A Montreal Brunch Favourite Will Close Temporarily Due To Neighbourhood 'Decay'

Passé Composé, a beloved Montreal brunch destination, has announced its temporary closure, citing incidents that it says have made the current location untenable. In a message to customers on January 11, the restaurant detailed the disturbing reasons behind the decision — including the "presence of syringes and human feces" — and promised a future reopening in a new location.

The announcement came as a surprise to patrons who have frequented the Passé Composé location for the better part of a decade. Known for its delectable brunch offerings, the restaurant has been a staple in the Montreal food scene, drawing crowds from all over the city.

In their official statement, Passé Composé expressed regret over the decision: "To our valued customers, we are obliged to move our operations and temporarily close our restaurant." The message implied deteriorating conditions in Ville-Marie, which have accelerated the restaurant's need to relocate. "The neighbourhood and the lack of facilities are forcing us to close faster than we planned," the statement read.

"For the safety of our employees and customers, following numerous events (fires, thefts, vandalism, finding needles and human feces on our terrace every day, people using our space like it's a campsite, and our staff and customers getting physically harassed) we have to suspend operations and move them elsewhere," the restaurant explained.

"We've been part of this neighbourhood for over seven years and really want to help out in an area that's struggling with poverty, but the lack of support and authorities turning a blind eye makes it hard for businesses like ours to keep going," wrote the restaurant.

Economic pressures compound the issue, with the restaurant noting, "rising prices make profit margins non-existent, and the necessary investment to keep operating in our current location could compromise the investment necessary for our new facilities."

The news of Passé Composé's temporary closure has sparked discussions about the perceived decline of the Ville-Marie neighbourhood. "Having lived there for almost 10 years, the neighbourhood is deteriorating quickly and the decision to move is understandable," one commenter noted. Another, who lived there for two years, shared similar views, "It was a nightmare, we see the blatant lack of resources." The situation has left many frustrated, with one person stating, "I don't understand why the city doesn't do anything."

As Passé Composé looks ahead, the owners remain positive about the future. "We will see you soon in a more favourable setting," they assured patrons, with a promise to announce their new address in the coming weeks.

The hopeful message has resonated with loyal customers, who are eagerly anticipating the return of one of Montreal's most cherished brunch spots in a new location. One devoted fan affirmed: "No matter where you go, we will follow you."