Ep 22. Back to the Bar: No Laughing Matter

In season 6, episode 22 of Bar Rescue, titled "Back to the Bar: No Laughing Matter," expert mixologist Jon Taffer returns to some of the bars he has previously rescued to see how they have fared since his intervention. In this episode, Jon visits three bars: The Brixton in Austin, Texas, The Lister in Los Angeles, California, and The Abandoned in Mojave, California.

At The Brixton, Jon finds that the owners have reversed many of the changes he implemented in his initial rescue. He discovers that the bar has suffered from poor management and a lack of financial discipline since his departure, which has led to problems with staffing, inventory and even building maintenance. Jon works with the owners to understand the root causes of these issues and provides them with tools and strategies to get the bar back on track.

The Lister has experienced significant success since Jon's initial visit, thanks in part to the owners' newfound dedication to craft cocktails and a focus on customer service. However, Jon discovers that despite their success, the owners are still making costly mistakes that could affect their bottom line. He works with them to identify areas of improvement and provides them with training and best practices to continue to grow and succeed in the competitive Los Angeles market.

Finally, Jon visits The Abandoned, a bar he describes as one of the worst he has ever seen. During his initial rescue, he encountered a series of problems, including unsanitary conditions, untrained staff, and outdated equipment. Upon his return, he finds that the bar has made significant improvements, but still has a long way to go. He works with the owners to identify areas for improvement and provides them with guidance and resources to continue on the path to success.

Throughout the episode, Jon uses his expertise to help each of the bars overcome their unique challenges and set them on a course for long-term success. Whether it's identifying areas for cost savings, improving training and development, or implementing new marketing strategies, Jon works with each bar to ensure that they are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive world of hospitality.

Overall, "Back to the Bar: No Laughing Matter" is a compelling episode that showcases Jon Taffer's expertise and passion for helping bars succeed. From Austin to Los Angeles to Mojave, Jon proves that with the right guidance and support, any bar can overcome its challenges and become a thriving destination for locals and tourists alike.