When Bob throws a dinner party to bond with his new friend, Gayle uses the opportunity to introduce the family to her new love interest.
Bob is eager to try and impress Steve who is mainly trying to make new friends after his divorce, Tina is disappointed that Zander is not a cute teenage boy, and Louise is horrified when it turns out her aunt Gayle's mystery man is Mr. Frond.
Club gave the episode an A−, saying, "“The Cook, The Steve, The Gayle, And Her Lover” is a fine way to kick off 2016, as the show keeps things nice and straightforward and focused on the Belchers.
"[1] Sean Fitz-Gerald from Vulture gave the episode a positive review by saying, "It was, overall, the best welcome-back present viewers could ask for from Bob's, a tried-and-true premise that traipses into hilarious new territory.
Love is at the forefront and all of the show's other strengths (wordplay, slightly blue humor, and timing) serve as strong reinforcement pillars.