Ep 21. The Sound of Failing Music

As Jon Taffer enters the long-running bar, Tempesta, in Dallas, Texas, the owner, Joey, is having a hard time keeping his business afloat. Even though the location is ideal and the drinks are cheap, the bar is consistently losing money. The Sound of Failing Music episode focuses on the effort to save Tempesta from bankruptcy.

Joey is a true character, and his love for everything '80s is reflected in every element of the bar, from the décor to the outdated music and the drink selection. Taffer is instantly dismayed by the chaotic décor, which he describes as "eBay bar meets hoarder's house." The mess and filth on the floors and tables are just as concerning. As Taffer mysteriously warns, "The consequences of not making changes here will be dire."

The Sound of Failing Music episodes begin with a frustrating yet entertainingly hysterical scene wherein Joey, the owner, puts an entire bottle of alcohol in front of the costumers and asks them to name their cocktails. This little stunt turned out as an excellent representation of the problem of Tempesta - they are only set on giving customers what they want, without any idea how to create the right experience.

As Taffer inspects Tempesta's kitchen facilities, he is appalled by the grease-covered and clogged vents, which pose a fire risk. Furthermore, several critical safety procedures are disregarded, putting the kitchen employees' safety and customers' health at risk. Taffer notes that Joey's negligence in these essential areas reflects his broader operating style - and it needs to change quickly.

Taffer meets with Joey and finds that the owner never even made a business plan. There are no set policies or clearly defined goals. It is here that Taffer offers Joey a much-needed wake-up call, highlighting the need for the owner to take his position seriously, whether he directly manages the process or not.

The Sound of Failing Music episodes always feature Taffer's team, and this installment includes two noteworthy specialists. Chef Jason Santos provides an up-to-date menu that includes multiple healthy, eclectic options that cater to a broader audience. Meanwhile, Creative Director April Bartlett, a design specialist, helps bring Tempesta up to date. Bartlett comments that the traditional, yet outdated feel of the bar could potentially harm some by causing a sensory overload.

Together with Taffer, the team aims to update Tempesta and improve its offerings and ambiance, enabling the bar to have a better chance at surviving the increasingly competitive industry. While doing so, Bartlett brings out Joey's passion for the 80s in ways that are more subtle and classier, helping Tempesta mature as a business and not limit its target market.

Throughout The Sound of Failing Music episode, Taffer encouraged Joey to let go of the past and meet the needs of his customers, showing the importance of pivoting with the times rather than remaining in his comfort zone. Embedding this new style made the bar more appealing to a wider audience demographic.

In conclusion, The Sound of Failing Music episode of Bar Rescue demonstrates commitment, teamwork, and the importance of evaluating businesses from an outside perspective. Taffer is instrumental in guiding struggling businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively, all while creating a more memorable experience for customers. The upgrades provided by the team in this episode will undoubtedly help Tempesta succeed in the future.