That day was super cold, major snow storm outside (when it was sunny one or two days ago) so I got off at TD and walked the +15 to Westin. When I arrive at Westin, I saw the Zen-ness and calming interiors and thought why not take pics.
For $25 during the Big Taste Calgary, they offered Kale Caesar or Daily Soup Inspiration, Boneless Beef Short Ribs or Kabocha Squash Ravioli, and Apple Honey Oat Crumble. That Sunday I went, I found out that they actually did not serve lunch fare at all! (Just breakfast) But they did ask the kitchen and they said they're prepped for it so I was lucky for them to make it for me :)
For the first course, it was a kale salad. I've never had kale before and let's just say they're quite fibrous. I didn't know what to expect from this dish because I've never had poached egg or runny egg yolk either. After squeezing the lemon, breaking the yolk, mixing it together, everything came together. The yolk sort of gave the vinaigrette a creamy texture and the lemon just balances everything out. The basil focaccia croutons were really good, you can really taste the herbs baked into the crouton.
Lastly for dessert, it was the apple honey oat crumble. By the end of eating the short ribs, I was 100% full but there's always room for dessert! I loved the crispy warm oat crumble on top, I could probably eat that everyday. With every spoon you scoop, you get a bit of the crispiness of the oat crumble with some warm, soft spiced apples.
Next for main, I had the short ribs. They were the best short ribs I've had yet. Personally like things a bit more chewy than soft. The ribs were 'fall off the bone' but still had that chewy texture I liked. The butter just melted on the hot short ribs and my god were they good. On the bottom, the spätzle was cooked al dente with a little crispy texture. I thought the dish was a a little too salty for me but that's because my mom cooks with really low salt at home. Otherwise I thought this dish was beautifully executed.
Overall I was extremely satisfied with my meal at Essence. I left the restaurant with troubles walking up the stairs. I definitely will come back to try more dishes from their menu!