Open145, Eagle Yard Arch, Maldonado Walk, Hampton St, London SE1 6SP, United Kingdom
Discover Costa Azul, your go-to Ecuadorian restaurant in Elephant and Castle, London. Enjoy traditional small plates, hearty seafood, and refreshing drinks in a casual, cozy atmosphere. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or brunch with family and friends. Reservations recommended for a delightful dining experience!
Costa Azul serves up traditional Ecuadorian small plates, platters, and drinks, all in a relaxed atmosphere. Each dish brings the authentic taste of Ecuador to Elephant and Castle. The menu is highlighted by fresh, vibrant flavors and generous portions, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. The restaurant emphasizes quality—expect a cosy, trendy vibe where every detail is attended to. Whether grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a full meal, Costa Azul welcomes everyone, from groups to solo diners. The staff is friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Welcome to Costa Azul, your go-to destination for authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in the heart of Elephant and Castle, London. Our casual and cozy restaurant features a vibrant menu of traditional small plates, platters, and drinks that celebrate Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you're in the mood for our signature ceviche, hearty churrasco, or a refreshing cocktail, there's something for everyone. Enjoy a delightful dining experience with options for brunch, lunch, and dinner, all in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and solo diners alike. Join us for a taste of Ecuador and discover why our guests rave about us!Diners rave about the generosity of the portions—a standout feature that leaves everyone feeling satisfied. The grilled beef in the Carne en Palito con Maduro Frito has become a favorite, cooked to perfection and paired nicely with ripe fried plantains. The diverse offerings, including ceviche and unique seafood options, make Costa Azul a delightful culinary journey. Many customers appreciate the classic Ecuadorian beverages like the refreshing Maracuyá juice. The cosy yet trendy atmosphere adds to the appeal, making it ideal for casual dining or special occasions.
Busiest times can lead to a long wait, particularly on Saturday nights, so advance reservations are a must. Some diners have noted that the noise level increases significantly during peak hours, which might detract from the dining experience. A few patrons expressed dissatisfaction with certain dish availability, particularly during busy weekends when popular specials might sell out. A limited parking option can also pose a challenge for visitors, particularly during lunch hours when nearby streets fill up quickly.
I had previously visited a different Costa Azul branch back in 2020 and unfortunately had a poor experience one that put me off the brand entirely for years. However, a friend recently recommended I try the Elephant and Castle branch, assuring me it was a completely different experience. I must admit, I was hesitant, but I’m genuinely glad I gave it another chance. This branch exceeded all expectations. It’s a cosy Ecuadorian restaurant, and although we visited on a busy Saturday without a reservation, we were seated immediately no waiting, which was a pleasant surprise. I ordered the Carne en Palito con Maduro Frito (grilled beef served with yellow fried plantain and salad). The portion size was just right for me as I have a small appetite. The beef was cooked to perfection, medium rare, just as I like it. The salad was fresh, and the fried plantain was golden and delicious exactly how it should be. My friend had the Arroz Chaufa Mixto, a special fried rice dish with soy sauce, mixed seafood, chunks of beef, red peppers and peas. He absolutely loved it. The flavours were fresh, vibrant, and the portion was generous enough to take half home! For drinks, my friend chose the Maracuyá (passion fruit) natural juice, which was refreshing and flavourful. I asked for a still lemonade, as I can’t have fizzy or carbonated drinks for health reasons, and the team kindly accommodated my request with no issue. It’s the kind of attention to detail that makes a real difference. This visit has genuinely changed my perception of Costa Azul as a brand. I’m proud to leave this review and highly recommend the Elephant & Castle branch. I sincerely hope the other locations follow the excellent standard set here.
The staff are friendly and helpful Their portions are very generous If you are hungry and you want freshly-made authentic food! Look no further!!! The presentation will astound you I am coming back with my family!!! 🌻❤️🤗
It was my first time visiting this restaurant and I will certainly be back. The food is of a high quality, and the portion size is fantastic. If you have not tried Ecuadorian food before, I would highly recommend that you give it a try as they have options on the menu for everybody. Latin American food at its finest! I visited on a Saturday afternoon, and it was quite busy, which is always a good sign. I liked the atmosphere and service was great and we did not have to wait too long for our meals etc.
Great Ecuadorian food experience. Buzzy busy family atmosphere and generous hearty food at a good price. I came here for my birthday and had a very good experience. Would recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends which are extra busy as they serve special dishes.
Great Ecuadorian restaurant that’s been in the area for at least a decade already that I remember. Food, service and atmosphere are all great! Portions are big so come with an empty stomach. Recommend!
Best fish I’ve ever had!
When I looked at the list menu, it seems like the foods are overprice, but actually it's worth the price! I ordered the seafood fried rice, it's tasty! I haven't found any other restaurant where I can have seafood fried rice with satisfying piece of prawn, squid, octopus, etc. The portion also big so I can take away some foods left. Staffs are helpful and friendly. No wonder I saw a lot of people come to the restaurant.
Costa Azul specializes in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, showcasing a variety of small plates, platters, and drinks.
Yes, Costa Azul has a wheelchair-accessible car park, making it convenient for all guests.
Don’t miss the Carne en Palito con Maduro Frito and the Arroz Chaufa Mixto. The ceviche varieties are also highly recommended!
Yes, it’s advisable to make reservations for brunch, lunch, and dinner, especially on weekends.
Expect to spend between £20 and £30 per person for a satisfying meal with drinks.
Costa Azul offers takeaway, dine-in, and delivery options, along with a bar on site and great coffee and dessert!
Costa Azul is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Latin American flavors in a welcoming setting. Reservations are strongly recommended on weekends to secure a spot, especially during busy dinner hours. The casual atmosphere makes it a perfect place for families or friends looking to celebrate or unwind. For newcomers to Ecuadorian cuisine, the staff is eager to guide you through the menu and recommend must-try items. The overall experience is enhanced by the restaurant's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Plus, with an approachable price range between £20–30, you get exceptional value for a memorable dining journey.