Episode 9 of The Bear's third season kicks off with a captivating montage of clips, shrouded in the mystique of magic and illusion. Marcus emerges as the intrigued viewer. Outdoors, Carmy and the Fak brothers grapple with unpacking the delivery boxes, insisting they've followed Carmy's instructions yet the dumpster remains mysteriously filled with unbroken boxes. They jest about Claire's ghostly presence, haunting Carmy due to her anger.
Meanwhile, Sydney struggles to articulate her speech about a new job offer to Carmy, the words failing to form a coherent flow. Scenes of Carmy yelling at his staff during service intermingle with imagined news clips featuring The Bear, a fantasy Carmy conjures up in his mind. Richie and Carmy remain at odds, while Sydney's frustration mounts.
Later, Richie sits with Gary, realizing they've missed celebrating a guest's birthday. In the kitchen, Sydney and Carmy discuss the recent strain in their relationship. Sydney teeters on sharing something but retreats, deciding to speak later. Carmy mentions the Ever's funeral dinner the following day, inviting Sydney to join. He confesses that he doesn't want it to be difficult for her to keep pace with him, but the reason remains unclear. After Sydney departs, Carmy retreats to the walk-in fridge, contemplating a call to Claire. He rehearses apologies but ultimately, his fingers falter on dialing her number.
Back home, Sydney flips through articles about The Bear, noting that only Carmy is mentioned, not her. The next day, Jimmy drops by to leave his golf clubs with Carmy, as he's traveling. Both agree that the impending Tribune review weighs heavily on their minds. Jimmy launches into a passionate monologue about the many dreams realized in Chicago, financed by the university. He warns that if the restaurant receives a poor review, he'll sever ties. He also conveys his mother's request for Carmy to call and apologizes for not being more involved during the tumultuous times with DD and Mikey. Carmy acknowledges that he too could have tried harder.
Later, the scene shifts to Jimmy reentering the car, accompanied by Computer, and we are struck with the realization that the truth was but a mere fragment. It transpires that Jimmy's financial situation is precarious, and the specter of bankruptcy looms large. Meanwhile, Richie's encounter with Tiff at the playground, where Evie is playing merrily, takes an emotional turn. She queries him about his RSVP for the wedding, emphasizing that he is a part of her family and she desires his presence. Richie brings up the subject, prompting Tiff to apologize for inadvertently revealing to Evie that he is alone.
Back at The Bear, Tina is diligently working on a new culinary creation, and Marcus offers his commendation, deeming it exceptional. Concerned, she inquiries about his well-being, and he confesses fleeting memories of his mother. He then suggests the incorporation of smoked horseradish in her cauliflower dish, inspiring Tina.
Elsewhere, Carmy's notebook serves as a canvas for his sketches and drawings, capturing pivotal moments in his culinary journey. Meanwhile, Sydney finds solace by the seaside, embarking on a soul-searching journey. Ted and Neil devise a seemingly harebrained plan to approach Claire in the hospital, pleading Carmy's case. This scheme, indeed, seems like a recipe for disaster.
Sydney's journey culminates in her arrival at Sydney and Pete's abode, bearing a bounty of food for the new mother and child. Pete expresses his gratitude and then brings to her attention the partnership contract, which he, as a lawyer, has scrutinized. He reveals the salary terms and informs her that insurance coverage commences after three months, paling in comparison to the offer made by Shapiro.
Neil and Ted, despite their best intentions, fumble through their encounter with Claire, making a flimsy and disorganized argument for Carmy. She listens politely but ultimately asks them to leave her workspace, her expression betraying her disapproval. At home, Nat dotes on her newborn, cherishing every moment. Carmy, dressed solemnly for the funeral dinner, leaves his prayer card behind as he steps out, marking the end of Episode 9 of The Bear Season 3.
