Ep 5. Stone's Throw

In Gordon Ramsay's 24 Hours to Hell & Back Season 2 Episode 5, the renowned chef and his team head to historic Haledon, New Jersey to give a little culinary TLC to a restaurant called Stone's Throw. This cozy bar and restaurant has been a neighborhood staple for over 70 years, but its outdated decor, lackluster menu, and infrequent social media presence are driving away potential customers.

Upon arrival, Ramsay is immediately struck by the dark, dingy, and outdated interior of the restaurant. The walls are lined with old photographs and memorabilia from the restaurant's past, but they are obscured by years of grime and neglect. The menu also needs a serious upgrade, featuring uninspired dishes like chicken parmigiana, fried shrimp, and burgers. To make matters worse, the kitchen is in disarray and the staff is disorganized and unenthusiastic.

With only 24 hours to turn things around, Ramsay and his team jump into action. They begin by renovating and modernizing the restaurant's interior, replacing the dusty wall decorations with brighter, more modern artwork and scrubbing every inch of the space. They also create a new, innovative menu that incorporates fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and elevates classic dishes to new heights. Ramsay works with the kitchen staff to teach them new techniques and refine their cooking skills, and the team teaches the servers how to provide top-notch customer service.

As always, there are a few bumps in the road along the way. Ramsay encounters resistance from some of the staff, who are hesitant to change their ways. One cook in particular is defensive and uncooperative, making the kitchen an even more chaotic place. Ramsay also notices that the owner, a woman named Toni, is hesitant to assert herself and take charge of the restaurant. However, Ramsay's tough love approach and his belief in the restaurant's potential ultimately win everyone over.

The episode culminates in a grand re-opening, where the restaurant's loyal customers can finally see the fruits of Ramsay's labor. The new menu is a hit, with dishes like a pan-seared salmon with crispy kale and a bourbon glazed pork chop garnering rave reviews. The updated decor and improved service also make a big impact, creating a more welcoming and inviting atmosphere. By the end of the episode, it's clear that Stone's Throw is back on track and poised for continued success.

Overall, Gordon Ramsay's 24 Hours to Hell & Back Season 2 Episode 5 is a heartwarming and inspiring look at the power of hard work, determination, and a little bit of tough love. Ramsay's passion for good food and excellent service shines through in every aspect of the renovation, and it's clear that he truly cares about the success of the restaurants he helps. Whether you're a foodie, a fan of reality TV, or just looking for an uplifting story, this episode is definitely worth a watch.