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Buena Vida - Arlington, Arlington, VA

Buena Vida - Arlington

4.2
4.2
627 Reviews
$31 to $50
Mexican
Buena Vida promises more than great food; it provides a space to make memories. We pride ourselves in guiding customers through a curated menu, going beyond the expectations of hospitality, and leaving them to enjoy the company they are with.

Our tables are a gathering place for good conversation and community so people feel energized by the creativity of the food and drinks, excellent service, and time with loved ones.

Each table has 2h time limit. 2h time limit does not apply for reservations made after 1:00pm on Saturday and Sunday due to service closure at 3:00pm.
Rooftop seating cannot be reserved and it is only available on first come-first served basis. Unlimited dining is not available on our rooftop - a la carte menu will be offered instead. Rooftop will not be open for brunch service.
To best meet our standard, we highly recommend against the Buena Vida Experience service 1h prior to kitchen closing.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 14 times today

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Cuisines
    Mexican, Traditional Mexican, Latin American
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Thu, Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (703) 888-1259
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    Manuel Guzman
  • Neighborhood
    Arlington
  • Cross street
    Filmore Street
  • Parking details
    Street parking or Public lot
  • Public transit
    Buena Vida is located at 2900 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, Virginia 22201, just two blocks from the<br />Clarendon metro accessible on the orange and silver lines. Parking is available in the Colonial<br />Parking Garage at 1303 North Filmore Street.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
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What 627 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.2
4.2 based on recent ratings
  • 4.1Food
  • 4Service
  • 4.4Ambience
  • 4Value

NoiseModerate

627 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall4food5service3ambience3
    Went for Saturday brunch, it’s a little loud in there but the food was AMAZING!

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  2. Patron

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall2food2service4ambience4
    The quality of food was really low. I thought the four course meal deal for $45 was going to be great and I was really excited for it, but you could tell it was all prepackaged food… in the “crispy cheese tacos” the cheese was not inside. There were room temperature pieces of cheese inside. Similarly with all the other courses.

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  3. CraigK

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great rooftop bar area, and a very accommodating staff. The tacos were all very good and happy hour lasts until 7:00.

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  4. CelineP

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Really enjoyed Buena Vida during Happy Hour. Being able to order from both menus allowed us the try several dishes and drinks without breaking the bank. The staff was very attentive and service was quick. Buena Vida is a nice neighborhood gem with indoor/outdoor seating and good food and drinks.

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  5. Giavanna

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Great food. Lively atmosphere. Would definitely recommend and will be going back!

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  6. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall2food3service1ambience4
    My friends and I went here to celebrate a birthday. It was our first time and it was not the best experience. The food was okay - came out cold. It good, but not amazing. I think if it came out hot and fresh, it would’ve been better. The food wasn’t special. Would not recommend the queso - it tastes like it was 1/4 cheese and 3/4 sour cream. But the main thing I wanted to point out was the service, mainly our waitress. It was the short, hispanic looking girl, long hair half up/down who worked the main level outdoor seating on Sept. 16th at the evening shift at 1830 (her name may have been Kim). This girl barely checked on us, she literally barely said a word. Not even a “Welcome to Buena Vida! Have you guys been here before? I recommend this… Can I start you off with some drinks?” etc. Anytime we would say thank you, she would not acknowledge, she would just walk away. And, when we checked out, not even a “Have a good day! Thanks for coming” - this girl just walked away and didn’t say anything. Anyways, I get we can have some bad days, but this girl had zero energy. She lacks basic food customer service skills and needs to find another job if she hates doing what she’s doing. Anyways, I would not come back and would not recommend this place.

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall1food2service1ambience3
    i genuinely have never had such a terrible experience at any restaurant like i did here. food took 30 minutes to come out when there were barely any guests dining. our server did not check in on us for 20 minutes i had to ask the runner 3 times to get her to be able to order more food. food got cold while waiting for salt so i had to go to the bar and literally get it myself. we were waiting for two more plates but they took so long we just decided to get the check and leave. honestly terrible experience and food was average at best. will never be coming back for brunch.

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  8. Toya

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Food was nice and seasoned! Friendly staff! Will visit again!

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  9. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Arrived early for brunch and Gerardo helped us out. He was excellent and the food was also excellent. Will definitely be returning.

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  10. ArnH

    San Antonio

    3 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    Great food, great drinks. Food service is great. Bar/drink service is very slow. Took us over 45min to get 1 margarita. This is my second time here and I keep noticing this pattern.

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  11. FFKO

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall3food1service3ambience4
    Had only food from the happy hour menu and it was between mediocre and bad (my friend and I agreed the pork belly tacos were the worst tacos we'd ever had). That said, the vibe was good, the staff was friendly and the drinks were good.

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  12. JenG

    Washington DC

    11 reviews

    3.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience3
    Celebrated my son’s birthdays. Food was good but service was slow (not our waitress fault, she was serving us along with other large parties) but our food took forever to get to our table sometime even cold.

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  13. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience4
    Terrible service. Our food went cold while we waited 15 minutes for some silverware!

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  14. IndiaB

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was my girlfriend and I first time visiting. We found this place on TikTok and so glad we did. The service was great (better than a lot of places.) The food was wonderful, I love the idea of small plates, really helps to not overeat! We will be going again soon. You can't beat $39.99 unlimited brunch!

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  15. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall3food5service3ambience5
    The food is very good, it’s served family style so all on one plate and 7 people trying to figure out what is who’s was a bit confusing. They approximate and charge you for mimosas so we were over charged a bit but I guess it is what it is. Everyone was friendly though.

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  16. JermaineH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The brunch is 100% worth it and I’ll be coming back!

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  17. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 19, 2023

    overall4food3service2ambience4
    Not the best place for dinner! Brunch is better. Gets very loud for dinner.

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  18. LucretiaM

    Washington DC

    8 reviews

    1.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall1food1service1ambience1
    Poor service from server, food and drinks were terrible.

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  19. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 15, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience4
    The food was decent but very small portions. Tasted good but overvalued. Service was terrible. I sat on the roof top and it wasn’t busy, but everything took extremely long, menus, drinks, food, general service, everything. Service may have been better if we were on the first floor, but doubtful I’ll be back to find out.

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  20. CSarlington

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 14, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Great tacos and sangria! Good vibes on a Monday night.

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  21. Paul

    Philadelphia

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 12, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    It was a good experience overall. Pretty space. The staff was a little quick, food came out a little quick, but tried to have an extended, pleasant time. Got the fish tacos they were okay. Date was fun. I would recommend a try.

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  22. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience4
    I made a reservation and the hostesses only offered me the 1st floor. I asked if the rooftop was open and she said yes, but probably booked. Staff seemed to be confused and awkward-our waitress was was not attentive and left her shift for the day, which no one took over for. I wouldn’t go again.

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  23. ShauntiaM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Gabby was amazing! If you are debating if you should visit it is a MUST TRY! My bill was only $60 with food and drinks, which is amazing for a bottomless brunch. I ordered 2 margaritas and 2 mimosas which were so strong I promise! The food was so good my favorites were the shrimp tacos, Nutella waffles, Chorizo quesadillas, and the corned beef hash skillet. 10/10 Highly recommend!

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  24. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    vip
    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 29, 2023

    overall4food2service4ambience5
    My friend did not enjoy the food especially the waffles.

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  25. brigid

    Naples

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on July 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    the fried chicken tacos are insanely good!!! the rooftop is also such a fun vibe.

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  26. MikeB

    Washington DC

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 27, 2023

    overall3food5service3ambience4
    All the food tasted great, but they did get a couple of our orders wrong and had to replace them with the correct ones.

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  27. KarenB

    San Francisco

    1 review

    vip
    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 23, 2023

    overall2food2service2ambience4
    Was really looking forward to trying this place, but sadly, it was disappointing both in terms of food and service. Not a smoothly run operation.

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  28. OpenTable Diner

    London

    1 review

    vip
    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 22, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Great atmosphere. Brunch specials are delicious. Fast service.

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  29. DianaS

    Tampa

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 20, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    The food was delicious and the experience was excellent.

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  30. HappyMorn

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 15, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    This was our first visit to this venue since it transformed from a tapas restaurant in the same location. We were impressed with the decor, ambiance, and the quality of the food. However, there were a few minor issues that prevented it from receiving a five-star rating. Firstly, the backstage areas seemed somewhat deteriorated, although I wouldn't go as far as to say they were bad or dirty. Secondly, the service was speedy, which is usually something we appreciate. However, on this occasion, the main course was served too quickly, leaving us with little time to enjoy our margaritas and the appetizers we had ordered. It felt as though we were being rushed to finish our meal and leave. Lastly, as a big fan of churros, despite being labeled as churros on the menu, they were clearly not authentic. For this reason, I cannot recommend them. Apart from these issues, we had a delightful dinner with our family and thoroughly enjoyed our experience. I definitely recommend this place, and I hope that the concerns mentioned above will be addressed promptly.

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  31. Ivanna

    Miami

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 15, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Awesome place and amazing food. The brunch special is great and worth every dollar.

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  32. abinva

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on July 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything was great; highly recommend. Our waitress was one of the best we have had in quite a while.

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  33. JoeV

    Washington DC

    13 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on July 12, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience5
    Space is fantastic, as was our server Lily. Had fish tacos and shrimp tacos. Shrimp was definitely the way to go. Classic margs were nothing to write home about.

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  34. Itsnotme

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 8, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience3
    Food wasn’t that great and the service was really bad. Place wasn’t close to full yet I had to fill my water multiple times. Food ain’t that great.

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  35. LivY

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautiful atmosphere with even better food and outstanding happy hour prices

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  36. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great experience. The server was great and loved the atmosphere

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  37. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    2.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on July 1, 2023

    overall2food3service1ambience3
    The service was poor. It was slow and there was no follow up.

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  38. Angela

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 1, 2023

    overall2food1service4ambience3
    Food at brunch was not the greatest. Drinks were good though. If you want a brunch spot, this ain’t it. Just sit at the bar for drinks lol

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  39. MichelleM

    Washington DC

    14 reviews

    3.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on June 30, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience3
    The tacos were good. Not in a rush to go back.I tried one mango margarita and one strawberry flavored margarita. Both tasted like the classic flavor, I couldn't tell a difference. I tried this restauarnat based on the recommendaton of the recent Arlington magazine write up. It mentioned trying the churros and they were probably the worst I have ever had.

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  40. JonD

    Richmond

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on June 25, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    First time and won't be our last. Excellent brunch menu, very tasty, as well as the unique mimosas. Going to try happy hour during the week to check out the roof top bar.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Sealed or wrapped utensils used
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff is vaccinated
    • Staff temperature check required

FAQs

Buena Vida - Arlington is rated 4.2 stars by 627 OpenTable diners.

Buena Vida - Arlington does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 14 times today
Google Map for Buena Vida - Arlington

2900 Wilson Blvd, Suite 1, Arlington, VA 22201

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Filmore Street
  • Neighborhood
    Arlington
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Thu, Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Cuisines
    Mexican, Traditional Mexican, Latin American
  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Street parking or Public lot
  • Public transit
    Buena Vida is located at 2900 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, Virginia 22201, just two blocks from theClarendon metro accessible on the orange and silver lines. Parking is available in the ColonialParking Garage at 1303 North Filmore Street.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Manuel Guzman
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
Gift card

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card
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