Our Story

Costa Vida began with a simple dream: to bring authentic Mexican flavors to communities across America while staying true to traditional recipes and cooking methods.

Founded in 2001, our journey started when our founders traveled through Mexico, discovering the rich culinary traditions and vibrant flavors that would later inspire our menu. They were captivated by the way food brought families and communities together, and they wanted to recreate that experience here at home.

From our first location in Layton, Utah, we've grown into a beloved brand known for our commitment to fresh ingredients, made-from-scratch cooking, and exceptional hospitality. Every tortilla is hand-pressed, every sauce is made daily, and every meal is prepared with the same passion that started it all.

Today, Costa Vida continues to honor those authentic Mexican traditions while creating new memories for families across the country.

Costa Vida restaurant interior

Our Mission & Values

At Costa Vida, we're committed to serving more than just great food. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences that bring people together.

Authenticity

We honor traditional Mexican recipes and cooking methods, using authentic ingredients and time-tested techniques to deliver genuine flavors in every bite.

Freshness

Everything we serve is made fresh daily. From hand-pressed tortillas to house-made salsas, we never compromise on quality or freshness.

Community

We believe food has the power to bring people together. Our restaurants are gathering places where families and friends create lasting memories.

Meet Our Team

The passionate people behind Costa Vida's success

Carlos Rodriguez, Head Chef

Carlos Rodriguez

Head Chef

With over 15 years of experience in Mexican cuisine, Carlos ensures every dish meets our high standards of authenticity and flavor.

Maria Santos, Operations Manager

Maria Santos

Operations Manager

Maria oversees our daily operations, ensuring every guest receives exceptional service and a memorable dining experience.

David Kim, General Manager

David Kim

General Manager

David leads our team with passion and dedication, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Ana Lopez, Customer Experience Manager

Ana Lopez

Customer Experience Manager

Ana ensures every guest feels welcome and valued, building lasting relationships with our community.

Our Journey

Milestones in our Costa Vida story

2001

The Beginning

Costa Vida was founded with the vision of bringing authentic Mexican cuisine to communities across America. Our first restaurant opened in Layton, Utah.

2005

Expanding Horizons

We opened our fifth location and began developing our signature recipes that would become customer favorites for years to come.

2010

Regional Growth

Costa Vida reached 25 locations across multiple states, establishing ourselves as a trusted name in fresh Mexican cuisine.

2015

Innovation & Quality

We introduced new menu items and enhanced our commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, earning recognition as a leading fast-casual brand.

2020

Digital Evolution

We launched online ordering and delivery services, adapting to changing customer needs while maintaining our commitment to quality.

2026

Today & Beyond

Costa Vida continues to grow and evolve, always staying true to our core values of authenticity, freshness, and community connection.

Ready to Experience Costa Vida?

Join us for a fresh, authentic Mexican dining experience that brings people together.