Thai Essence Nutley, NJ: Authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine with Gluten-Free Options

Thai Essence Introduce

For those in Northern New Jersey seeking a truly authentic and high-quality culinary journey to Thailand, Thai Essence in Nutley stands out as a premier destination. More than just a local Thai spot, it is a celebrated Southeast Asian restaurant known for its commitment to "incredible taste," fresh ingredients, and stunning food presentation. Located on Franklin Ave, Thai Essence draws in "Locals," "Groups," and even "Tourists" who are looking for a dining experience that is both casual and refined.

The restaurant's reputation is built on delivering legitimate Thai dishes, with one customer enthusiastically claiming it is the "BEST place" for authentic Thai food and "Hands down, the top spot for Thai cuisine." The menu is remarkably diverse, catering to various palates and dietary requirements, including a significant number of dishes marked as "GF" (Gluten-Free), such as the popular "Pad Thai," "Fresh Basil Rolls," and several curries. This makes Thai Essence a conscientious choice for the health-aware New Jersey diner.

The culinary exploration begins with an extensive selection of appetizers for both lunch and dinner. Fan favorites include the "Vegetable Thai Spring Rolls," "Chicken Satay," and the uniquely sophisticated "Crab Meat Pancake (GF)" topped with an avocado salad. For those seeking variety, the "Sampler Platter Trio" is available, offering a mix of Chicken Satay, Chicken Curry Puffs, and Thai Spring Rolls. Soup options range from the delicate "Fresh Crabmeat Soup" to the classic, spicy "Tom Yum Koong (GF)" and the creamy "Tom Kha Gai."

Thai Essence excels in its main courses, organizing them logically for ease of choice. The "Noodle" section features staples like "Pad Thai," "Pad See Ew," and "Drunken Noodles," available for both lunch and dinner. Their "Curry" selection is robust, offering four distinct styles: the traditional "Red Curry (GF)," the vibrant "Green Curry," the spicy "Jungle Curry," and the mild, peanut-based "Massaman Curry (GF)." The "Rice Dishes" go beyond the ordinary "Fried Rice" with inventive options like "Drunken Fried Rice," "Crab Meat Fried Rice," and their signature "Essence Fried Rice."

What truly sets Thai Essence apart from many other local spots is its mastery of specialty proteins, particularly "Seafood" and "Duck." The "Special Entrée" menu is impressive, featuring sophisticated dishes such as "Sizzling Salmon (Grilled)," the flavorful "Salt And Pepper Shrimp Garlic," and the highly-regarded "Ruby Tuna." Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in gourmet options like "Chilean Seabass" and "Fish Falling In Love." The "Duck" section itself is a highlight, offering "Essence Duck Curry," "Duck Tamarind," and "Duck Honey" preparations. They also feature a dedicated "Grilled" section, where items like "Grilled Beef," "Grilled Salmon," and "Grilled Scallops" are served with sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves and grilled vegetables, elevating the dining experience.

Location and Accessibility

Thai Essence is strategically situated at 231 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA, making it a central culinary anchor in the Essex County region of New Jersey. Its location on the bustling Franklin Ave strip is highly convenient for local patrons and those commuting from neighboring towns.

Accessibility is a key feature of this establishment. Thai Essence ensures a welcoming experience for all guests, with full "Accessibility" features provided:

Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot
Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
Wheelchair Accessible Seating

For parking, the restaurant offers multiple practical options, including "Free street parking," a "Paid parking lot," and "Paid street parking." While one customer noted the need to pay for parking, it is a recognized aspect of dining on Franklin Ave, which speaks to the restaurant's desirable and central New Jersey location.

Services Offered

Thai Essence provides a comprehensive suite of dining services to meet the diverse needs of the New Jersey community.

Dine-in Service: Full "Seating" and "Table service" are available in an atmosphere that is described as "Casual, Cozy, Quiet, Romantic, Trendy." The restaurant "Accepts reservations" for convenient planning.
Takeout and Delivery: Services include "Takeout," standard "Delivery," and "No-contact delivery," ensuring flexibility for busy schedules.
Full Meal Service: Offers options for "Lunch," "Dinner," and "Dessert," with "Small plates" and "Quick bite" items also available.
Catering: The restaurant provides "Catering" services, making it an excellent option for large parties, office lunches, or special events in the local area.
Children's Amenities: Highly "Good for kids," with "High chairs" and a dedicated "Kids' menu" featuring comforting options like "Chicken Fingers With French Fries" and "Kid Chicken Noodle Soup."
Beverage Offerings: Serves "Alcohol" and "Wine," along with popular non-alcoholic options, including a "Great tea selection" such as "Thai Iced Tea," "Thai Iced Coffee," and "Coconut Water."

Features / Highlights

Thai Essence’s most compelling features contribute to its status as a top-tier Thai dining choice in the Northern NJ area.

Authentic and Gourmet Menu: The food is consistently praised for being "authentic Thai food" with an "incredible" and "fresh" taste, featuring elevated dishes like "Chilean Seabass" and "Crispy Pan Fried Salmon."
Extensive Seafood and Duck Specialties: Unlike many standard Thai places, Thai Essence dedicates significant menu space to sophisticated "Seafood" and "Duck" preparations, confirming its status as an "Essence" of Thai culinary excellence.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Commitment: The menu clearly labels multiple items as "GF," and the offerings include a strong selection of "Vegan options" and "Vegetarian options," showing a commitment to all diners.
Exceptional Ambiance: The combination of "Cozy," "Quiet," and "Romantic" atmosphere makes it perfect for diverse dining events, from a casual drop-in to a planned date.
Fast and Attentive Service: The dining experience is enhanced by "Fast service" and "Great tea selection," which contributes to a seamless and pleasant visit.
Welcoming to Families: The dedication to children, including a full kids' menu and high chairs, solidifies its appeal as a family-friendly establishment for "Locals."

Contact Information

Nutley, NJ residents and visitors can contact Thai Essence using the following details to place an order, make a reservation, or inquire about catering.

Address: 231 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
Phone: (973) 542-0128 or +1 973-542-0128

What is Worth Choosing Thai Essence

Thai Essence is worth choosing for the New Jersey diner who values genuine, high-quality Thai cooking delivered in a flexible and accommodating environment. The restaurant goes above and beyond the typical neighborhood Thai menu, offering specialized "Grilled" proteins and a stunning array of seafood and duck dishes, which elevates it to a fine dining experience while retaining a welcoming, casual atmosphere. The chefs, who are "directly from Thailand," ensure the flavors are "exploding with delicious flavors and spices that only legit Thai dishes can deliver," as noted by delighted customers.

Choosing Thai Essence means selecting a restaurant that is mindful of modern dietary needs, with numerous clearly marked Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Vegetarian options. The inclusion of a full bar with "Alcohol" and "Wine" makes it a perfect, all-inclusive destination for a special night out. Furthermore, its complete accessibility features and dedicated children's menu make it an ideal choice for every member of the family or "Groups." For a reliable blend of authentic Thai flavor, impeccable presentation, and a comfortable, fully accessible dining environment right in Nutley, Thai Essence is the undisputed choice for Southeast Asian cuisine in this part of New Jersey.

Thai Essence Menu

Duck
Essence Duck Curry $28.95
Roasted half boneless duck served in red curry, fresh pineapple, red bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and thai basil. Served with jasmine rice.
Duck Tamarind $28.95
Roasted half boneless duck served with tamarind sauce. With eggplant and carrot tempura. Served with jasmine rice.
Duck Honey $28.95
Roasted half boneless duck topped with honey ginger sauce and Asian greens. Served with jasmine rice.

Dinner Appetizers
Vegetable Thai Spring Rolls $8.50
Served with sweet plum sauce.
Crab Meat Pancake (GF) $10.00
Stuffed crab meat and taro topped with avocado salad and peach dipped sauce.
Fried Calamari $11.50
Served with Thai sweet and sour sauce
Dim Sim $10.00
Steamed shrimp and fresh crabmeat ravioli served with Worcestershire dipped sauce.
Seared Tuna Sashimi (GF) $15.00
With mustard ginger and salad vinaigrette medley.
Chicken Dumplings $9.00
Steamed chicken dumpings served with house garlic-soy dipping
Fresh Basil Rolls (GF) $8.00
With carrots, shiitake mushroom, romaine lettuce, Thai basil and mints wrapped in thin rice paper served with homemade Hoi sin sauce.
Chicken Curry Puff $9.50
Thai pastry stuffed with grounded chicken, sweet potatoes, carrots and onion, served with cucumber salad.
Chicken Satay $12.00
Marinated chicken on skewer with coconut milk, turmeric curry and Thai herbs. Served with peanut sauce and cucumber salad.

Soups
Fresh Crabmeat Soup $8.50
With mushroom.
Ravioli Soup $8.00
Shrimp and crab meat ravioli in clear broth soup with mixed vegetable
Soup De Jour $7.00
Tom Yum Koong (GF) $7.50
Spicy and sour shrimp soup with mushroom and lemon grass.
Mushroom (GF) $7.00
Comnimation of mushroom in a clear broth soup.
Tom Kha Gai $7.00

Beverages
Sparkling Water $4.00
500 ml
Thai Iced Coffee $4.50
Bottled Water $2.50
Soft Drinks $2.50
coke, diet coke, sprite, ginger ale, or club soda
Juice $3.50
orange, apple, or cranberry
Unsweetened Iced Tea $3.50
Thai Iced Tea $4.50

Curry
Red Curry $15.95
Spicy. Gluten-free. Chicken, beef, Or jumbo shrimp with coconut milk, bamboo shoots, mixed vegetables, and fresh thai basil. Served with jasmine rice. Dishes Can be made vegetarian.
Jungle Curry $15.95
Gang paa. Spicy. Gluten-free. With rhizome, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and fresh thai basil. Served with jasmine rice. Dishes Can be made vegetarian.
Massaman Curry $15.95
Gluten-free. Chicken, beef, Or jumbo shrimp with red potatoes, avocado, red onions, peanuts, and coconut milk. Served with jasmine rice. Dishes Can be made vegetarian.
Green Curry $15.95
Spicy. Gluten-free. Chicken, beef, Or jumbo shrimp with coconut milk, bamboo shoots, mixed vegetables, and fresh thai basil. Served with jasmine rice. Dishes Can be made vegetarian.

Special Entrée
Sizzling Salmon (Grilled) $25.95
with minced shrimps, scallops, shallots and garlic. Served with sautéed spinach
Salt And Pepper Shrimp Garlic $24.95
Jumbo shrimp in aromatic spices with roasted garlic and scallions.
Ruby Tuna $25.95
Pan seared Tuna served with teriyaki ginger sauce
Shrimp Rama (GF) $24.95
Grilled jumbo shrimps served with sautéed spinach topped with roasted peanuts fried shallots and peanuts sauce.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon $25.95
With light caramel sauce and truffle oil on a bed of sautéed spinach.
Chilean Seabass $33.50
With vegetables tempura and topped with tamarind sauce
Saucy Jumbo Shrimp $25.95
Served with herbs, chopped scallops and garlic sauce

Appetizers
Vegetable Thai Spring Rolls $8.50
Served with sweet plum sauce.
Chicken Curry Puff $9.50
Thai pastry stuffed with grounded chicken, sweet potatoes, carrots and onion. Served with cucumber salad.
Fried Calamari $11.50
Served with Thai sweet and sour sauce
Seared Tuna Sashimi (GF) $15.00
With mustard ginger and salad vinaigrette medley.
Dim Sim $9.00
Steamed shrimp and fresh crabmeat ravioli served with worcestershire dipping sauce
Fresh Basil Rolls (GF) $8.00
With carrots, shiitake mushroom, romaine lettuce, Thai basil and mints wrapped in thin rice paper served with homemade Hoi sin sauce.
Chicken Satay $12.00
Marinated chicken on skewer with coconut milk, tumeric curry and Thai herbs. Seved with peanut sauce and cucumber salad.
Chicken Dumpling $9.00
Steamed chicken dumpings served with house garlic-soy dipping.
Crab Meat Pancake (GF) $10.00
Stuffed carb meat and taro topped with avocado salad and peach dipping sauce.

Kids Mains
Vegetable Tempura $7.00
Hot Dogs With French Fries $10.00
French Fries $6.00
Chicken Fingers With French Fries $10.00
Kid Chicken Noodle Soup $6.00

Special appetizers
Crispy Duck Salad $15.00
Roasted duck tossed with julienne apple, carrots, mushrooms, red onions, chilli paste, lime juice, ground peanuts and Thai condiments.
Steamed Mussels $12.00
With Lemongrass, garlic, lime leave and Basil.
Sampler Platter Trio $25.00
Chicken satay, chicken curry puffs, and thai spring roll

Rice Dishes
Fried Rice $15.95
with egg, onion and mixed vegetables.
Drunken Fried Rice $17.95
Spicy fried rice with chicken and shrimp, egg, onion, red bell pepper and basil.
Crab Meat Fried Rice $17.95
With egg and mixed vegetables
Vegetable Fried Rice $15.95
With egg, onion and mixed vegetables.
Essence Fried Rice $17.95
With mixed seafood fresh pineapple, egg, onion and mixed vegetables.

Special Appetizers
Steamed Mussels $12.00
With Lemongrass, garlic, lime leave and Basil.
Yum Grilled Spicy Scallop $15.00
Grilled Scallops tossed in chili lime sauce, lemongrass, gralic and red onion.
Crispy Duck Salad $15.00
Roasted duck tossed with julienne apple, carrots, mushrooms, red onions, chili paste, lime juice, ground peanuts and Thai condiments.
Sampler Platter Trio $25.00
Chicken Sate, Chicken Curry Putts and Thai Spring rolls.

Salad
Mixed Green Salad (GF) $8.50
Simple green mixed salad with house balsamic or peanuts dressing.
Spicy Beef Salad $13.00
Sliced charcoal broiled steak with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions, lime juice, mint, fresh chili, and Thai herbs.
Thai Essence Salad (GF) $7.00
With lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, bean curd and chips served with Thai peanut dressing.
Squid Salad $12.00
Tossed with lime juice, lemongrass, fresh garlic, Thai chili paste, tomatoes, and Thai condiments.
Papaya Salad (GF) $12.00
With shrimp, tomato, string bean, fresh garlic, lime juice and Thai condiments.

Salad
Squid Salad $10.00
Tossed in lime juice, Lemongrass, fresh garlic, thai chili paste, tomatoes, and thai condiments.
Thai Essence Salad $7.00
With lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, bean curd, and chips. Served with thai peanut dressing.
Thai Salad $8.00
Bean sprouts, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and bean cake. Served with peanut dressing.
Spicy Beef Salad $13.00
Sliced charcoal broiled steak with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions, lime juice, mint, fresh chili, and thai herbs.
Papaya Salad $10.00
Gluten free. With shrimp, tomatoes, string beans, fresh sliced garlic, and chili in spicy lime juice.
Mixed Greens Salad $7.00
Tossed with walnuts and grapes. Served with choice of balsamic Or peanut dressing.

Entrees
Pad Khing $12.95
Ginger. With mushrooms, snow peas, and onion ginger sauce.
Essence Fried Rice $12.95
with pineapple and vegetables.
Massaman Curry $12.95
Spicy. Gluten free. With coconut milk, tamarind, peanuts, avocado, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Lemongrass Chicken $14.00
Marinated with thai herbs. Served with papaya salad and sticky rice.
Eggplant With Thai Basil $12.95
Sauteed in sauce.
Saucy Garlic $12.95
Sauteed chicken, beef or shrimp with garlic, and white peppers.
Gra Pao $12.95
Spicy. With fresh thai basil, chili, and vegetables.
Green Curry $12.95
Spicy. Gluten free. With coconut milk, bamboo shoots, basil, and mixed vegetables.
Cashew Nuts $12.95
Sauteed with cashew nuts and vegetables.
Red Curry $12.95
Spicy. Gluten free. With coconut milk, bamboo shoots, basil, and mixed vegetables.
Fried Rice $12.95
With mixed vegetables.
Pad Pak $12.95
Sauteed mixed vegetables with brown sauce.
Duck Honey $12.95
Crispy duck topped with honey ginger sauce and Asians green.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon $12.95
With caramel sauce and white truffle oil on a bed of sauteed spinach.
Grilled Beef $15.00
Marinated with thai herbs. Served with papaya salad and sticky rice.
Pad Pak & Tofu $12.95
Sauteed mix vegetables and tofu with brown sauce.

Desserts
Sweet Mango With Coconut Sticky Rice $9.00
Creme Brûlée $9.00

Entrée
Red Curry (GF) $12.95
Coconut milk, red curry paste, bamboo, mixed vegetables and basil.
Cashew Nuts $12.95
Sautéed with cashew nuts, chilli paste, scallions, mushroom and broccoli.
Gra Pao (Basil) $12.95
Sautéed with Thai basil, mushrooms, chili pepper, and mixed vegetables.
Pad Khing (Ginger) $12.95
Sautéed with fresh ginger, mushrooms, onions and mixed vegetables.
Jungle Curry (GF) $12.95
With rhizome, bamboo shoots, bell pepper, and fresh Thai basil.
Masaman Curry (GF) $12.95
With red potatoes, avacado, red onion, peanuts and coconut milk.
Drunken Fried Rice $12.95
Essence Fried Rice $12.95
With egg, fresh pineapple, and mixed vegetables.
Green Curry $12.95
coconut milk, green curry pasta, bamboo, mix vegetable and basil
Fried Rice $12.95
Choice of Beef, Chicken, or shrimp with mixed vegetables.

Noodle
Seafood Big Bowl Noodles $13.95
Rice noodle soup with seafood and vegetables.
Pad See Ew $12.95
Sauteed flat rice noodles with black soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, and egg.
Drunken Noodles $12.95
Gluten free. Stir fried rice noodles, egg, bean curds, bean sprouts, scallions, and peanuts.
Chicken Big Bowl Noodles $12.95
Rice noodles in chicken broth.
Lad Na $12.95
Pan fried flat noodles with Chinese broccoli in brown gravy sauce.
Beef Big Bowl Noodles $12.95
Rice noodles in beef broth with sliced beef.
Pad Thai $12.95
Gluten free. Stir fried rice noodles, egg, bean curds, bean sprouts, scallions, and peanuts.

Seafood
Pla Rad Prik (Fish In Thai Chili Sauce) $32.50
Crispy fried red snapper (whole or fillet) topped with three flavors of tamarind chili sauce served with Asian greens.
Grilled Tuna $26.50
With roasted garlic, chili sauce, mushrooms, green peppercorn and Thai basil.
Fried Squid Curry $25.50
Crispy fried squid topped with green coconut curry and mixed vegetables.
Fish Falling In Love $35.50
Deep-fried whole or fillet of red snapper topped with sauté sweet and sour sauce, fresh ginger, and mixed vegetables.
Crystal Shrimp Pineapple $25.50
Crispy pan fried jumbo shrimp the bed of sautéed spinach topped with sautéed garlic, shallots and fresh pineapple.
Essence Salmon Curry** $26.50
Grilled salmon with green curry, basil and mixed vegetables.

Kids Mains
Vegetable Tempura $7.00
Chicken Fingers With French Fries $10.00
Kid Chicken Noodle Soup $6.00
Hot Dogs With French Fries $10.00
French Fries $6.00

Specials Entrees
Shrimp Rama $24.95
Gluten free. Grilled jumbo shrimp served with sauteed spinach. Topped with roasted peanuts, fried shallots, and peanut sauce.
Chilean Sea Bass $32.95
with vegetables tempura topped with tamarind sauce.
Salt & Pepper Shrimp Garlic $24.95
Jumbo shrimp in aromatic spices with roasted garlic and scallions. Served with romaine lettuce.
Ruby Tuna $25.95
Pan seared tuna served with teriyaki ginger sauce.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon $25.95
With light caramel sauce and truffle oil on a Bed of sauteed spinach.
Fish With Thai Herbs $28.95
Crispy fried red snapper topped with Thai herbs, chili, and lime juice.
Sizzling Salmon $25.95
With minced shrimp, scallops, shallots, and garlic. Served with sauteed spinach.
Fish In Love $28.95
Deep-fried whole or fillet red snapper topped with sauteed sweet and sour sauce, fresh ginger, and mixed vegetables.

Kids Mains
Vegetable Tempura $8.00
Chicken Fingers With Fries $10.00
Kid Chicken Noodle Soup $7.00
French Fries $6.00
Hot Dogs With Fries $10.00

Specials Appetizers
Steamed Mussels $12.00
with garlic and Thai herbs.
Sampler Platter Trio $24.00
Chicken sate, chicken curry puffs, and thai spring rolls.
Crispy Duck Salad $13.00
Roasted duck tossed with julienned apples, carrots, mushrooms, red onions, chili paste, lime juice, ground peanuts, and thai condiments.
Spicy Grilled Scallops Salad $15.00
Tossed with red onions, tomatoes, lime juice, chili paste, and thai condiments.

Grilled
Grilled Beef $19.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Jumbo Shrimp $23.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Squid $22.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Red Snapper $28.95
Gluten free. Whole or Filet. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Scallops $24.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Salmon $24.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken $18.95
Gluten free. Served with sticky rice and grilled assorted vegetables.

Sauteed
Pad Khing (Ginger) $15.95
Sautéed with ginger, mushrooms, onion, and mixed vegetables.
Cashew Nuts $15.95
Sautéed with cashew nuts, chili paste, onion, mushrooms, and broccoli.
Gra Pao (Basil) $15.95
Sautéed with Thai basil, mushrooms, chili pepper, and mixed vegetables.

Dinner Salad
Spicy Beef Salad $15.00
Sliced charcoal broiled steak with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, mint, fresh chili, and Thai herbs.
Papaya Salad (GF) $12.00
With shrimp, tomato, string bean, fresh garlic, lime juice and Thai condiments.
Squid Salad $12.00
Tossed with lime juice, lemongrass, fresh garlic, Thai chili paste, tomatoes, and Thai condiments.
Thai Essence Salad (GF) $7.00
With lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, bean curd and chips served with Thai peanut dressing.
Mixed Green Salad (GF) $8.50
Simple green mixed salad with house balsamic or peanuts dressing.

Drinks
Bottle Water $4.00
Unsweetened Iced Tea $3.50
Juices $3.50
Apple, Orange, or Cranberry
Thai Iced Tea $4.50
Soft Drinks $3.50
coke, diet coke, sprite, ginger ale, club soda, lemonade
Coconut Water $5.00
Thai Iced Coffee $4.50
Sparkling Water $4.00
500 ml

Beverages
Unsweetened Iced Tea $3.50
Thai Iced Tea $4.50
Thai Iced Coffee $4.50
Soft Drinks $2.50
Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, or Club soda
Sparkling Water $4.00
500 ml
Bottled Water $2.50

Special Entrée
Essence Duck Curry $15.00
Roasted half boneless duck tapped with our honey ginger sauce and Asian greens.
Grill Beaf $15.00
Served with papaya salad and toasted sticky rice.
Essence Salmon Curry (GF) $15.00
Grilled salmon with green curry, basil and mix vegetables.
Crab Meat Fried Rice $15.00
With egg, onion and mixed vegetables.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken $14.00
Served with papaya salad and toasted sticky rice.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon $15.00
With light caramel sauce and truffle oil on a bed of sautéed spinach.
Duck Honey $15.00
Roasted half boneless duck tapped with our honey ginger sauce and Asian greens.

Specials Appetizers
Sampler Platter Trio $24.00
Chicken satay, chicken curry puffs, and vegetable spring rolls.
Crispy Duck Salad $13.00
Roasted duck tossed with julienne apple, onions, peanuts, and thai dressing.
Chicken Dumplings $8.00
Served with dipping sauce.

Rice Dishes
Fried Rice $14.95
Choice of chicken Or beef, egg, and mixed vegetables.
Drunken Fried Rice $15.95
Spicy fried rice with egg, fresh thai basil, red bell peppers, and onions.
Essence Fried Rice $15.95
With egg, fresh pineapple, and mixed vegetables.
Crabmeat Fried Rice $16.95
With egg and mixed vegetables.

Lunch Noodles
Pad Thai $12.95
Stir-fried rice noodles, egg, bean curds, bean sprouts, scallions and peanut. Gluten free.
Lad Na $12.95
Pan fried flat noodles with Chinese broccoli in brown gravy sauce.
Drunken Noodles $12.95
Stir-fry flat rice noodle with chili, onion, mixed vegetables and basil.
Pad See Ew $12.95
Stir-fry flat noodles with black soy sauce, egg and Asian broccoli.

Seafood
Fish In Love $28.95
Deep-fried whole or fillet red snapper topped with sauteed sweet and sour sauce, fresh ginger, and mixed vegetables.
Crystal Shrimp Pineapple $24.95
Crispy pan fried jumbo shrimp on a Bed of sauteed spinach. Topped with sauteed garlic, shallots, and fresh pineapple.
Essence Salmon Curry $25.95
Grilled salmon with Green curry, thai basil, and mixed vegetables.
Grilled Tuna $25.95
With roasted garlic, chili sauce, mushrooms, Green peppercorns, and thai basil.
Fried Squid Curry $23.95
Crispy fried squid topped with Green coconut curry and mixed vegetables.

Grilled
Grilled Scallops $28.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Jumbo Shrimp $25.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Salmon $26.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Squid $25.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Beef $21.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Snapper $32.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken $20.50
Grilled orders are served with sticky rice wrap in banana leaves and grilled vegetables.

Sides
Steamed Vegetables $5.00
Gluten free.
Sticky Rice $4.00
Gluten free.
Brown Rice $3.00
Gluten free.
Steamed Noodles $5.00
Gluten free.
Jasmine Rice $3.00
Gluten free.

Noodles
Lad Na $15.95
Pan fried flat noodles with Chinese broccoli in brown gravy sauce.
Drunken Noodle $15.95
Stir-fry flat rice noodle with chili, onion, mixed vegetables and basil.
Pad See Ew $15.95
Stir-fry flat noodles with black soy sauce, egg and Asian broccoli.
Pad Thai (GF) $15.95
A famous Thai street food stir-fry rice noodle with egg, scallion, beansprout, bean curd and roasted groung peanut.

Noodles
Lad Na $14.95
Pan fried flat noodles with Chinese broccoli in brown gravy sauce.
Pad Thai $14.95
Gluten free. Sauteed rice noodles with chicken Or beef, egg, bean curd, scallions, bean sprouts, and ground peanuts.
Pad See Ew $14.95
Sauteed flat noodles with black Soy sauce, egg, and Chinese broccoli.
Drunken Noodle $15.95
Sauteed flat rice noodles with onions, basil, and mixed vegetables.

Duck
Essence Duck Curry $29.50
Roasted half boneless duck served in red curry, fresh pineapple, red bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and Thai basil.
Duck Tamarind $29.50
Roasted half boneless duck served with tamarind sauce with eggplant and carrot tempura.
Duck Honey $29.50
Roasted half boneless duck topped with our honey ginger sauce and Asian greens.

Appetizers
Dim Sum $9.00
Thai ravioli stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, and herbs.
Tom Ka Kai $7.00
Combination of chicken, coconut milk, Lemongrass, galangal, and mushrooms.
Golden Curry Puff $9.00
Baked puff pastry stuffed with chicken, Sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and curry powder. Served with cucumber salad.
Crabmeat Pancake $10.00
Fresh crabmeat and taro served with avocado apple sauce.
Seared Tuna Sashimi $15.00
Gluten free. With citrus salad and mustard ginger sauce.
Papaya Salad $10.00
Gluten free. With shrimp, tomatoes, string beans, and garlic. Tossed with lime juice and thai condiments.
Chicken Satay $12.00
Marinated chicken on a skewer served with peanut sauce and cucumber radish.
Thai Salad $7.00
With thai peanut dressing.
Fried Calamari $10.00
Crispy fried Calamari served with thai Sweet and sour sauce.
Dim Sim $9.00
Steamed thai ravioli stuffed with fresh crab meat and shrimp. Served with Worcestershire dipping sauce.
Vegetable Thai Spring Rolls $8.00
Served with Sweet plum sauce.
Fresh Basil Rolls $8.00
Carrots, shiitake mushrooms, romaine lettuce, thai basil, and mint wrapped in thin rice paper. Served with hoisin sauce.
Tom Yum Koong $7.00
Sour and spicy shrimp soup with Lemongrass and mushrooms.

Soup
Fresh Crabmeat Soup $8.00
With mushrooms.
Tom Ka Kai $7.00
Tom ka Kai. Gluten free. Chicken coconut soup with fresh kaffir lime leaves and galangal.
Ravioli Soup $7.00
Shrimp and crabmeat ravioli in clear broth soup with mixed vegetables.
Tom Yum Koong $7.00
Spicy. Gluten free. Spicy and sour shrimp soup with mushrooms and Lemongrass.
Mushroom Soup $7.00
Gluten free. Combination of mushrooms in a clear broth soup.

Sides
Steamed Vegetables $5.00
Gluten free.
Jasmine Rice $3.00
Gluten free.
Steamed Noodles $5.00
Gluten free.
Sticky Rice $4.00
Gluten free.
Brown Rice $3.00
Gluten free.

Drinks
Coconut Water $5.00
Thai Iced Coffee $4.50
Juices $3.50
Apple, orange, or cranberry
Unsweetened Iced Tea $3.50
Soft Drinks $3.50
Coke, diet coke, sprite, ginger ale, club soda, lemonade
Bottle Water $4.00
Thai Iced Tea $4.50

Sides
Brown Rice $3.00
Gluten free.
Steamed Vegetables $5.00
Gluten free.
Sticky Rice $4.00
Gluten free.
Jasmine Rice $3.00
Gluten free.
Steamed Noodles $5.00
Gluten free.

Curry
Jungle Curry $16.95
Chicken, beef, or jumbo shrimp With rhizome, bamboo shoots, bell pepper, and fresh thai basil
Massaman Curry (GF) $16.95
With red potatoes, avocodo, red onion, peanuts and coconut milk.
Red Curry (GF) $16.95
Coconut milk, red curry paste, bamboo, mixed vegetables and basil
Green Curry $16.95
Coconut milk, green curry paste, bamboo, mix vegetables and basil

Dinner Soups
Soup De Jour $7.00
Ravioli Soup $8.00
Shrimp and crab meat ravioli in clear broth soup with mixed vegetable
Fresh Crabmeat Soup $8.50
With mushrooms.
Mushroom (GF) $7.00
Comnimation of mushroom in a clear broth soup.
Tom Yum Koong (GF) $7.50
Spicy and sour shrimp soup with mushroom and lemon grass.
Tom Kha Gai (GF) $7.50
Chicken coconut soup with fresh kaffir, lime leaf and gaiangal

Specials Entrees
Fresh Crabmeat Fried Rice $15.00
With fresh crab meat, egg, and mixed vegetables.
Essence Salmon Curry $15.00
Spicy. Gluten free. Grilled salmon topped with green curry sauce.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon $15.00
With light caramel sauce and truffle oil on a bed of sauteed spinach.
Duck Honey $15.00
Roasted crispy duck topped with honey ginger sauce and Asian greens.
Essence Duck Curry $15.00
Spicy. Roasted crispy duck topped with pineapple, basil, and red curry sauce.

Desserts
Sweet Mango With Coconut Sticky Rice $9.00
Creme Brûlée $9.00

Appetizers
Vegetable Thai Spring Rolls $8.00
Served with sweet plum sauce.
Fresh Basil Rolls $8.00
Carrots, shiitake mushrooms, romaine lettuce, thai basil, and mint wrapped in thin rice paper. Served with hoisin sauce.
Fried Calamari $10.00
Crispy fried calamari served with thai sweet and sour sauce.
Golden Curry Puff $9.00
Baked puff pastry stuffed with chicken, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and curry powder. Served with cucumber salad.
Papaya Salad $10.00
Gluten free. With shrimp, tomatoes, string beans, and garlic. Tossed with lime juice and thai condiments.
Crabmeat Pancake $10.00
Fresh crabmeat and taro served with avocado apple sauce.
Dim Sim $9.00
Steamed thai ravioli stuffed with fresh crab meat and shrimp. Served with Worcestershire dipping sauce.
Chicken Satay $12.00
Marinated chicken on a skewer served with peanut sauce and cucumber radish.
Tom Yum Koong $7.00
Sour and spicy shrimp soup with lemongrass and mushrooms.
Dim Sum $9.00
Thai ravioli stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, and herbs.
Tom Ka Kai $7.00
Combination of chicken, coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and mushrooms.
Seared Tuna Sashimi $15.00
Gluten free. With citrus salad and mustard ginger sauce.
Thai Salad $7.00
With thai peanut dressing.

Sautes
Pad Khing $14.95
Ginger. Sauteed with fresh ginger, mushrooms, scallions, and mixed vegetables. Served with jasmine rice.
Wild Boar $22.95
Sauteed wild boar tenderloin with chili, garlic, Green peppercorns, basil, mushrooms, and asparagus.
Cashew Nuts $14.95
Sauteed with cashew nuts, chili paste, scallions, mushrooms, and broccoli.
Gra Pao $14.95
Basil. Spicy. Sauteed with thai basil, mushrooms, chili pepper, and mixed vegetables. Served with jasmine rice.

Thai Essence Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great tea selection

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Romantic
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
Locals
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free street parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Parking

Thai Essence Photos

Thai Essence Location

Thai Essence

New Jersey Essex County Nutley Franklin Avenue

231 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA

Thai Essence Reviews

An average rating of ★4.3 from 507 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Yummy Thai food!! We loved the appetizer sampler and the shrimp & salmon were on point. Well seasoned and cooked to perfection. Only complaint is the parking $ but I blame Nutley for that, not the restaurant lol
August 16 · Alexa Sanchez
If you’re looking for authentic Thai food, this is the BEST place! The taste is incredible, everything is fresh, and the presentation is amazing. Hands down, the top spot for Thai cuisine highly recommended!
August 19 · Jaison Paez
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 extra effort.
January 03 · Viz Ritz
I had a pleasant experience at Thai Essence. The staff was friendly, and the restaurant had a clean washroom and a nice, quiet ambiance. However, the vegetarian options were somewhat limited compared to other Thai restaurants. The food itself was good, but the rice portion was quite small. Having tried Thai cuisine at many places, I found the portion size insufficient for the dish I ordered, so I had to get extra jasmine rice. The Thai tea was average. Parking is available on the parallel street and across from the restaurant behind Optum Clinic, where there is a large parking lot.
March 05 · Bhushan Sonaje
So delicious I orderedChicken Curry puffThai ice teaDrunken noodle with beefFried rice with egg onion and broccoli bell pepperWith soy sauce and spicy pepper powder and pepper sauce
May 30 · Nasrin Y