Ep 17. Corking the Hole

In season 3 episode 17 of Bar Rescue, titled "Corking the Hole," host Jon Taffer travels to a bar in Las Vegas, Nevada called The Hammer. The Hammer is owned by a man named Frankie, who inherited the business from his father. Despite his passion for the bar, Frankie's lack of experience and poor management skills have led to The Hammer's downfall. The bar is struggling financially, and Frankie is facing mounting debt.

When Taffer arrives, he is greeted by a chaotic scene. The bar is dirty and disorganized, and the staff is unprofessional and unmotivated. Customers are few and far between, and those who do come in are quickly turned off by the poor service and lackluster atmosphere. Frankie is in over his head, and he knows it.

Taffer starts by observing the staff in action. He quickly identifies several major problems, including a lack of training, poor hygiene, and ineffective communication among the staff. He also notes that the bar's signature drink, a flaming shot, is not only dangerous, but also unappetizing. Taffer immediately puts a stop to the flaming shot, and begins to train the staff on proper mixology techniques.

Next, Taffer turns his attention to the physical space of the bar. He notes that the layout is confusing, with several dead spaces that are not being utilized. He also identifies a major problem with the beer lines, which are old and clogged with debris. Taffer brings in a team of experts to replace the beer lines and clean the tap system. He also reconfigures the layout of the bar, removing unnecessary furniture and opening up more space for customers.

As the renovation progresses, tensions between Taffer and Frankie begin to mount. Frankie is resistant to change and unwilling to accept criticism. Taffer is frustrated by Frankie's lack of cooperation, but he refuses to give up on the bar. He knows that The Hammer has the potential to be a great bar, if Frankie is willing to make the necessary changes.

In the end, Taffer is able to turn The Hammer around. With a new menu, new drinks, and a clean, inviting atmosphere, the bar begins to attract more customers. Frankie starts to take his role as owner more seriously, and the staff becomes more motivated and professional. The Hammer is no longer a sinking ship, but a thriving business with a bright future.

Overall, "Corking the Hole" is an engaging and inspiring episode of Bar Rescue. Taffer's skills as a bar expert and motivator are on full display, as he works tirelessly to transform The Hammer from a failing dive bar to a successful establishment. Viewers will be inspired by the bar's remarkable transformation, and by Taffer's unwavering commitment to his craft.