If this was all about 'concept' as has been frequently stated by M. Blanc, what happened to the Winkers 'concept' of 'Picnic Food'.? That concept seemed to disappear as fast as the Nigerian theme! Don't rememember the concept being changed to a cocktail bar!
Looked at the Winkers Cocktail bar site and they obviously have a chef in residence because, as well as serving cocktails, they are also serving food. Some of the food is served as cold platters (quelle surprise!) but others do require a degree of culinary skills of a level beyond, I think, JJ's capacity and organisation. In addition, JJ does not come across as being a 'behind the scenes' person......he is a barman who can make flash cocktails and with a dodgy knowledge of wines!
Basically it appears to me that their Cocktail Bar is merely going to get an injection of cash courtesy of M Blanc, a few more dishes added to the menu courtesy of M Blanc, and M. Blanc gaining an imput into an already apparently successful business with the possible potential of a franchise.
Whole thing stinks of a set-up! In a potentially difficult market due to the recession, none of the other contestants seemed to be skilled enough to open a restaurant and survive for long. Blanc is merely edging into an existing business. Whole thing is a con and I hope they are all held to account for it!
ps. hope Chris manages to get some success after appearing on the programme. He worked hard, followed the brief, and delivered food!
As another poster said...what a load of BELLINIS!