NDG’s Prohibition is Unexpectedly and Permanently Closed [Updated]

UPDATE (May 26) — A Reddit thread about Prohibition’s closure suggests that the restaurant wasn’t making enough money to stay viable. A commenter who claims to have worked in the kitchen wrote that the initial plan was to stay open for the summer, but the owners decided to close now so that staff could find work while more other restaurants are hiring.

Seven-year-old Monkland Village restaurant Prohibition announced suddenly on Facebook Thursday afternoon that they would be permanently closed, immediately.

The restaurant was a neighbourhood staple, drawing crowds for fresh takes on comfort food, and a particularly popular brunch — rest in peace, challah French toast.

Part of the surprise in the closure is that the couple behind Prohibition, husband and wife Matthew Rouleau and Stephanie Russell, had given their restaurant a major space upgrade just last summer, staying on Monkland but moving into larger premises. They were also set to open Sous Sol, a salad spot, in their former location at 5674 Monkland, although that never eventuated (and the space is now set to house newcomer Porco).

The message posted to Facebook by Prohibition offers little insight — the fact that the page was highlighting a new spring menu just days ago only adds to the mystery and unexpectedness of the shutter.

Seen any papered over windows or closing down signs? Tell us about it here, or email montreal@eater.com.

• Anyone know why Prohibition (Monkland Ave. restaurant) shut down? [Reddit]
• Prohibition, Monkland Village Fave, Set to Expand and Open New Restaurant [EMTL]
• Prohibition 2.0 Is Ready To Party [EMTL]
• NDG is Getting a Double Whammy of New Restos With Porco and Hopkins [EMTL]