Sales Increase But Struggles Continue for Ristorante Barolo after 'Restaurant: Impossible'

On in Aptos, owner Cristina Locke said she often feels like she takes "one step forward and five steps back."

With Food Network's help, the progress is now moving forward, but not quite at the pace that Locke may have hoped.

FoodNetwork.com caught up with the folks at Ristorante Barolo and shared this update on its site: 

In Aptos, Calif., Robert and the "Restaurant: Impossible" team faced the daunting task of turning things around at Ristorante Barolo. Owners Giovanni Guerisoli and Cristina Locke struggled with the changing economy as well as family health problems, and could barely keep their 10-year-old business afloat. We checked in with the couple to see how things were going afterRestaurant: Impossible.

Three months later, sales at Ristorante Barolo have increased by 37 percent. 

"The new decor and also all the publicity because of the show have brought new customers," said Cristina. "People watch and really like 'Restaurant: Impossible.'"

With Atilio in charge of the kitchen and Giovanni running the front of house, Cristina is finally able to spend more time with her children.

"Atilio is doing a great job," she said.

Despite her best efforts to reduce stress, Cristina recently suffered a stroke and is still recovering. Because of the stroke, she was unable to finish cleaning out her office. When she recovers, she plans to ask Jessica to help her finish the task.

Giovanni’s health has remained a challenge for him, but he continues to run the front of the restaurant.

"Giovanni is doing the best he can while still dealing with his health issues," Locke said.

He never sold his collectibles at auction and continues to buy more.

"Doing the show was an amazing gift," Cristina said. "I will be forever grateful for what did for the restaurant and for my family."

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