"Finding Vaca feels like a treasure hunt that's well worth the effort. Park in the 777 Figueroa Building and take a rather ominous tunnel down to the main retail stretch along Figueroa Avenue. Make a hard right at the end of the tunnel, and Vaca resides on the ground floor of a tall residential tower. Santana's approach to Spanish fare bucks the trend of mid-range prices, featuring high-end dry-aged beef, lush seafood paellas, and precise tapas."
"Gambas al ajillo are among the best in town, nicely tangy from the blend of olive oil, roast garlic, and sherry vinegar, and sporting plump, sweet shrimp worthy of Spain's most iconic tapa. A Jamón Ibérico bikini stuffed with manchego and truffles gets griddled on a panini press for a gin-and-tonic-friendly appetizer. Pani puri filled with chopped scallops gain the piquant, zingy addition of gazpacho poured in just before popping into your mouth."
Vaca opened in Downtown Los Angeles in December 2025 and brings polished Spanish cooking by Top Chef regular Amar Santana to the city. The restaurant is tucked beneath a residential tower accessed via the 777 Figueroa Building and a short tunnel, offering a hidden, destination-style experience. The menu emphasizes elevated preparations: high-end dry-aged beef, lush seafood paellas that serve multiple guests, and meticulously executed tapas. Standout bites include tangy gambas al ajillo, a griddled Jamón Ibérico bikini with manchego and truffles, and scallop-filled pani puri with gazpacho. Parking validation is available and recommended.
Read at Eater LA
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