Esophageal cancer is a growing problem in the United States. Surgical resection, often in combination with chemoradiotherapy, provides the only approach to offer a cure for these patients. Traditional open approaches are burdened by high levels of morbidity and mortality. Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) has been proposed as an alternative approach. Although MIE is complex and perhaps more time-consuming, perioperative results are encouraging and generally trend toward fewer pulmonary complications, lower blood loss, shorter ICU stays, and shorter overall hospitalization durations. There appears to be little cost in terms of oncologic efficacy. Although technically demanding, it appears that the learning curve is approximately 40 cases. With these considerations in mind, it is likely that MIE will continue to grow in favorability for patients with surgically resectable esophageal cancer. Recent advancements include the robotic Ivor Lewis procedure, which facilitates precise intrathoracic anastomosis with comparable complication rates and oncological outcomes. Its feasibility and safety highlight its potential, pending further validation in controlled studies.