Francesca and Juan Munoz Vaca wanted to create more than a restaurant. They wanted every plate to tell a story.

So, Seoulmate Kitchen was born.

“My Korean and Italian roots and Juan’s culinary expertise gave us the perfect foundation to experiment, blend traditions, and serve food that’s both comforting and full of twists,” Francesca Munoz Vaca told Noozhawk.

The married couple recently opened the restaurant inside the Santa Barbara Public Market, against the back wall.

Francesca Munoz Vaca introduced her husband to Korean food through visits to Koreatown in Los Angeles. She said he was drawn to the “bold, vibrant flavors,” and inspired to explore how the food could be fused with classical training and global perspective.

Juan Munoz Vaca is a professionally trained chef, earning a culinary degree in Mexico and a master’s degree in gastronomy in Spain.

“His passion for food began early, cooking alongside his great-grandmother and preparing meals for his family with heart and intention,” his wife said.

She was born and raised in Santa Barbara and comes from a long line of restaurateurs with both Italian and Korean heritage. She was raised in the traditions of both cuisines.

“From family-run Italian restaurants to homemade Korean meals, food was always at the center of life,” she said.

Seoulmate fuses Korean food with a café.

“By combining Juan’s culinary expertise with the deep cultural roots and family-style warmth behind the concept, Seoulmate Kitchen was created as a space where guests can experience love and connection through every plate, every sip and every visit,” Francesca Munoz Vaca said. “Opening inside the Santa Barbara Public Market felt like the right home. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can wander in, try something new and leave feeling like part of the family.”

The restaurant is open from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day and is located at 38 W. Victoria St., Suite 115.

“We’re here to welcome people in, share flavors that mean so much to us, and create an experience that lingers long after the last bite,” Francesca Munoz Vaca said. “Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Korean cuisine or just curious to try it for the first time, we’ll make sure you leave full, happy and maybe even with a new favorite dish.”

State Street Building Purchase

Santa Barbara husband-and-wife team Ali and Mike Evans have purchased the building at 1014 State St.

The 5,000-square-foot multi-tenant building is currently occupied by Pampel Design and Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu. It was also the home of cult classic Morninglory Music in the 1990s and 2000s.

“Local owners naturally have strong ties to downtown,” Caitlin Hensel of Hayes Commercial Group said. “So, it’s a good sign to see local investors and organizations buying property here and looking to build a brighter future for State Street. With Ali and Mike’s combined skills and love of Santa Barbara, the property couldn’t be in better hands.”

Hensel and Kristopher Roth of Hayes Commercial Group represented the sellers in the transaction.

“It’s long been a dream of ours to own a piece of State Street,” the couple said in a statement. “We are genuinely optimistic about its revitalization and wanted to be part of that story. We’re both longtime residents: Ali previously managed a large portion of State Street and brings an understanding of its commercial heartbeat, while Mike has been closely involved in tenant build-outs for businesses along the corridor. It’s where our professional experience and personal passion meet.”

New U-Haul Dealer in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has a new U-Haul dealer.

Happy’s Collision Center at 502 E. Haley St. will now offer U-Haul services. The services include trucks, trailers, towing equipment and moving supplies.

“During these challenging times for small businesses, more than 21,000 dealers across the U.S. and Canada are generating supplemental income through their U-Haul affiliation,” according to a news release. “When customers rent from a U-Haul dealer, they are directly supporting an independent small business in their community.”

Fazzino 3D Studio Gallery Grand Opening

Fazzino 3D Studio Gallery plans to hold its grand opening at noon next Friday, Aug. 22, at 1011 State St. in Santa Barbara.

Guests can enjoy a selection of wine, cheese and light hors d’oeuvres.

Renowned artist Charles Fazzino will be in attendance to guide guests on a tour of the new collection, according to the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association.