Empire Diner Moves Forward With New Ownership and Familiar Faces
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
At a Glance — Empire Diner
Owner: Akash Karwal (new)
Manager: Jamba (continuing)
Menu: Current items staying; new recipes, offers, and themed nights being explored
Updates: Considering interior/exterior renovations to modernize the space
The Empire Diner in downtown Gull Lake is beginning a new chapter. New owner Akash Karwal, who took over the business about six months ago, says the decision to invest here came down to the town’s character, the sense of community he experienced, and what he described as a great location.
“I like how the town is very family knitted, family oriented, and this is a great location,” Karwal said during an interview at the diner.
Karwal, who operates other businesses but is new to the restaurant world, emphasized that the existing team has been central to the transition. Manager Jamba continues to run day‑to‑day operations and remains a key part of the diner’s future.
“He is my right hand… that’s the only reason I can sleep at night,” Karwal said.
Jamba has been part of the community for several years and brings local experience and familiarity that helps keep the diner running smoothly.
Exploring Updates to Menu and Space
Karwal says the team is exploring ways to refresh both the menu and the space itself. That includes new recipes, special offers, and potential interior and exterior updates.
“We are working on maybe revamping some of the menu… and also looking to renovate outside and inside to make it more like a dining, up‑to‑date place,” he said.
In practice, that means a gradual approach: keeping the current menu items in place while testing new additions and ideas. The team is also considering themed nights — from wine nights to karaoke — depending on what fits the community’s interests.
“We’re exploring updates to both our menu and our space, aiming to create a more modern, welcoming atmosphere for everyone,” Karwal explained.
Community Connection at the Centre
Alongside these updates, Karwal says community involvement will continue to be a defining part of the diner’s identity.
“I’d love to contribute to the community… a small knitted community like this should have everything stay to the community,” he said.
Karwal emphasized the importance of giving back:
“In a close‑knit town like this, it’s important to keep everything centered around the people who live here.”
Jamba echoed that sentiment, noting that fundraisers and local events have always been part of the diner’s role. “We just want to add more ideas for fundraisers or some events,” he said.
Hiring and Next Steps
As new offerings roll out, the diner is also looking to hire locally. Karwal says they hope to start with part‑time help and grow the team as needed.
“We are looking to hire from locals. We are looking to expand our business,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Karwal says his goal is to support the diner’s future while learning from the community it serves.
“The whole idea is to bring it back to where it was before and go from there,” he said.
Residents interested in part‑time work or upcoming menu changes can stop by the diner or follow along for updates as plans take shape.
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