Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is a little less funky.

The popular Metropulos Fine Foods market closed its doors last week.

“No beating around the bush here; we’re writing to let you know that we have made the decision to retire from the food business, and to close Metropulos,” the owners said in a statement.

The statement said they have been trying to sell the business and/or the building for some time but have had no offers. Other factors were at play.

“For the past year or so, our homeowners association (we are located in a commercial condominium) has been demanding that we allow them to tent our building for termites, as we are attached to the residential units,” according to the statement.

“We have been trying to postpone the tenting until we have sold our building, as it means we’ll have to empty the building of all foods, packaging, dry goods, etc., and start over. Unfortunately, the HOA has imposed a deadline, forcing us to consider all options.”

Owners Ann and Craig Addis said in the statement that they are in their 60s and starting over isn’t an option.

“If you thought opening a food business was hard, you should try closing one,” they wrote in a statement.

The company held a liquidation sale of the inventory of foods, wines, cheeses and packaging.

“We appreciate your business over the years,” they wrote. “You have been an integral part of our growth and success and have enriched our lives in ways you cannot know. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to be a part of the Santa Barbara food community, to have earned your trust and respect, and won your love.”

Their final note to the community was ambiguous: “Onward and upward, ya’ll stay safe out there. Queue the sunset, and two marauders riding into it. Our time in the food business is coming to an … .”

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Ends Era

That’s a wrap.

The last of the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf businesses on the South Coast is closing.

The home of the ice blended mocha is leaving the Calle Real Shopping Center in Goleta. Its last day is Friday.

At one time there were five Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf businesses in Goleta, three in Santa Barbara and one in Carpinteria.

Hayes Commercial Group Gets New Partners

Caitlin Hensel and Dylan Ward are joining Hayes Commercial Group as principals.

Both were associates with the firm.

“We are proud and thrilled to have Caitlin and Dylan as vested partners with our firm,” founder Steve Hayes said. “They are dedicated professionals of the highest integrity who have distinguished themselves in the industry. In addition, they are great people to work with.”

They join partners Greg Bartholomew, Christos Celmayster, Francois DeJohn, Steve Hayes, Michael Martz, Dan Moll and Kristopher Roth.

Hensel is the first female partner at Hayes Commercial Group, and only the second woman to become a partner or principal at a commercial brokerage in Santa Barbara County, according to a news release.

Ward is a 19-year veteran of the commercial real estate industry.

Both are UCSB graduates.

Uptown Lounge Reopens

The Uptown Lounge, 3126 State St. in Santa Barbara, has reopened after a three-month closure.

The bar held an office grand opening last Saturday.

“With our extensive selection of drinks made from fresh ingredients, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly local staff, we welcome you to discover new music, watch your favorite sports, and have fun,” the company stated on its website.

Best BBQ Opening in Santa Barbara

Warning: Don’t look at their Instagram page unless you want to have your mouth water.

Best BBQ is coming to downtown Santa Barbara.

The Santa Paula eatery states on its Instagram page that it plans to open early this year.

“We have some exciting news! Best BBQ will open its second location in Santa Barbara early next year,” the post stated. “Stay tuned and follow us for photos and videos of our new location.”

The restaurant is at 716 State St.