The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, May 2, 2025, to officially welcome Inkazteca Tienda Latina Convenience Store to the community. Located at 103 North Maple Avenue in downtown Covington, the new business brings a vibrant mix of Latin American flavor and everyday convenience to the Alleghany Highlands.
Local officials, community members, and Chamber representatives gathered to celebrate the grand opening, showing their support for what many are calling a much-needed addition to the area. Among the speakers was Matt Garten, representing Alleghany County, who shared his excitement—noting the store’s convenient location right across the street from his office.
“This has been desperately needed in downtown Covington,” Garten said. “To have somewhere to buy drinks and snacks is a perfect fit.”
Ruben Cossylean, speaking on behalf of the store, noted that new products are still arriving and emphasized the shop’s value to both residents and nearby businesses. “The store will be a huge asset to the nearby Collins Park and downtown businesses,” he added.
Owned by Alexandra Zevallos and Zuleika Lopez, Inkazteca offers a carefully curated selection of products from various Latin American countries, aiming to provide both nostalgic favorites and new culinary experiences.
“Say goodbye to the hassle of traveling to discover new flavors and cuisines,” Zevallos and Lopez said. “With us, you can enjoy a unique culinary experience that might even bring a taste of home.”
In addition to snacks, fresh produce, baked goods, and ice cream, the store offers Western Union services, allowing customers to pay bills and shop for groceries all in one convenient stop.
Inkazteca Tienda Latina is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Cossylean noted that the store may extend its hours as summer approaches. The address is 103 North Maple Avenue, Covington.
The ribbon cutting marked more than just a new business opening—it symbolized a growing and diversifying downtown Covington, where local flavor and cultural variety are becoming key ingredients to community life.
