Ep 11. Saving a Family's Legacy

In this episode of Restaurant: Impossible, Chef Robert Irvine heads to Blue Island, Illinois to help save a family's legacy. The Rubens family has owned and operated Island Bar and Grill for over 20 years, but the restaurant is struggling and on the verge of closing. The family is deeply in debt and the father, Ken, is struggling with health issues, leaving the burden of the business on his son, Joe.

Upon arrival, Chef Robert meets with Joe and his wife, Lisa, to assess the restaurant's issues. The decor is outdated and uninviting, with an overwhelming amount of sports memorabilia cluttering the walls. The menu is uninspired and lacks any cohesive theme. The kitchen is in disarray, with old and malfunctioning equipment.

To start, Chef Robert focuses on revamping the menu. He works with Joe to create a new concept for the restaurant, centered around elevated pub fare with a focus on seafood dishes. They come up with a new menu featuring dishes like crab-stuffed shrimp, lobster mac and cheese, and a Chicago-style beef sandwich.

Next, Chef Robert tackles the design of the restaurant. He works with a local design team to update the decor, creating a more modern and welcoming atmosphere. The sports memorabilia is replaced with calming color schemes and cozy booths. The bar area is opened up to create a more social atmosphere.

In the kitchen, Chef Robert brings in new equipment and teaches the staff how to utilize it properly. He also stresses the importance of cleanliness and organization in a professional kitchen.

As the restaurant prepares for its grand reopening, the Rubens family is anxious but hopeful. The new menu items receive rave reviews from customers, and the updated decor and atmosphere create a more enjoyable dining experience. The stress on Joe is lessened, and the family is able to focus on their long-term success.

Overall, this episode of Restaurant: Impossible highlights the struggles of running a family business and the importance of adapting to changing times. Through Chef Robert's expertise and guidance, the Rubens family is able to keep their legacy alive and thriving for generations to come.