Seoulmate Kitchen offers a modern spin on Korean cuisine with popular dishes like bulgogi melt sandwiches, bibimbap bowls, and kimchi arancini. Guests enjoy a lively food court setting inside the Santa Barbara Public Market complemented by a creative selection of artisanal matcha and coffee drinks.
Counter service enables quick dining with walk-ins welcomed. The passionate staff’s friendly service and generous portions complete the approachable yet refined experience.
What to Expect:
🍲 Generous bibimbap and bulgogi melts
🍵 Signature matcha drinks and cloud lattes
🍗 Crispy Seoul Fire Wings
🛍 Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options
🍰 Monthly rotating cheesecake flavors
Important Information:
Located inside Santa Barbara Public Market
Free and paid parking options available
No reservations; walk-ins only
Counter service with quick turnover
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍵 Matcha Must-Try: The Iced Coconut Matcha Cloud is a top favorite for both its refreshing taste and visual appeal.
🍗 Wing Fans Rejoice: Seoul Fire Wings are highly recommended for those who love crispy, flavorful Korean-style wings.
🌿 Vegetarian Options: The kimchi arancini and tofu stone bowl bibimbap offer delicious meat-free choices clearly labeled on the menu.
🚗 Parking Tips: Plenty of free street and garage parking around the public market, but paid lots are also available for convenience.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Seoulmate Kitchen garners high praise for flavorful, generously portioned Korean fusion dishes and standout matcha drinks. Guests consistently cite fresh ingredients and attentive service. Some note the bustling public market setting can be noisy and crowded. Occasional critiques mention miss-steps with specific dishes early on, but overall satisfaction is strong.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Bulgogi Melt Sandwich, Bibimbap Bowls, Kimchi Arancini, Seoul Fire Wings, Gochujang Mac and Cheese, Iced Coconut Matcha Cloud, Stone Bowl Bibimbap with Tofu, Matcha Brownie, Vietnamese Coffee, Monthly Cheesecake Specials
