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About
La Vida Cantina
Welcome to La Vida Cantina, a vibrant gem nestled in Costa Mesa, California, at 1870 Harbor Blvd. This lively cantina has quickly become the go-to spot for those seeking a mix of gourmet Mexican food and spirited ambiance. With a phone number of +1 949-612-2349, La Vida Cantina is perfectly positioned for those seeking a flavorful escape any day of the week.
The menu is an absolute feast for the senses, featuring classic dishes that are both comforting and inventive. Start your culinary journey with their Cheese Nachos, a delightful layer of house-made tortilla chips topped with pinto beans, Jack cheese, and a medley of fresh toppings including guacamole and salsa fresca—worth every cent of the US$14.00 price. For something heartier, the Carne Asada Fries, loaded with Certified Skirt Steak and drizzled in Rico’s Queso, captures the essence of late-night indulgence at US$22.00.
Your options are not limited to appetizers; entrees like the sizzling Fajitas (with options for chicken, steak, shrimp, or a mix) are a signature highlight. The riot of flavors brought together by achiote citrus marinade and served over vibrant vegetables is not to be missed at US$23.00. If you're in the mood for seafood, try the Cajun Salmon, elegantly paired with a lemon salsa borracho for US$27.00.
La Vida Cantina stands out not just for its food but for its inviting atmosphere. Many customers rave about the outdoor seating area adorned with palm canopies and fire pits, creating a vacation-like vibe. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a margarita like the popular frozen Mango Margarita, or one of the creative cocktails like the spicy blackberry drink, you’ll find a perfect spot to unwind. And let’s not forget the exceptional happy hour specials available until 6:30 PM on weekdays and all day Sundays, making it an ideal post-work haven.
A visit to La Vida Cantina remains incomplete without sampling their delectable desserts. The Churros and Brownie Sundae are both thoughtful complements to any meal, providing a sweet finish that rounds out the experience beautifully.
Reviews from patrons also highlight the attentive service and dynamic atmosphere that elevate La Vida Cantina beyond just another dining destination. As one customer put it, “The music and vibe really come alive, especially on Fridays.” This level of engagement, coupled with speedy service and delicious food, ensures that every visit is memorable.
For food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, La Vida Cantina offers an unparalleled blend of taste and experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the Costa Mesa area. Come for the flavors; enjoy the vibes; leave with a smile.
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“ The most lively after work bar in Costa Mesa! Get here before 5pm to get a seat. Gourmet Mexican food. Excellent happy hour food and drink specials until 6:30pm weekdays, but all day Sundays. I love their frozen Mango Margarita topped with pomegranate seeds! Also they have 3 different types of salsa to choose from when they bring chips to your table, just ask! ”
“ Been coming here on and off for a few yrs. Recently went to celebrate my bday. I recommend the spicy blackberry drink! Sooooo good!! David (owner) is the coolest! He said they might start doing theme nights, i told him 2000s/90s theme would be lit! Lol My only thing was the music in the beginning wasnt the vibe, but then was better once dj got there! But the service is great they took care of me and my friends! Loved coming here. You can park in parking lot. They dont charge for parking! ”
“ Yea it's pretty good Mexican food. But the real charm is in the atmosphere. Outdoor bar, outdoor patio seating, outdoor TVs with bug huge tables and tiles lining everywhere. On the inside, there's a full bar and lots of TVs dotting the walls. I'm sure the place is so sick on a Friday night. The service was good, my water was refilled frequently and the food came out fast. The food was really good and there are a ton of menu options. ”
“ I used to come here a while ago, but it’s been a while since I’ve been there and I went there last night. It was really fun. The food was really good. I had a Moscow mule and so did my friend. I also had the shrimp ceviche was really good along with mahi tacos, I was a little more spicier but other than that the service was good our waitress Jennifer she was really and the place was nice and clean very cozy. I really enjoyed the fire pits outside. ”
“ A pretty awesome place, loved their outdoor seating, feels like your on vacation with the palm canopies. The outdoor seating also includes fire pits for those cold winter nights. I ordered the chilachiles, which is one of my favorite brunch/breakfast meals. They were pretty tasty but wish they were a bit more spicy, I got them with chicken but would have preffered grilled instead of shredded. I did love that they came with black beans and homestyle potatoes! I would come back and try an different plate. ”
“ I came here with a group and we were very well accommodated. The staff was very friendly and quick with both taking our orders and bringing us our items. Not sure if they have a full bar or not, but they definitely had plenty of drink options. Their patio seating is wonderful, with plenty of shade, and plenty of heat options for once the sun goes down (for pits and heat lamps). They were playing local sportsball playoffs on the televisions, and the crowd was very into it. I believe that it turns into more of a nightclub scene in the evening, so plan ahead for that. ”
“ Friendly staff and server. Surprisingly not crowded for Friday happy hour time. Delicious chips and salsa and lived the Pineapple Pom . ”
“ 10/10 definitely recommend! We were seated within minutes, not even a minute later we have water, chips and salsa on the table. The chips AND the salsa were soo delicious and fresh! We let the waiter choose our first drink which was the pomegranate margarita 10/10! Then we had the pineapple plum drink 10/10 that one was my fave! We tried a few others but those were my top two! We then ordered their roasted corn and guac for appetizers and followed up with the sopes for entrees. Everything was hot and yummy! The food was amazing! The drinks were top tier! The service was extremely delightful. Prices were reasonable. The atmosphere was such a vibe and I definitely cannot wait to return. ”