Ep 14. Blowing Royal Smoke

In the 14th episode of the sixth season of Bar Rescue, entitled "Blowing Royal Smoke," host Jon Taffer visits a struggling bar in Penns Grove, New Jersey. The bar is owned by a former automotive mechanic, who turned to the bar industry after retiring from the mechanical field. Despite the owner's passion for the business, the bar has been losing money and is on the verge of closing.

Taffer arrives at the bar and immediately identifies a host of problems. There is an overwhelming smell of smoke throughout the establishment, which Taffer believes is due to the bar's decision to allow patrons to smoke cigars indoors. He also notes that the bar's layout is poorly designed, with multiple entrances that make it difficult for staff to keep track of customers. Additionally, Taffer observes a high number of empty bottles and glasses on the bar, which suggests that the staff is not properly managing its inventory.

To get a better sense of the bar's problems, Taffer conducts a stress test on a busy night. He immediately notices that the bar's signature cocktail, a cigar-infused Bloody Mary, takes too long to make, resulting in a long line and dissatisfied customers. The slow service also leads to a number of unattended customers, who become frustrated and leave the bar. Furthermore, Taffer observes that the bar's bartenders are not properly trained, as they struggle to make basic drinks and have to constantly consult a cheat sheet.

After the test, Taffer sits down with the owner to discuss the bar's issues. The owner admits that he is passionate about the bar industry but does not have the necessary experience or expertise to run a successful establishment. He also acknowledges that the decision to allow cigar smoking indoors was a mistake and has hurt business.

Taffer devises a plan to turn the bar around, starting with a complete redesign of the bar's interior. He also brings in a mixologist to create a new and improved cocktail menu. To fix the slow service, Taffer introduces a new system that allows customers to order drinks through a mobile app, which sends the order directly to the bartenders. He also brings in an inventory expert to help the staff better manage their stock.

To test the new and improved bar, Taffer invites a group of potential investors to the grand reopening. The investors are impressed with the new look and feel of the bar, as well as the improved service and menu. The stress test runs smoothly, and customers are happy with the faster service and new drink offerings.

At the end of the episode, Taffer sits down with the owner to discuss the future of the bar. The owner expresses his gratitude for Taffer's help and says that he now has a newfound appreciation for the bar industry. Taffer offers to continue to mentor the owner and provide support as he works to keep the bar successful. The episode ends with the bar thriving and poised for future success.

Overall, "Blowing Royal Smoke" is a compelling episode of Bar Rescue that highlights the importance of experience and expertise in the bar industry. Taffer's innovative solutions and expert advice help turn the struggling bar around and give it a new lease on life.