When Brendi Hartsock came on board as manager of Costa Vida just over six short months ago, she focused on letting people know what a treat they were in for when they came inside.

The counter-serve Mexican restaurant, located at 2430 Patterson Road, offers a selection of flavorful entrées—from Baja tacos to enchiladas and burritos— that customers can order and watch as it’s prepared with all fresh ingredients behind the company’s signature “bubble wall.” Customers can make additional selections along the way with suggestions from the restaurant’s helpful staff.

“We only serve fresh food; nothing is frozen,” said Hartsock. “Tortillas are made fresh all day long. In fact, we have a lot of customers who come in just to buy our homemade tortillas to take home.”

It’s important to Hartsock that food is quality and customers are happy with their dining experience. She asks new staff members to sample a variety of dishes so they are knowledgeable about offerings and are able to make recommendations to customers. The restaurant also has a large selection of gluten-free options.

“Their server will change gloves to make sure when preparing their entrée, everything remains completely gluten free,” Hartsock said.

Costa Vida caters for groups and events as large as 300 people. They recently attended BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair in April, where they served healthy bowls with chicken or sweet pork, pico de gallo and cheese for over 2,000 local seniors.

“BEACON readers have been so supportive of Costa Vida,” said Hartsock. “That’s why we’ll continue to offer our [BOGO] coupon to show our appreciation.”

Costa Vida also offers a daily special for $7.99.

“The chicken nachos are wonderful, and so is our signature item—the sweet pork,” she said. “You can’t go wrong with any of the choices.”

While the company headquarters is in Lehi, Utah, the local restaurant recently celebrated its fourth anniversary on April 13. An advocate for community service, Hartsock saw the event as a way to give back to the community.

“I appreciate everyone’s business, and I enjoy my job, the company and my team,” she said. “I look forward to all of our upcoming opportunities and events.”