LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A Las Vegas family is expanding their dream of opening a new restaurant in the southwest valley after surviving a challenging economy as a small business, thanks to support from the surrounding community.
Rita Sopi and her family opened Alchemy Coffee in the southwest valley two years ago. Like many small businesses, they faced rising costs and economic challenges.
“We have been able to get through with the help of the and the support of the community. We have regulars that come in and appreciate the coffee that we provide and the value that they see in it,” Sopi said.
According to the Secretary of State’s office, business openings in Clark County are slowing. More than 11,000 businesses opened in 2021, but that number dropped to just 3,500 in 2024, and only 631 in 2025. The first three years remain the toughest for local businesses.
“I believe that people are leaning more towards helping family-owned businesses and the smaller businesses rather than the chains,” Sopi said.
New Mediterranean restaurant opens next door
After finding success with their first business, Sopi is now opening a new Mediterranean restaurant next door. The local pizza shop that was previously there didn’t survive.
“It’s a passion. I have a passion for baking and this was a good opportunity for me,” Sopi said.
“So Sofra is a Mediterranean food. We’re trying to bring that culture and that fusion of the Balkans here in Las Vegas,” she said. “A little bit of Turkish, Greek, I’m Albanian, I’m very proud of my culture and my food, and I’m hoping to bring that to the community to share. We don’t have anything like that here.”
She says they hope the restaurant becomes a gathering place — just like their coffee shop — where customers feel at home.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty out there and I don’t know what to expect, but it’s a new journey. We’re going with it and hoping for the support of the community just like they have been,” Sopi said.
The new restaurant is going through final inspections and will open soon.
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