Written by Pamela Rossi and Lyn Rossi Semeta
The Vaca restaurant in Costa Mesa, California is a wonderful culinary experience offering authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. The menu was conceived by Top Chef (Bravo – Season 13) Chef Amar Santana. Chef Santana, along with his partner Ahmed Labbate, has created a dining experience that is fabulously delicious and memorable.
Chef Amar Santana
Pic credit: Vaca Restaurant
As you walk through the front doors of Vaca, you feel like you are in Spain. The interior design, and the delicious aromas floating through the air, instantly take over your senses, and you know that you are in for a singular experience.
order a glass of fabulous wine at the bar
Accenting the authenticity of this eatery is the beautifully smoked leg of jamón, ready to be carved and presented for all to see – just as you find in Spain. A cooler with prime meat selections and a charcuterie bar with a fantastic range of cheeses and meats imported from Spain add to the ambiance.
and a charcuterie bar with a variety of cheeses and meats
imported from Spain!
Throughout the restaurant are pictures of cows (Vaca’s logo) which is true to the imagery that is found throughout the Spanish countryside. The interior colors are representative of the crimson and mustard yellow of the Spanish flag. This is a wonderful reminder that the restaurant stays true to its Spanish influences yet presents that southern California comfortable ambiance.
Indoor and Outdoor Seating
Especially inviting, the outdoor dining area backs up to large outdoor lawns and walking paths. From the patio, you can view the walking bridge that leads to the South Coast Plaza Shopping Center, making this spot especially convenient for lunch before or after a shopping spree!
Note the artwork and the images of the cow – vaca!
Culinary Experiences
The dishes that I ordered on my visit were all incredible (see pictures below), and each selection was better than the last. Upon the recommendation of the waitress, I ordered two menu items that I usually would not attempt and typically do not enjoy. However, this speaks to the exceptional Chef and his brilliant talents – you try a dish outside your comfort zone and find that it is your new favorite! Wow, Vaca!
5StarTip🌟:
The Vaca menu offers a variety of appealing options for those who are vegetarian or gluten-free.
Scallop, shrimp, chicken, chorizo, saffron,
bomba rice, saffron aioli
Las Paellas
Beef carpaccio, geoduck, spicy uni aioli,
crispy rice, brown butter soy vinaigrette
I am usually partial to smoked and grilled meats but on the waitresses’ recommendation, I tried the carpaccio. She was spot-on as the dish was delicate with a tantalizing fresh light marinade that accentuated the beef perfectly!
Smoked chicken cannelloni, foie gras sauce,
sherry reduction
The Canellon De Pollo Ahumado was a surprise. The smokiness of the chicken paired with the velvety creamy sauce really packed a myriad of amazing flavors.
Paleta Iberica, manchego,
truffles, panini
The sandwich was delectable, and I recommend diving in and enjoying it as soon as it is served, as the cheese is best when eaten hot.
dessert
The churros con chocolate dessert is a magnificent classic treat and the Chef lifts this dish to a new level with his creative touch and adding a decadent chocolate dip.
Dessert
Mama Santana’s flan isn’t your average flan. It has the perfect density with a subtle, balanced flavor that really made this dessert a small slice of heaven! Can I have another, please!
5StarTip🌟:
🌟 I highly recommend ordering several dishes and sharing so that you can taste more selections on the menu. My fellow writer, Lyn and I did this and loved all the tastes we were able to enjoy as a result. Please note that though sharing is an extra charge, if you request the dish to be split onto 2 plates, there is a $5 charge per split.
🌟 The restaurant is a perfect choice for lunch in the city of Costa Mesa. Along with a regular lunch menu, Vaca also offers an “Express Lunch” that is pre-fixe and has three options. The menu changes frequently, but you can access the choices by clicking here: Vaca Express Lunch Menu
Location:
| Friday | 11AM–2:30 PM, 5–10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 5–10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 5–9:30 PM |
| Monday | 11AM–2:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 11AM–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11AM–2:30 PM, 5–10:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11AM–2:30 PM, 5–10:30 PM |
The location is not only within walking distance of the upscale stores of South Coast Plaza shopping center but also right next to the world-famous Segerstrom Center for the Arts. You can enjoy a meal before or after attending a wonderful performance.
5StarTip🌟:
Self-parking is complimentary in the structure with validation both day and night.
Valet is complimentary during lunch hours and $7 in the evening, with validation.
Final Thoughts
Vaca restaurant really succeeds in its desire to transport diners to Spain with its authentic cuisine and décor. Small touches like the leg of jamón on display and imported meats and cheeses from Spain add to this truly cultural experience. Carpaccio lovers will walk away content after trying Chef Santana’s unique version. After dining at Vaca, I feel confident in saying that you will leave planning your next visit. The menu offers such a plethora of choices that you will have a hard time deciding! Cheers to Vaca and their superb authentic Spanish dining experience in the City of Arts – Costa Mesa, California. Olé Vaca!
For reservations: Vaca Restaurant Reservations
For more information on recommended activities, restaurants, and shopping in Costa Mesa, California:
Disclosure: Travel Costa Mesa sponsored my lunch at Vaca – however, the opinions expressed in this article are my own.
A bit about the author: Lyn Rossi Semeta
Lyn Semeta is a Southern California native who started her career as a corporate and real property attorney. She spends her free time in her studio painting in watercolor, creating Mixed Media art or writing about the impression’s life makes on her day today. She exhibits her work in local art shows and has received awards, including Best of Show, for her work.
Lyn and her husband raised two daughters in Huntington Beach and while they enjoy all that the Southern California lifestyle has to offer, the excitement of traveling to new places is a passion. When visiting a new destination, Lyn tries to take in art museums, galleries, and public art installations whenever possible. Reading a novel set in each destination she is preparing to travel to, gives her a head start on immersing herself in the culture and vibe of the city. Lyn can be reached at lrsemeta@gmail.com.
About Pamela Rossi
I am passionate about travel and taking each moment and making it a five star experience. My goal is to create those experiences for YOU!
Everything looked delicious, I love when a chef’s encourage you to get out of your comfort zone. I’d save room for 2 churros with chocolate 😁