Essy's Carriage House

Love this restaurant and love the staff. Known them for over a decade, thanks to my grandfather taking me here quite often for lunch. Essy is good man and always kind to me and my family. Sadly, my grandfather is no longer with us and I moved away, but I'll be sure to stop by next time I'm in town. Delicious appetizers and entrees. But man, OH man, the cake is so fresh and perfect every time. 10/10.

A tradition in my wife’s family for four generations. 2021 was my first time back in about five years. Essy’s place is old-school service at its best: unassuming, clean, friendly, warm, and welcoming. The proprietor himself often works the whole front of house, sometimes with one of his (adult) children assisting. Food is always fresh and delicious, although the portions are quite small by today’s standards. It’s only other drawback is a very small venue with a pretty unusual shape. Pro tip: Don’t park in front of the building, at the corner of Lee & Quincy. Instead turn SOUTH on N Quincy St and make an immediate right BEHIND the building for easiest access to parking and the entrance (it’s the door on the right - the one with the screen door on the left is just the kitchen).

Went here for New Years Eve. Expected to be able to choose from their regular menu, but only a menu with less choices was available. While I understand creating a special menu to celebrate the holiday, the choices were less than desirable compared to the original menu i wanted choose from. The high cost price of being forced to order from the special menu didn't help. My dining experience wasn't horrible, but could have been much better. My advice would be for the restaurant to create their special menu for patrons to choose from, but still allow their original menu as an option as well.