FX’s The Bear significantly elevated its narrative and production in its second season, featuring numerous cameos and even guest direction by Ramy Youssef. Season 3 promises to bring more excitement with ten episodes releasing at the end of June. Last season chronicled the arduous journey of Carmy Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) and his team as they transformed The Beef into The Bear.
Natalie’s Role as COO
Natalie Berzatto (Abbie Elliott), known as “Sugar,” stepped up as a part-time project manager, effectively becoming the Chief Operating Officer. The transformation required re-filing business permits, as Mikey had never done so for The Beef. Amid this, Richie discovered severe mold issues, and two failed fire suppression tests added to the pressure, with just ten days remaining before the planned opening. Originally a six-month project, the timeline was cut to three months.
With Carmy’s disorganized approach, Sydney’s (Ayo Edebiri) methodical planning, and Neil Fak’s (Matty Matheson) energetic antics, Natalie took on responsibilities for permits and safety tests. Uncle Jimmy (Oliver Platt) visited to check on progress and invested more money into The Bear, despite not being repaid by Mikey before his death. Natalie also revealed her pregnancy, initially keeping it secret from their mother Donna (Jamie Lee Curtis), who found out through an accidental slip by Pete (Chris Witaske).
Claire Returns
Carmy ran into his old crush Claire (Molly Gordon), now in medical school, at a grocery store. After an awkward initial encounter, they started spending time together. Carmy’s focus on Claire led to tension with Sydney, who was unaware of Claire’s presence. This tension came to a head when Claire called Carmy in the penultimate episode, but he was distracted by work issues.
Marcus’s Copenhagen Trip
In an episode directed by Ramy Youssef, Marcus (Lionel Boyce) visited Luca (Will Poulter) in Copenhagen. Marcus’s passion for baking had grown in Season 1, and this trip expanded his culinary horizons. Luca taught Marcus the importance of real-world experiences for culinary inspiration. Marcus was also shown caring for his terminally ill mother.
In the second-to-last episode, Marcus awkwardly asked Sydney out, and she responded awkwardly, leading to a mutual awkwardness. Sydney supported Marcus via Facetime during his trip.
Tina and Ebraheim’s Training
With Carmy and Sydney now partners, Sydney needed a new sous chef. She offered Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas) and Ebraheim (Edwin Lee Gibson) a chance to train and advance. Tina eagerly accepted, while Ebraheim struggled initially. Carmy gave Tina his knife to help her advance her skills, and she had a memorable karaoke performance with her colleagues.
Berzatto Family Dynamics
Episode 6, titled “Fishes,” explored the Berzatto family dynamics during a chaotic Christmas dinner. Their mother Donna’s frenzied cooking was highlighted, and guest cameos included Bob Odenkirk, Sarah Paulsen, and John Mulaney. The episode revealed tensions, particularly between Mikey and Carmy, and ended with Donna having a meltdown, driving through the house in frustration. This episode was later framed as a panic attack and flashback for Carmy in Claire’s presence.
Richie’s Transformation
In Episode 7, “Forks,” Carmy sent Richie to stage at a high-end restaurant run by Chef Terry (Olivia Colman). Richie progressed from cleaning cutlery to handling food prep and floor management. He learned the importance of anticipating customers’ needs and communication. Richie bonded with Terry over their fathers’ military service and felt a renewed sense of purpose. This episode also tied back to his daughter’s wish for Taylor Swift concert tickets, reflecting his personal growth.
Fak Fixes the Fire Suppression Valve
Neil Fak saved the day by fixing the fire suppression valve, realizing that Mikey had likely tampered with it to cash in on fire insurance. Fak’s timely repair passed the final fire suppression test just as the technician arrived.
A Stressful Finale
The Friends and Family opening night began smoothly. Carmy gifted Sydney a Thom Browne apron, and Richie, now wearing suits for confidence, managed the front. However, Carmy got locked in the fridge, forcing Richie to handle ticket orders and Sydney to take over cooking. Donna showed up but didn’t enter, learning about Natalie’s pregnancy from Pete and leaving distressed.
Carmy, stuck in the fridge, confessed his distraction due to Claire, who overheard and left. Tensions escalated as Richie confronted Carmy. Meanwhile, Marcus received a gift from Luca but also a worrying text about his mother. Sydney’s father praised her efforts, calling the restaurant “the thing.”
