Montreal’s Burgundy Lion pub faces OQLF probe over French prominence in signage — named for a neighbourhood known in French as Petite-Bourgogne.
Historic Name at Core of Dispute
Montreal’s beloved British-style pub, the Burgundy Lion, is under review by Quebec’s Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) for failing to display French prominently on its signage and website. The establishment’s co-owner, Toby Lyle, contends that “Burgundy” refers to the Little Burgundy—or in French, Petite-Bourgogne—neighbourhood, and thus should not be treated as an English term despite OQLF concerns.
Signage Scrutiny Following Bill 96 Enhancements
Under the tightened language regulations introduced by Bill 96 in 2022, French must appear in notably larger text—roughly twice as large—than other languages on commercial signs. The pub’s current “Pub Burgundy Lion” sign lacks this French predominance, prompting the formal review from the OQLF.
Cultural Clash in Toponymy
Lyle defends the pub’s choice, arguing that “Burgundy” is a proper name denoting the neighbourhood and is thus exempt from language restrictions—provided the place name is officially recognized by the Commission de toponymie du Québec. However, the neighbourhood is officially called Petite-Bourgogne in French, complicating the claim.
Website Linguistic Adjustments Already Made
Minor language inconsistencies on the pub’s website were also flagged by the OQLF, which Lyle says he has promptly corrected. While appreciative of the guidance (“grateful” and “happily” made changes, said Lyle), nuances like listing whisky regions (e.g., Highlands, Islay, Lowlands) proved more contentious—Lyle maintained these are geographical names “that cannot be translated into French”.
OQLF Reviews Case, Offers Business Support
OQLF spokesperson Gilles Payer confirmed that the case remains under active review and is part of the office’s personalized support to businesses, including pub visits. The pub has until November 12 to submit a detailed compliance plan. No final decision has been made yet on the signage’s acceptability.
Non-Compliance Carries Heavy Fines
Failure to comply with the language law could expose the pub to fines ranging from $3,000 to $30,000 per day for a first infraction, climbing to $90,000 per day for repeat offenses. Lyle insists he will contest any forced alterations, emphasizing again that, “We’re a British pub in Quebec… maybe [that] puts more of a target on our backs than other spots”.
Summary
This case highlights the delicate balance between enforcing Quebec’s linguistic laws and respecting cultural and historical place names. It underscores the tension faced by businesses striving to honor both legal requirements and local heritage—especially in culturally rich areas like Petite-Bourgogne.
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