Thai Essence — Restaurant in Nutley

I just had them worst experience I have EVER had in my entire life with Thai Essence. I understand the mask mandate has ended however I requested that the staff woman, Emma, wear a mask when coming to my table. However she refused yelling telling me that it is her right not to wear a mask and so she will not. I expressed to her in a calm voice that I understood that and if possible could another server come to serve my table since she is choosing not to wear a mask. However she refused saying no one is wearing a mask (though I saw all the other staff with masks on). This woman then goes on to continue and say I will not get another person to serve you so when you are ready for me to serve you let me know and walked away. Her voice was so elevated that the other patrons looked over at our table to see what was going on. I have never seen this woman before but I am a regular at Thai essence for at least the past 5 years. So much so that the regular workers know my normal order. I have easily spent thousands of dollars in the establishment. I decided to leave because I have never been spoken to in this way at ANY establishment and am very shocked by Thai essence. That was easily 100 dollars walking out of the door (as that is usually what my table spends when we come here). When we asked to speak with a manager, she ran to the back to talk to another staff member who clearly was not a manager and began yelling again claiming that myself and others at my table were actually yelling at her and that the "manager" should pull the tape and look at it. I hope a manager or owner does see this review and does look at "the tape" from Sat, May 29 at approx 1p with Emma (at least that's what she claims her name is). Unacceptable...

I recently visited a Thai Essence and had an amazing dining experience. The food was absolutely delicious, with each dish bursting with authentic flavors. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance, as seating was quick but the restaurant tends to get busy, especially during evening hours. Calling ahead ensures a smoother experience.

I started with the sampler platter trio, which was a great way to try a little bit of everything. The grilled spicy scallops were perfectly cooked, offering a satisfying balance of heat and flavor. The dim sum was another highlight—tender and flavorful. For the main course, I indulged in the green curry and drunken fried rice. Both dishes were vibrant, with the green curry delivering a delightful level of spice and richness, while the fried rice was savory with just the right amount of kick. I also tried their Thai iced tea, which was the perfect sweet, creamy complement to the spicy dishes.

Although the food was excellent, one downside was the parking. There is metered parking nearby, but the area gets quite busy in the evening, making it difficult to find a spot quickly. I’d suggest arriving a bit early to secure parking. I believe after 6pm parking is free.

Overall, I had a fantastic time and will definitely return. The food quality, fast seating, and great variety of dishes made it worth the little...

Stay AWAY!! Will NEVER patron this business again. DISGUSTING CUSTOMER SERVICE. My family and I live in the area, it’s been a long day of hospital visits caring for a loved one and exhausted/ not having even thought about food, I’d remembered how close we now live to this establishment. The hours state they close at 9:30 - I’d called at 9 to simply ASK if they were accepting orders for anything. The owner answered and it was the RUDEST interaction I’ve ever had at a place in this area. I was hung up on, without even allowing me to ask when/for updated hours. Twice. I called back and tried to calmly explain how rude she was in an effort to reconcile the issue. She got nastier.

Never. Ever. Again. You’d think people/BUSINESSES especially would be kinder during these times.

I will be sure to inform my Neighbours, and friends who I KNOW have been previous patrons of this business to stay far away. I’d drive a half hour for better Thai than go here for the overpriced yet...