I ordered the falafels, which cost $13 (at dinner time). Im happy to pay for upscale food, but the plate i received was not upscale.
Ordinarily I visit La Shish Kebab or Kebab Je Rotisserie for authentic lebonese falafel. At both establishments I pay $6-$7 for a falafel that is wrapped in pita and features lots of veg. At Essex, I received 6 half-dollar sized falafel balls on a plate of tahini/hummus, with some chopped tomatoes and onions. It was tasty, but ridiculously overpriced. At most they should charge $6...or since they are charging $13, at least provide a small salad with the teeny portion of falafel. It tasted meh, compared to Le Shish or Kebab Je.
Also, the server seemed a) annoyed we were there b) cleaned our table before we left (most places wait until you leave c) she was bothered by our order which was not excessive.
The service left a lot to be desired, as well as the food. Many other places in Uptown that are fine dining, good quality & service.