Anchorage Welcomes New Eateries as West Berlin Closes Its Doors

Several business changes are reshaping the landscape of Anchorage, Alaska, as long-standing establishments close while new ventures open. Among the most significant transitions is the closing of the German restaurant West Berlin, which will end its 11-year run on December 31, 2023, following the passing of its founder, Bill Ho’Opai.

Ho’Opai, who died at the age of 72 from a heart attack, was a beloved figure in the Mountain View community. He opened West Berlin to share his passion for German cuisine, a love he cultivated while serving in the U.S. Air Force in Germany. His family indicated that he wished for the restaurant to close upon his passing, underscoring the personal significance it held for him.

West Berlin became known for its traditional dishes, particularly the homemade rahmschnitzel served with paprika cream sauce, alongside an impressive selection of German beers and freshly made soft pretzels. Ho’Opai’s commitment to the community extended beyond his culinary offerings; he often provided employment to those needing second chances in life. His contributions to local initiatives, such as supporting the German charter school in Anchorage, have left a lasting impact.

The Anchorage Community Land Trust celebrated Ho’Opai as a neighborhood hero, noting his role in demonstrating that successful businesses could thrive in Mountain View.

“Bill proved to the community that you can launch and run a successful business in Mountain View,”

stated Emily Cohn of the trust.

In a contrasting turn of events, Anchorage is also witnessing the arrival of new dining options. City Boy Burgers, a smash-style burger spot, opened its doors last month in Mountain View. The venture, led by owner and chef Blair Hicks, began as a weekend food stall before transitioning into a permanent location. Hicks has quickly gained a following, with patrons eager to try the signature burgers, which feature house sauce, caramelized onions, and cheese on a brioche bun.

The restaurant’s opening has drawn considerable attention, with lines forming outside, even in freezing temperatures. Hicks has expressed gratitude for the community’s support, emphasizing that the restaurant’s success is a product of local patronage. “I’m just super thankful for this community,” he said, noting that everything is prepared fresh, without pre-cooked ingredients.

In addition to City Boy Burgers, Anchorage has welcomed Winter Solstice Sewing and Crafts, which opened in May. Located at 400 W. Potter Drive, the shop caters to a growing demand for hands-on crafting experiences. Owner Marnie Kaler, a self-described “serial crafter,” offers a variety of materials and classes, aiming to inspire individuals to learn sewing skills.

Kaler’s venture comes at a challenging time for the crafting industry, which has faced supply chain issues and increased tariffs. Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic about the potential for small craft shops, as many consumers prefer the tactile experience of selecting materials in person rather than online shopping.

Another noteworthy opening is the expansion of Chugach Mountain Roasters, which recently launched its second location in Anchorage, with plans for a third outlet set to open in February 2024. Owner Lyle Kass aims to create a welcoming environment where the community can gather, offering ethically sourced coffee and quick meals. The third location will be part of a new retail market that will include a Mexican-inspired food truck and seating for over 60 patrons.

As the local economy shifts, the closure of Rage City Vintage has been a notable loss for the Spenard community. Co-owner Mackenzie Tubbs cited economic challenges and decreased consumer spending as contributing factors to the store’s closure. The shop was known for its community events and served as a social hub for artists and musicians in the area. Regular customer Courtney Griechen reflected on the importance of the store, describing it as a vital gathering place for the community.

These developments highlight the dynamic nature of Anchorage’s business scene, where the closing of one chapter often facilitates the opening of another. While the community mourns the loss of beloved establishments like West Berlin and Rage City Vintage, the introduction of innovative new businesses reflects resilience and the spirit of entrepreneurship in Southcentral Alaska.