es·o·ter·ic /ˌesəˈterik/ intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest.
My recent visit to Esoteric this past weekend, was absolutely phenomenal. G and I were blown away by the cool ambience, and the warm welcome by the staff. The contemporary gastropub features craft beers on tap and a specialized wine menu. Also, this spot has the cutest indoor and outdoor seating. Located near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, it is an attraction to everyone around. There is stunning artwork located right on the property, and it’s bright signage on top of the building, make it visually appealing to all guests.
I’ve heard how amazing this little gem was, and had absolutely no clue it’s been open for 4 years! I’m so glad the hubby and I were able to dine at this restaurant. The food was exceptional, and we cannot wait to get back very soon.
Today, I’m sharing what we ate, and how much we loved this fantastic restaurant. Esoteric is now a new fave of mine, and you’ll exactly why, very shortly.
Standing in front of Esoteric.
The chefs serving up the most delicious dishes.
The coolest bar setup - all of the available beers are listed for patrons to select and drink.
Indoor graffiti artwork, featuring the restaurants’ name.
Immediately, when we were seated, G and I soaked in our surroundings. Every dish we saw leaving the kitchen looked visually stunning. Also, every single guest raved about the food. The staff was wonderful - super kind, and willing to chat about their food and history. Our waitress, was the best, she was able to provide feedback on the menu, and help us pick out amazing dishes to enjoy during our visit.
Enjoying a glass of Malbec.
Eso’s logo on their wine glasses - how neat is that?!
My Entrée Order:
Crabcake
This is by far one of the most delicious crabcakes I’ve ever had. Each component of this dish, not only looked gorgeous, but provide a balance of unique flavors on the plate. The jicama apple slaw, paired so well with the crab meat, and had the most perfect crunch to them. Also, the sesame chervil creme friache was so light and airy, the perfect replacement to the typical tartar sauce served with this dish. I was in awe on how light and balanced this was. Each ingredient had a purpose and intention on the plate, I absolutely can’t wait to have this again very soon.
Chesapeake Bay Crab, Togarashi, Jicama Apple Slaw, Basil, Kimchi Miso Hollandaise, Sesame Chervil Creme Friache
G’s Entrée Order:
Hanger Steak
As you all know, my hubby has a love for steaks. When G saw the hanger steak on the menu, he just had to try it out. He ordered the steak at a medium rare temperature, which was absolutely perfect for him. Immediately, he noted that the seasoning was totally on par, and the flavor was was amazing. The peppercorn mix was the ideal seasoning on the steak, and the duck jus added a great balance as well. Also, the celery root mash, avocado, and asparagus were delicious as well and went well with the star of the dish.
Four Peppercorn Mix, Celery Root Mash, Ramp Avocado Chimichurri, Local and White Asparagus, Confit Tomato, Duck Jus
What We Shared:
A Side of Fries
Side of fries - served with ketchup and spicy aioli
My Dessert Order:
Donuts
I love when I’m able to order a dessert at a restaurant, and Eso had the best offering for sweets. Typically, G and I always split a dessert, but this time around we ordered something different! I truly love donuts, so when I saw that Eso had them on the menu, I quickly got an order. These dounts are so delicious. They were served hot and fresh. The donuts were served with their house made brown sugar ice cream and caramel sauce was offered on the side for dipping or drizzle.
Sweet potato donut, caramel, cinnamon sugar, and brown sugar ice cream
G’s Dessert Order:
Strawberry Scone
G loves strawberries, so this scone was the perfect choice for him. He mentioned that this dessert was absolutely wonderful. The vanilla bean ice cream was super yummy, and went well with the fresh strawberries used in the dish.
Fresh strawberries and vanilla bean ice cream
Dare I say, that Esoteric is now on my top 10 favorite restaurants? Eso is simply amazing, the Execute Chef Brett McDaniel totally knows what he is doing here! This restaurant is able to provide balance to so many unique and wonderful flavors on the plate. I’m looking forward to my next visit, and cannot wait to share this place with close family and friends.
XO, Analise