About Costa Vida
Costa Vida was born from a love of bold, fresh food and a belief that every meal should feel like a celebration. We've been bringing vibrant costa vida flavors to the United States — one unforgettable dish at a time.
Where Every Bite Tells a Story
Costa Vida started as a single, passionate kitchen in Salt Lake City with one clear purpose: to serve food that truly matters. Drawing inspiration from coastal cuisine traditions, our founders crafted a menu that balances bold spices, garden-fresh ingredients, and soul-warming flavors.
The costavida philosophy is simple — use the best ingredients, treat every customer like family, and never cut corners on taste. What began as a small neighborhood restaurant quickly grew into a beloved brand trusted across the United States.
Today, Costa Vida continues to honor that founding spirit: fresh, honest food made with heart and served with pride.
- Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients
- Handcrafted recipes developed in-house
- No artificial preservatives or additives
- Community-focused, people-first approach
Our Mission & Core Values
Every decision we make comes back to four principles that have guided Costa Vida since day one.
Fresh First
We source the finest seasonal produce daily. Freshness is not a bonus — it is our baseline commitment to every guest.
Made With Love
Our kitchen team brings genuine passion to every dish. When you taste Costa Vida, you taste the care poured into every step.
Community Roots
We give back to the neighborhoods that support us — through local partnerships, events, and sustainable sourcing practices.
Bold Excellence
We never settle. From the first recipe test to the final plate, we push for flavors that surprise and delight every single time.
A Decade of Bold Flavor
From a single kitchen to a beloved brand — here are the milestones that shaped Costa Vida.
The First Kitchen
Costa Vida opens its first location in Salt Lake City, UT — a modest kitchen with enormous ambition and a menu of 12 signature dishes.
Growing Roots
Expanding to three locations across Utah, Costa Vida introduces its now-famous fresh salsa bar and weekly community dinner nights.
Catering & Events Launch
Our catering service launches, bringing Costa Vida flavors to weddings, corporate events, and celebrations across the United States.
Online Ordering
We launch our digital ordering platform, making it easier than ever for guests to enjoy costavida meals from the comfort of home.
Farm-to-Table Partnership
Costa Vida formalizes partnerships with 14 local farms, guaranteeing seasonal, sustainably grown ingredients in every dish we serve.
National Recognition
Named one of the top fresh-food dining destinations in the United States, Costa Vida celebrates 250,000+ happy guests and counting.
Meet Our Team
Passionate professionals who pour their heart into every plate — the driving force behind Costa Vida.
With 18 years of culinary experience across three continents, Marcus brings bold creativity and impeccable technique to every Costa Vida dish.
Sofia ensures the seamless day-to-day rhythm of Costa Vida, from supplier relationships to guest experience — always with a smile.
James is the creative mind behind our seasonal specials and new launches, constantly pushing the boundaries of flavor at Costa Vida.
Priya leads every touchpoint of the guest journey at Costa Vida, ensuring warmth, attentiveness, and satisfaction are always delivered.