You're Closing The Neighborhood Cup? I'll Buy It

Sam Elsobky walked into on Nov. 22 as a customer and walked out an owner.

Within three hours from hearing the words, "We're closing The Cup today," the Aliso Viejo resident and regular to the coffeehouse decided to buy the business.

The Cup was only closed for three days (which fell during the Thanksgiving holiday) during the transition.

Elsobky, who works as a pharmacist, has never owned a coffeehouse, but said he is confident that the changes he'll bring to the business will bring success.

"A challenge is my area of expertise," Elsobky said.

The Neighborhood Cup employees came to work Nov. 22 expecting to say their goodbyes and begin the journey for a new job. Elsobky attended their end of the day closing party with the news and invited all employees to keep their current jobs.

Four of the employees are still working at The Cup while four had new jobs already lined up.

Elsobky said he has several changes in the works including a new menu. While the menu is top secret Elsobky did promise lower prices on food. The reign of the $11 sandwich is over at The Cup and a new menu will highlight sandwiches and salads in the $6 to $7 range.

Input from the community and his employees are shaping the new Cup.

"I'm so excited and happy to see new ideas coming from [my employees'] unique points of view," he said.

Besides the new menu, expect to see a change of decor, updated logo and website, more events, a partnership with the library and fundraisers for the community.

"I have opened my arms to the community," Elsobky said. "I am the best resource for them and vice versa. I ask how can I help and support the community. I want this place to be like their own houses."

Similar to the three-hour decision to buy The Cup, Elsobky and his wife made the decision to move to the United States in only two hours. Born in Egypt, Elsobky said he has an American dream like everyone. He looks at decisions with confidence and "just goes for it."

"Just make your decision and go," Elsobky said.