A Tale of Resilience

Bonny & Read’s story began in mid-November of 2014 when the restaurant was presented with an extraordinary opportunity, a collaboration with Spike TV’s Bar Rescue that would forever change the course of the establishment. Formerly known as Toucans Oceanside Bar and Grill, which first opened its doors on July 26, 2004, Bonny & Read’s holds a treasured place within the rich tapestry of this vibrant coastal community. However, like many businesses, the bar faced its fair share of challenges.

Financial hardships loomed, and the future of the beloved establishment hung in the balance. That’s when fate intervened, and the dynamic host, Jon Taffer, stepped in to rescue Bonny & Read’s, armed with his unparalleled expertise and passion for the industry. Taffer’s arrival marked the dawn of a remarkable turnaround for the restaurant. His vision and determination were the driving forces behind Bonny & Read’s metamorphosis.

The Captivating Transformation

The first change was the rebranding of the bar as Bonny & Read’s, paying homage to the infamous pirate duo, Anne Bonny and Mary Read. This new identity perfectly captured the spirit of adventure and excitement that awaited within the doors. The entire establishment underwent a mesmerizing pirate-themed makeover, immersing guests in an ambiance that seamlessly blended history, myth, and the allure of the sea.

But the transformation extended far beyond aesthetics. Taffer’s guidance ignited a revolution within Bonny & Read’s culinary offerings. The menu, once limited, received a well-deserved update. With a passionate team of chefs, the restaurant embarked on a culinary exploration, crafting a diverse range of dishes that catered to a multitude of tastes and preferences. From tantalizing appetizers to sumptuous main courses, the kitchen became a haven for gastronomic delights.

Yet, it was in the realm of libations that Bonny & Read’s transformation truly shone. Drawing inspiration from Taffer’s expertise, the bar team embarked on a quest to create unique and unforgettable signature cocktails. Meticulously crafted, these libations became a symphony of flavors, capturing the essence of Bonny & Read’s in every sip. The beverage selection expanded to include a diverse range of spirits, wines, and craft beers, ensuring that every guest found perfect drink to complement the experience.

A Journey of Bonny & Read’s

However, the transformation of Bonny & Read’s extended far beyond the physical realm. Taffer recognized that for the establishment to thrive, owners Jamie Hawkes and John Franke needed to possess the necessary skills to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the bar industry. Taffer became Bonny & Read’s mentor, working closely with them to enhance Bonny & Read’s management abilities, refine the business acumen, and equip them with the tools needed to lead a successful bar. Under his tutelage, Bonny & Read’s emerged as visionary leaders, driving the bar’s continued success.

However, the transformation of Bonny & Read’s extended far beyond the physical realm. Taffer recognized that for the establishment to thrive, owners Jamie Hawkes and John Franke needed to possess the necessary skills to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the bar industry. Taffer became the mentor, working closely with them to enhance the management abilities, refine the business acumen, and equip them with the tools needed to lead a successful bar. Under his tutelage, they emerged as visionary leaders, driving the bar’s continued success.