Vaca Costa Mesa: A Spanish Culinary Gem in Orange County
Discover the flavors, atmosphere, and must-try dishes at Vaca, Costa Mesa’s acclaimed Spanish restaurant led by Chef Amar Santana.
Vaca Costa Mesa: Orange County’s Vibrant Spanish Dining Experience
Nestled between the acclaimed Segerstrom Center for the Arts and the famed South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, Vaca offers a bold journey through Spanish cuisine spearheaded by celebrated chef Amar Santana. Famed for its generous steaks, fresh seafood, and authentic tapas, Vaca seamlessly captures the essence of Spain while delivering an Orange County flair that draws food lovers, theater patrons, and culinary travelers alike.
Overview
Vaca—Spanish for “cow”—pays homage to Spain’s rich culinary traditions, focusing on prime meats, expertly prepared seafood, and tapas that span regions from Andalusia and Seville to Madrid, Barcelona, and the Basque Country. The restaurant boasts both a bustling dining room and a lively bar, alongside a heated patio perfect for couples and an array of circular booths ideal for groups celebrating special occasions.
The Atmosphere and Setting
Vaca’s design and setting contribute significantly to its appeal:
- Prime location—Tucked adjacent to the Segerstrom Center and South Coast Plaza, making it a top pick for pre-show or post-shopping meals.
- Lively Ambiance—Expect a bustling environment where diners and bar patrons alike indulge in lively conversation, Spanish wines, and theatrical plates of food.
- Flexible seating—Options range from circular booths for groups, a vibrant bar for solo diners or couples, and a heated patio for a more intimate al fresco experience.
The open kitchen allows guests to watch Chef Amar and his team at work, while the long bar stretches beneath artfully arranged bottles, creating visual drama and a sense of occasion.
Chef Amar Santana: The Visionary Behind Vaca
Chef Amar Santana, a former Top Chef contestant, infuses his restaurants with energy, creativity, and authenticity. Renowned for his technical skill and innovative palate, Chef Amar’s culinary style blends Spanish traditions with contemporary technique. Before Vaca, Santana earned acclaim with his restaurant Broadway in Laguna Beach and has since solidified his reputation as one of Orange County’s top chefs.
Lunch at Vaca: The Prix Fixe Star
Lunch at Vaca is both approachable and indulgent, thanks to its highly regarded three-course Express Lunch prix fixe—a standout for value and variety. At $28, it’s one of the region’s most celebrated deals, routinely offering new flavor adventures each week.
- Weekly-changing menu—A starter, entrée, and dessert, with choices for each savory course, allow diners to explore the chef’s seasonal inspirations.
- Recent hits include green grape gazpacho with sheep’s milk yogurt and poached shrimp, and crisp duck confit leg with roasted Brussels sprouts and beets.
- The lunch menu is available alongside the broader tapas menu, giving diners ample variety and flexibility.
Lunch at Vaca is described as more relaxed, with no rush—perfect for savoring each course and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Dinner: An Abundance of Spanish Flavors
Dinner at Vaca promises a dazzling array of choices, designed to be shared and savored:
- Extensive menu—From dry-aged ribeye steaks to seafood paella and exquisite tapas, each dish showcases Spanish regional character.
- Tapas—Small plates capture the heart of Spanish social dining, letting groups sample a broad range of flavors.
- Steaks and meats—A particular highlight, dry-aged to perfection and cooked with expertise.
- Signature seafood—From paellas to octopus dishes, seafood is treated with respect and creative flair.
Must-Try Menu Highlights
- Bikini Sandwich—A decadent triangle sandwich of paleta Iberica, manchego, and truffles, famed for its rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality. On rare off nights, it may be overly greasy, but generally wins rave reviews.
- Albondigas—Roasted lamb meatballs with lemon yogurt and cucumbers, though texture may vary; when right, they’re a comforting classic.
- Botifarra—Succulent grilled pork sausage, sliced atop white bean puree with a balsamic reduction—a truly comforting and satisfying dish.
- Canelon de Pollo Ahumado—Smoked chicken cannelloni draped in foie gras sauce with a sherry reduction, often cited as one of Vaca’s finest creations.
- Sea urchin with scrambled eggs and caviar—Delightfully decadent and served dramatically in a spiky shell.
- La Bola—Crispy potato balls with ground beef, aioli, and spicy tomato sauce—a Spanish comfort food favorite.
- Paella—A signature Spanish rice dish loaded with seafood or other proteins.
- Pulpo a la Gallega—Warm octopus served with fingerling potatoes, pimenton, and Spanish olive oil.
Vaca is also known for its steak salad, crispy duck confit, and roasted beet salad with cana de cabra and walnuts—each carefully crafted to pair well with Spanish or California wines or creative cocktails.
A Vibrant Bar: Drinks as Destination
Much more than a complement to the meal, Vaca’s bar is a destination in itself—serving classics and signature creations alongside a thoughtful wine program.
- Signature Gin and Tonic—The “Vaca Tonic” is legendary, mixed with Brooklyn Gin, Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic, and adorned with basil blossom over a perfectly clear hand-carved ice sphere. It’s as visually impressive as it is refreshing.
- On-tap selections—Choose from house-made vermouth, red sangria, or specialty gin cocktails named for the restaurant.
- Spanish wines—A deep, curated list features regional gems, including Tempranillo and Albariño, and complements both meat and seafood dishes.
- Cocktail innovation—Creative drinks like “That’s the Spirit,” featuring Baker’s Bourbon, cranberry liqueur, and lemon, highlight Vaca’s willingness to push boundaries while remaining rooted in elegance.
Bar seating is highly recommended for a social, interactive experience with friendly, knowledgeable bartenders happy to recommend pairings or chat over cocktail techniques.
Service and Hospitality
Vaca is consistently praised for its attentive, professional hospitality, from the front desk to the wait staff and bar team.
- Knowledgeable servers can expertly guide guests through regional Spanish specialties and wine pairings.
- Energetic, yet polished vibe ensures that groups and individuals alike feel welcome and cared for.
- Reservations are highly recommended for dinner due to the restaurant’s popularity.
- Valet and validated parking options are available, making arrivals seamless.
Pricing and Value
Vaca positions itself as an elevated dining experience. While prices trend higher, diners widely acknowledge the quality, portion sizes, and overall value—especially with the prix fixe lunch as a standout.
- Prix fixe lunch—At $28 for three courses, it’s a strong value and an excellent gateway to the restaurant’s offerings.
- Dinner portions are generous, ideal for sharing and exploring more flavors with a group.
- Some diners mention higher dinner prices, but quality consistently matches cost.
Location and Accessibility
Address:
695 Town Center Dr, Ste 170,
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: 714-463-6060
- Located steps from Segerstrom Center for the Arts, perfect for pre-theater meals.
- Close proximity to South Coast Plaza enables easy combination with shopping excursions.
- Valet and validated parking options add to dining convenience.
Tips for the Best Experience
- For groups, request a circular booth for a festive meal with panoramic views of the kitchen or dining room.
- Couples or small parties should consider the heated patio or energetic bar area for a more intimate or interactive vibe.
- Be sure to reserve ahead, especially for prime dinner slots or theater nights.
- Don’t skip the bar’s signature gin and tonic or house-made vermouth for a true taste of Spain.
- Vegetarians will find some options, but the restaurant shines brightest in its meat and seafood offerings.
Sample Tapas Menu Items at Vaca
| Dish | Main Ingredient(s) | Region/Origin | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bikini Sandwich | Paleta Iberica, Manchego, Truffle | Catalonia | Grilled triangle sandwich, rich and aromatic |
| Albondigas | Lamb, Lemon Yogurt, Cucumber | Spain (general) | Roasted lamb meatballs, served with yogurt sauce |
| Botifarra | Pork Sausage, White Bean Puree | Catalonia | Grilled sausage with bean puree and balsamic |
| Canelon de Pollo Ahumado | Smoked Chicken, Foie Gras Sauce | Catalonia | Cannelloni with decadent foie sauce and sherry |
| Pulpo a la Gallega | Octopus, Fingerling Potatoes | Galicia | Spanish-style octopus with herbs and paprika |
| La Bola | Potato, Ground Beef, Aioli | Spain (general) | Crispy potato balls filled with beef and aioli |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Vaca vegetarian-friendly?
A: While Vaca offers a selection of vegetarian tapas and sides, the menu’s highlight is its expertly prepared meats and seafood, so vegetarians may find options limited compared to other guests.
Q: What are Vaca’s must-try dishes?
A: The dry-aged ribeye, Bikini Sandwich, Canelon de Pollo Ahumado, seafood paella, and the signature Vaca Tonic are consistently praised.
Q: Is reservation required?
A: Yes, especially for peak times and weekends, reservations are strongly advised due to Vaca’s popularity.
Q: Is the prix fixe lunch available every day?
A: The $28 three-course Express Lunch is normally offered on weekdays, with a menu that changes weekly.
Q: Does Vaca offer outdoor dining?
A: Yes, the heated patio offers comfortable outdoor seating, recommended for couples or smaller parties.
Q: Is valet or validated parking available?
A: Yes, the restaurant provides both valet parking and parking validation for the nearby structure, making access convenient.
Conclusion
Vaca stands out as a top destination for Spanish cuisine in Orange County—blending bold flavors, exceptional meats, a festive bar scene, and acclaimed hospitality. Whether you’re seeking a celebratory dinner, a leisurely lunch, pre-theater bites, or simply the perfect gin and tonic, Vaca delivers a dynamic and delicious experience with every visit.
