It's hard finding really great places to eat in Tempe. Essence Bakery is a hidden gem, fresh and unique. I went there yesterday for the first time and it was great. The first thing I noticed when I entered Essence Bakery was that everyone was older. The customers were all business-class type people, not college students like myself. Prices are very reasonable, especially for the quality and preparation of the food. It really isn't any more expensive than say, Chipotle. Essence Bakery sticks out in the crowd of mediocre restaurants in Tempe. The owner/chef trained in Paris for several years, need I say more? I had never had a macaron before but these little things are really good. I have no idea how this bakery ended up in Tempe but it feels like it came straight from Paris. You have to try it.... They close at 3pm and often sell out of certain pastry before noon. I had the steak sandwich, local grass fed beef, it tasted really good and was only $8. I can say with confidence ...

I was out running errands in Tempe with the kids and decided to drop by and get some of their French Macarons. Wow are they great! The line to order was a little slow and long but it looks like they're pretty busy for lunch so it's ...

The food was good but the restaurant was understaffed. Be prepared to wait at least 30 minutes. I observed the self absorbed owner re allocating chairs from patronized tables with no deference paid to the customer, chatter with guests and ...

A MUST-VISIT bakery! The food and atmosphere at Essence is truly exceptional! You won't find anything else in the valley that has French macarons, pastries and deliciously local food like Essence. I would eat here daily if I could! ...

I had heard really good things about Essence and was anxious to go but really dreaded driving from North Scottsdale to University Drive in Tempe. However, I bit the bullet and took my sister to Brunch this morning. Boy, was I happy I ...