Costa Vida
10005 Commons St,Ste 280, Lone Tree, CO, 80124
Costa Vida Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Lone Tree for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Lone Tree for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Lone Tree for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
10005 Commons St,Ste 280
Lone Tree, CO, 80124 - Phone (720) 895-3663
- Website https://www.costavida.net/locations/co/lone-tree
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:30 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Hailey G.
just like cafe rio off colorado blvd, greasy and over priced.. i'll stick with chipotle
(2)Mark J.
We used to count on Qdoba for this type of food... Until we tried this place. I'm stuck on the sweet pulled pork burrito and have it smothered with green chile, makes a meal out of it.
(4)Damion W.
Homemade tortillas! That is definitely the highlight. This place gets BUSY during lunch and dinner. They have a unique flavor, it is more like TexMex than it is a Mexican restaurant. I would classify it more as a Fresh Mex flavor. I have had several things from Costa Vida, my favorite being the sweet roasted pork. You can get it on tacos, burritos, quesadillas, etc. The flavor is VERY good. Overall, if I was in the area and wanted something different than authentic mexican food or Chipotle, I would definitely go to CV. One thing that is a plus... the staff is VERY friendly!
(4)Charles H.
Amazing! The food here has been excellent the many times my wife and I have visited. The staff is friendly and the selections are very universal so you feel like you could meet most anyone here and it would work out. Think of it somewhat like a Subway for Mexican food. You start at one end of the line, choose your dish, select all of the items you would like on said dish, and then at the end you are placed in front of the cash register. I will say that this place is insanely busy around the peak dining times (12pm and 445pm+) meaning that you could potentially wait in line for up to 30 minutes. Parking is ample so that this not an issue, but make certain your phone is up to full power before going during peak times because you will need something to do...However, you cannot hold that against them. They are well staffed with friendly employees, they are just really popular and are located in a nice spot for those breaking from work or heading home. Highly recommend!
(5)Erik S.
Love the fresh tortilla. Today I had a burrito with the sweet pork. Gotta say, not a fan. Way too sweet. Rice was under-cooked and crunchy. I'm thinking I should stick to Qdoba.
(3)Craig P.
Concept: excellent Atmosphere: good Menu: very good Food: good-very good Service: poor but fast They need half as many folks behind the counter.They go so fast that they forget to get your order right and completely abandon the customer experience. They could work on speaking more clearly or at very least louder.
(3)Sarah H.
My boss bought my team lunch from Costa Vida about a week ago. Since that time, I've visited the restaurant twice! I'm stuck on the sweet shrimp tacos... so freakin' good! I also tried the Tres Leche cake on my visit last night. So moist and delicious. It was the perfect portion size, but it was so sweet I still only ate half. I also tried a bite of my partner's sweet pork enchiladas. They were pretty good, though the pork was actually a little too sweet for my taste - it was like a pork mole`. As others have mentioned, the concept is very similar to a Chipotle or Qdoba: you pick an entrée type, pick your protein, pick your rice and beans, and pick your sauce and toppings. However, I wouldn't say Costa Vida is competition for the other burrito chains: the food is more like fast food authentic Mexican / fish taco hut than like a burrito chain. They also have a conveyor belt oven to melt your cheese and heat up your food. It's a nice option when you're wanting real Mexican food or Tex-Mex but don't want a full-service dining experience. The prices seem steep, but when you compare to other fast-casual concepts, it's pretty much around the same price point. Word of warning: avoid the Lone Tree location unless you like really crowded places and go to the location in Englewood instead. It's quieter, the line is shorter, and I found the service there to be much more friendly and helpful.
(4)Nick R.
After years of hearing how good this place is I finally decided to give it a try with a group of friends this past weekend. After a subpar lunch I can say for certain that I won't be going back. First, when they take your order they don't even give you time to tell them what ingredients you want included. I had to stop the lady a couple times to tell her I wanted something she had passed over. After that frustration we had to deal with a few under trained teens working the register. They seemed confused and were quickly frustrated that we were asking questions about some of the food that was just ordered. Once we got past the headache of ordering and paying I was excited to try the smothered pork burrito I had heard so much about. The first bite was a pretty bland but not bad (mostly tortilla). The next few bites were the exact same which is a problem since I was into the meat of the burrito. Three of the four people at the table ended up using bottled hot sauce on our smothered burritos which already had their sauce on the inside and outside. Their 'hot' sauce was bland and had no flavor/heat to it! Needless to say, most of us were disappointed with the total experience and won't return. The only positives were the tortillas (freshly made) and the layout/atmosphere of the place. I think the place would be much better if they added a little flavor to the food and some customer service training for the young staff.
(2)Alex A.
It was ok. I like the concept & atmosphere, but food was a little bland. Steak must have been made out of Wookie, cuz it was pretty chewy. Next time just hit up Chipotle.
(3)James C.
Great flavors especially if you are tired of Chipotle and Qdoba. Similar style but ultimately nicer flavors. The sweet pork is awesome and I highly recommend the raspberry chipotle chicken. I haven't had anything else off their menu but only due to being so far from where I live and work. Definitely a good choice and likely the best thing my ex-girlfriend ever introduced to me.
(5)Dawn H.
I was just introduced to Costa Vida recently and have been a few times. I've always ordered the nachos. The best ingredient in this place is their shredded pork -- holy cow, it has just the right amount of sweetness that has me craving for more. I just couldn't get enough of that stuff. The queso sauce is excellent, too. The side of rice and beans could use a lot more work. The menu is also in a very uncomfortable place (near where you are supposed to order) which is really annoying since you'd be in everyone's way. Also, there is inconsistency on how much meat/protein they give you depending on who is working (half the time generous, half the time skimpy). This drives me crazy since I really love their shredded pork. :) Overall, a decent place to add to the rotation when you want to change it up from Hacienda. Expect to spend about $20 for a party of 2.
(4)Madison A.
I have never been disappointed when coming here. I always get the salad burrito bowl with the tomatillo sauce. I think that's what its called.... M confusion with the sauce name aside, I really like coming here. To me, it is better than Qudoba and Chipolte. They hand-make their tortillas and you can always taste a little bit of flour on the bottom, which I love!The best part of the burrito bowl is that once you eat all of the salad, you get to eat the tortilla! The atmosphere of this restaurant is great. It's nice to come here right before going to shopping at Target (just a walk across the street). It's located in a nice area with many choices of places to eat, and Costa Vida is one of the best. It's a lot like Qudoba, a fast 'line' type of restaurant. Line moves pretty quick, but they get pretty busy on the weekend around dinner time. Service depends on who is working. They have a good menu, and all of the food is good. Definitely worth stopping in and checking out. One of my favorites.
(4)Chris F.
The food is pretty good, I love the fresh tortillas. The service however is the worst. The last three times my family has been meet with one of the worst dinning experiences. Their service is a perfect execution of a real life oxymoron, the people helping you with your order rush you through the process and then you feel bad when you have to tell them that you wanted something they've passed over...then you are meet with the longest wait of your life when trying to pay for the order that only has half of what you really came in for. I don't think that the people here understand that no amount of great food can make up for a terrible experience. Personally I am happier with the service that I get from the local taco bell. The only reason they get 2 stars instead of 1 is because my kid loves the tacos.
(2)Chad W.
I came to Costa Vida for lunch today. The ingredients were fresh but there was one distinct problem with this place...the menu is posted on the wall near the entrance line. So, that's okay if the place isn't very busy but I can only imagine if there was a rush and several people didn't know what to order. I heard two other customers say, "where's the menu" after walking in. This place is very similar to a Chipotle. Just a heads-up; have an idea of what you want before you arrive.
(4)Jessica T.
My first time here and I decided to try a smothered shredded beef burrito with tomatillo sauce. Overall it was pretty bland, and there was something about the size of the rice grains that I didn't like- they were too thick, too much like risotto almost. I had to use a liberal amount of Tapatio to get any real flavor from my food. Everything is fresh, and the tortilla was quite yummy but it just fell flat for me. I think next time I'll come back and try a salad or tacos- it's right across the street from my new office so another visit is definitely a likelihood. Stay tuned for an update I guess, though Qdoba across the street is likely going to remain my preferred fast casual Mexican stop. The space is open and lots of seating options. Quite a bit of a wait though at noon on a weekday.
(3)Steve N.
This place is headed south and not in a good way. Smothered apparently means tinkled on and the shrimp taco 's feature little pink shriveled cocktail shrimp. Huh?This place used to be awesome. We fell for the buy one get free entre with purchase of 2 drinks. Not worth it.
(2)Jason W.
Got takeout from here using faxed group order. Everything was jammed into a single bag, items were missing and someone didn't seem to know which side of pie should be facing up. Food was alright ... would probably want to explore more of the menu if it wasn't so abundantly clear the staff didn't care.
(1)Jordan K.
I love this place. They always have the best staff the freshest food! The sweet pork is bar none the best thing I have ever had. Always great recommendations and always great service. I will continue to go to this place weekly I absolutely love it!
(5)David A.
I've been in twice. My wife loves this place and she always gets the sweet pork smothered in tomatillo sauce. Myself; I find that it is too sweet for my taste. The second time I ordered just a steak burrito, no smothering and while it's ok. I found that to be a mistake as well. They hand make their tortillas and I think the best way to enjoy them is to get it smothered. I just haven't found with what yet.
(3)Caroline S.
This place is awesome! They make the tortillas fresh in front of you while you wait in line. There is always a line but so worth the wait! If you are from Southern California this place is the best baja style Mexican I have had yet in Colorado! Closed Sundays so don't make the same mistake I did and get yourself all worked up for some delicious food only to find it closed.
(5)Lee K.
DO NOT ever trust this location with your CATERING order. We ordered a large catering delivery order for a very important meeting and it was over 2 hours late! We even verified the same day. I will never trust them again with my business. Sure the food is good and all, but this incident was absolutely unacceptable and they made us look like idiots. They ended up not charging us but still unacceptable and completely embarrassing.
(1)Carly P.
I work about 5 minutes up the road on Lincoln Ave. So when my coworkers came back to work from lunch one day raving about this Mexican place I knew I had to try it. Needless to say I was not disappointed at all! Lets start out by talking about their chips and queso. Can you say delicious? I can say I've literally licked the styrofoam to go carrier clean. It's that good!! They make all their tortillas right there. Next I've had the shredded beef burrito smothered with sweet green chili and sour cream. The sweet green chilli is excellent. I've had both pinto and refried beans in the burrito. The refried bean have just a little bit of spice to them. The quesadilla wasn't as good as the burrito in my opinion. My coworkers are big fans of the salads. Don't forget to grab a Costa Card! You get points back on each purchase that equals cash. It's similar to a rewards gift card. You can't beat getting something back somewhere great!!
(5)Ashley M.
We like costa vida. Really good, quick, cheap mexican. We always find coupons. Staff is always friendly. I have a great deal of respect for businesses closed on Sundays. Shredded beef quesadilla is the BEST.
(4)Lindy S.
Fresh, quality ingredients. Great chicken quesadilla. I was doing some shopping in the area and wanted a quick bite for lunch. A bit tired of the 'other' fast Mexican places famous to the metro area (which are both here...and everywhere else) I thought I would give Costa Vida a try, and now wish they had a bigger presence. I was impressed with the more 'gourmet' menu offerings like Sweet Pork and Raspberry Chipotle Chicken, but wasn't feeling particularly adventurous, so went with the grilled chicken quesadilla. Their tortillas are amazing! They taste more like something from a taco truck than a chain restaurant. The chicken was very fresh and not gristly or rubbery. The chips and queso was pretty good too. I thought it was reasonably priced - sour cream and fresh guacamole were included with the entrees (there wasn't an up-charge like there is at other places).
(4)Nic Z.
Costa Vida is essentially Chipotle. I got a bowl with chicken, rice, guacamole, and a bunch of other stuff. It was pretty good and was priced a la Chipotle, too. Wouldn't go out of my way to come back but wouldn't say no if invited.
(3)Liz C.
I have been to Costa Vida several times. I think it tasted better then chipotle or qdoba. I really like the shredded beef burrito smothered with mild sauce. Everything tastes really fresh. The staff that works there is very nice and the place itself has always appeared very clean to me. In the end it's fast food. Tastes good but nothing five stars worthy.
(4)Elaine S.
Somehow I missed the ""sweet" description for pork enchiladas. The sweet was overwhelming and masked every other flavor. I would try something different. The salads did look fresh. Don't order sweet pork unless you crave sugar, Sugar. Tortillas were good, rice too mushy. Thanks for the coupon, I will try again.
(2)Leslie L.
This place is AMAZING. After growing up on Qdoba, my friend took me here for lunch a while back. I instantly fell in love! The food is so fresh and flavorful. Yes, the line can be ridiculous sometimes but guess what? This isn't Taco Bell so wait your turn. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Meghan B.
I love the food here. It is quick and fresh and you can customize your meal. The only bad thing is they are closed on Sundays which is the day we typically eat out!
(5)E Y.
when i walked up to order i noticed that the top of the glass partition had not been dusted in... 6 months? totally grossed me out, but embarrassingly, not enough for me to turn around and walk out the door. and don't even judge me because we've all been to a place(s) like that. i tried the raspberry chipotle chicken quesadilla because it seemed different. in retrospect, what was i thinking? cheese and raspberry? it was actually pretty good, but nothing too exciting. cheese, chicken, and raspberry sauce (just enough flavor, and not too sweet). glad i tried it, but would rather explore the menu if there's a next time. i must admit i'm a rice snob (i'm asian). with that said, the rice was good, especially because there's a lot of butter in it, duh. stay away from the (black) beans, just get more rice. and i also tried the mango salsa. may or may not have eaten it straight out of the cup. and would totally do it again. also need to mention that the ladies making my food were less than professional. wah wah.
(3)Tim K.
Costa Vida is good but I definitely prefer CAFE RIO better. The menu is almost identical but Cafe Rio has more charm and the portions are a tad bigger. I would eat at Costa Vida again but only if I couldn't get to Cafe Rio. The sweet pork is delicious. I had the smothered burrito. The nachos were just ok.
(3)Manda T.
I have been a Costa Vida fan ever since your sandy location opened on state street. When I moved to Colorado I was really excited that there was a Costa Vida within five miles of my house (closer than café rio).. Since I have been to the Lone Tree location I have had nothing but bad experiences. Poor customer service and plenty of mistakes. I usually order take out the first mistake was they sent me home with the wrong food and I didn't find this out until I got home. No one goes over your food with you and makes sure your order is correct before they send you on your way (Café rio does this EVERYTIME).. Ok I get it you're a busy restaurant and people make mistakes. When going into the store and they put the wrong sauce on my burrito they dump the correct sauce on top instead of making a new burrito. I have worked in the food industry for many of years this is not good customer service. I tried calling in an order for lunch and after 5+ rings a girl picks up the phone and after I told her I wanted to place an order to go she simply said "We don't do to go's" after going into the store and speaking with the manager I was told that they were just to busy to take to go's. So today I thought I would give it another try, I tried calling in an order today. A young gentleman answered the phone and asked me if I could hold.. Instead of putting me on hold him simply set the phone down and forgot I was on hold when I got to the store 15 min later I was still on hold waiting listening to everyone talk. I walked into the store to see if they might be busy with a line to the door.. Not even, there were maybe five people in line and employees standing around.. My family and myself will no longer be going to Costa Vida nor will I be recommending Costa Vida to anyone. I am now willing to take the drive and go to Café Rio where I have always had the best customer service..
(1)Sid B.
I had a chicken burrito today. There was a very small amount of chicken in fact there was more rice than any one other item. There was no flavor in the sauce that was used to smother the burrito. The pico also had no flavor. The tomatoes were old and tasteless. This is not my first time and I have enjoyed my food in the past however today the food was bland and not worth the $8.00+ that I paid. I will not be back.
(2)Brian H.
I think if you want good fresh Mexican food, find the nearest CHIPOTLE. This place has NOTHING on chipotle. I ordered a burrito with all the salsas, sour cream, queso, and guac. I got the burrito and NONE of the extras that I ordered. I will not be visiting costa vida anytime soon. Thank God my company bought my lunch and I didn't actually pay for this below average food.
(1)Tara D.
This place is amazing! Get the sweet pork! Whatever you do- burrito, salad, tacos- get the sweet pork! It is amazingly succulent. The tortillas are so soft and much better than the competition's. I always add a bit of mango salsa- because again it is fantastic! I'm a sucker for the sweet pork salad because the tomatillo ranch is perfect and I could just as easily drink it. Yum! Pair with a coke and you've gone to heaven.
(5)Lee S.
I've tried this place twice which, I'll say is 2 times too many. Boring Boring Boring I luckily had a Groupon...that helps. I can't say anything about this place that made me smile...except maybe my little boy was sitting with me and he always makes me smile. Not going back.
(2)Jacqueline S.
Sweet pork quesodillas are great. Was not impressed with fish tacos, however. They really need a revolving door. The door is like a vacuum, due to the location...and people continually coming in blows freezing air on the whole dining area.
(3)Marty L.
Awesome sweet pork, fresh. Food is 5 star.
(5)Mary K.
I really like Costa Vida because the food is always fresh and I go there alot with my children, so for me it's good prices for the quality of the food and we enjoy the atmosphere.
(4)Lorne B.
Tortillas are best we've had! Awesome! The raspberry chipotle is very sweet. Shredded beef with just a little sweet pork quesadilla was epic! Only downfall is their system for ordering was mediocre. People behind us had their food mixed in ours and served out of order. Simple fix tho. I recommend it!
(4)Thor C.
Mmm, sweet pork! Ive been here a handful of times, Ive ordered the sweet pork enchiladas every time. Think dessert pork, for dinner ! It might sound odd until you try it, then you'll want more! They even make their own tortillas on the spot! That's right, make them, as in, start with the dough, press, cook! What other quick food place does that?! Not the Doba nor the Potle!
(4)Chris W.
Food as bland as the upper-middle class white families who eat it. Staff was short with everyone in line, and did not do a very good job of explaining options to people who are used to the much less complex menus at other fast-casual burrito chains. There is a Qdoba and Chipotle within a block of here; Go to one of them instead.
(2)Jessica J.
I have no idea what took me so long to try this place, but I am going back - like tomorrow! I have been on a salad for lunch kick. Well after awhile you just can't eat one more chicken caesar salad. So after a run to the outlets in Castle Rock I stopped off at this place before heading to the office. The parking lot (which it shares with other restaurants + a near by Super Target) was packed. Still I got a not too far off spot and headed in. The place is big and has lots of tables for sitting. It is set up like any fast burrito place (e.g. Chipotle, Qdoba...). I ordered the sweet pork salad. They put a fresh tortilla lining the bottom of the tin and then pile on beans, rice (which I omitted), meat, lettuce, cheese and pico. Plus guacamole and tomatillo ranch if you would like (dressing on the side). Can I just say it is one of my new favorite salads? I mean the pork is so yummy out of this world wow I tell you if you eat piggy you must try Costa Vida's! The salad was big and satisfying. The ingredients tasted fresh and the flavors melded together well, all for $7 and some change - Perfect. And friendly smiling faces serving up the goodness too. Always nice :) I only hesitate with giving it that last star since I have only had a salad. I will be back to try some other stuff off the menu and hopefully they will get that 5 star rating.
(4)Braden F.
Costa Vida is a great restaurant typically. Great ingredients. As far as portions go, the mean is very skimp compared to other fast casual restaraunts (cafe rio and chipotle). I've been to this location twice and have experienced this shortage of meat both times. C'mon Costa!
(3)Brig A.
So I am a fan of Cafe Rio, which this place has nearly an identical feel to it. I got the pork burrito with green chili, which was very good. I also tried the steak nachos, which weren't bad. The place is always packed and there was a line, but that should show that it is popular. The thing that keeps it from being 5 stars is that they were a little short staffed and the restaurant was a little dirty. The food was very good though. Another minor annoyance was that the sun was coming straight through the windows and there wasn't a good way to shut it out.
(4)Jessica F.
The people are so friendly! The food is unique and extremely delicious! The place is always clean and the price is right. It's a newer style Chipotle with different flavors and more to offer. Second location just opened at Broadway and Hampden and it's just as good. So glad to be blocks away, it's fast and never disappointing!
(5)Ricky G.
I totally disagree with some of the past reviewers. This place rocks hands down. My family eats here about 4 times per month, either for dinner or for lunch. We are usually greeted by a fine employee named Gerardo. He knows my family by name!! He's a great guy who serves up some wonderful Mexican cuisine. I will admit some things are not perfect at CV. For example, to no fault of their own, the wait in line can be unbearable for most. If you arrive at lunch time, somewhere between 1145 and 1pm, you're doomed. The line can easily reach to the front door. I refuse to wait in line for 30 minutes. I really don't know how some folks do it, especially on a lunch break from work. If you do decide to stay and wait be prepared for some noise. The restaurant can get pretty loud to say the least. Food-wise, I highly recommend any burrito smothered. I also recommend the fish tacos. YUM! Ask for the mexican style ranch dressing to pour on top of the fish tacos. It's a little spicy, but delish. The guacamole is out of this world too. I can't get enough of it. I love it. If you managed to save room for dessert, go ahead and try the Key Lime Pie. Its pretty authentic for these neck of the woods.
(5)Natalie G.
Given how long this place has been here I'm a little surprised it took me this long to go in. Stopped in for my first time a couple of weeks ago, it is a bit hidden, unless you are coming out of Target. Had the Sweet Pork Enchilada, which was fantastic. Also did a shredded beef burrito. They have great choices of sauces and other ingredients. 2nd time back enjoyed a steak quesadilla, and another burrito. Good value for good food, and seriously the fresh tortillas are the best in town.
(4)Jason J.
Came here recently for lunch and the place was very packed, but the line moved super quick. Kind of reminds me of Qdoba or Chipotle or any place like that where they shuffle you through a line to put together all your food. I wasn't in the mood for a burrito (which I hear are fabulous here), so I had the nachos, which were exceptional. The wife had a taco salad, which looked good enough for me to want to switch plates with her. Now that I know they're so good and so close to my office, I'll be back!
(4)David T.
Food was fine. Spouse and I enjoyed, although I got food poisoning my last 2 times in. Won't be returning-
(1)Lindsey A B.
I love the food here!! So yummy :). The sweet pork and cilantro ranch dressing is what keeps me coming back. We have also used them for business lunches and everything is always good and on time!
(5)Jefferson H.
I really love this place!! In an age where everything from surfboards to the food we eat is mass-produced, Costa Vida is rebelling against soul-less, artificial food. You'll never see them pour pre-made salsa out of a bag that was mixed at some corporate lab and shipped across the country. Costa Vida goes to great lengths to ensure the freshest all-natural ingredients are used and prepared from scratch each day. After all, a meal made fresh daily, just tastes better! The intense and diverse flavors of Costa Vida will make your taste buds boogie and leave you satisfied and energized. Go check this place out.
(5)Sho G.
This is the only location of this chain in our state. It is set up similar to other fast food sit down Mexican restaurants (Qdoba, Chipotle, Freebirds, Cafe Rio) and I have to say this is one of the better versions. The food here is of a higher quality than you will find at the other chains. The menu has a bit more diversity as well. The salsa actually has a bit of kick and the sweet pork was something else. Putting some Cholula on the sweet pork was a magical experience. The tres leche cake was some of the best I've had for a restaraunt of this type. The staff was also friendly and I didn't feel like I was in an assembly line being processed as fast as possible like at Qdoba and Chipotle. Even though the location is far from convenient I will be making return trips to go here.
(4)Ed P.
Last week my wife met me for lunch at Costa Vida, which is just across the highway from my office. Neither of us had visited this small chain that appears to have originated in Utah, so we had no idea what to expect. Upon arrival I was shocked at how crowded the counter service restaurant was. Taking a quick glance at the menu, I quickly decided on a chicken burrito while my wife chose the sweet pork enchiladas inside of flour tortillas. We each followed along the counter as our selections were prepared and we were able to pick the ingredients that we wanted to go into each. I opted for rice, black beans, chicken, cheese and what I think was Tomatillo Cilantro Sauce. It was a little hard to understand the offerings so I just went with what looked the best. I also had my burrito smothered, which added more cheese and the selected sauce to the top. From there the burrito is sent through a rolling oven similar to what you'd see at Quiznos. And finally some lettuce and pico de gallo was added to the side of the big burrito. The choices for my wife weren't as difficult. The enchiladas come with your choice of meat and cheese and then smothered with Red Enchilada Sauce and more cheese. The rice and choice of beans (pinto or black) are served on the side and again this dish is garnished with lettuce and pico de gallo. My first taste of my burrito was filled with lots of sweetness. This initially threw me off as I had never tasted Mexican food that was so sweet. I soon realized that I may have been given their Raspberry Chipolte Chicken. When I ordered I wasn't given an option on the type of chicken, and I only saw one offering, so everyone must be getting the raspberry flavored chicken. This isn't completely strange to me as I often use lemonade when preparing chicken for tacos at home, but the sweetness was very overwhelming in this dish. Once I found a bottle of Cholula I was able to spice the meal more to my liking. I'm also thinking that the sauce I had selected may have been sweet as well, since the sweetness didn't come out in my wifes enchiladas as much as my burrito, and she even ordered the sweet pork. We also ordered a side of chips and salsa to go with our meal, and were given an obscene amount of chips (a filled pan the same that our meals came in) and some pretty good tasting salsa. I was afraid that the salsa would be overly sweet as well, but it wasn't. So perhaps I somehow selected all the sweet ingredients for my burrito, and there are ways to create something that would more suit my taste. I'm not sure, and I'm not sure I will ever find out. I don't go out for lunch very often at all, and I don't think the restaurant competes with my favorite Chipotle burrito, even though they are quite different.
(2)Steve S.
Wow, was I pleasant surprised when I walked into this Chipotle clone. Clean tables and floors along with decent prices have the makings of a winner. Also, the tortillas are AMAZING! Fresh and chewy. The food ain't that bad either. I'm thinking I might need to try a burrito next time and bypass the quesadilla that grabbed my attention. Now, I won't be making any special trips down here just to eat the delicious tortillas and stare at the clean floors, but it definitely will be a good option in the food desert that is Lone Tree.
(4)Jerrold W.
The absolute worst food experience ever!!!! Wednesday 11/13/2013 at approximately 5:15 PM we ordered a chicken quesadilla which was prepared quickly and efficiently. Then came the "Cash Register Nightmare"! One customer was ahead of us to pay and the mention of a $25.00 gift card hit the deck. While we waited, waited, and waited and our food began to get cold the young man at the register began swiping and authorizing these gift cards.......after about 10 minutes of this incredulous display of customer service my wife and I walked out the door and left our order on the counter. We were never asked by any employee or manager if there was a problem or why we were departing the premises and not paying for our order. Customer service of this nature should never occur and while we we standing in line to pay with cash in hand wouldn't one think that a manager would step up to alleviate this most ugly situation? Costa Vida will never see us again, EVER!
(1)Kate D.
We love this place! The food is so fresh and delicious. We used a Groupon and they were crazy busy, but the employees were working it! They all laughed and joked with all of their guests, and Courtney at the register was as sweet as all can get. Management is lucky to have these employees who make their customers feel so welcome.
(5)Chris A.
We eat here very often, and have never had a bad experience. The sweet pork is very sweet, but mellows out nicely with rice and beans. The chicken nachos are great, with plenty of cheese. The staff always seems friendly, and courteous.
(5)Meagan S.
"Costa Vida has awesome sweet pork (and this is coming from a non- pork eater)! Great atmosphere, friendly staff, highly recommend."
(5)Al C.
It's popular for sure, but I had the Pork Quesadilla and the meat was so sweet it over powered everything! I couldn't taste anything but the sugar they put in the meat. They also have a raspberry chicken that seem REALLY out of place in a Mexican restaurant. Not a good mix of savory and sweet at all. Probably won't be back.
(2)Annie C.
This Costa Vida is a bit different from the ones in Utah. I was a bit bummed to see that they don't have the daily special menu. The service was slower than Utah as well. Usually there are at least 4 or 5 servers behind the counters but this time there were only 3. The server gave good portion and was friendly. (I ordered the small pork salad) The food was yummy like I expected.
(4)Kay R.
This place would like to be as good as Qdoba or Chipotle. Sadly, it isn't even close. I grew up in Southern California eating really good Mexican food, and this place doesn't even seem to have been inspired by Mexican food. Costa Vida is to Mexican food what P.F. Chang's is to Chinese food, i.e. it isn't. (Remember, the P.F. in P.F. Chang's stands for Paul Fleming -- not exactly the most well-known Chinese guy out there.) I've tried any number of items there, as I occasionally go to lunch with a friend who loves the place. I can honestly say there isn't one good thing on the menu, unless you're inspired by the idea of raspberry-flavored chicken or sugary pork. It's just nasty stuff. The most tolerable item I've had has been the enchiladas, but once they're made and go through their McDonald's-like oven/conveyor belt, they're soggy and gummy. The tortillas virtually disintegrate in the sauce. I had to laugh the time we went to Costa Vida and saw a big sign heralding "Voted Best Mexican Food in Utah!" Huh? UTAH?? I don't usually think Utah when I'm thinking Mexican food, so such an award isn't too impressive. That's like someone voting a restaurant "Best French food in Acapulco." I have to protest the review that said Costa Vida feels like a California-infused Qdoba. Trust me, California would NEVER make food like this and call it Mexican. Blech.
(2)Nicole R.
Nothing bad to say about Costa Vida. THE BEST EVER. Something about those tortillas and that tomatillo ranch.. and and and. Mouth is literally watering just thinking about it!!
(5)JACKY L.
We have been at Costa Vida Lone Tree, so many times.......at least once a week, we are those that walk in and the personnel already starts preparing your order because they know us, the staff is great, they food is really good and fresh! We really enjoy this place, is great to have a fast food like this just down the street!! Congrats Costa Vida!!! awesome food!
(5)Dana S.
Out of rice at 3:00 pm is one thing being so rude about it is another thing Won't be back with that treatment. Cafe Rio is so much better and the people are way friendlier.
(1)Melissa B.
Costa Vida is so yummy! The staff is excellent and so is the atmosphere :) Steak Quesadillas!
(5)Jo C.
Yea, NO. This is the second time I have picked up lunch here and both times have been lacking in quality as well as customer service. The first was salad with raspberry chipotle chicken: Sorry, they taste like sweet raspberry jelly was poured on top. Yuck! Second time was yesterday and I had the steak burrito: Very disappointing! The tortilla was good and the steak was tender and had good flavor only THERE WERE ONLY 4 SMALL PIECES in the entire $9 burrito!!!!! And the sauce I ordered hot. Yea, not only mild but tasteless. Wait time is WAY too long. I spent 20 minutes in line the first time and 15 the second. Won't be back. Don't bother with this place. Overpriced and not tasty.
(1)Jason J.
Daaaaaamn! Working right down the street from here is dangerous. Like, swimming in a kerosene pool that's lit around the edges by drunk men with blowtorches dangerous. I could eat my weight in food here in a heartbeat. Or maybe two heartbeats since the food intake would surely slow my heart down. I went in with a coworker upon a recommendation of the ladyfriend, and holy crap am I glad. I can't believe I hadn't heard about this place. Chipotle will still always be my first love as far as fast "mexican" food goes, but this place is amazing. It wasn't very expensive, though it took a while to serve, the fresh tortillas are amazing, as are the ingredients. It was a delicious change from what I normally ear. There are a ton of menu options, they don't hesitate to let you customize you order (and are glad to make sure you're getting exactly what you want.) I enjoy that all their meals come with beans and rice, an added little bonus -- it just makes the meal bigger. Everything is fresh, and tastes great, and is now a lunch staple. I constantly can't wait to go back!
(5)Barbi P.
This place is similar to Chipotle you pick what you want and then go down the line and pick what you want in it. The main differences to me are that they make their tortillas here, the ingredients don't seem as high of quality or as fresh and they will smother your burrito in yummy sauces. The reason I crave this place and want to go all the time is the tomatillo ranch. I have tried to make it at home and its just not the same. I love it. The restaurant feels like a California infused Qdoba. No complaints there.
(4)Jamie K.
Sweet pork! The last time I had sweet pork was 2 years ago visiting friend in Fort Collins and hitting up Cafe Mexacali! Now I have a place closer to home. I like this place because it's like Chipotle but fresher and better!
(5)Dale Z.
I had heard good things about the sweet pork burrito, so I had to check it out. The name did not lie, but the taste did disappoint. It was sweet to the point of tasting dessert-like. Sadly, this sweetness (like pork stewed overly long with sugar) was the dominant flavor. It really overpowered everything else in or on the burrito. I did not try the steak or chicken burrito which might have given me a better baseline for comparing this to other chains. However, I honestly do not see why one would choose this over Chipotle, Qdoba, or Bocaza.
(2)Matt G.
Much much better than Chipotle / Qdoba with a friendly staff that seem to enjoy their work. Worth going for the sweet pork alone.
(5)Margaret L.
Amazingly delicious!! The chipotle raspberry chicken salad is like heaven! You pick your own add ons and dressing, it really doesn't get much better than that! I don't see myself getting tired of Costa Vida anytime soon!
(5)Floyd R.
Pretty unimpressive. When we walked in, they were three people working who pretty much ignored all the customers. The owner clearly needs to be more involved in running this place. The temperature was 80° with no air conditioning and nothing could seem to be done about it. All of the entrées are very similar except for different meats. Almost everything seem to be coated in sugar: meats, salad dressings etc. This SLC chain needs to learn that Coloradans prefer healthier choices.
(1)Jim W.
Things that amaze me about this place... 1. Hands down, honest to cornflakes the best burrito chain type place in town (more about that later...) 2. The constant number of people when I mention CV, have never tried it (insert buzzer sfx here) It's been open for like 5 years people! I'm seriously addicted to their sweet pork burrito. Gotta get something carryout for dinner on the way home? The Sport Trac magically aims it's way here. The wife usually is a very happy gal if I pick up a salad with their awesome lime chipolte dressing as well. OK, it's a chain, But it's the only one in CO, so everybody happy? This location is a single franchise, not run by some local conglomeate intent on saturating the city. So you can feel good about grabbing some awesome grub without lining Big Bro's pockets. Last point...I've been coming here regularly since they've opened, and I think they've had near zero turnover with the serving line staff the entire time. Obviously they take very good care of their employees, they love their job, and it shows in the constant quality of the food they serve. Fresh, cool, and awesome. Everybody in the pool.....
(5)Juanita H.
Love the food and the service! I usually get the same thing - the sweet pork burrito - and have never had a problem with the food. Consistently good! The employees are very friendly and remember me even tho' I don't get there more than every couple of months (it's a bit of a drive to go there but I make the effort). Definitely recommend if you want a little bit different type of "Mexican" food!
(5)Alex L.
Sweet pork burrito smothered in green chili. HEAVEN! This place has the best burrito ever. The staff is super friendly and they are very quick, even at rush hour! The quality of the food is above par and their prices are extremely reasonable for the quality. (Not a hug fan of Chipolte or Qdoba after this place!) Have tried a large array of things on the menu here, and all of them have been very good. Definitely worth a visit, you will not be disappointed!!
(4)Shelly J.
I really like the fish tacos. They cook the fish fresh as you order.
(4)Erin H.
Tried it for the first time yesterday. Was surprised that it was a Chipotle-style restaurant. While the dining space was very nice, I was not impressed by the food. Everything I ate had a sweet undertone to it. I like my Mexican food spicy and salty, not sweet. The only thing with a LITTLE kick was the queso, which was not fantastic. I went for the enchiladas. Have to say this was mostly because I was intrigued as to how they could do enchiladas at this type of restaurant. Well, maybe they shouldn't be. I had one steak and one cheese. The steak was chewy and the cheese was lacking and not really melted. The green chile sauce had no kick, or maybe they just didn't put enough on. For the price and the experience, I'll stick with Chipotle.
(2)Carissa P.
We ate there twice in as many weeks if that says anything. This place blows the doors off of QDoba and Chipotle if you ask me. The tortillas are hand made, warm, and soft, and they have better sauces like a cilantro ranch as well as a mango salsa that we try and duplicate at home. We also love their enchiladas smothered with a tomatillo sauce instead of the customary red sauce. It's a nice change and works well with the flavors. It's super casual with a big open dining room that's kid-friendly along with a patio on the side of the building. It's an oder, grab, and sit place that's good for something quick and easy. We had them cater a party we had at our home 3 years ago and it was a success. They arrived early, prepared, and were fantastic to the guests. Their traveling selection was great and everyone loved how they could customize their orders. Their pricing was reasonable too. We'd use them for catering again.
(4)Jafey A.
Very solid "Mexican" food. The only drawback to it is the lack of a kick with the spices. It is a good place to go to when in the area and in a hurry
(3)G R.
OK, fine, it's not a Chipotle, not a Qdoba but then again it's not a McDonald's either. This is not a fast food joint but the food is GREAT! Sauces are good, its freshly made, tortillas and all .... give it a try (strangely enough we still can't figure out their schedule) but its worth the wondering in. The "green" sauce is yummy!!!! Give it a try and you will see while I am at a loss for a longer description. Enjoy!
(4)Jennifer B.
The sweet pork burrito is about the best thing ive ever tasted!
(5)Matthew D.
I would write a better review because I think that Costa Vida does so many things right. However, their food is subpar, and when you are reviewing a restaurant food must be first on the list. I have been to this location in Lone Tree 3 times. I have been to locations in Utah (where it originated) probably 25 times. I was very excited when I found out they were opening in Colorado so I went. I was very disappointed. While it reminded me of the best TEX MEX restaurant in the land (Cafe Rio, which did not yet have a Colorado location) it also made me realize how inferior it was. The portions were horrible at this Costa Vida location. How much does rice and beans cost? Why on earth would a restaurant be skimpy on the rice and beans? I could barely see any rice and beans as I was eating and the taste was just not that rich. I did like that atmosphere at Costa Vida. The physical aspects of the restaurant are great. Very nice, clean look. Fun atmosphere with TVs showing Sportscenter and such. However, the food was skimpy and the taste was bland. I will not return. Others will likely love it, but I thought it was just average. If you want amazing Tex Mex you should go to Cafe Rio (one of my other reviews, and 5 stars. I am not affiliated with Cafe Rio in any way).
(3)Dave H.
My wife and I found this place after several trips to Sky Ridge Medical Center (in preparation for the birth of our first child). It has now become a staple, thanks to great food, a friendly staff and a decent atmosphere. My wife gets the Mango Chicken salad (the small tends to be more than enough for a meal), while I always opt for the chicken burrito, with the medium sauce (sweet and spicy) both inside the burrito and smothered. What I like about the Costa Vida touch is they run the smothered burritos through an oven to give it that extra heat and flavor. Wahoo's still holds the edge on decor, but Costa Vida definitely delivers on the quality. We make a point to eat there at least once a month. And while our baby isn't old enough to eat here, I believe they have a great deal for families ... something along the lines of "kids eat free" on a particular day.
(4)Seth J.
Liked: The salads! The burritos! The drinks imported from Mexico. The ambience is kinda cool with the huge flat screen TV's constantly showing surfing videos. The sweet pork burrito is the best. Get it smothered. Didn't Like: That it's not original. The whole idea for the restaurant was stolen from a chain in Utah called Cafe Rio. But really, I don't care. I forgive them with all my heart, and I thank them for bringing their food to Denver.
(4)Kira M.
One of my favorite restaurants in Colorado! This place makes THE best tortillas I have ever had. Everything is extremely fresh. The meats are to die for, especially the shredded beef, which is delicious. You really get your moneys worth here. The burritos are massive, and come with beans and rice. They also serve incredible homemade ice cream--Longboards-- which they dip into a vat of chocolate right in front of you. Kids are welcome here, and the service is always friendly and prompt, just how I like it. My only drawback is that there isn't a whole lot of salsas. One the best things about joints like these are the mouth-watering array of salsas. (Chipotle is better at this, but they are behind in the tortilla area.) I would still recommend this to anyone in the area.
(4)Brandon W.
Hit up the Tuesday $2 taco night and was very impressed. The tacos are awesome, especially the pork. Very juicy and tasty. My gripe would be the beans and rice they slap on and charge an extra 99 cents for. Really? Might want to mention that before you ask while you're putting them on there. All in all, great place and I'll be back...often.
(4)Jon R.
So I got a coupon in the mail for this place and decided to use it (i'm very frugal or economically savy). This place have good selections and it draws a nice crowd. The portions are big enough to feed two below average individuals. I must say this place is better than Chipotle (sorry burrito bowls)!
(4)Dana M.
I always enjoy tacos and these guys have $2 taco Tuesdays and $5 burritos (After 5pm is the catch). The staff is always friendly and caters to my strange substitutions. I'll add three different salsas and some salad dressing on top, extra lettuce and cheese with no extra charge. Bummer than chips and salsa are not included with the burritos. For Lone Tree this place is a find!
(4)Lacey M.
Mmmmmmm... Just had lunch here today, after reading the great reviews and noticing how close it is to my work. Even with semi-high expectations I was not disappointed!! As others have mentioned, this is another typical fast food burrito chain... only WAY better then the ones that usually come to mind. I decided to try something different, and went with the Sweet Pork Burrito (stuffed with rice, green chile, cheese and sour cream) and a side of chips & queso. Their freshly made tortillas are really what makes these burritos killer. Such a huge difference that makes! The pork had an amazing flavor, and wasn't too sweet at all (which i was a little worried about). It mixed fantastically with the Chipotle-flavored Tabasco, actually. I really liked the queso too, and the chips tasted home-made. A huge plus for me was being able to get a small side of it for only $1.99. There are 2 minor reasons that I this place only gets 4 stars instead of 5: they charged me $0.49 for sour cream in my burrito, and they didn't have any type of spicy sauce or salsa (the pico apparently is spicy, but I don't do big chunks of onions). However, I will definitely be coming here from now on instead of my other go-to's (Qdoba, Chipotle) for lunch. And you should too!!
(4)Lauren B.
LOVE the food here. It's all very fresh (they even make the tortillas in front of you) and the portions are great. The guys making the food are all very nice and do a great job. The only thing I don't like about this location is it seems the owner may be a bit stingy with coupons/discounts/ect. They sometimes put weird restrictions on when you can use coupons and how they can be used. But other than that...there's nothing else I don't like!
(4)Joel T.
This is better than Chipotle/Qdoba/IP/Baja and the others. The reason you ask? Simple, it has fresh made tortillas hot off the press. It makes all of the difference. The chipotle chicken burrito was really good, but minus one star for the lack of spicy salsa selections. No I don't want a sweet raspberry sauce on top of my burrito! I want a real spicy hot sauce. Oh and I almost forgot, they have Lemon-Lime Powerade stocked in the soda fountain. Freaking delightful.
(4)M K.
For those that think Chipotle is good Mexican food, you'll love this place. It's bland and tasteless with big portions (mostly rice and beans with maybe 3 ounces of protein) for a reasonable amount of money. I've been twice just to give it a second chance as I really wanted to like it, but realized there are way better options than this...even in the southern burbs. The raspberry chipotle chicken is way too sweet. Imagine chicken slathered in raspberry jam, and that's pretty much what you get. The mango chicken (from the mango chicken salad) is very sweet too, with no hint of spice. The beans (black and pinto) and rice have little to no flavor, and the first day I was there, the re-fried beans looked like they had been sitting on the line for days. I went with several co-workers and every one of them was underwhelmed with all of the entrees. The Chili Verde plate is decent, and I thought it came with salsa but ended up paying extra for what I thought should have been free. Overall, it's 'safe' in that this place offers nothing new except a little conveyor that heats your burrito. Please note the comments on the door. This location is a vacuum and the door blows open continually and while trying to find what little enjoyment you can in the food, you will be continually blasted with cold air depending on where you sit in the restaurant.
(2)Adam F.
Loaded up the family to eat there for Cinco De Mayo...and they were closed. What kind of Mexican food restaurant is closed on Cinco De Mayo?
(1)Renee K.
Why did I wait until 3 mos. before I'm moving from the area to try Costa Vida?? Why or why? I've seen it a million times, but it took a BOGO coupon to bring me in. What a treat! For under $10 we stuffed ourselves on cheese enchiladas, veggie tacos, rice, beans, chips and a huge portion of very spicy, pico type salsa. Everything was delicious, especially the freshly-made tortillas. Even without the coupon, it would have been an excellent value. And, here's to a place that actually gives vegetarians a $1 deduction on the regular price of menu items! Indeed! The atmosphere is much like the other casual dining, fresh Mex places. Staff was very friendly and responsive. There are nightly specials offered, but with kid's meals only $3.25 (including, burrito, enchilada, or taco plus rice and beans and a drink!) there is no reason to wait for a coupon or special. Colin's enchilada meter: 5
(5)Chris P.
Food is good, but what kind of a restaurant is closed on Sunday? Seriously?! To add to my review. I am presently in line. It's an odd time(3:30) but there is actually only 1 person working! He's making the meals and working the register! There goes another star, and if I didn't have a groupon I'd be out the door.
(1)Todd T.
This place is in the style of Chipotle and Qdoba in that you walk past the wall, tell the tortilla guy what you want, then walk in front of the person who asks you what you want on your burrito, etc. However, that's where the comparison ends. Unless you are a mindless drone that only loves the super chains like Chipotle and Qdoba, you have to check this place out. It's a smaller chain. Their specialty is sweet pork. You can have it on a burrito, a salad, a quesadilla, and just about anything else you want. It is wonderful. It is so full over flavor! I'm told they marinade it in a Dr. Pepper mixture. Their tomatillo salsa is the best I've ever had. The service is really fast and friendly. Try something with the sweet pork and let your taste buds get down with their bad selves! UPDATE - 12/23/13 We went to Costa Vida again today. We've been here at least 6 or 7 times over the past two years and the customer service is absolutely WONDERFUL every time. No doubt the owner is first class all the way. The managers are always polite and make conversation with me. They always ask me how I am doing, make compliments to my children, etc. They always thank me with a smile and I don't feel like I do when I go to other fast food joints where you're lucky to get a grunt out of the employees at the counter. The food has always been incredible. I would give this place a 50 star rating if I could!
(5)Tsun T.
This place is very much like Chipotle, but higher quality of food. I had the burito and it was delicious. The portion is good and price is right.
(4)Justin L.
Costa Vida, Chipotle, Qdoba, Illegal Petes...honestly, there's not much of a difference between them. Maybe it's something about the uprising of these type of restaurants in Colorado - fast, quick, tasty, and efficient food that you can casually eat sitting down and get out leaving full in 10 minutes. However, they're almost all the same, and they're everywhere here...and after eating them all the time, it's the little things that count. I bought a chicken quesadilla, which wasn't half bad, but at the same time wasn't all that great either. I asked for some salsa and they charged me $.60. Are you seriously charging me for a tiny bit of salsa?! I think I'll still stick with Chipotle...cheaper, I can customize what I want, and they don't nickel and dime me..
(2)Hailey G.
just like cafe rio off colorado blvd, greasy and over priced.. i'll stick with chipotle
(2)Mark J.
We used to count on Qdoba for this type of food... Until we tried this place. I'm stuck on the sweet pulled pork burrito and have it smothered with green chile, makes a meal out of it.
(4)Louis C.
Which came first...Chipotle, Qdoba or Costa Vida? It doesn't really matter because they are all the same to me. Nothing really stood out about Costa Vida in respects to the other two. The burritos are decent. Good food...not spectacular.
(3)Bill M.
Hey costa vida! Had lunch there today! Thanks for the food poisoning! Cramping diarrhea is the best! You guys rock! I will be sure come back soon
(1)Kirsten L.
Disclaimer: I've been going to Costa Vida since it first opened many years ago in Utah, and when I haven't lived near one I've missed it. I've always like the concept and would put it far ahead of Chipotle in my book. This review is just on my most recent visit this week though, and I feel like something has changed, or maybe its just this particular location. I always, always, always order a vegetarian burrito, black beans, red sauce, enchilada style. I've had way too many to count over the years. But this time the red sauce was lacking its usual flavor and spice, and there wasn't near enough of it both inside and on the top of the burrito. I ask for it smothered because I don't want it dry, but somehow this oneactually was with the small amount of sauce they put on top. It wasn't as good as it usually is for me, and at $6.25 for a little burrito with just beans and rice is a little much, especially since they charge extra for just about everything. Other complaints: the queso is good but the chips were hard and stale. The guacamole I paid $1 extra for was a pitiful little scoop - I should have gone across the way to Qdoba and gotten twice as much for the same price. I still have a special place in my heart for this place, but another mediocre visit and I might have to start driving farther and spending my money on this place's predecessor, Cafe Rio.
(3)Steve W.
10 bucks for a burrito that is comparable to a Chipotle burrito???
(2)Kris K.
get the sweet pork salad.... and the lime cilantro ranch dressing. I could eat here everyday (& I am NOT a salad girl by any means).
(5)Blaine S.
This is a good place to eat. Good value. good food... A wee bit more expensive than maybe Chipotle, but 4 times better !! The portions are tasty and huge and all the burritios are more healthy and tasty being smoothered in sauce and lettuce and tomatos... We usually go and split a big burrito and it ends up cheaper than Chipotle !!! .. cheaper than any other burrito franchise... and much better !!!... They do serve beer which is nice and different soft drinks... I reccommend water to go with the great, tasty, swimming in sauce burrito... This way you can save a few dollars, and water is more healthy than pop or a over-priced beer.. Definitely better food than Chipoltle.. or any of the others.
(4)Sean S.
if you are going to eat a chipoltle style burrito then you may aswell do it here. the staff is ultra friendly and the ingredients are fresh.
(4)Marie M.
I used to eat at Costa Vida several times weekly. The food really is tasty, and there are some healthier options available. I no longer eat here, due to the fact that I found ROCKS in my black beans TWICE. Last time I bit down on a pebble, and it really hurt my tooth. I emailed the company, and got no response. Not even an 'I'm sorry'.
(2)John C.
Not just another burrito place, Costa Vida is competing on cool. The interior design, branding, and personnel all say "hip surfer joint". The attractive wait staff sporting custom Costa Vida t-shirts with "Yummy" across the front don't hurt either. This is all well and good, but what makes Costa Vida great is the food. Their signature item, a sweet pork burrito is not something that can be had on the Chipotle or Qdoba assembly line. What's more, you won't walk out the door wondering how much research was required to create such a perfect gut bomb (don't laugh, you know I'm serious). Instead, you had a meal that was tastey, made by a staff that was friendly, with whom you'd love to spend money, time and again. Oh, and I saw Ian Gold, LB - Denver Broncos there, so it must be healthy too.
(4)Tim K.
Costa Vida is good but I definitely prefer CAFE RIO better. The menu is almost identical but Cafe Rio has more charm and the portions are a tad bigger. I would eat at Costa Vida again but only if I couldn't get to Cafe Rio. The sweet pork is delicious. I had the smothered burrito. The nachos were just ok.
(3)Manda T.
I have been a Costa Vida fan ever since your sandy location opened on state street. When I moved to Colorado I was really excited that there was a Costa Vida within five miles of my house (closer than café rio).. Since I have been to the Lone Tree location I have had nothing but bad experiences. Poor customer service and plenty of mistakes. I usually order take out the first mistake was they sent me home with the wrong food and I didn't find this out until I got home. No one goes over your food with you and makes sure your order is correct before they send you on your way (Café rio does this EVERYTIME).. Ok I get it you're a busy restaurant and people make mistakes. When going into the store and they put the wrong sauce on my burrito they dump the correct sauce on top instead of making a new burrito. I have worked in the food industry for many of years this is not good customer service. I tried calling in an order for lunch and after 5+ rings a girl picks up the phone and after I told her I wanted to place an order to go she simply said "We don't do to go's" after going into the store and speaking with the manager I was told that they were just to busy to take to go's. So today I thought I would give it another try, I tried calling in an order today. A young gentleman answered the phone and asked me if I could hold.. Instead of putting me on hold him simply set the phone down and forgot I was on hold when I got to the store 15 min later I was still on hold waiting listening to everyone talk. I walked into the store to see if they might be busy with a line to the door.. Not even, there were maybe five people in line and employees standing around.. My family and myself will no longer be going to Costa Vida nor will I be recommending Costa Vida to anyone. I am now willing to take the drive and go to Café Rio where I have always had the best customer service..
(1)Sid B.
I had a chicken burrito today. There was a very small amount of chicken in fact there was more rice than any one other item. There was no flavor in the sauce that was used to smother the burrito. The pico also had no flavor. The tomatoes were old and tasteless. This is not my first time and I have enjoyed my food in the past however today the food was bland and not worth the $8.00+ that I paid. I will not be back.
(2)Brian H.
I think if you want good fresh Mexican food, find the nearest CHIPOTLE. This place has NOTHING on chipotle. I ordered a burrito with all the salsas, sour cream, queso, and guac. I got the burrito and NONE of the extras that I ordered. I will not be visiting costa vida anytime soon. Thank God my company bought my lunch and I didn't actually pay for this below average food.
(1)Tara D.
This place is amazing! Get the sweet pork! Whatever you do- burrito, salad, tacos- get the sweet pork! It is amazingly succulent. The tortillas are so soft and much better than the competition's. I always add a bit of mango salsa- because again it is fantastic! I'm a sucker for the sweet pork salad because the tomatillo ranch is perfect and I could just as easily drink it. Yum! Pair with a coke and you've gone to heaven.
(5)Lee S.
I've tried this place twice which, I'll say is 2 times too many. Boring Boring Boring I luckily had a Groupon...that helps. I can't say anything about this place that made me smile...except maybe my little boy was sitting with me and he always makes me smile. Not going back.
(2)Jacqueline S.
Sweet pork quesodillas are great. Was not impressed with fish tacos, however. They really need a revolving door. The door is like a vacuum, due to the location...and people continually coming in blows freezing air on the whole dining area.
(3)Marty L.
Awesome sweet pork, fresh. Food is 5 star.
(5)Mary K.
I really like Costa Vida because the food is always fresh and I go there alot with my children, so for me it's good prices for the quality of the food and we enjoy the atmosphere.
(4)Lorne B.
Tortillas are best we've had! Awesome! The raspberry chipotle is very sweet. Shredded beef with just a little sweet pork quesadilla was epic! Only downfall is their system for ordering was mediocre. People behind us had their food mixed in ours and served out of order. Simple fix tho. I recommend it!
(4)Thor C.
Mmm, sweet pork! Ive been here a handful of times, Ive ordered the sweet pork enchiladas every time. Think dessert pork, for dinner ! It might sound odd until you try it, then you'll want more! They even make their own tortillas on the spot! That's right, make them, as in, start with the dough, press, cook! What other quick food place does that?! Not the Doba nor the Potle!
(4)Chris W.
Food as bland as the upper-middle class white families who eat it. Staff was short with everyone in line, and did not do a very good job of explaining options to people who are used to the much less complex menus at other fast-casual burrito chains. There is a Qdoba and Chipotle within a block of here; Go to one of them instead.
(2)Jessica J.
I have no idea what took me so long to try this place, but I am going back - like tomorrow! I have been on a salad for lunch kick. Well after awhile you just can't eat one more chicken caesar salad. So after a run to the outlets in Castle Rock I stopped off at this place before heading to the office. The parking lot (which it shares with other restaurants + a near by Super Target) was packed. Still I got a not too far off spot and headed in. The place is big and has lots of tables for sitting. It is set up like any fast burrito place (e.g. Chipotle, Qdoba...). I ordered the sweet pork salad. They put a fresh tortilla lining the bottom of the tin and then pile on beans, rice (which I omitted), meat, lettuce, cheese and pico. Plus guacamole and tomatillo ranch if you would like (dressing on the side). Can I just say it is one of my new favorite salads? I mean the pork is so yummy out of this world wow I tell you if you eat piggy you must try Costa Vida's! The salad was big and satisfying. The ingredients tasted fresh and the flavors melded together well, all for $7 and some change - Perfect. And friendly smiling faces serving up the goodness too. Always nice :) I only hesitate with giving it that last star since I have only had a salad. I will be back to try some other stuff off the menu and hopefully they will get that 5 star rating.
(4)Braden F.
Costa Vida is a great restaurant typically. Great ingredients. As far as portions go, the mean is very skimp compared to other fast casual restaraunts (cafe rio and chipotle). I've been to this location twice and have experienced this shortage of meat both times. C'mon Costa!
(3)Brig A.
So I am a fan of Cafe Rio, which this place has nearly an identical feel to it. I got the pork burrito with green chili, which was very good. I also tried the steak nachos, which weren't bad. The place is always packed and there was a line, but that should show that it is popular. The thing that keeps it from being 5 stars is that they were a little short staffed and the restaurant was a little dirty. The food was very good though. Another minor annoyance was that the sun was coming straight through the windows and there wasn't a good way to shut it out.
(4)Ricky G.
I totally disagree with some of the past reviewers. This place rocks hands down. My family eats here about 4 times per month, either for dinner or for lunch. We are usually greeted by a fine employee named Gerardo. He knows my family by name!! He's a great guy who serves up some wonderful Mexican cuisine. I will admit some things are not perfect at CV. For example, to no fault of their own, the wait in line can be unbearable for most. If you arrive at lunch time, somewhere between 1145 and 1pm, you're doomed. The line can easily reach to the front door. I refuse to wait in line for 30 minutes. I really don't know how some folks do it, especially on a lunch break from work. If you do decide to stay and wait be prepared for some noise. The restaurant can get pretty loud to say the least. Food-wise, I highly recommend any burrito smothered. I also recommend the fish tacos. YUM! Ask for the mexican style ranch dressing to pour on top of the fish tacos. It's a little spicy, but delish. The guacamole is out of this world too. I can't get enough of it. I love it. If you managed to save room for dessert, go ahead and try the Key Lime Pie. Its pretty authentic for these neck of the woods.
(5)Natalie G.
Given how long this place has been here I'm a little surprised it took me this long to go in. Stopped in for my first time a couple of weeks ago, it is a bit hidden, unless you are coming out of Target. Had the Sweet Pork Enchilada, which was fantastic. Also did a shredded beef burrito. They have great choices of sauces and other ingredients. 2nd time back enjoyed a steak quesadilla, and another burrito. Good value for good food, and seriously the fresh tortillas are the best in town.
(4)Jason J.
Came here recently for lunch and the place was very packed, but the line moved super quick. Kind of reminds me of Qdoba or Chipotle or any place like that where they shuffle you through a line to put together all your food. I wasn't in the mood for a burrito (which I hear are fabulous here), so I had the nachos, which were exceptional. The wife had a taco salad, which looked good enough for me to want to switch plates with her. Now that I know they're so good and so close to my office, I'll be back!
(4)David T.
Food was fine. Spouse and I enjoyed, although I got food poisoning my last 2 times in. Won't be returning-
(1)Lindsey A B.
I love the food here!! So yummy :). The sweet pork and cilantro ranch dressing is what keeps me coming back. We have also used them for business lunches and everything is always good and on time!
(5)Jefferson H.
I really love this place!! In an age where everything from surfboards to the food we eat is mass-produced, Costa Vida is rebelling against soul-less, artificial food. You'll never see them pour pre-made salsa out of a bag that was mixed at some corporate lab and shipped across the country. Costa Vida goes to great lengths to ensure the freshest all-natural ingredients are used and prepared from scratch each day. After all, a meal made fresh daily, just tastes better! The intense and diverse flavors of Costa Vida will make your taste buds boogie and leave you satisfied and energized. Go check this place out.
(5)Jessica F.
The people are so friendly! The food is unique and extremely delicious! The place is always clean and the price is right. It's a newer style Chipotle with different flavors and more to offer. Second location just opened at Broadway and Hampden and it's just as good. So glad to be blocks away, it's fast and never disappointing!
(5)Sho G.
This is the only location of this chain in our state. It is set up similar to other fast food sit down Mexican restaurants (Qdoba, Chipotle, Freebirds, Cafe Rio) and I have to say this is one of the better versions. The food here is of a higher quality than you will find at the other chains. The menu has a bit more diversity as well. The salsa actually has a bit of kick and the sweet pork was something else. Putting some Cholula on the sweet pork was a magical experience. The tres leche cake was some of the best I've had for a restaraunt of this type. The staff was also friendly and I didn't feel like I was in an assembly line being processed as fast as possible like at Qdoba and Chipotle. Even though the location is far from convenient I will be making return trips to go here.
(4)Louis C.
Which came first...Chipotle, Qdoba or Costa Vida? It doesn't really matter because they are all the same to me. Nothing really stood out about Costa Vida in respects to the other two. The burritos are decent. Good food...not spectacular.
(3)Bill M.
Hey costa vida! Had lunch there today! Thanks for the food poisoning! Cramping diarrhea is the best! You guys rock! I will be sure come back soon
(1)Ed P.
Last week my wife met me for lunch at Costa Vida, which is just across the highway from my office. Neither of us had visited this small chain that appears to have originated in Utah, so we had no idea what to expect. Upon arrival I was shocked at how crowded the counter service restaurant was. Taking a quick glance at the menu, I quickly decided on a chicken burrito while my wife chose the sweet pork enchiladas inside of flour tortillas. We each followed along the counter as our selections were prepared and we were able to pick the ingredients that we wanted to go into each. I opted for rice, black beans, chicken, cheese and what I think was Tomatillo Cilantro Sauce. It was a little hard to understand the offerings so I just went with what looked the best. I also had my burrito smothered, which added more cheese and the selected sauce to the top. From there the burrito is sent through a rolling oven similar to what you'd see at Quiznos. And finally some lettuce and pico de gallo was added to the side of the big burrito. The choices for my wife weren't as difficult. The enchiladas come with your choice of meat and cheese and then smothered with Red Enchilada Sauce and more cheese. The rice and choice of beans (pinto or black) are served on the side and again this dish is garnished with lettuce and pico de gallo. My first taste of my burrito was filled with lots of sweetness. This initially threw me off as I had never tasted Mexican food that was so sweet. I soon realized that I may have been given their Raspberry Chipolte Chicken. When I ordered I wasn't given an option on the type of chicken, and I only saw one offering, so everyone must be getting the raspberry flavored chicken. This isn't completely strange to me as I often use lemonade when preparing chicken for tacos at home, but the sweetness was very overwhelming in this dish. Once I found a bottle of Cholula I was able to spice the meal more to my liking. I'm also thinking that the sauce I had selected may have been sweet as well, since the sweetness didn't come out in my wifes enchiladas as much as my burrito, and she even ordered the sweet pork. We also ordered a side of chips and salsa to go with our meal, and were given an obscene amount of chips (a filled pan the same that our meals came in) and some pretty good tasting salsa. I was afraid that the salsa would be overly sweet as well, but it wasn't. So perhaps I somehow selected all the sweet ingredients for my burrito, and there are ways to create something that would more suit my taste. I'm not sure, and I'm not sure I will ever find out. I don't go out for lunch very often at all, and I don't think the restaurant competes with my favorite Chipotle burrito, even though they are quite different.
(2)Steve S.
Wow, was I pleasant surprised when I walked into this Chipotle clone. Clean tables and floors along with decent prices have the makings of a winner. Also, the tortillas are AMAZING! Fresh and chewy. The food ain't that bad either. I'm thinking I might need to try a burrito next time and bypass the quesadilla that grabbed my attention. Now, I won't be making any special trips down here just to eat the delicious tortillas and stare at the clean floors, but it definitely will be a good option in the food desert that is Lone Tree.
(4)Jerrold W.
The absolute worst food experience ever!!!! Wednesday 11/13/2013 at approximately 5:15 PM we ordered a chicken quesadilla which was prepared quickly and efficiently. Then came the "Cash Register Nightmare"! One customer was ahead of us to pay and the mention of a $25.00 gift card hit the deck. While we waited, waited, and waited and our food began to get cold the young man at the register began swiping and authorizing these gift cards.......after about 10 minutes of this incredulous display of customer service my wife and I walked out the door and left our order on the counter. We were never asked by any employee or manager if there was a problem or why we were departing the premises and not paying for our order. Customer service of this nature should never occur and while we we standing in line to pay with cash in hand wouldn't one think that a manager would step up to alleviate this most ugly situation? Costa Vida will never see us again, EVER!
(1)Kate D.
We love this place! The food is so fresh and delicious. We used a Groupon and they were crazy busy, but the employees were working it! They all laughed and joked with all of their guests, and Courtney at the register was as sweet as all can get. Management is lucky to have these employees who make their customers feel so welcome.
(5)Chris A.
We eat here very often, and have never had a bad experience. The sweet pork is very sweet, but mellows out nicely with rice and beans. The chicken nachos are great, with plenty of cheese. The staff always seems friendly, and courteous.
(5)Meagan S.
"Costa Vida has awesome sweet pork (and this is coming from a non- pork eater)! Great atmosphere, friendly staff, highly recommend."
(5)Al C.
It's popular for sure, but I had the Pork Quesadilla and the meat was so sweet it over powered everything! I couldn't taste anything but the sugar they put in the meat. They also have a raspberry chicken that seem REALLY out of place in a Mexican restaurant. Not a good mix of savory and sweet at all. Probably won't be back.
(2)Annie C.
This Costa Vida is a bit different from the ones in Utah. I was a bit bummed to see that they don't have the daily special menu. The service was slower than Utah as well. Usually there are at least 4 or 5 servers behind the counters but this time there were only 3. The server gave good portion and was friendly. (I ordered the small pork salad) The food was yummy like I expected.
(4)Adam F.
Loaded up the family to eat there for Cinco De Mayo...and they were closed. What kind of Mexican food restaurant is closed on Cinco De Mayo?
(1)Kay R.
This place would like to be as good as Qdoba or Chipotle. Sadly, it isn't even close. I grew up in Southern California eating really good Mexican food, and this place doesn't even seem to have been inspired by Mexican food. Costa Vida is to Mexican food what P.F. Chang's is to Chinese food, i.e. it isn't. (Remember, the P.F. in P.F. Chang's stands for Paul Fleming -- not exactly the most well-known Chinese guy out there.) I've tried any number of items there, as I occasionally go to lunch with a friend who loves the place. I can honestly say there isn't one good thing on the menu, unless you're inspired by the idea of raspberry-flavored chicken or sugary pork. It's just nasty stuff. The most tolerable item I've had has been the enchiladas, but once they're made and go through their McDonald's-like oven/conveyor belt, they're soggy and gummy. The tortillas virtually disintegrate in the sauce. I had to laugh the time we went to Costa Vida and saw a big sign heralding "Voted Best Mexican Food in Utah!" Huh? UTAH?? I don't usually think Utah when I'm thinking Mexican food, so such an award isn't too impressive. That's like someone voting a restaurant "Best French food in Acapulco." I have to protest the review that said Costa Vida feels like a California-infused Qdoba. Trust me, California would NEVER make food like this and call it Mexican. Blech.
(2)Nicole R.
Nothing bad to say about Costa Vida. THE BEST EVER. Something about those tortillas and that tomatillo ranch.. and and and. Mouth is literally watering just thinking about it!!
(5)JACKY L.
We have been at Costa Vida Lone Tree, so many times.......at least once a week, we are those that walk in and the personnel already starts preparing your order because they know us, the staff is great, they food is really good and fresh! We really enjoy this place, is great to have a fast food like this just down the street!! Congrats Costa Vida!!! awesome food!
(5)Dana S.
Out of rice at 3:00 pm is one thing being so rude about it is another thing Won't be back with that treatment. Cafe Rio is so much better and the people are way friendlier.
(1)Melissa B.
Costa Vida is so yummy! The staff is excellent and so is the atmosphere :) Steak Quesadillas!
(5)Jo C.
Yea, NO. This is the second time I have picked up lunch here and both times have been lacking in quality as well as customer service. The first was salad with raspberry chipotle chicken: Sorry, they taste like sweet raspberry jelly was poured on top. Yuck! Second time was yesterday and I had the steak burrito: Very disappointing! The tortilla was good and the steak was tender and had good flavor only THERE WERE ONLY 4 SMALL PIECES in the entire $9 burrito!!!!! And the sauce I ordered hot. Yea, not only mild but tasteless. Wait time is WAY too long. I spent 20 minutes in line the first time and 15 the second. Won't be back. Don't bother with this place. Overpriced and not tasty.
(1)Jason J.
Daaaaaamn! Working right down the street from here is dangerous. Like, swimming in a kerosene pool that's lit around the edges by drunk men with blowtorches dangerous. I could eat my weight in food here in a heartbeat. Or maybe two heartbeats since the food intake would surely slow my heart down. I went in with a coworker upon a recommendation of the ladyfriend, and holy crap am I glad. I can't believe I hadn't heard about this place. Chipotle will still always be my first love as far as fast "mexican" food goes, but this place is amazing. It wasn't very expensive, though it took a while to serve, the fresh tortillas are amazing, as are the ingredients. It was a delicious change from what I normally ear. There are a ton of menu options, they don't hesitate to let you customize you order (and are glad to make sure you're getting exactly what you want.) I enjoy that all their meals come with beans and rice, an added little bonus -- it just makes the meal bigger. Everything is fresh, and tastes great, and is now a lunch staple. I constantly can't wait to go back!
(5)Barbi P.
This place is similar to Chipotle you pick what you want and then go down the line and pick what you want in it. The main differences to me are that they make their tortillas here, the ingredients don't seem as high of quality or as fresh and they will smother your burrito in yummy sauces. The reason I crave this place and want to go all the time is the tomatillo ranch. I have tried to make it at home and its just not the same. I love it. The restaurant feels like a California infused Qdoba. No complaints there.
(4)Jamie K.
Sweet pork! The last time I had sweet pork was 2 years ago visiting friend in Fort Collins and hitting up Cafe Mexacali! Now I have a place closer to home. I like this place because it's like Chipotle but fresher and better!
(5)Dale Z.
I had heard good things about the sweet pork burrito, so I had to check it out. The name did not lie, but the taste did disappoint. It was sweet to the point of tasting dessert-like. Sadly, this sweetness (like pork stewed overly long with sugar) was the dominant flavor. It really overpowered everything else in or on the burrito. I did not try the steak or chicken burrito which might have given me a better baseline for comparing this to other chains. However, I honestly do not see why one would choose this over Chipotle, Qdoba, or Bocaza.
(2)Matt G.
Much much better than Chipotle / Qdoba with a friendly staff that seem to enjoy their work. Worth going for the sweet pork alone.
(5)Margaret L.
Amazingly delicious!! The chipotle raspberry chicken salad is like heaven! You pick your own add ons and dressing, it really doesn't get much better than that! I don't see myself getting tired of Costa Vida anytime soon!
(5)Floyd R.
Pretty unimpressive. When we walked in, they were three people working who pretty much ignored all the customers. The owner clearly needs to be more involved in running this place. The temperature was 80° with no air conditioning and nothing could seem to be done about it. All of the entrées are very similar except for different meats. Almost everything seem to be coated in sugar: meats, salad dressings etc. This SLC chain needs to learn that Coloradans prefer healthier choices.
(1)Jim W.
Things that amaze me about this place... 1. Hands down, honest to cornflakes the best burrito chain type place in town (more about that later...) 2. The constant number of people when I mention CV, have never tried it (insert buzzer sfx here) It's been open for like 5 years people! I'm seriously addicted to their sweet pork burrito. Gotta get something carryout for dinner on the way home? The Sport Trac magically aims it's way here. The wife usually is a very happy gal if I pick up a salad with their awesome lime chipolte dressing as well. OK, it's a chain, But it's the only one in CO, so everybody happy? This location is a single franchise, not run by some local conglomeate intent on saturating the city. So you can feel good about grabbing some awesome grub without lining Big Bro's pockets. Last point...I've been coming here regularly since they've opened, and I think they've had near zero turnover with the serving line staff the entire time. Obviously they take very good care of their employees, they love their job, and it shows in the constant quality of the food they serve. Fresh, cool, and awesome. Everybody in the pool.....
(5)Juanita H.
Love the food and the service! I usually get the same thing - the sweet pork burrito - and have never had a problem with the food. Consistently good! The employees are very friendly and remember me even tho' I don't get there more than every couple of months (it's a bit of a drive to go there but I make the effort). Definitely recommend if you want a little bit different type of "Mexican" food!
(5)Alex L.
Sweet pork burrito smothered in green chili. HEAVEN! This place has the best burrito ever. The staff is super friendly and they are very quick, even at rush hour! The quality of the food is above par and their prices are extremely reasonable for the quality. (Not a hug fan of Chipolte or Qdoba after this place!) Have tried a large array of things on the menu here, and all of them have been very good. Definitely worth a visit, you will not be disappointed!!
(4)Shelly J.
I really like the fish tacos. They cook the fish fresh as you order.
(4)Erin H.
Tried it for the first time yesterday. Was surprised that it was a Chipotle-style restaurant. While the dining space was very nice, I was not impressed by the food. Everything I ate had a sweet undertone to it. I like my Mexican food spicy and salty, not sweet. The only thing with a LITTLE kick was the queso, which was not fantastic. I went for the enchiladas. Have to say this was mostly because I was intrigued as to how they could do enchiladas at this type of restaurant. Well, maybe they shouldn't be. I had one steak and one cheese. The steak was chewy and the cheese was lacking and not really melted. The green chile sauce had no kick, or maybe they just didn't put enough on. For the price and the experience, I'll stick with Chipotle.
(2)Carissa P.
We ate there twice in as many weeks if that says anything. This place blows the doors off of QDoba and Chipotle if you ask me. The tortillas are hand made, warm, and soft, and they have better sauces like a cilantro ranch as well as a mango salsa that we try and duplicate at home. We also love their enchiladas smothered with a tomatillo sauce instead of the customary red sauce. It's a nice change and works well with the flavors. It's super casual with a big open dining room that's kid-friendly along with a patio on the side of the building. It's an oder, grab, and sit place that's good for something quick and easy. We had them cater a party we had at our home 3 years ago and it was a success. They arrived early, prepared, and were fantastic to the guests. Their traveling selection was great and everyone loved how they could customize their orders. Their pricing was reasonable too. We'd use them for catering again.
(4)Jafey A.
Very solid "Mexican" food. The only drawback to it is the lack of a kick with the spices. It is a good place to go to when in the area and in a hurry
(3)G R.
OK, fine, it's not a Chipotle, not a Qdoba but then again it's not a McDonald's either. This is not a fast food joint but the food is GREAT! Sauces are good, its freshly made, tortillas and all .... give it a try (strangely enough we still can't figure out their schedule) but its worth the wondering in. The "green" sauce is yummy!!!! Give it a try and you will see while I am at a loss for a longer description. Enjoy!
(4)Jennifer B.
The sweet pork burrito is about the best thing ive ever tasted!
(5)Matthew D.
I would write a better review because I think that Costa Vida does so many things right. However, their food is subpar, and when you are reviewing a restaurant food must be first on the list. I have been to this location in Lone Tree 3 times. I have been to locations in Utah (where it originated) probably 25 times. I was very excited when I found out they were opening in Colorado so I went. I was very disappointed. While it reminded me of the best TEX MEX restaurant in the land (Cafe Rio, which did not yet have a Colorado location) it also made me realize how inferior it was. The portions were horrible at this Costa Vida location. How much does rice and beans cost? Why on earth would a restaurant be skimpy on the rice and beans? I could barely see any rice and beans as I was eating and the taste was just not that rich. I did like that atmosphere at Costa Vida. The physical aspects of the restaurant are great. Very nice, clean look. Fun atmosphere with TVs showing Sportscenter and such. However, the food was skimpy and the taste was bland. I will not return. Others will likely love it, but I thought it was just average. If you want amazing Tex Mex you should go to Cafe Rio (one of my other reviews, and 5 stars. I am not affiliated with Cafe Rio in any way).
(3)Dave H.
My wife and I found this place after several trips to Sky Ridge Medical Center (in preparation for the birth of our first child). It has now become a staple, thanks to great food, a friendly staff and a decent atmosphere. My wife gets the Mango Chicken salad (the small tends to be more than enough for a meal), while I always opt for the chicken burrito, with the medium sauce (sweet and spicy) both inside the burrito and smothered. What I like about the Costa Vida touch is they run the smothered burritos through an oven to give it that extra heat and flavor. Wahoo's still holds the edge on decor, but Costa Vida definitely delivers on the quality. We make a point to eat there at least once a month. And while our baby isn't old enough to eat here, I believe they have a great deal for families ... something along the lines of "kids eat free" on a particular day.
(4)Seth J.
Liked: The salads! The burritos! The drinks imported from Mexico. The ambience is kinda cool with the huge flat screen TV's constantly showing surfing videos. The sweet pork burrito is the best. Get it smothered. Didn't Like: That it's not original. The whole idea for the restaurant was stolen from a chain in Utah called Cafe Rio. But really, I don't care. I forgive them with all my heart, and I thank them for bringing their food to Denver.
(4)Kira M.
One of my favorite restaurants in Colorado! This place makes THE best tortillas I have ever had. Everything is extremely fresh. The meats are to die for, especially the shredded beef, which is delicious. You really get your moneys worth here. The burritos are massive, and come with beans and rice. They also serve incredible homemade ice cream--Longboards-- which they dip into a vat of chocolate right in front of you. Kids are welcome here, and the service is always friendly and prompt, just how I like it. My only drawback is that there isn't a whole lot of salsas. One the best things about joints like these are the mouth-watering array of salsas. (Chipotle is better at this, but they are behind in the tortilla area.) I would still recommend this to anyone in the area.
(4)Brandon W.
Hit up the Tuesday $2 taco night and was very impressed. The tacos are awesome, especially the pork. Very juicy and tasty. My gripe would be the beans and rice they slap on and charge an extra 99 cents for. Really? Might want to mention that before you ask while you're putting them on there. All in all, great place and I'll be back...often.
(4)Jon R.
So I got a coupon in the mail for this place and decided to use it (i'm very frugal or economically savy). This place have good selections and it draws a nice crowd. The portions are big enough to feed two below average individuals. I must say this place is better than Chipotle (sorry burrito bowls)!
(4)Dana M.
I always enjoy tacos and these guys have $2 taco Tuesdays and $5 burritos (After 5pm is the catch). The staff is always friendly and caters to my strange substitutions. I'll add three different salsas and some salad dressing on top, extra lettuce and cheese with no extra charge. Bummer than chips and salsa are not included with the burritos. For Lone Tree this place is a find!
(4)Lacey M.
Mmmmmmm... Just had lunch here today, after reading the great reviews and noticing how close it is to my work. Even with semi-high expectations I was not disappointed!! As others have mentioned, this is another typical fast food burrito chain... only WAY better then the ones that usually come to mind. I decided to try something different, and went with the Sweet Pork Burrito (stuffed with rice, green chile, cheese and sour cream) and a side of chips & queso. Their freshly made tortillas are really what makes these burritos killer. Such a huge difference that makes! The pork had an amazing flavor, and wasn't too sweet at all (which i was a little worried about). It mixed fantastically with the Chipotle-flavored Tabasco, actually. I really liked the queso too, and the chips tasted home-made. A huge plus for me was being able to get a small side of it for only $1.99. There are 2 minor reasons that I this place only gets 4 stars instead of 5: they charged me $0.49 for sour cream in my burrito, and they didn't have any type of spicy sauce or salsa (the pico apparently is spicy, but I don't do big chunks of onions). However, I will definitely be coming here from now on instead of my other go-to's (Qdoba, Chipotle) for lunch. And you should too!!
(4)Lauren B.
LOVE the food here. It's all very fresh (they even make the tortillas in front of you) and the portions are great. The guys making the food are all very nice and do a great job. The only thing I don't like about this location is it seems the owner may be a bit stingy with coupons/discounts/ect. They sometimes put weird restrictions on when you can use coupons and how they can be used. But other than that...there's nothing else I don't like!
(4)Joel T.
This is better than Chipotle/Qdoba/IP/Baja and the others. The reason you ask? Simple, it has fresh made tortillas hot off the press. It makes all of the difference. The chipotle chicken burrito was really good, but minus one star for the lack of spicy salsa selections. No I don't want a sweet raspberry sauce on top of my burrito! I want a real spicy hot sauce. Oh and I almost forgot, they have Lemon-Lime Powerade stocked in the soda fountain. Freaking delightful.
(4)M K.
For those that think Chipotle is good Mexican food, you'll love this place. It's bland and tasteless with big portions (mostly rice and beans with maybe 3 ounces of protein) for a reasonable amount of money. I've been twice just to give it a second chance as I really wanted to like it, but realized there are way better options than this...even in the southern burbs. The raspberry chipotle chicken is way too sweet. Imagine chicken slathered in raspberry jam, and that's pretty much what you get. The mango chicken (from the mango chicken salad) is very sweet too, with no hint of spice. The beans (black and pinto) and rice have little to no flavor, and the first day I was there, the re-fried beans looked like they had been sitting on the line for days. I went with several co-workers and every one of them was underwhelmed with all of the entrees. The Chili Verde plate is decent, and I thought it came with salsa but ended up paying extra for what I thought should have been free. Overall, it's 'safe' in that this place offers nothing new except a little conveyor that heats your burrito. Please note the comments on the door. This location is a vacuum and the door blows open continually and while trying to find what little enjoyment you can in the food, you will be continually blasted with cold air depending on where you sit in the restaurant.
(2)Renee K.
Why did I wait until 3 mos. before I'm moving from the area to try Costa Vida?? Why or why? I've seen it a million times, but it took a BOGO coupon to bring me in. What a treat! For under $10 we stuffed ourselves on cheese enchiladas, veggie tacos, rice, beans, chips and a huge portion of very spicy, pico type salsa. Everything was delicious, especially the freshly-made tortillas. Even without the coupon, it would have been an excellent value. And, here's to a place that actually gives vegetarians a $1 deduction on the regular price of menu items! Indeed! The atmosphere is much like the other casual dining, fresh Mex places. Staff was very friendly and responsive. There are nightly specials offered, but with kid's meals only $3.25 (including, burrito, enchilada, or taco plus rice and beans and a drink!) there is no reason to wait for a coupon or special. Colin's enchilada meter: 5
(5)Chris P.
Food is good, but what kind of a restaurant is closed on Sunday? Seriously?! To add to my review. I am presently in line. It's an odd time(3:30) but there is actually only 1 person working! He's making the meals and working the register! There goes another star, and if I didn't have a groupon I'd be out the door.
(1)Todd T.
This place is in the style of Chipotle and Qdoba in that you walk past the wall, tell the tortilla guy what you want, then walk in front of the person who asks you what you want on your burrito, etc. However, that's where the comparison ends. Unless you are a mindless drone that only loves the super chains like Chipotle and Qdoba, you have to check this place out. It's a smaller chain. Their specialty is sweet pork. You can have it on a burrito, a salad, a quesadilla, and just about anything else you want. It is wonderful. It is so full over flavor! I'm told they marinade it in a Dr. Pepper mixture. Their tomatillo salsa is the best I've ever had. The service is really fast and friendly. Try something with the sweet pork and let your taste buds get down with their bad selves! UPDATE - 12/23/13 We went to Costa Vida again today. We've been here at least 6 or 7 times over the past two years and the customer service is absolutely WONDERFUL every time. No doubt the owner is first class all the way. The managers are always polite and make conversation with me. They always ask me how I am doing, make compliments to my children, etc. They always thank me with a smile and I don't feel like I do when I go to other fast food joints where you're lucky to get a grunt out of the employees at the counter. The food has always been incredible. I would give this place a 50 star rating if I could!
(5)Justin L.
Costa Vida, Chipotle, Qdoba, Illegal Petes...honestly, there's not much of a difference between them. Maybe it's something about the uprising of these type of restaurants in Colorado - fast, quick, tasty, and efficient food that you can casually eat sitting down and get out leaving full in 10 minutes. However, they're almost all the same, and they're everywhere here...and after eating them all the time, it's the little things that count. I bought a chicken quesadilla, which wasn't half bad, but at the same time wasn't all that great either. I asked for some salsa and they charged me $.60. Are you seriously charging me for a tiny bit of salsa?! I think I'll still stick with Chipotle...cheaper, I can customize what I want, and they don't nickel and dime me..
(2)Kirsten L.
Disclaimer: I've been going to Costa Vida since it first opened many years ago in Utah, and when I haven't lived near one I've missed it. I've always like the concept and would put it far ahead of Chipotle in my book. This review is just on my most recent visit this week though, and I feel like something has changed, or maybe its just this particular location. I always, always, always order a vegetarian burrito, black beans, red sauce, enchilada style. I've had way too many to count over the years. But this time the red sauce was lacking its usual flavor and spice, and there wasn't near enough of it both inside and on the top of the burrito. I ask for it smothered because I don't want it dry, but somehow this oneactually was with the small amount of sauce they put on top. It wasn't as good as it usually is for me, and at $6.25 for a little burrito with just beans and rice is a little much, especially since they charge extra for just about everything. Other complaints: the queso is good but the chips were hard and stale. The guacamole I paid $1 extra for was a pitiful little scoop - I should have gone across the way to Qdoba and gotten twice as much for the same price. I still have a special place in my heart for this place, but another mediocre visit and I might have to start driving farther and spending my money on this place's predecessor, Cafe Rio.
(3)Steve W.
10 bucks for a burrito that is comparable to a Chipotle burrito???
(2)Kris K.
get the sweet pork salad.... and the lime cilantro ranch dressing. I could eat here everyday (& I am NOT a salad girl by any means).
(5)Tsun T.
This place is very much like Chipotle, but higher quality of food. I had the burito and it was delicious. The portion is good and price is right.
(4)Blaine S.
This is a good place to eat. Good value. good food... A wee bit more expensive than maybe Chipotle, but 4 times better !! The portions are tasty and huge and all the burritios are more healthy and tasty being smoothered in sauce and lettuce and tomatos... We usually go and split a big burrito and it ends up cheaper than Chipotle !!! .. cheaper than any other burrito franchise... and much better !!!... They do serve beer which is nice and different soft drinks... I reccommend water to go with the great, tasty, swimming in sauce burrito... This way you can save a few dollars, and water is more healthy than pop or a over-priced beer.. Definitely better food than Chipoltle.. or any of the others.
(4)Sean S.
if you are going to eat a chipoltle style burrito then you may aswell do it here. the staff is ultra friendly and the ingredients are fresh.
(4)Marie M.
I used to eat at Costa Vida several times weekly. The food really is tasty, and there are some healthier options available. I no longer eat here, due to the fact that I found ROCKS in my black beans TWICE. Last time I bit down on a pebble, and it really hurt my tooth. I emailed the company, and got no response. Not even an 'I'm sorry'.
(2)John C.
Not just another burrito place, Costa Vida is competing on cool. The interior design, branding, and personnel all say "hip surfer joint". The attractive wait staff sporting custom Costa Vida t-shirts with "Yummy" across the front don't hurt either. This is all well and good, but what makes Costa Vida great is the food. Their signature item, a sweet pork burrito is not something that can be had on the Chipotle or Qdoba assembly line. What's more, you won't walk out the door wondering how much research was required to create such a perfect gut bomb (don't laugh, you know I'm serious). Instead, you had a meal that was tastey, made by a staff that was friendly, with whom you'd love to spend money, time and again. Oh, and I saw Ian Gold, LB - Denver Broncos there, so it must be healthy too.
(4)Damion W.
Homemade tortillas! That is definitely the highlight. This place gets BUSY during lunch and dinner. They have a unique flavor, it is more like TexMex than it is a Mexican restaurant. I would classify it more as a Fresh Mex flavor. I have had several things from Costa Vida, my favorite being the sweet roasted pork. You can get it on tacos, burritos, quesadillas, etc. The flavor is VERY good. Overall, if I was in the area and wanted something different than authentic mexican food or Chipotle, I would definitely go to CV. One thing that is a plus... the staff is VERY friendly!
(4)Charles H.
Amazing! The food here has been excellent the many times my wife and I have visited. The staff is friendly and the selections are very universal so you feel like you could meet most anyone here and it would work out. Think of it somewhat like a Subway for Mexican food. You start at one end of the line, choose your dish, select all of the items you would like on said dish, and then at the end you are placed in front of the cash register. I will say that this place is insanely busy around the peak dining times (12pm and 445pm+) meaning that you could potentially wait in line for up to 30 minutes. Parking is ample so that this not an issue, but make certain your phone is up to full power before going during peak times because you will need something to do...However, you cannot hold that against them. They are well staffed with friendly employees, they are just really popular and are located in a nice spot for those breaking from work or heading home. Highly recommend!
(5)Erik S.
Love the fresh tortilla. Today I had a burrito with the sweet pork. Gotta say, not a fan. Way too sweet. Rice was under-cooked and crunchy. I'm thinking I should stick to Qdoba.
(3)Craig P.
Concept: excellent Atmosphere: good Menu: very good Food: good-very good Service: poor but fast They need half as many folks behind the counter.They go so fast that they forget to get your order right and completely abandon the customer experience. They could work on speaking more clearly or at very least louder.
(3)Sarah H.
My boss bought my team lunch from Costa Vida about a week ago. Since that time, I've visited the restaurant twice! I'm stuck on the sweet shrimp tacos... so freakin' good! I also tried the Tres Leche cake on my visit last night. So moist and delicious. It was the perfect portion size, but it was so sweet I still only ate half. I also tried a bite of my partner's sweet pork enchiladas. They were pretty good, though the pork was actually a little too sweet for my taste - it was like a pork mole`. As others have mentioned, the concept is very similar to a Chipotle or Qdoba: you pick an entrée type, pick your protein, pick your rice and beans, and pick your sauce and toppings. However, I wouldn't say Costa Vida is competition for the other burrito chains: the food is more like fast food authentic Mexican / fish taco hut than like a burrito chain. They also have a conveyor belt oven to melt your cheese and heat up your food. It's a nice option when you're wanting real Mexican food or Tex-Mex but don't want a full-service dining experience. The prices seem steep, but when you compare to other fast-casual concepts, it's pretty much around the same price point. Word of warning: avoid the Lone Tree location unless you like really crowded places and go to the location in Englewood instead. It's quieter, the line is shorter, and I found the service there to be much more friendly and helpful.
(4)Nick R.
After years of hearing how good this place is I finally decided to give it a try with a group of friends this past weekend. After a subpar lunch I can say for certain that I won't be going back. First, when they take your order they don't even give you time to tell them what ingredients you want included. I had to stop the lady a couple times to tell her I wanted something she had passed over. After that frustration we had to deal with a few under trained teens working the register. They seemed confused and were quickly frustrated that we were asking questions about some of the food that was just ordered. Once we got past the headache of ordering and paying I was excited to try the smothered pork burrito I had heard so much about. The first bite was a pretty bland but not bad (mostly tortilla). The next few bites were the exact same which is a problem since I was into the meat of the burrito. Three of the four people at the table ended up using bottled hot sauce on our smothered burritos which already had their sauce on the inside and outside. Their 'hot' sauce was bland and had no flavor/heat to it! Needless to say, most of us were disappointed with the total experience and won't return. The only positives were the tortillas (freshly made) and the layout/atmosphere of the place. I think the place would be much better if they added a little flavor to the food and some customer service training for the young staff.
(2)Dawn H.
I was just introduced to Costa Vida recently and have been a few times. I've always ordered the nachos. The best ingredient in this place is their shredded pork -- holy cow, it has just the right amount of sweetness that has me craving for more. I just couldn't get enough of that stuff. The queso sauce is excellent, too. The side of rice and beans could use a lot more work. The menu is also in a very uncomfortable place (near where you are supposed to order) which is really annoying since you'd be in everyone's way. Also, there is inconsistency on how much meat/protein they give you depending on who is working (half the time generous, half the time skimpy). This drives me crazy since I really love their shredded pork. :) Overall, a decent place to add to the rotation when you want to change it up from Hacienda. Expect to spend about $20 for a party of 2.
(4)Madison A.
I have never been disappointed when coming here. I always get the salad burrito bowl with the tomatillo sauce. I think that's what its called.... M confusion with the sauce name aside, I really like coming here. To me, it is better than Qudoba and Chipolte. They hand-make their tortillas and you can always taste a little bit of flour on the bottom, which I love!The best part of the burrito bowl is that once you eat all of the salad, you get to eat the tortilla! The atmosphere of this restaurant is great. It's nice to come here right before going to shopping at Target (just a walk across the street). It's located in a nice area with many choices of places to eat, and Costa Vida is one of the best. It's a lot like Qudoba, a fast 'line' type of restaurant. Line moves pretty quick, but they get pretty busy on the weekend around dinner time. Service depends on who is working. They have a good menu, and all of the food is good. Definitely worth stopping in and checking out. One of my favorites.
(4)Chris F.
The food is pretty good, I love the fresh tortillas. The service however is the worst. The last three times my family has been meet with one of the worst dinning experiences. Their service is a perfect execution of a real life oxymoron, the people helping you with your order rush you through the process and then you feel bad when you have to tell them that you wanted something they've passed over...then you are meet with the longest wait of your life when trying to pay for the order that only has half of what you really came in for. I don't think that the people here understand that no amount of great food can make up for a terrible experience. Personally I am happier with the service that I get from the local taco bell. The only reason they get 2 stars instead of 1 is because my kid loves the tacos.
(2)Chad W.
I came to Costa Vida for lunch today. The ingredients were fresh but there was one distinct problem with this place...the menu is posted on the wall near the entrance line. So, that's okay if the place isn't very busy but I can only imagine if there was a rush and several people didn't know what to order. I heard two other customers say, "where's the menu" after walking in. This place is very similar to a Chipotle. Just a heads-up; have an idea of what you want before you arrive.
(4)Jessica T.
My first time here and I decided to try a smothered shredded beef burrito with tomatillo sauce. Overall it was pretty bland, and there was something about the size of the rice grains that I didn't like- they were too thick, too much like risotto almost. I had to use a liberal amount of Tapatio to get any real flavor from my food. Everything is fresh, and the tortilla was quite yummy but it just fell flat for me. I think next time I'll come back and try a salad or tacos- it's right across the street from my new office so another visit is definitely a likelihood. Stay tuned for an update I guess, though Qdoba across the street is likely going to remain my preferred fast casual Mexican stop. The space is open and lots of seating options. Quite a bit of a wait though at noon on a weekday.
(3)Steve N.
This place is headed south and not in a good way. Smothered apparently means tinkled on and the shrimp taco 's feature little pink shriveled cocktail shrimp. Huh?This place used to be awesome. We fell for the buy one get free entre with purchase of 2 drinks. Not worth it.
(2)Jason W.
Got takeout from here using faxed group order. Everything was jammed into a single bag, items were missing and someone didn't seem to know which side of pie should be facing up. Food was alright ... would probably want to explore more of the menu if it wasn't so abundantly clear the staff didn't care.
(1)Jordan K.
I love this place. They always have the best staff the freshest food! The sweet pork is bar none the best thing I have ever had. Always great recommendations and always great service. I will continue to go to this place weekly I absolutely love it!
(5)David A.
I've been in twice. My wife loves this place and she always gets the sweet pork smothered in tomatillo sauce. Myself; I find that it is too sweet for my taste. The second time I ordered just a steak burrito, no smothering and while it's ok. I found that to be a mistake as well. They hand make their tortillas and I think the best way to enjoy them is to get it smothered. I just haven't found with what yet.
(3)Caroline S.
This place is awesome! They make the tortillas fresh in front of you while you wait in line. There is always a line but so worth the wait! If you are from Southern California this place is the best baja style Mexican I have had yet in Colorado! Closed Sundays so don't make the same mistake I did and get yourself all worked up for some delicious food only to find it closed.
(5)Lee K.
DO NOT ever trust this location with your CATERING order. We ordered a large catering delivery order for a very important meeting and it was over 2 hours late! We even verified the same day. I will never trust them again with my business. Sure the food is good and all, but this incident was absolutely unacceptable and they made us look like idiots. They ended up not charging us but still unacceptable and completely embarrassing.
(1)Carly P.
I work about 5 minutes up the road on Lincoln Ave. So when my coworkers came back to work from lunch one day raving about this Mexican place I knew I had to try it. Needless to say I was not disappointed at all! Lets start out by talking about their chips and queso. Can you say delicious? I can say I've literally licked the styrofoam to go carrier clean. It's that good!! They make all their tortillas right there. Next I've had the shredded beef burrito smothered with sweet green chili and sour cream. The sweet green chilli is excellent. I've had both pinto and refried beans in the burrito. The refried bean have just a little bit of spice to them. The quesadilla wasn't as good as the burrito in my opinion. My coworkers are big fans of the salads. Don't forget to grab a Costa Card! You get points back on each purchase that equals cash. It's similar to a rewards gift card. You can't beat getting something back somewhere great!!
(5)Ashley M.
We like costa vida. Really good, quick, cheap mexican. We always find coupons. Staff is always friendly. I have a great deal of respect for businesses closed on Sundays. Shredded beef quesadilla is the BEST.
(4)Lindy S.
Fresh, quality ingredients. Great chicken quesadilla. I was doing some shopping in the area and wanted a quick bite for lunch. A bit tired of the 'other' fast Mexican places famous to the metro area (which are both here...and everywhere else) I thought I would give Costa Vida a try, and now wish they had a bigger presence. I was impressed with the more 'gourmet' menu offerings like Sweet Pork and Raspberry Chipotle Chicken, but wasn't feeling particularly adventurous, so went with the grilled chicken quesadilla. Their tortillas are amazing! They taste more like something from a taco truck than a chain restaurant. The chicken was very fresh and not gristly or rubbery. The chips and queso was pretty good too. I thought it was reasonably priced - sour cream and fresh guacamole were included with the entrees (there wasn't an up-charge like there is at other places).
(4)Nic Z.
Costa Vida is essentially Chipotle. I got a bowl with chicken, rice, guacamole, and a bunch of other stuff. It was pretty good and was priced a la Chipotle, too. Wouldn't go out of my way to come back but wouldn't say no if invited.
(3)Liz C.
I have been to Costa Vida several times. I think it tasted better then chipotle or qdoba. I really like the shredded beef burrito smothered with mild sauce. Everything tastes really fresh. The staff that works there is very nice and the place itself has always appeared very clean to me. In the end it's fast food. Tastes good but nothing five stars worthy.
(4)Elaine S.
Somehow I missed the ""sweet" description for pork enchiladas. The sweet was overwhelming and masked every other flavor. I would try something different. The salads did look fresh. Don't order sweet pork unless you crave sugar, Sugar. Tortillas were good, rice too mushy. Thanks for the coupon, I will try again.
(2)Leslie L.
This place is AMAZING. After growing up on Qdoba, my friend took me here for lunch a while back. I instantly fell in love! The food is so fresh and flavorful. Yes, the line can be ridiculous sometimes but guess what? This isn't Taco Bell so wait your turn. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Alex A.
It was ok. I like the concept & atmosphere, but food was a little bland. Steak must have been made out of Wookie, cuz it was pretty chewy. Next time just hit up Chipotle.
(3)James C.
Great flavors especially if you are tired of Chipotle and Qdoba. Similar style but ultimately nicer flavors. The sweet pork is awesome and I highly recommend the raspberry chipotle chicken. I haven't had anything else off their menu but only due to being so far from where I live and work. Definitely a good choice and likely the best thing my ex-girlfriend ever introduced to me.
(5)Meghan B.
I love the food here. It is quick and fresh and you can customize your meal. The only bad thing is they are closed on Sundays which is the day we typically eat out!
(5)E Y.
when i walked up to order i noticed that the top of the glass partition had not been dusted in... 6 months? totally grossed me out, but embarrassingly, not enough for me to turn around and walk out the door. and don't even judge me because we've all been to a place(s) like that. i tried the raspberry chipotle chicken quesadilla because it seemed different. in retrospect, what was i thinking? cheese and raspberry? it was actually pretty good, but nothing too exciting. cheese, chicken, and raspberry sauce (just enough flavor, and not too sweet). glad i tried it, but would rather explore the menu if there's a next time. i must admit i'm a rice snob (i'm asian). with that said, the rice was good, especially because there's a lot of butter in it, duh. stay away from the (black) beans, just get more rice. and i also tried the mango salsa. may or may not have eaten it straight out of the cup. and would totally do it again. also need to mention that the ladies making my food were less than professional. wah wah.
(3)