Project 52, a new members’ club comprised of 52 members from the local business community, has taken a step closer to opening its new bar in St. Helier by appointing Cristian Benta as General Manager of the bar.
In his new role Cristian will help to direct the activities of the bar. His main duties will include managing the day-to-day activities of the bar and making sure the drinks menu is kept up to date with high quality beers, wines and cocktails. He will also work closely with individual Project 52 club members to help transform the venue into their own ‘dream bar’ during their respective weeklong takeover, which comes as part of the club’s membership.
Cristian will be bringing along his own hand-selected team to ensure the bar can cater to the needs of both members and non-members so they will leave saying; “I’m coming here again!”
At 31, Cristian already has an impressive repertoire of fine establishments on his CV. Before coming to Jersey in 2012 he was Bar Supervisor at the legendary Arts Club in London, a highly exclusive venue where celebrities and high rollers go to relax. Since then he has worked in Bar Manager roles in Jersey at The Boat House, Banjo and Wildfire.
Cristian Benta, commented:
“Working at high-class members’ clubs like The Arts Club has given me a taste of what it takes to make people say ‘Wow!’ when walking into a bar for the first time. This is the feeling that I’d love to help replicate for Jersey with Project 52. My job will be to use my experience, enthusiasm and knowledge to make both members and visitors feel welcome and want to come back for more. While we haven’t yet finalised the club’s drinks list, I can confirm that it will be unlike anything available at other bars and clubs on the Island, featuring a bespoke list of craft beers, fine wines and around 10 classic cocktails, which will utilise the best local ingredients wherever possible.”
Founding Member of Project 52, Olly Mourant, commented:
“We are absolutely delighted to have secured such a talented person to lead our bar team. From the moment we met Cristian it was very clear that he understood our vision for Project 52. Given his background on the Private Members club scene in London and more recently in some of Jersey’s top bars & restaurant, Cris is the ideal person to have on board for our Project 52 journey.”