Ep 10. Zero Drunk Thirty

In Bar Rescue season 8 episode 10, titled Zero Drunk Thirty, host Jon Taffer heads to a military-themed bar in El Paso, Texas. The bar, called The Blackbird, is owned by a retired Army Ranger named PJ, who opened the establishment to provide a place for veterans to gather and feel a sense of camaraderie. However, the bar has been struggling financially, and PJ is finding it difficult to keep up with the demands of running a business.

Upon arrival, Taffer immediately notices the lack of customers and the outdated decor. He meets with PJ and his staff to discuss the issues facing the bar, including inefficient inventory management and a lack of consistency in drink preparation. Taffer also notes that the bar's military theme feels more like a gimmick than a genuine tribute to veterans.

To address these issues, Taffer brings in mixologist Phil Wills to train the bartenders on how to create signature cocktails that incorporate a military theme without being too over-the-top. He also revamps the menu, adding more dishes that appeal to the local crowd.

Taffer notices that PJ has a habit of drinking heavily while on the job, which contributes to the bar's financial woes. He confronts PJ about this behavior and helps him to see the negative impact it is having on the business. Taffer also encourages PJ to delegate more responsibilities to his staff in order to alleviate some of the pressure he is feeling.

Throughout the episode, Taffer works closely with the staff to improve their customer service skills and decorates the bar to better reflect the military theme. He also gives the bar a new name, The Blackhawk, to better align with the theme and make it easier for customers to remember.

At the end of the episode, Taffer reveals the newly renovated bar to PJ and the staff. The bar's transformation is met with excitement and gratitude, and Taffer presents PJ with a challenge coin, a military tradition, as a symbol of the bar's renewed dedication to honoring veterans. The episode ends on a positive note, with the bar showing signs of increased revenue and morale among the staff.

Overall, Bar Rescue season 8 episode 10 offers a compelling look at the challenges faced by a military-themed bar in Texas and how Taffer's expertise can help turn things around. The episode highlights the importance of strong leadership and effective communication in running a successful business, as well as the power of a well-executed theme in attracting customers.