The Essex Resort & Spa

It has been a long time since I’ve written a review for anything, but sometimes a place just deserves the time to do so. The Lazy Goat Tavern inside the beautiful Inn at Essex is your new favorite place that you’ve probably never heard of. It’s one of those rare public spaces where anyone from anywhere can grab a quick drink or enjoy a really good meal and feel genuinely welcome and appreciated. Alone or with others, it’s a true come-as-you-are kind of place, with a subtle elegance and charm that doesn’t require a three-piece suit or designer dress to experience. Spend a few minutes here, though, and you’ll quickly see that what really sets this place apart and gives it its unique charm is the incredible staff. The vibe is always pleasantly upbeat and great for unwinding after work or enjoying a night out on the weekend. The very first time I visited, I pulled up a seat at the bar and was greeted right away by one of the bartenders that night. After a few moments of looking over the extensive drink options, I asked for a recommendation based on a few of my personal tastes. Dakota quickly suggested a perfect sounding option and went to work like a wizard — mixing, shaking, and crafting one of the best cocktails I’ve honestly ever had. Nothing short of artwork poured into a glass, It is that kind of passion for what they do here that keeps me coming back time and time again. Its also the reason that I felt the need to write this review and give credit to those that deserve it and have earned the right to hear it. The bartenders here are easily some of the best in the greater Burlington area. I challenge anyone to prove me wrong! LB, Marissa, Gary, and the above mentioned Dakota are all experts at mixing up any of the amazing regular drink menu options, unique seasonal offerings, or something creative and delicious based on whatever you happen to be craving in the moment. Always attentive and engaging, the individuals Ive mentioned here that Ive had the pleasure of interacting directly with (along with all of the other staff members) will go above and beyond to make your time there fun and enjoyable. Quick with a witty but respectful response or a genuine answer to a question, they’ll make you feel like more than just a customer as soon as you walk in. So, if you aren’t already on your way there, you should be. If for some reason you do still happen to be reading this overly detailed and rambling review, please accept my apologies in advance if my favorite seat at the bar opens up and we both happen to notice at the same time. Lace up your shoes, kick them off, or do whatever you helps you run faster, because you might just have to race me to it! 😅 Come visit the Lazy Goat Tavern sometime soon and see why it will be your new favorite place in town. Its definitely been mine since the first time I sat down there. Cheers! 🍷🍸🍹🍻🥂

Fabulous birthday dinner for my wife! Kimberly and the restaurant staff were warm and attentive - we have been coming here for years and they never disappoint. Bravo Essex!

Update your rooms!!. In 2026 to not have a smart tv in rooms is archaic! How can you justify over $500 a night with a 25yr old sofa, thrift store furniture and TV's the same age? Buildings in disrepair everywhere. Rotten door frames and trim throughout the Mansion. This is not a 5 star experience. Our room was not made up on day 2. I called before noon to ask for service. Never completed. Spa invoices when emailed are illegible. Cannot see any charges for the service in the email. Just a blank page receipt for all 3 services. Food was also average at best at both restaurants. Nothing we ate was unique or especially flavorful. We did experience a 5 star cooking class on Fri night. Really enjoyed making mussels and flatbreads. We learned a lot in that 2 hrs. I really expected better from this "Spa Resort"

Great location and easy to get to with lots of options! Had the Zen massage with Drew who did a fabulous job! I felt energized and enjoyed all that the spa had to offer.

A very nice place to stay for the wedding we attended. Rooms were clean, staff was friendly. Sat by the pool which was nice and quiet. I liked the lobby area with pastries for sale as well as unlimited free coffee. Yeah! Attached restaruant was quite good for dinner and breakfast.