Traffic. Jam. When you’re already late. Alanis’ iconic lyric is The Bear’s scenario in episode 5. The constant rain delays all reservations, sending our team to guess: are they merely waiting for turns that won’t show up?
Despite the panic on the wall, they continue working. Natalie rallies the troops to regroup, adjusting all tasks to their new, tighter scenario. Later, Natalie’s calm demeanor is slighted with a call from Donna — the power’s gone out. Despite her reassurance that they’re okay, Natalie demands she and the baby come to the restaurant.
Marcus’s friend, Chester, comes through in the clutch, but three’s company stirs tension between the former and Luca. When Luca attempts to address the elephant in the room — his abrupt leaving announcement — Marcus shuts down. Luca takes a breather with Syd in her office. She shares how she woke up that morning self-assured in her job, and now isn’t sure what to believe. He attempts to find the sliver lining: at least they all have the chance to say a proper goodbye.
Outside the restaurant, Uncle Jimmy, Computer and his niece take unexpected guest, Pete, on their quest to secure the air rights. The lawyer and pretty face soothes Mary, played by the brilliant Deidre O’Connell, into negotiations. But a limitless figure and past history foils their plans.
Syd and Richie both make advancements in employee relations. Sydney surprises Tina, entrusting her as her CDC. When Tina doubts she can handle the job, Syd reminds her she’s already been doing it. Richie, unable to relax, gets help from Jessica. The exchange hints at something more between the two co-workers.
Finally, Jessica relays two reservations are on their way. When they arrive, a litany of guests follow behind. They all ran late due to a car accident.
“Raspberries” is a great follow-up to the crescendo that was “Ribs,” allowing more narrative development for some of the sub plotlines. Primarily, the tension between Marcus and Luca. We hate to see our brothers-in-arms at odds, but the pacing is excellent. And adding Chester was the perfect ingredient to spark the clash.
It’s great to see the evolution of Sydney’s relationship with Tina and Richie. Syd’s presence meant change, and was hard for the two vets to accept. Flash forward to today, Tina is Sydney’s right-hand; her protege. And Richie’s playful big brother role shows the deep respect and care he’s developed for Syd.
The comedic relief in this episode, the air rights quest, works a lot better with the additions of O’Connell’s Mary and Chris Witaske’s Pete. The aloof brother-in-law is always a riot, and even more so with O’Connell as his screen partner.
Rating: 8/10