Our Story

Crafted with Passion,
Served with Heart

Discover the people, purpose, and principles that make Costa Vida more than just a meal — we're a lifestyle rooted in fresh, vibrant, coastal-inspired food.

Costa Vida founders preparing fresh food in the original kitchen
15+
Years of Flavor
Who We Are

A Fresh Vision Born from the Coast

Costa Vida began as a dream shared by two food-passionate founders who wanted to bring the vibrant flavors of coastal Latin cuisine to everyday tables across the United States. What started as a single neighborhood spot in Lone Tree, CO, quickly grew into a beloved community destination.

We believe food should be more than fuel — it should be an experience that connects people, celebrates culture, and nourishes the soul. Every ingredient we select, every recipe we craft, and every meal we serve reflects our unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.

From our house-made sauces to our slow-cooked proteins and garden-fresh produce, Costa Vida dishes are prepared daily with care, skill, and a whole lot of heart.

  • Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients used in every dish
  • Hand-crafted recipes inspired by authentic coastal Latin flavors
  • Family-owned culture of hospitality at every touchpoint
  • Sustainable packaging and waste-reduction practices
View Menu
15+
Years in Business
120K+
Happy Customers
48
Menu Items
4.9
Average Rating
What Drives Us

Our Core Values

Everything we do flows from a set of deeply held beliefs about food, community, and the power of a great meal.

Freshness First

We never compromise on the quality of our ingredients. Every item is sourced fresh and prepared daily — no shortcuts, no frozen shortcuts.

Community First

Our restaurants are gathering places. We invest in the neighborhoods we serve, partner with local farmers, and champion the people around us.

Excellence Always

From the kitchen to your table, we hold ourselves to the highest standard. Every plate leaving our kitchen represents our best effort.

Sustainability

We care about our planet as much as our palates. We actively reduce waste, source responsibly, and strive to shrink our environmental footprint.

"Our mission is to serve vibrant, coastal-inspired food that connects people to culture, community, and each other — one genuinely delicious meal at a time."
— Costa Vida Founders
Our Journey

How We Got Here

From a small neighborhood kitchen to a growing culinary destination — every milestone tells our story.

2009

The First Location Opens

Costa Vida opens its doors in Lone Tree, CO with a simple menu of five burritos, three bowls, and a dream. Lines stretched around the block from day one.

2012

Community Choice Award

Named Best New Restaurant in Douglas County by local media. Our housemade green chile sauce earns a dedicated fanbase and becomes our signature flavor.

2015

Menu Expansion & Catering Launch

We expanded our menu to 30+ items and launched our catering program, bringing Costa Vida flavors to weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings.

2018

Sustainability Pledge

Costa Vida committed to 100% compostable packaging and established direct partnerships with three local organic farms for year-round fresh produce supply.

2021

Online Ordering & Delivery Launch

In response to changing guest needs, we launched our full online ordering platform and same-day delivery service, reaching customers across the metro area.

2024

Franchise Program Announced

Costa Vida opens its franchise program, inviting passionate food entrepreneurs to bring our coastal-inspired menu to new communities across the United States.

The People

Meet Our Team

The passionate individuals behind every dish, every experience, and every smile at Costa Vida.

Marcus Rivera, Founder and CEO of Costa Vida

Marcus Rivera

Founder & CEO

A lifelong food enthusiast who grew up on his grandmother's coastal recipes. Marcus turned a passion project into a culinary community.

Sofia Chen, Head Chef and Culinary Director at Costa Vida

Sofia Chen

Head Chef & Culinary Director

Trained in Mexico City and San Diego, Sofia blends classical techniques with bold Latin coastal flavors that define our signature menu.

James Holloway, Operations Manager at Costa Vida

James Holloway

Operations Manager

With 12 years in restaurant operations, James ensures every Costa Vida location runs like clockwork — smooth, consistent, and customer-first.

Anika Patel, Community and Marketing Lead at Costa Vida

Anika Patel

Community & Marketing Lead

Anika connects Costa Vida to the world — building partnerships, telling our story, and making sure every guest feels genuinely welcome.

Ready to Taste the Story?

Experience Costa Vida Today

Every meal we serve is a chapter in our story — and we want you to be part of it. Order fresh, vibrant food delivered straight to your door.