A new culinary venture is underway in Anaheim, California, as celebrated chef and cookbook author Debbie Lee has been announced as the first chef-partner for the OCVIBE Market Hall. Her eatery, named Mokja—which means “let’s eat!” in Korean—will focus on comfort-driven Korean-American cuisine. This development marks an exciting addition to the area, located at 2610 E Katella Ave, and is poised to enhance dining options around the bustling entertainment district.
Mokja will offer a menu inspired by traditional Korean street food, featuring comforting snacks, innovative breakfast sandwiches, and specialty coffee drinks. The concept aims to promote accessibility and community engagement rather than adhere to fine-dining formalities. Lee’s vision is to create a casual atmosphere perfect for everyday gatherings, quick meals, and relaxed meetups among friends and family.
In addition to Mokja, Debbie Lee will introduce a second restaurant concept called Pado within the Market Hall. This duo represents the first culinary offerings revealed for the upcoming 50,000-square-foot food hall, which is expected to house a total of 21 different culinary concepts and six themed bars, according to information from PR Newswire.
OCVIBE Development: Transforming the Area
The OCVIBE project aims to become Orange County’s new downtown district, encompassing not only the Market Hall but also new residential buildings, office spaces, and parks. The entire development sprawls across 100 acres, strategically located near the Honda Center and the Amtrak transit hub. This prime location is rapidly evolving into a vibrant area that demands more dining options to accommodate the influx of visitors and residents.
As the first notable food destination in the OCVIBE project, Mokja and Pado are set to be significant contributors to the culinary landscape of Anaheim. By combining a focus on community and a celebration of Korean cuisine, Debbie Lee is poised to attract both local diners and visitors seeking a unique dining experience.
With Mokja and Pado set to open in the near future, the anticipation for OCVIBE’s Market Hall continues to build. The project promises not only to enhance the dining experience but also to redefine the cultural fabric of the area, making it a key player in the region’s evolving downtown scene.
