My hubby recently decided to take the day off from work and we went on a date. We love to explore new restaurants when we have time together. This time we found a tiny place called Essence Bakery Cafe located at 825 W. University Drive in Tempe. It is close to everything and easy to get to. The cafe got some great reviews online so we thought we would give it a shot.
Essence Bakery Cafe might be a little place but that its size is the only thing little about it. The taste of their food is HUGE! Wow! They take pride in the food they serve and the flavors burst out of it.
When you walk in you can see a modest display of what they offer from the bakery. You can also order breakfast or lunch off the menu and Essence also offers a variety of beverages. They serve many organic items and try to buy locally as much as possible. To get an idea of how local, green, and environmentally friendly Essence is, check out what this list from their site:
- All remodeling was done “green”;
i.e., paint was low VOC (volatile organic compounds emissions),
the counter is made of recycled glass and concrete,
the cabinetry and shelving are covered in natural bamboo,
the Marmoleum floor is biodegradable,
the overhead menu board is made from pressed sorghum stalks. - We purchase from as many local farmers and vendors as possible.
- We serve as many sustainable and organic products as possible.
- We serve grass fed beef and free-range chicken.
- All menus are printed on 100% recycled paper.
- Take out cups for cold beverages are made from corn oil and are biodegradable.
- All to-go kraft paper packaging is recyclable.
- We recycle.
We tried Essence at breakfast and my hubby got an iced vanilla coffee and a croissant.
I got an almond croissant and a macaroon (which is what they are famous for). The top of the croissant was full of almonds and powdered sugar. Seriously, it does not need anything else. It has that perfect light sweet taste and the flakiness of the croissant all in one. I wanted another one after I was done, but alas, I still has the macaroon. They are hands down THE best macaroons around. I got the Dark Rum and Vanilla Bean Macaroon. It literally melted in my mouth. The light cream inside the macaroon and the sweet dome shaped cookie just melded SO well together. Don’t like the flavor of the one I had? No worries, they have about 6-10 other flavors to choose from.
I did not try any of their cafe menu items as were too full after having the croissants and drinks. I would go again in a heartbeat. I did think the prices were a little high but I am not normally an organic person so it might be right in line with organic foods We got two croissants (one with almonds), one macaroon, an iced vanilla coffee, and an organic orange juice, and that total came to $17.50 approximately. Honestly though, considering the pride they take in their food, the flavors, and the fact that they buy locally, I think it was well worth the money.
Try it yourself and see what you think. I bet you will not be disappointed.
Located at:
825 W. University Drive
Tempe, Arizona
Phone: (480) 966-2745
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 7:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m. Closed Sunday
Click here for their website
