Two friends,

ONE DREAM

Our history starts with two friends who shared a passion for community, family, and fresh coastal cuisine. Kenny Prestwich and JD Gardner opened the very first Costa Vida in 2003 in Layton, Utah, and their number-one priority was providing a special experience for each guest.

Sean Collins and Dave Rutter became the first franchisees of the company. Out of the gate, they saw what they described as "crazy success" at the Provo location. Before long, they were actively involved in franchise sales, and by 2008, Sean and Dave had acquired a controlling interest in the company.

The rest is history.
Under Sean and Dave’s leadership, the company has grown to 94 locations, with ambitious expansion plans. Costa Vida continues to do what Kenny and JD did from the beginning: by putting our treasured guests first and creating Moments of Better for them.