Ep 11. Don't Mess With Taffer's Wife

In Bar Rescue season 3 episode 11 titled "Don't Mess With Taffer's Wife," Jon Taffer meets with the owners of Bungalow Bar and Grill in Rockaway Beach, New York. The bar is named after the bungalows that once populated the community, but has since become a source of frustration for its owners, Patty and Sheleen.

The episode begins with Taffer's reconnaissance, during which he observes the bar's lackluster service, unorganized kitchen, and chaotic back bar. To make matters worse, Patty and Sheleen, who are married, argue frequently and often in front of the employees and customers. Taffer also learns that the bar is losing money and is in danger of closing, so he decides to step in and turn things around.

Taffer first sits down with the owners to understand their personal and professional backgrounds and assess their leadership styles. He discovers that Patty is a helicopter owner who micromanages everything, while Sheleen is more laid back and disconnected from the business. Taffer also learns that Patty has a penchant for flirting with male customers, which has caused tension with Sheleen and the employees.

Next, Taffer brings in his team of experts to assess the bar's physical and operational issues. The kitchen is in disarray, with poorly trained cooks and inadequate equipment, resulting in long wait times for food and inconsistent quality. The bartenders lack basic skills such as measuring and pouring accurately, and the back bar is cluttered and disorganized. Additionally, there is no clear branding or theme for the bar, leading to a confused identity and lack of customer loyalty.

Taffer decides to overhaul the bar with a new name, logo, and menu. He also instructs the owners to address their personal issues and establish clear roles and responsibilities. To this end, Taffer brings in a personal development expert to help Patty and Sheleen work on their communication and teamwork skills.

After a tumultuous renovation that includes gutting the kitchen and replacing all equipment and furnishings, the bar reopens as the Bungalow Bar and Restaurant. The new menu features seafood and comfort food with a focus on local ingredients and regional specialties. The bar's new decor reflects its beachside location, with shades of blue and white, rustic wood accents, and nautical-themed art.

On the night of the relaunch, the bar is packed with customers eager to see the changes. Taffer instructs the bartenders to focus on speed, accuracy, and engaging with customers, while the kitchen staff works together seamlessly to produce high-quality dishes quickly. Patty and Sheleen work smoothly together, with Patty stepping back from micromanagement and Sheleen taking a more active role in the business.

The results of the renovation are overwhelmingly positive. The customers love the new menu, decor, and vibe of the bar, leading to significantly increased revenue. Patty and Sheleen have resolved their personal issues, leading to a more harmonious and productive work environment. The employees are happier and more motivated than ever before, thanks to Taffer's leadership and coaching.

Overall, Bar Rescue season 3 episode 11 is a dramatic and inspiring example of how a failing bar can be transformed with the right combination of expertise and empathy. Taffer's ability to identify the root causes of the bar's problems and implement effective solutions is impressive, and his dedication to helping Patty and Sheleen overcome their personal issues is a testament to his leadership and compassion. Whether you're a fan of the show or just a lover of great bars, this episode is a must-watch.