For years, Chicago Fire fans have been curious about how Firehouse 51’s beloved hangout, Molly’s, operates when Herrmann and Kidd are on shift. This longstanding question has finally been answered in a surprising and satisfying way in Chicago Fire season 13, episode 14, “Bar Time,” where fans not only get answers but also experience a fresh shift in dynamics that could change the course of future storylines.

As the episode unfolds, Chief Pascal’s absence leaves Firehouse 51 in the capable hands of Christopher Herrmann, who struggles to adjust to his new leadership role. Meanwhile, the intense drama of the day takes a backseat to personal storylines, including Sam Carver’s battle with alcohol abuse and Joe Cruz’s lingering inability to go home after multiple call-outs.

But amid the chaos, it’s the reveal of Molly’s operations that steals the spotlight. For the first time, fans get to see that the bar isn’t just the domain of Herrmann and Kidd. When Firehouse 51’s own Ambo 61 responds to an incident at Molly’s, viewers get a glimpse into how the pub stays open even when the main staff isn’t there. “It’s bizarre seeing other people behind the bar,” a fan might think, but as the show expertly explains, it makes sense that the business continues to run smoothly without Herrmann or Kidd present.

However, the real drama doesn’t stop at the bar. The episode also marks the return of a familiar face—Jack Damon, Benny Severide’s secret son and Kelly Severide’s brother. After being fired from Firehouse 51, Jack finds a new role at another firehouse, but it’s clear that his connection to the Chicago Fire family is far from over. In an unexpected twist, Jack becomes involved in a rescue at Molly’s after a woman suddenly collapses. Although fans briefly fear the incident may be linked to the bar’s service, the truth is much simpler, but no less important for the ongoing narrative.

Beyond the bar, this episode also brings to light a deeper theme—the sense of community and connection that Molly’s represents for Firehouse 51. This was never just a bar; it’s been a backdrop for many personal connections, challenges, and victories. For Herrmann, it also serves as a potential retirement gig when the time comes. As he contemplates his future, Chicago Fire hints that Molly’s might become an even more important space for him, especially if he decides to step away from firefighting entirely.

For the first time in a while, Chicago Fire has reminded viewers of the unique role Molly’s plays in the franchise. As much as Firehouse 51 is a family, Molly’s has been a second home for its members. But it’s not just the firehouse crew that frequents the bar. The history of the One Chicago universe shows us that characters from across the franchise, including Chicago PD and Chicago Med, have also gathered here, building a sense of community that spans all three shows. This cross-show interaction, especially when it’s not centered around a massive crossover event, is something that fans have long missed, and Chicago Fire offers a small but important step in bringing those worlds together once again.

While fans may have loved seeing the Firehouse 51 family dominate the bar’s guest list in recent years, this episode serves as a reminder that Molly’s belongs to everyone in the One Chicago universe. Characters like Violet Mikami, Lyla Novak, and Jack Damon remind us that there are many stories and relationships to explore in this shared space.

As for Herrmann, he’s not entirely sold on his new role as captain, and it’s unclear whether he’ll fully embrace his leadership position. The show continues to explore his future, with many fans wondering if he will ever retire and leave Molly’s to play an even bigger role in the community.

Ultimately, “Bar Time” answered a question that fans have long had about Molly’s operations and solidified its place as an iconic location within the Chicago Fire universe. But the real story lies in how these personal relationships evolve, how the characters deal with their struggles, and whether the sense of family at Molly’s will be enough to carry them through the toughest challenges.

Will Herrmann find his true calling as Firehouse 51’s captain, or will Molly’s pull him in another direction? And what role will Jack Damon play in the future of Firehouse 51 and beyond? Stay tuned for more exciting developments in the Chicago Fire world.