What happened to Finn McCool’s after Kitchen Nightmares: Open or Closed?

David Purcell
finn mccools kitchen nightmares

Gordon Ramsay tried to help Finn McCool’s in Kitchen Nightmares Season 1, not just in terms of getting more customers through the door, but also in building a harmony in the family. Here, we’ll look at whether Finn McCool’s stayed open or closed – and what happened while Chef Ramsay was on the scene.

With a mission to save businesses across the United States, Kitchen Nightmares has witnessed many eateries grappling with the verge of oblivion.

Looking back through the best episodes of the show’s existence, many have survived and many have died after the experience.

Finn McCool’s in Westhampton, New York, was spotlighted in Season 1, Episode 8, aired in 2007, amidst familial discord and dwindling fortunes. But, did it stay open after Gordon left?

Is Finn McCool’s Open or closed?

Finn McCool’s, against many odds, managed to keep its heart burning after the show and was operational for several years before finally closing its doors in 2012.

What happened to Finn McCool’s after Kitchen Nightmares

The episode brought to light the familial tensions brewing at the heart of Finn McCool’s operations.

The sons and the father were at odds, with the menu and service standards hitting rock bottom. Ramsay’s intervention served as a mediator, streamlining the menu and refurbishing the ambiance to bring back the lost allure. This is something he’s done many times since the first season, and also in his UK series.

The resonance of Ramsay’s revamp echoed positively initially, with the familial bond seemingly mended and the restaurant garnering local patronage. So… Did it last?

You can watch the full episode below, from Gordon’s YouTube channel.

Sadly, the spark of resurgence dimmed over time. Despite their best efforts, the challenges of sustaining the regained momentum amid a competitive food industry landscape led to its eventual closure. An issue with the lease of the property was reportedly a key part of the thinking.

The tale of Finn McCool’s is just one example of a family restaurant to feature on Kitchen Nightmares and shows the struggles it can bring at times.

In 2023, the return of Kitchen Nightmares promises to shine a light on even more struggling eateries, stirring the pot of anticipation among its aficionados. The legacy of the likes of Finn McCool’s and Charlie’s Italian Bistro provides a seasoned backdrop to the enthralling drama awaiting in the new season. If you’re new to the series, strap yourself in because it should be fun.

About The Author

David is the former US Managing Editor at Dexerto.com. You can contact him via email: david.purcell@dexerto.com.