Ate here for dinner on their opening night to the public, day after Christmas. Came in about 8:30PM after a long day at SCP, with no reservation. 5 people waiting inside the door to be seated, in 2 parties. 2 spots open on the front right side of the L-shaped bar. My wife and her BFF utilized them to survey the cocktail menu while the maître d' escorted one of the waiting groups to their table, but not before assuring that we'd be taken care of right away. The hostess let me know that a party of 3 was paying their bill and we'd be seated shortly. I rejoined my party and checked out their spirit themed menu of Sherry, Gin & in-house Vermut (Catalan, a language spoken in northeastern Spain, is used throughout the menu with accompanying English translations). It was windy and cold (so like, you just can't wear shorts) so the "Don't Fear The Repo" with reposado and Ancho Reyes seemed to fit the mood. My wife's "The Roma" (Vermouth) was very approachable for any cocktail beginner, we all agreed it was good but she wished she tried the Vermouth on the rocks instead. Our friend had the "Watch Me Whip", which had pisco and a gingery-cinnamon Czech spirit, along with pineapple and lime so it took on a tiki-like characteristic which was appropriate for the "glass" made out of terracotta. All 3 were well balanced and our bartender was engaging. 5 stars. The hostess came to let us know that our spots at the kitchen were available (where you can watch dinner be prepared, like at Amar's other restaurant, Broadway), however this evening we wanted a setting more conducive to conversation. Obviously the kitchen seat availability was due to our timing, but it was nice that they wanted us to be able to sit at one of the preferred spots in the restaurant. The wait service was efficient and there were no lulls between dishes, after all it's tapas so it's to be expected. I always test how engaging our waiter will be and ours really loved to tell us about the menu. The attire of most of the employees are long sleeve baseball jerseys with a cooking/bartender ingredient on the back, fellow patrons were wearing anything from suits to dressy jeans. The noise level was on the higher side, but didn't prevent conversation with your normal voice level. We ordered: Colifor (Cauliflower) with tahini, raisins and lemon - 5 stars. My wife makes cauliflower at home and she loves it just simply steamed. Personally I think steamed cauliflower tastes like bitter mush (not a huge Brassica vegetable fan). This cauliflower was really good. I'd eat this every day. My wife was in heaven and our friend loved them too. Bruselas (Brussels Sprouts) with chorizo, sherry gastrique - 5 stars. I've had this dish at Broadway, but it had Chinese sausage at the time. That was actually the first time I ever had Brussels Sprouts, several years ago; I immediately loved them and my wife has been making a much simpler version (the sprouts, balsamic, evoo, and pancetta) at home ever since. So we knew what to expect, however our friend who doesn't even like our homemade version was helping herself to seconds. Pan Con Tomate (Bread with tomato) - 4 stars. Light tomato flavor, but it become a bit garlicky/salty towards the end (a sweeter cocktail would've paired better). Albondigas (Meatballs) with lamb, lemon-yogurt, cucumbers - 4 stars. I love lamb. My wife does not, but she gave it a shot to confirm her position. Result was an extra meatball for me. Very moist, smooth texture to the lamb. Great Mediterranean taste. The lamb could've been seasoned a little heavier. Huevos Estrellados with broken (scrambled) eggs, fried potatoes, chorizo - 5 stars. I forgot it had chorizo until a third of the way through. The potato, eggs & sauce combination had a good amount of flavor. The spicy chorizo pulls everything together. Pulpo a la Gallega (Octopus) with fingerling potatoes, pimenton and Spanish olive oil - 4 stars. Very tender octopus. Had a peppery nutty flavor to the dish. For what it was, I couldn't imagine it getting any better, but the best octopus I've had is at Twenty Eight and so it is just a completely different flavor profile. Embutidos (Charcuterie, typically from Spain). I am not a turophile, but I thought the 8 month aged Manchego was delicious. The combo with the peppered jam it comes with is bliss. I could've eaten it as dessert. However the best item was the Paleta Iberica Fermin with it's rich nutty flavor. Pairing it with each cheese changed it slightly. The ham raised it to a 5, but the accompaniments (pickles, pickled veggies, peppered jam and breadsticks) went really well too. For desert we had the Churros con Choclate & a sorbet trio (strawberry balsamic, blood orange saffron, and vanilla pear). We demolished the sorbet. We all prefer our churro on the fluffier/lighter side, this one was a little too dense for our liking but was the exact flavor we expected. 4 stars. We loved it and will return! read more

Kat Sets the Gold Standard at Vaca in Costa Mesa If you're searching for unparalleled service and an extraordinary dining experience, look no further than Vaca in Costa Mesa--and be sure to request Kat as your server. From the moment she welcomed us, it was clear we were in for something wonderful. Kat isn't just a server; she's a true professional who embodies the art of hospitality. Kat's warmth, attentiveness, and genuine passion elevated our meal into a memorable evening. Her menu expertise is unmatched--she explained each dish in detail with enthusiasm that instantly made us excited about our selections. At her recommendation, we tried the piquillos rellenos and the canelon de pollo, both of which were absolutely phenomenal. Every dish was so perfectly curated that I can't wait to return and explore more of the menu--and her beverage recommendations will definitely be next on my list to try. Beyond her deep knowledge of Vaca's offerings, Kat's attention to detail is what truly stood out. She had an uncanny ability to anticipate every need. Plates were cleared effortlessly, courses were timed impeccably, and not once did we have to ask for anything. Her seamless service allowed us to fully relax and enjoy every moment of our day. Kat's demeanor struck the perfect balance of professionalism and warmth. She made us feel special and cared for, as if we were longtime friends. Watching her juggle multiple tables with ease and grace was genuinely inspiring--it's clear she takes immense pride in her work and thrives in her role. It's rare to encounter someone who brings this level of skill, dedication, and heart to the dining industry. Kat is without question a standout talent, and Vaca is lucky to have her. Dining with her isn't just about enjoying an exceptional meal; it's about being treated to an experience that you'll remember long after the evening ends. If you're planning to visit Vaca, make sure to request Kat. Her exceptional service, expert menu insights, and ability to craft a truly memorable dining event make her a gem in Orange County's dining scene. I'm already looking forward to returning and experiencing her outstanding hospitality again. **Pro Tip:** Trust her recommendations--they're spot-on! And like me, consider coming back to explore her insights on the beverage menu. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Vaca Restaurant, and I must say, it was a delightful experience. From the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the inviting atmosphere and pleasant ambiance. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the food. The culinary offerings at Vaca Restaurant were nothing short of impressive. Every dish I tried was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The flavors were thoughtfully balanced, and each bite was a symphony of taste sensations. The menu showcased a remarkable variety, catering to different palates and dietary preferences, which I found to be quite commendable. The staff at Vaca Restaurant played a significant role in enhancing the overall dining experience. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the cuisine they were serving. Their recommendations were spot-on, and their friendly demeanor added to the welcoming vibe of the restaurant. Speaking of the vibe, I couldn't agree more with your assessment. The ambiance was indeed nice, creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. The interior design and decor were tastefully done, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a place to catch up with friends, Vaca Restaurant offers a versatile setting that suits various occasions. In conclusion, my visit to Vaca Restaurant left me thoroughly satisfied. The delectable food, coupled with the inviting ambiance, made for a memorable evening. If you're searching for a place that combines culinary excellence with a pleasant vibe, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Vaca Restaurant a try. read more

I recently dined at Vaca in Costa Mesa and, unfortunately, my experience was quite disappointing. Despite the restaurant's reputation, there were several issues that made the visit less than enjoyable. The atmosphere was chaotic and noisy, making it difficult to have a conversation as the seating was so cramped, that the tables were less than a feet away. This made the overall environment felt more stressful than relaxing. The food was a major letdown. The tapas were overpriced for the quality of food that was presented to us. While some dishes like the pulpo and canellon were decent others came out to be nothing special and seemingly just a random assortment of flavors thrown on the plate. We also ordered the vaca tonic but although the taste was decent, the drink itself was so frozen that we couldn't even use the straw to drink it. The service was one of the few redeeming aspects, but even that had its flaws. While the staff were friendly, they seemed overwhelmed and inattentive. We had to wait a long time for our orders to be taken and even longer for the food to arrive which often resulted in lukewarm food brought to our table. Overall for the high prices, the experience did not match up. The food quality and portion sizes did not justify the cost, making it feel like a poor value for money. Given the high expectations, Vaca was a significant disappointment. The combination of mediocre food, high prices, and a chaotic atmosphere means I won't be returning anytime soon. Overall: 1/10 read more

MY FIANCÉ POSTED THIS REVIEW, AND YELP DECIDED TO NOT POST IT. DUBIOUS AT BEST SO I AM RE-POSTING: "About as Spanish as Krispy Kreme Having seen all the positive reviews I was quite excited to go to Vaca. Even though we had booked a table and arrived on time we were still made to wait around half an hour, standing as there was nowhere to sit. Not ideal but not the end of the world. Being half Spanish I grew up with my mum cooking Spanish food for me all my life. I had recently taken my fiancée to Spain where, when I was younger, I spent 3 months of every year. I was keen to show Spanish cuisine to my soon to be mother in law who had not as yet travelled to Spain. We ordered a bunch of classic Spanish dishes including the tortilla, albóndigas and paella. The paella rice was mushy, albóndigas bland and the tortilla dry. The food, I am sorry to say, was as authentic as a $6 bill. The flavour profiles are nowhere near authentically Spanish. This can be attributed, as I was later informed by our server, to the fact that neither the owners, the head chef, nor anybody in the kitchen is Spanish. I was, further, told that the head chef had learnt to cook Spanish food by training in Spain for a few months. A few months to learn a whole new cuisine! That did indeed explain a lot." read more

I'm glad you had an amazing vacation in Costa Mesa! The dining experience was truly outstanding, with several dishes that exceeded expectations. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting and the staff was attentive. The variety of dishes on the menu was impressive, and each one was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The chef's special, a succulent seafood paella, was a delightful symphony of fresh seafood, perfectly cooked saffron-infused rice, and an array of vibrant vegetables. It was a true highlight of the meal, leaving me craving for more. Another standout dish was their signature grilled steak, cooked to perfection and accompanied by a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables. The tender, juicy meat combined with the rich flavors of the vegetables created a perfect balance of taste and texture. To top it off, the dessert selection was simply divine. The indulgent chocolate lava cake with a molten center was pure bliss, and the tangy lemon tart was a refreshing and delightful way to end the meal. Overall, the restaurant in Costa Mesa provided a 5-star dining experience with its impeccable service and delicious dishes. I can't wait to return and savor more of their culinary delights. Highly recommended! read more

Vaca is the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer, order one more round, and savor every bite. From the moment you step in, the cozy yet vibrant atmosphere sets the stage for an amazing dining experience. The cocktail program is top-notch--balanced, creative, and expertly crafted. Whether you're starting with a classic or trying one of their signature drinks, you can't go wrong. Now, the food... absolutely phenomenal. Every dish is packed with bold, rich flavors, and the quality of ingredients shines through. The tapas-style options make it perfect for sharing, whether you're on a date night or out with friends. If you're a steak lover, you'll appreciate their cuts--cooked to perfection, tender, and full of flavor. And don't even get me started on the jamón ibérico--worth every penny! Service? Impeccable. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about what they do. They're happy to make recommendations, and you can tell they take pride in the experience they provide. Yes, it's on the pricier side, but you're paying for quality, execution, and ambiance--and Vaca delivers on all fronts. If you're in Costa Mesa and looking for a memorable meal, this is the spot. read more

Exceptional Tapas at Vaca, Costa Mesa I recently had an incredible dining experience at Vaca in Costa Mesa, and I can't recommend it enough. We ordered a variety of tapas, and every dish exceeded our expectations. The croquettes were perfectly crisp with a rich, creamy filling that was both savory and satisfying. The braised short rib was unbelievably tender and packed with flavor, accompanied by fresh vegetables and a well-balanced sauce. The seared scallops were cooked to perfection, served with a vibrant broth and a refreshing balance of textures. The broccolini dish, garnished with pine nuts and cheese, was another standout with its earthy and crunchy notes. The service at Vaca was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and clearly knowledgeable about the menu, offering great suggestions. The atmosphere of the restaurant added to the overall experience--it was lively, yet refined, making it the perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions. If you're looking for delicious Spanish-inspired cuisine in Costa Mesa, Vaca is definitely the place to go. I'll be back for more! read more

Vaca delivered an absolutely unforgettable dining experience from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and genuine hospitality, including the incredible opportunity to meet the executive chef, an experience that made the evening even more special. The food was nothing short of spectacular. Each shared plate felt like a stop on a culinary tour of Spain, showcasing bold, dynamic flavors and beautifully executed dishes meant to be enjoyed communally. Every bite told a story, thoughtfully crafted, vibrant, and deeply satisfying! Vaca strikes the perfect balance between refined and approachable, with a menu that invites exploration and rewards curiosity. The passion behind the food is evident, and the attention to detail in both flavor and presentation is exceptional. This is more than just a meal, it's an experience!!! Vaca has earned a spot at the top of our list, and we can't wait to return to relive it all over again. Highly recommend to anyone looking for outstanding Spanish cuisine and an elevated dining experience. read more

Just thrilled with Chef Amar Santana's new concept! Vaca has a very warm, exhilarating vibe....you feel it the minute you walk in the door. Your first impression is the talented, busy bartenders shaking, mulling, and blending their signature craft cocktails, unlike any I've tasted (a must try - "Vaca Tonic). It's fun to go with friends and order several TAPAS to share. His flavor profiles mirror Barcelona, Madrid, Andalucia and Sevilla. I've been twice now and have tried at least 7 or 8 Tapas and they have all been fabulous so I highly recommend working your way down the menu every visit. Here are my "must try" entree recommendations: PAELLA DE MARISCOS - Seafood paella, clams, mussels, shrimp, octopus with saffron bomba rice; PRIME SKIRT STEAKS 8OZ; BEEF RIB STEAK - House specialty - aged 50+ days. Don't be surprised if as you are leaving you find yourself thinking about when you can return. That will be the unforgettable flavors lingering on your palate that Chef Amar has masterfully created. Yes! It is this good!! read more

Vaca is a fantastic Spanish tapas restaurant located conveniently near Segerstrom Hall and South Coast Plaza, making it an ideal spot for a pre-show dinner or a post-shopping feast. The menu offers an impressive variety of dishes, so there's something for everyone. If you're a seafood lover, the seafood paella is an absolute must-try! The portions are generous, so I'd recommend starting with the paella and ordering tapas afterward to share. Among the tapas, my standout favorites were the roasted cauliflower (perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor) and the dry-aged steak (incredibly tender and rich). The ambiance is vibrant and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. Parking is a breeze with a nearby structure, and the restaurant conveniently validates. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, Vaca is a gem that delivers a taste of Spain in the heart of Costa Mesa. Highly recommend! read more

Recently, I visited Vaca in Costa Mesa with a group of five--three adults and two kids--and it was an exceptional experience. We shared a two-pound ribeye, and everyone got a generous portion. The "Bruselas" (Brussels sprouts with chorizo and sherry gastrique) were a standout side, and the "Huesos al Horno" (roasted bone marrow with beef cheek toast) was rich and flavorful. For the kids, the "Croquetas de Pollo" (creamy chicken fritters) were a hit, serving as a satisfying alternative to typical chicken nuggets. The drinks were well-crafted; I particularly enjoyed their signature "Vaca Tonic," featuring Brooklyn Gin, frozen gimlet, Fever-Tree Mediterranean tonic, and basil blossom. Service was outstanding--the staff was attentive, helpful, and friendly. The ambiance was top-notch, making for a memorable dining experience. Having visited three times, each experience has been consistently excellent. Vaca stands out among the great steakhouses in Costa Mesa. read more

Moved to the OC area recently and still on the hunt for a go to spot thats close to me. Vaca has good drinks and a nice wine list, food was nothing special (even though I ordered the special lol) I requested medium rare and got a steak just past medium (it was a Ny Strip i think), still edible and seasoned well. Crazy that a place called "cow" can't cook a steak properly. My friend ordered the chicken canelone, it was sickeningly sweet for me but they enjoyed it. We also shared the gambas al ajillo which just tasted like frozen shrimp boiled in oily vinegar. I saw the pan con tomate at the table next to us and was a little shocked at the serving size. Honestly if they can't cook a steak or shrimp, I don't have much faith in the twenty-something other tapas on the menu. If I come back I'll probably stick to the charcuterie, cheese and a nice wine. 2 stars for the decent service, vibe and drinks. read more

Vaca is hands down one of the best spots for Spanish-inspired cuisine in Costa Mesa! The ambiance is stylish yet welcoming, with a great vibe that makes it perfect for a night out. We started with the croquettas de pollo, which were crispy on the outside and packed with flavor on the inside--so good! The bikini sandwich was another highlight--loaded with Jamón Ibérico, Manchego cheese, and a touch of truffle oil. Every dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. While the tapas can be on the pricier side, it's totally worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the overall experience. The staff was friendly, attentive, and made great wine recommendations to pair with the meal. If you're in the area, definitely check out Vaca for a memorable dining experience! read more

Love Vaca in Costa Mesa; we indulged in the Dry Aged Ribeye Family Meal and Paella and it was spectacular. The ribeye was perfectly cooked, boasting a rich, intense flavor that only dry aging can provide. Every bite was tender, juicy, and bursting with savory goodness. Vaca knows how to handle their steaks. The quality of the meat was top-notch, and it was beautifully seasoned and seared to perfection, creating an unforgettable dining experience. The family meal setup was ideal for sharing, offering generous portions that left everyone satisfied. The drinks are equally as amazing. The service was attentive and friendly. If you're looking for an exceptional steak experience and delicious Paella in Costa Mesa, Vaca is a must-try. read more

I had high hopes for Vaca, but the experience was underwhelming. The cramped space made it hard to enjoy, and the service was just okay. The food was a letdown considering the prices. The tortilla de bacalao was excessively salty and the topped uni lacked flavor. The 'empanadas' were more like fried wontons. The octopus was overcooked, drowning in overpowering olive oil. Even the albacore tataki's thick citrus sauce overwhelmed the fish. The oxtail was neither terrible nor great; it just had no wow factor. Only a couple of dishes like the chicken cannelloni and wagyu beef meatballs had any redeeming flavor and texture. Disappointingly, after trying 7 dishes, my friend and I left still feeling hungry. read more

When you step into a steakhouse with a promise of tapas, you're hoping for a harmonious duet. Unfortunately, the tapas here felt more like an unsure backup dancer to the steak's lead performance. Not one truly made its mark, leaving us craving that authentic tapas flair amidst the meaty main act. The ambiance tried to set the stage, but it felt like an overbooked theater; packed seats with the background noise of an opening night crowd. Though there's a hint of charm, it's muffled by the clamor. It's a venture that might intrigue, but for the discerning palate, this dance might not be worth the ticket price. Here's hoping for a more refined encore in the future! read more

Vaca in Costa Mesa is a gem! The food, drinks, and service were all top-notch. Everything we tried was delicious, and the drinks were crafted perfectly. The atmosphere at the bar was lively and fun, although the space is a little on the smaller side--so be prepared for a cozy experience. They also tend to get pretty busy so it can be a bit of a wait to get a table. Special shoutout to Manager Donnie, who went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect, and to our server Juan, who was incredibly kind and attentive throughout the night. Overall, an excellent spot for a great meal and good vibes. We recommend! read more

The food at Vaca was delicious--every dish was flavorful and really captured the essence of Spanish tapas. Cocktails were a highlight too: creative, balanced, and memorable. Portion sizes are on the smaller side, but with so many choices, sharing and sampling felt right. Service was just okay. Our server came across a little condescending, but the food was so good I could overlook it. The location, however, isn't ideal--competing with Segerstrom traffic and parking is a hassle. That said, it's a cute date night spot. Next time, I'd definitely prefer sitting inside the restaurant rather than out on the patio. read more