Ep 7. Cuban Diner Crisis

American Diner Revival is a television show that follows a team of experts as they enter struggling diners across the country and transform them into flourishing establishments. Hosted by Amanda Freitag and Ty Pennington, the show’s second season features a variety of diners in need of a revival, each with unique challenges and stories.

In episode seven of season two, titled "Cuban Diner Crisis," Amanda and Ty travel to Miami, Florida, to help save a Cuban diner that has been a beloved local fixture for decades. The exterior of the diner is decorated with brightly colored tiles and signs that read "Cuban coffee" and "pastelitos," but inside the once-bustling restaurant, the atmosphere is somber.

The owners, a husband and wife team from Cuba, are struggling to keep the diner afloat after a recent downturn in business. They've had to lay off staff, cut hours, and even switch to cheaper ingredients to make ends meet. The diner's menu is limited and uninspired, and customers have started to complain about the quality of the food.

Amanda and Ty immediately get to work assessing the diner's needs and finding solutions to help bring it back to life. Amanda works with the owners to develop new menu items that incorporate traditional Cuban flavors but with a modern twist, while Ty focuses on giving the diner a much-needed facelift.

The first step in the revival process is to bring in a top chef from a popular Miami restaurant to help Amanda revamp the menu. Together, they create a new dish featuring slow-roasted pork with a spicy mustard glaze, served over a bed of sweet plantains and topped with crispy fried onions. They also add a vegetarian option – a version of the classic Cuban sandwich made with roasted veggies and tangy pickles.

Next, Ty and his team get to work renovating the diner's aging interior. They create a feature wall covered in colorful tiles, add custom lighting, and update the seating with new booths and chairs. They also transform the outdoor patio area into a lush tropical oasis by adding potted plants, string lights, and comfortable seating.

As the renovation progresses, the owners begin to see the potential for growth and success. They become more excited about the changes and start to realize that they can once again become a thriving business in their community.

After the renovations are complete and the new menu is launched, Amanda and Ty host a grand reopening celebration for the diner. The event is a huge success, with crowds of people lining up to try the new dishes and see the restored interior. The owners are thrilled with the response and the newfound energy in their diner.

In the end, "Cuban Diner Crisis" is a feel-good episode that showcases the power of teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. Amanda and Ty's expert guidance, combined with the owners' commitment to their business, results in a successful revival that is sure to inspire others who are struggling to keep their own diners alive.