When it comes to tracing the roots of JL Beers, we must travel back in time to the year 2009. It was during this pivotal moment in downtown Fargo’s history that the first ever JL Beers bar came to life. Nestled in a modest 900 square foot space, this small pub would unknowingly pave the way for a successful chain of burger joints across the Midwest.
A Tribute to Jim Lauerman
The founders of JL Beers, Randy Thorson and Warren Ackley, had a deep respect and admiration for the late Jim Lauerman. Jim was the beloved owner of Lauerman’s Bar, which was located just around the corner from the soon-to-be JL Beers location. With a desire to honor Jim’s memory and pay homage to the thriving local bar scene he had fostered, Randy and Warren decided to name their establishment after him.
The Streets of Downtown Fargo
As we delve into the location of the first JL Beers, we find ourselves navigating the lively streets of downtown Fargo. This quaint city, nestled in the heart of North Dakota, has come to be known for its vibrant community and bustling food and drink scene. It is within this vibrant setting that the first JL Beers found its home.
A Hidden Gem in Fargo
At the time of its inception, the first JL Beers was something of a hidden gem in Fargo. Tucked away in a relatively small space, it exuded an air of exclusivity that only served to amplify its appeal. Patrons would eagerly seek out this little bar, drawn in by the promise of delectable burgers and a cozy atmosphere.
The Birth of a Burger Joint
The birth of JL Beers marked the beginning of a new era for burger aficionados in Fargo. With its simple yet tantalizing menu, this humble pub quickly gained a dedicated following. It offered a delightful array of juicy burgers, perfectly paired with an impressive selection of craft beers – a winning combination that set the stage for JL Beers’ future success.
Paving the Way for Expansion
The success of the first JL Beers location in downtown Fargo opened up a world of possibilities for Randy and Warren. Encouraged by the positive response from the local community, they seized the opportunity to expand their venture. The once modest bar would soon multiply into several locations across the Midwest, solidifying JL Beers’ status as a regional favorite.
A Home Away from Home
For many Fargo residents and visitors, the first JL Beers became more than just a place to grab a delicious burger and enjoy a cold beer. It quickly transformed into a cherished local institution, where friends and family would gather to share laughter, create memories, and indulge in mouthwatering food. Its warm and welcoming ambiance made it feel like a true home away from home.
Evoking Nostalgia
As JL Beers continued to expand, spreading its wings across the Midwest, it managed to retain the essence of that original location in downtown Fargo. Each new outpost evoked a sense of nostalgia, mirroring its birthplace and embracing the same cozy atmosphere that had captivated patrons from day one.
A Legacy of Flavor
The first JL Beers location in downtown Fargo is more than just a stepping stone in the chain’s journey. It represents a legacy of flavor, quality, and community. This unassuming bar, born out of respect for a local legend, has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of Fargo and beyond.
An Ongoing Success Story
Today, as you walk the streets of downtown Fargo, you may stumble upon the small space that once housed the first JL Beers. While the physical location may have changed, the spirit of that humble beginning lives on in every bite, every craft beer poured, and every smile shared within the walls of any JL Beers establishment.
Conclusion
The first JL Beers bar, located in downtown Fargo, is where it all began. From its modest size to its heartfelt tribute to Jim Lauerman, JL Beers set out to create a burger joint that defied expectations. The success of this inaugural location paved the way for future expansion and solidified JL Beers’ reputation as a beloved regional favorite. So, the next time you find yourself in Fargo, be sure to pay a visit to JL Beers and relish in the flavors that started it all.
