Co-Founder
Dave Ellis
Visionary entrepreneur with a love for authentic Mexican culture. Dave's bold spirit and commitment to freshness laid the foundation for the Costa Vida brand.
Our Story
The Heart Behind
Costa Vida
Born from a passion for bold, fresh flavors — costa vida is more than a meal, it's an experience rooted in community, quality, and authentic Mexican tradition.
Since 2004
From a Small Kitchen
to a Fresh Revolution
The costa vida story began in 2004 with a simple idea: real food made from real ingredients, served fast. Founders Dave Ellis and Todd Eliason opened the first location in Logan, Utah, drawing inspiration from the vibrant coastal cuisine of Mexico's Pacific shores.
"We wanted to create a place where every bite felt like a trip to the coast — fresh, bold, and made with care."
Two decades later, the costavida brand has grown into dozens of locations across the United States, while staying true to the same values that sparked that first tortilla press. Every bowl, burrito, and taco is still made with fresh ingredients, hand-crafted sauces, and the spirit of coastal Mexican cooking.
From our slow-roasted meats and freshly-made tortillas to our signature sweet pork and citrus-marinated chicken, every dish at Costa Vida reflects a commitment to flavor, freshness, and community.
20+
Years Serving
50+
Locations
1M+
Happy Guests
100%
Fresh Ingredients
Est. 2004
Fresh Daily
Our Purpose
Mission & Core Values
At Costa Vida, everything we do is guided by a clear mission and a set of values that shape how we cook, how we serve, and how we grow.
"To create an extraordinary dining experience by serving fresh, bold Mexican food that brings people together — crafted with integrity, served with joy, and rooted in community."
Fresh Always
We never compromise on ingredients. Every item is prepared fresh daily — no shortcuts, no frozen shortcuts, no compromises on quality.
Passion for Flavor
Bold, vibrant flavors inspired by coastal Mexico are at the heart of everything we create. We cook with soul, not just technique.
Community First
We believe food brings people together. Every location is a gathering place where families, friends, and neighbors connect over great meals.
Integrity in All We Do
From sourcing to serving, we hold ourselves to the highest standards — honest ingredients, fair practices, and transparent relationships.
Exceptional Experience
Great food deserves great service. Our team strives to make every visit memorable — welcoming every guest like family.
Sustainable Growth
We grow thoughtfully — investing in local sourcing, reducing waste, and building partnerships that support both people and planet.
Our Journey
A History of Bold Flavor
From a single location in Logan, Utah to a beloved costavida brand across the nation — here's how our story unfolded.
2004
The First Bowl
Dave Ellis and Todd Eliason open the very first Costa Vida location in Logan, Utah. The menu is simple but the flavors are extraordinary — fresh tortillas, slow-roasted meats, and hand-crafted sauces.
2007
Expansion Begins
Word of mouth spreads fast. Costa Vida expands to multiple Utah locations, introducing their signature sweet pork — the dish that would define the brand for years to come.
2010
Franchising Launches
Costa Vida officially launches its franchise program, enabling passionate food entrepreneurs across the United States to bring the costavida experience to their communities.
2014
National Recognition
Costa Vida earns national media coverage and industry awards for its commitment to fresh ingredients in fast-casual dining. The brand is featured in top food publications across the country.
2018
Menu Innovation
New menu items including fresh grain bowls, seasonal specials, and expanded vegetarian options are introduced — reflecting a growing commitment to serving diverse dietary needs without compromising flavor.
2021
Digital Ordering Expands
Costa Vida launches its enhanced online ordering platform and mobile-friendly experience, making it easier than ever for guests to enjoy fresh Mexican flavors from home or on the go.
2024
20 Years of Fresh
Costa Vida celebrates two decades of serving bold, fresh Mexican cuisine. With 50+ locations nationwide, the costavida family continues to grow — always guided by the same passion for real food and real community.
The People
Meet Our Leadership Team
Behind every fresh tortilla and bold sauce is a passionate team dedicated to the costa vida mission — real food, served with heart.
Co-Founder
Todd Eliason
Operations expert and brand strategist. Todd built the systems that allowed Costa Vida to scale without ever compromising on quality or the guest experience.
Head Chef
Maria Reyes
Born in Jalisco, Mexico, Maria brings authentic culinary heritage to every recipe. Her innovative approach to traditional dishes is what makes costavida flavors truly unforgettable.
Chief Experience Officer
James Park
James leads the guest experience strategy across all Costa Vida locations, ensuring that every visit delivers warmth, speed, and the signature hospitality the brand is known for.
Want to be part of the Costa Vida family?
Join Our Team