No Gods No Masters: Lil’ Empire

It’s not unusual for a great burger to start as a weekend special, but few find their way into a full-blown institution—which is different than a chain, btw. But that’s exactly what Lil’ Empire has done, though not without a few happy accidents (and one flaming BBQ) along the way. The story starts with a chance encounter at a wine shop, and the plot thickened as Annex was planning its taproom expansion. Burgers met beer in an established third space. Sparks flew, and @lilempireburger was born. An empire in a brewery claiming to have no gods nor masters? Groundbreaking.

Since then, Lil’ Empire’s growth has been constant, but not rushed. We’d go so far as to call it organic if we felt we could pull off that turn of phrase. Each location is opened to be in service of the neighbourhood it’s a part of, and to reflect its unique identity. Their community-minded culture motivates more than their real estate decisions. Enter: Charity Chow, once a secret menu item, it became a way to give back. Lil’ Empire donates a portion of rotating feature sales to local charities while giving staff creative control in the kitchen.

And creative control isn’t the only perk for employees. Full-time staff receive benefits, and several have risen through the ranks to become owners themselves. What began with an idea—and a particularly good burger—has grown into something more enduring: a collection of spaces built by and for the communities they’re part of. Who says you shouldn’t go into business with friends? Not these guys.

📍1105 1 Ave NE, Bridgeland
📍1103 4 St SW, Beltline
📍1837 20 Ave NW, Capitol Hill
📍4321 1st St SE, Annex
🍺 Our beers and sodas are available at all locations