About Vaca
Beyond their size, small businesses are defined by their spirit. And at the helm are their intrepid founders—scrappy, ambitious, and resilient. They invent and build things despite uncertainty, because it’s what drives them. Their risks lead to innovation that moves the world forward. And we need them.
This is easily one of the premier destinations for authentic paella in the United States. I highly recommend the seafood paella, though the Spanish octopus and seared scallops are equally exceptional. Whatever you do, do not skip the Basque cheesecake; it is truly the finest I have ever had. The patio offers a remarkably cozy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a special evening. While the service is attentive and professional, please keep in mind that the paella is prepared to order and requires a bit of patience—it is well worth the wait.
I visited Vaca to celebrate a friend’s birthday, and the moment we walked in, we were amazed by the impressive display of aged meats and the dishes being prepared right in the kitchen. Once seated, our server greeted us warmly, and as each dish arrived, we couldn’t help but be impressed. The quality, the flavors everything was exceptional. I’ll definitely be returning again. Highly recommended!
It was my second time to eat here. We ordered some appetizers and seafood paella. For appetizers,I was disappointed about chicken cream deep fried things and Uni miso toast. The chicken thing was just dry minced meet inside and I didn't feel any cream. I wonder if it was a mistake. I tried to ask my server but he was not friendly and give me cold attitude. I asked " is it that we ordered chicken cream? " And he just said " yes". I couldn't even feel comfortable to ask what I wanted ask. I wish he asked me kindly like, "Is there anything wrong with your food? " Or something like that. But I felt by his attitude that he didn't want get any questions from me . About Uni toast things, it looked fancy but no flavor. Just normal scrumble egg and uni. Also the server said they didn't have the big shrimp so they will change. My next seat customer got the same seafood paella with big shrimp. But our was very small. But the paella's price was same as usual even it came with small shrimp. I didn't have energy to complain so I didn't mention. I've just decided not to come back this restaurant anymore.
I highly recommend trying out Vaca for Spanish tapas and more! Great spot for celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself. The staff were accommodating, kind, and attentive. The interior was inviting, with moody lighting and fantastic decor. Dining here is a premium experience, and the prices reflect that, but it was so worth the treat. We checked in for our dinner reservations and were seated promptly at a large table on the patio, with warmers and a view of the giant Christmas tree outside. The drink menu offers crafted drinks, Spanish wines, zero-proof cocktails, and more! I had the Georgia on My Mind that had a zero-proof whiskey base—very satisfying. We ordered a bunch of tapas (small plates), a couple of entrees, and sides to share among our table. Some tapa items were so good that I wanted a plate all to myself. A few menu highlights we enjoyed. - Gambas Al Ajillo (sauteed shrimp) - Rabo de Toro (oxtail) was very tender and flavorful. - Carpaccio was so good! I wish I had one order to myself. - Croqueta de Paella was so tasty. - Jamón Serrano Fermin with three cheeses was presented as a charcuterie board with the famous jamón. - Paella Valencia is a seafood paella that we all enjoyed. - Prime Ribeye was delicious, and most of the cut was cooked perfectly (medium rare), yet a few spots were more raw and chewy--still a good choice if you like steak. - Patatas Bravas was delightful with crispy potatoes and a savory sauce - Churros con Chocolates is a classic dessert. - Basque Cheesecake was the perfect ending. Overall, we had a blast, and most of what we ordered was excellent. We also saw Chef Amar Santana (chef/owner) talking with a few guests, but we didn't get a chance to chat with him this time. It was still a treat to see he's around. Other notes: - Valet parking is available for $12 - Self-parking is available at a nearby parking structure or across the street at the South Coast Plaza parking lots.
The food was genuinely disappointing. All the appetizers and paellas arrived hot on the outside, but were cold inside. It was difficult to tell whether the seafood was thoroughly cooked or not—maybe we were unintentionally eating sushi? The Brussels sprouts tasted okay, but were much too salty. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend dining here unless you’re comfortable eating food that is only “half well done.”