After getting several noise complaints, the Plateau bar is worried that La Tulipe may close

To address noise complaints, the owners of Name’s on the Way restaurant and bar in Montreal’s Plateau have implemented several measures, including soundproofing their windows.

Despite these efforts, co-owner Renaud Lambert is concerned about the future of their liquor license, as they are facing a court case for allegedly disturbing the peace after multiple complaints.

This situation has escalated following the temporary closure of music hall La Tulipe in the Plateau due to a court order linked to a noise complaint.

Lambert fears that Name’s on the Way may face a similar fate. “In court, we’re fighting for our bar permit, which has existed in this location for over 50 years,” he stated. “If we lose our bar permit, we have to close down and lose all our investments. It’s really hard to operate a bar in Montreal, especially in the Plateau.”

In a bid to rally support, Lambert launched an online petition that has garnered over 3,000 signatures. “We tried to work with the city and other parties, but nothing changed,” he explained. “We were a bit tied, so I think this is a way to change things and legislation regarding noise complaints, as the current regulations make it nearly impossible for us to operate.”

The restaurant and bar has invested tens of thousands of dollars in upgrading its sound systems to minimize noise. They have also increased security, limited the size of opening nights, and even rented out the apartment above the establishment. A decibel reader has been installed to monitor sound levels during music events. Despite these initiatives, Lambert reported that they have received fines of up to $1,500 nearly every weekend for the past two years, primarily from a few neighbors.

Lambert emphasized the inherent noise of running a bar and restaurant, particularly after 11 PM when the streets are quieter. In response to La Tulipe’s situation, he expressed frustration at the news of its closure, stating, “La Tulipe is a magnificent place that should not be closed right now.”

On Tuesday, Plateau-Mont-Royal borough Mayor Luc Rabouin explained that the court’s ruling was based on an interpretation of a borough bylaw designed for neighbor disputes related to noise. The city planned to hold an emergency session to create exemptions for music halls, bars, and restaurants, with expected adoption of this change on October 8, just before Lambert's court date on October 15.

“The borough is in contact with the owner and remains committed to finding balanced solutions for all to ensure harmonious cohabitation while preserving the quality of life for neighbors,” the borough stated. Lambert is hopeful that the bylaw change will alleviate his concerns. “It will change how everything is handled in court, and I believe we’ll see a positive outcome from it. We’re happy that it’s moving quickly, and we don’t want other bars to experience what we are currently facing.”