscape truck, mason or off duty sanitary and streets department truck is going to spew fumes while they idle next to your imaginary perfect outdoor eating scene. "Oh, isn't it lovely out here? It's like we're in a movie. Would you pass the grey poupon, COUGH!". 

Since Esencia opened, we've been trying it on and off. Taking others to give their opinions of the "Taco Trio". A choice of 3 tacos, duh. No, they do not only serve tacos. In fact, the menu is quite lengthy and spans all meals. They have coffee, baked goods (including biscuits), breakfast choices, and larger dinner items. So far, we're just doing the tacos.

The difference between these tacos though and many of the others out there is in the freshness of the ingredients and the attention to the mix of flavors and textures. It's like WOW! Someone is actually paying attention to what is going on my plate and in turn, down the hatch. And it keeps getting better. Is the chef actually tasting the food?! I think they are indeed. 

What I Eat:

I get the Taco Trio. Typically, I will order the Fish, the Barbacoa, and the Steak Tacos. Depending on the day, one may be better than the others so I like to sample a variety. This week, the fish was one of the best fish tacos I've ever had. Ever. I know, that's a seriously bold statement but I'm totally serious. I tend to be "sensitive" to a fishy taste. The balance of acidity, sweetness and the rich flavor of the fish was perfect. I'm sure I could have eaten 10 of these tacos. No joke. When people talk about eating clean and fresh, this is what they mean. And you can taste every flavor in each bite. Every ingredient was distinct and worked together to create the perfect bite. Amazing. 

The steak can be overcooked and not perfect, but has very good flavor. I'd like them to work on undercooking the steak a bit to keep it a bit juicier and a bit more tender. Room for improvement. Barbacoa - very delicious.   

The salsa is perfect. Just the right amount of spice where you want to keep eating more of it. I do add the salsa to my tacos for just a little kick. 

No filter. Just really that vibrant looking in person. Crisp flavors.

What She Eats:

My wife gets the fish tacos as well, but also goes for the veggie taco. "Wanna try some", she always says. I mumble something out, but I'm too focused on my dreamland taco state that I am probably impossible to understand. They are very good though as well and I would certainly recommend them. Again, more quiet moaning from the rest of the table. "ooh, so good, hmmmm. yumyumyum" 

Delicious, and not bad to look at either.

I strongly recommend going to Esencia. Lunch outside on a nice day. I truly hope this restaurant stays in Lakeview. Inside, I have suspicion that they may go on to bigger and better things one day. I've been so impressed with the consistency and the continual improvement of the food here. Order breakfast, get a hot biscuit or go for dinner and order dive into some of the incredible looking dining options. For me, I'm happy with the Trio of Tacos and a side of the salsa. But that's just my Usual.