A little slice of France in Las Vegas

Describe your business.

Rosallie Le French Café offers guests a casual, yet authentic French coffee house experience, serving a variety of coffees and teas as well as French bread, pastries, sandwiches and salads in a rustic, relaxed atmosphere. Our menu and setting pay homage to a restaurant of the same name in France that my parents opened 30 years ago. I’ve been working in this industry since I learned how to walk.

Our pastries are baked daily on site with real French butter and flour. Our bread for sandwiches is homemade, and our coffee beans are sourced from high-quality purveyors to give guests a full European café experience.

The café also features an intimate library space that invites guests to work or socialize. So at any given time, you’ll see guests cozying up to a good book on our couches or a business group discussing ideas over coffee in our conference room.

Who are your customers?

We see families, students and business professionals of all ages. We see ladies who lunch, first dates, foodies and coffee enthusiasts. I often hear guests who have traveled to France say that Rosallie mirrors the experiences they’ve had when they were abroad — it’s one of the highest compliments.

How do you compete with chain coffeehouses?

We are near a couple of major coffeehouse chains, but we’re not intimidated because we have something unique and authentic to offer.

We don’t just want you in and out; we want you to stay and really experience a French café. But certainly, if you need something on the go, we are happy to accommodate that as well with the same level of service.

We also don’t just offer coffee. We offer breakfast, lunch and brunch options along with coffee and tea. The menu is updated often.

What brought you to Las Vegas?

After I graduated from UNR, I wanted to continue living in the United States. I enjoyed the people and the quality of life, so after graduation, I secured a position as a retail manager in Las Vegas. While working retail, I honed my customer-service skills and continued to work toward my dream of starting my own business. It took me longer than I expected, as I was diagnosed with cancer. Thankfully, I underwent treatment, beat it, then my son was born and shortly after, we found a location and opened the doors to Rosallie.

How does operating a restaurant in France compare with operating one in Las Vegas?

It’s challenging to open a business in France. Navigating the administrative process can be complicated, and it’s harder for new businesses to secure financing. In Las Vegas, I found the process to be a lot easier to navigate. However, as Las Vegas now is a top culinary destination, there is more competition in the food and beverage sector.

What’s the most important part of your job?

Interacting with guests and getting to know them on a personal level. It fosters relationships, promotes a sense of community and provides a comfortable atmosphere.

What obstacles has your business overcome?

Perception. Often people view French food as very formal, uptight or not affordable. We’ve been able to show people that French can be casual, approachable and attainable.