About Costa Vida
Born from a love of fresh flavors and vibrant culture, costa vida is more than a restaurant — it's a way of life rooted in community, quality, and craft.
The Costa Vida Story
Costa Vida was founded in 2009 by a family passionate about bringing the bold, sun-drenched flavors of coastal Mexico to the heart of United States. What started as a single family kitchen has grown into a beloved dining destination — but our values have never changed.
Every dish we serve reflects our commitment to fresh, hand-crafted ingredients. We slow-cook our meats, press our tortillas daily, and source our produce from trusted local farms. This is the costavida promise: real food, made with intention, served with warmth.
From our signature burritos to our celebrated sweet pork salads, every bite carries the soul of a culinary tradition built on respect — for ingredients, for culture, and for our guests.
Our Mission & Core Values
Everything we do at Costa Vida is guided by a clear purpose: to nourish people with honest food and create moments worth remembering.
Fresh Ingredients
We source only the finest produce and proteins, delivered fresh daily. No shortcuts, no compromises — ever.
Made With Love
Every recipe carries decades of culinary heritage. Our team cooks each dish with care as if you're a guest in our home.
Community First
We invest in our local community — partnering with nearby farmers, supporting charities, and creating jobs that matter.
Excellence Always
From the first bite to the last, we hold ourselves to the highest standard. Your experience is our reputation.
A History of Fresh Food
Fifteen years of growth, milestones, and memories — here's how costa vida became what it is today.
The First Table
Costa Vida opens its doors in Midvale, Utah. Founder Maria Elena serves her grandmother's sweet pork recipe to a line that wraps around the block on opening day.
Award-Winning Flavors
Costa Vida wins "Best Mexican Restaurant in Utah" for the first time — a recognition that puts us on the regional culinary map and fuels our passion even further.
Farm Partnerships Launch
We formalize our local sourcing program, partnering with six farms across Utah. Fresh, traceable ingredients become the cornerstone of the Costa Vida brand.
Online Ordering Launches
We make it easier than ever to enjoy costa vida at home. Our online ordering platform brings fresh Mexican food directly to doors across United States.
Catering & Events
Costa Vida expands into catering services, bringing our signature flavors to weddings, corporate events, and celebrations across the region.
Franchise Program Opens
The costavida franchise program launches, allowing passionate food entrepreneurs to carry our mission of fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine to new communities.
Meet Our Team
Our team brings together culinary talent, operational expertise, and an unwavering love for great food. Say hello to the heart of Costa Vida.
Maria Elena Torres
With over 20 years in the kitchen, Maria Elena brings her grandmother's recipes and a lifetime of passion to every dish. Her vision is the soul of costa vida.
James Whitfield
James ensures every location runs like clockwork, maintaining the quality and consistency that Costa Vida guests have come to expect. Precision is his craft.
Sofia Reyes
Sofia leads our seasonal menu development, blending traditional coastal Mexican techniques with modern culinary creativity. Her dishes tell a story on every plate.
David Nakamura
David manages our farm partnerships and community programs. His relationships with local growers ensure that every ingredient meets the Costa Vida standard of excellence.
Passionate about food and people? We're always looking for great talent to join our team.
Join Our Team