I love the Essence Café in Whitby. It is an adorable little family run café with AMAZING food. I have gone for breakfast (try their breakfast crepe) lunch (all of the sandwiches are amazing and served with a generous portion of salad) and even to a couple of special events. The dinner at the special events is particularly great – incredibly generous portions of the most delicious meat, and sides, followed by a dessert buffet and tea/coffee. They have a really good house dressing, delicious daily soups and great desserts. The cheesecakes are amazing, and my favourite is their fudge, made from their own Nanny’s recipe.

This place is truly fabulous. It has a great atmosphere – the café is inviting, the people are so friendly, and it really makes you feel like you are in a small town where everyone knows your name. They also do catering.

I cannot possibly recommend this place highly enough. You must go! I know Whitby it out of the way for most people living in Toronto, but it is WELL worth it, I promise!