Essence — Restaurant in Lusaka Province

Had a terrible experience, having previously been a regular for years before they closed for renovations. Was a huge shame. I went to the restaurant at 12 noon to identify and book a specific table for the evening of the same day and received confirmation that it would be reserved for me and my guest. When I arrived for my booking (on time) in the evening, I found my table had been given to other guests without any explanation or warning. When I asked the waiter why this had happened, he said "management" have a tendency to do this and move guests who have reserved specific tables without telling them.

This was a hugely disappointing experience as I say having been regulars for years before the restaurant was closed for renovations earlier this year. I was really looking forward to my first meal here since they re-opened but unfortunately this experience ruined it and I left to go to Prime Joint at East Park which was a much better experience and a good decision. Won't be going back considering what the member of staff said about this being a management issue. It's important that guests' reservations are respected or at the very least, that there is prior communication about any changes or issues with the...

Let's talk about how essencezm canceled our Valentines reso, which was made online ahead of time. They claimed that they "tried" to call me to let me know pre-payment was needed. Bear in mind I have no missed calls, no sms was sent, no email informing of this claim. The manager was rude enough to cut me off mid explanation to attend to other people. And the hostess had a rude tone of voice and was giving lots of attitude trying to blame me for not answering calls I never got. We have no where to go to now for a last second Valentines dinner thanks to this. After waiting for 2 hours we finally were told there’s a table available. No apology was made, no complimentary service. Nothing. We also had multiple friends who also booked and experienced the same thing. A couple even left after being seated for an hour and not getting any...

The food was brilliant apart from the grilled whole bream which was not seasoned and lacked flavour, oyster mushrooms were the star of the show and well balanced with creamy corn accompanied with arugula salad. Friendly staff although they need more point of sale machines as it took more than 30 minutes to pay the bill.

Seems their speciality is definitely the steaks and seafood, would definitely come back to this Resturant as the ambience is more fine dining which Lusaka does not...