Reviewed March 24, 2011
Received 4 out of 5 Forks
La Costa on Market Square is a local restaurant with a diverse menu. It is self-described as the place “where Latin traditions and fresh flavors converge”. This was my first time dining at La Costa and it will not be the last! La Costa offers a seasonal menu utilizing as many local ingredients as possible.
I met some friends at La Costa for an early dinner. Earlier in the day I forgot about my evening plans and ate a late lunch at work. Since I wasn’t very hungry the Baby Spinach Salad looked like a good menu selection. This salad has dried fig, red onion, shaved fennel, goat cheese, spiced pepitas, and warm maple vinaigrette for a price of $7. The salads have an option of ordering a small version for a reduced price or adding a protein such as blackened tofu, grilled chicken, flat iron steak or shrimp. Is anyone wondering, what are pepitas? I had to ask the server to find out. Wikipedia defines them as “a Spanish culinary term for pumpkin seed”. I thought the dried figs and pepitas were unique items to add healthy flavor and crunch to salads. We also shared an order of Baja Fish Tacos from the appetizer menu. The fish was fried and served in warm tortillas with cilantro-lime cabbage slaw, pico de gallo and spicy crema. It was a delicious appetizer to share sold at half price as a happy hour special.
Along with the warm maple vinaigrette, the winter menu offered pumpkin and maple preparations for fresh fish and shellfish. We were advised if we really enjoyed these seasonal items we must come back soon before the menu changed. I can’t wait to see what spring and summer has to offer from La Costa. I will be ready to have another culinary adventure with fresh, local ingredients and great taste!
La Costa receives a 4 out of 5 Fork Rating. It has plenty of non-fried appetizers. There is no charge for special requests or modifications and the website states they cater to special dietary needs. There are more than 3 non-salad healthy options. Nutrition information is not available for menu items.
References:
Reviewed by:
Janet Seiber, RD, LDN, CDE
Healthy Living Kitchen
www.utmedicalcenter.org/healthylivingkitchen
865-305-8682
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