Ep 17. Back To The Bar: Tough Love

Back To The Bar: Tough Love is the 17th episode of the 9th season of the popular reality show Bar Rescue. In this episode, host Jon Taffer returns to some of the bars that he has previously rescued to follow up on their progress and see if they have continued to implement his strategies.

The episode begins with Taffer revisiting The Brixton, a bar located in Redondo Beach, California that he had previously rescued in Season 5. Taffer is disappointed to find that the bar has slipped back into the bad habits that he had worked so hard to eliminate. The bartenders are pouring weak drinks and there are empty glasses and trash all over the bar. Taffer is determined to set things right and starts by conducting a stress test to see how busy the bar can handle.

Next, Taffer returns to The Hammer and Ales, a bar located in Las Vegas, Nevada that he had rescued in Season 4. The bar has been doing well and expanding its menu, but Taffer discovers that they are not utilizing their new kitchen properly. He works with the chef to create a new signature dish that showcases their barbecue style and encourages them to promote it to their customers more.

Taffer then heads to Piratz Tavern, a bar located in Silver Spring, Maryland that he infamously rescued in Season 4. The owners had reverted back to the previous pirate theme, and Taffer is quick to point out that the theme is not the issue - it's the execution. He encourages the owners to focus on providing excellent customer service and creating a fun atmosphere without sacrificing quality.

The next stop on Taffer's journey is The Handlebar Cafe, a bar located in Baltimore, Maryland that he had rescued in Season 6. Taffer is elated to find that the bar is thriving and has become a neighborhood staple. However, he notices that the bar's signature cocktails have fallen by the wayside. He works with the bartenders to create an updated menu with fresh and innovative drinks that incorporate locally sourced ingredients.

Lastly, Taffer visits The Cajun Belle, a bar located in La Verne, California that he had rescued in Season 3. Taffer finds the bar in great shape and commends the owner for continuing to maintain the high standards that he had set. However, Taffer also notices that the bar has not been utilizing their patio space effectively. He works with the owner to create a new seating arrangement and add some Louisiana-style decor to bring the theme of the bar outside.

Overall, Back To The Bar: Tough Love showcases the importance of consistency and persistence when it comes to running a successful bar or restaurant. Jon Taffer's approach to rescuing businesses goes beyond a quick fix and focuses on making lasting changes that will ensure a bar's long-term success.