Vaca

Cuisine

Spanish, Contemporary

Michelin

selected

Price

$$$

Website

https://www.vacarestaurant.com/

Description

Courtesy of Chef Amar Santana, this cool and rustic tapas bar offers consistently pleasing food and an extensive list of sherries and Spanish wines amid a quirky setting (the banquettes are decorated with jokes). In addition to the beautiful bar area, guests may sit in two outdoor areas or the main dining room with views into the semi-open kitchen. The lunchtime prix fixe is a great deal, though it would mean skipping their wonderful array of tapas and paellas. Standouts include the bikini sandwich, layering cured Jamón Ibérico, Manchego cheese, and a bit of truffle oil into pretty little pipi

Review score

4.1

Review count

80

Review summary

Vaca, located near the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa, offers contemporary Spanish cuisine. Reviews highlight strong food quality, attentive service, and a lively atmosphere, with dishes like chicken with duck liver and seafood paella receiving praise. However, concerns exist regarding value, slow pacing, and cramped seating that creates noise. Some guests reported undercooked or burnt items, small portions, and occasional poor service. While many find it ideal for pre-theater dinners and sharing tapas, experiences vary significantly based on specific orders and staff interactions.

Best for

Suitable for diners seeking shared Spanish tapas before a show, with advance reservations recommended.

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