Ep 6. Empty Bottles Full Cans

In Bar Rescue season 4 episode 6, titled "Empty Bottles Full Cans," experienced bar consultant Jon Taffer visits Big Mike's Sports Bar & Grill in Houma, Louisiana. The bar is struggling due to poor management, a lack of organization, and overall disregard for cleanliness and customer service.

Upon arriving, Taffer is immediately struck by the dirty and unorganized bar. He meets the owner, Mike, who is defensive and resistant to change. Taffer quickly realizes that Mike is not cut out for running a bar and needs to step back if the bar is going to succeed.

One of the biggest challenges Taffer faces is the lack of proper inventory management. The bar has over 1,600 bottles of liquor, but many of them are empty. Taffer teaches the staff how to properly manage their inventory and even enlists the help of a local recycling company to dispose of the empty bottles and cans.

In addition to the inventory issues, the staff is poorly trained. Taffer spends time teaching them proper drink-making techniques and emphasizes the importance of customer service. He also brings in a local mixologist to teach the staff new and creative cocktails.

The bar's kitchen is another issue. The kitchen is filthy, and the food is often undercooked or poorly made. Taffer enlists the help of a professional chef to revamp the menu and train the kitchen staff on proper cooking techniques.

Throughout the episode, Taffer also deals with issues such as an outdated POS system, a lack of signage, and poor bar design. He works with local contractors to rebrand the bar with a new logo, update the interior design, and add new signage to attract more customers.

In the end, Taffer manages to turn around Big Mike's Sports Bar & Grill. The staff is well-trained, the bar is cleaner and more organized, and the menu has been revamped. The bar's revenue has increased, and customers are returning. Taffer leaves Mike with the understanding that he needs to keep up with the changes if he wants the bar to continue to succeed.

Overall, "Empty Bottles Full Cans" is a typical episode of Bar Rescue, with Taffer facing a multitude of challenges throughout the renovation process. However, the episode highlights the importance of proper inventory management, training, and customer service, all of which are key to running a successful bar.