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Gulf & Main Magazine

Blanc to Feature Special Menu for Valentine's Day for a 'Truly Romantic Night'

Photo courtesy of Blanc on Facebook

Offering an array of flavors from around the globe and drawing on French and Asian cuisine, as well as American classics, Blanc has served Fort Myers and the surrounding area for the past five years. Its Robata Grill is featured in many menu items to intensify the taste of each dish.

We caught up with owner Jean Claude Roge about popular menu items, upcoming plans, and how the Blanc restaurant has coped in these uncertain times.

What was the main motivation for starting the business?

We are what we can call a 'boutique' restaurant. We opened five years ago, and after having other restaurants, I wanted my last one to be special.

What's something you wish people knew about the business?

That it’s a really personal relationship we strive to have with our customers. 

Personally speaking, what is your favorite thing about the business?

It's home.

What is a common question you get? Your answer to it?

'Why don’t you get bigger?' I’ve had bigger, and I just love this size where I can easily oversee everything.

What's the biggest compliment you've received about the business?

Repeat business. We have so many repeat customers, which is the biggest compliment of all. 

What is your most popular dish? And, personally, what is your favorite?

I’ll have to say our Wild Caught Nigerian Prawns. We serve them in special dishes every day. Also, our Salmon Trio with house-cured salmon served three different ways. 

Are you involved with or do you support any local nonprofits, community organizations, or causes?

We have chosen some local nonprofits and community organizations, which we rotate due to budget constraints.

Why did you choose Fort Myers? 

I’ve been in the area for more than 25 years. I feel I have an insight into the demographic and apply that knowledge with the products I feature.

Do you have any upcoming events, specials, or new items/services that people should know about?

The next big day is Valentine’s Day, where we feature a special menu for a truly romantic night. 

How has COVID-19 impacted your business? Have you rebounded? Did you do anything special given the circumstances?

Of course, COVID-19 impacted us, but we responded with a 'To-Go' menu during shutdown and have since not installed all of our seating—although, legally, we could. We are fortunate to be small enough, but good enough to withstand those impacts.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I really love this place. It is definitely not work for me. It’s like having a party at home!