Rouge Bar turns 10 on October 12th 2014! This is already an impressive age in the world of independent business, but in the nightlife world, it’s quite an achievement!
So we met with the owner of the establishment, François Boitard, and asked him 10 questions for the 10-year anniversary of his bar (that kind of concept!).
1. Hello François! Thank you for meeting with us and for participating in this mini-interview to mark the 10th anniversary of Rouge Bar. What do you think was the key to your success?
The customer service, customer care and a job well done. More precisely, our employees! We have a very low turnover rate. Our employees work for us for a very long time (5-6 years on average), which is still quite rare in this field. We have an employee who stayed with us for 9 years! This phenomenon ensures that the customer feels at home.
2. Why did you choose to open your bar on the Main? And what do you like the most in the area? [We presume it will be linked, so it counts as one question.]
Because the Main, in terms of nightlife, is the heart of Montreal.
The Main is a gathering place; one can find Anglophones, Francophones, students, young professionals… The party atmosphere that reigns on the street is unique to Montreal.
3. In your opinion, what has changed most on the boulevard in 10 years?
It is just as busy as it was 10 years ago, except that now there are more choices for customers who want to celebrate.
The Main and Crescent are somewhat Montreal’s first kids. A few years ago, both children received the full attention of their mother. Since, Montreal has given birth to other kids: Rosemont, Griffintown, St-Henri, etc. Therefore, the attention to the newborns is more present. Nevertheless, the Main was able to grow and develop to continue to be the heart of Montreal’s nightlife.
4. What would be THE most epic night you’ve experienced in 10 years? The first one that come to mind.
Every year we organize the RFC (Rouge Fighting Championship), a unique and exclusive party at Rouge Bar, which takes place on Labor Day Sunday.
The 6th edition of the RFC (the 2014 one) was simply phenomenal! The energy was such that all the lucky ones present that night are still talking about it and are happy to have contributed to the tradition.
This year, we have seen the triumph of team Robè on the first floor and team Caw Caw (winner in 2013) on the second floor with a wonderful mascot that looked like a little chicken.
[The RFC is a way for the bar to put forward their loyal customers, those who support them throughout the year. During an evening, they work behind a bar specifically assigned to them and their duty is to create energy within this space. The winners (one per floor) will have a shooter in their name.]5. What are the names of the new shooters following the last RFC? [We did not know that this would be the answer to the previous question – crazy!]
As we just talked about, there is one winner per floor. The new shooters are therefore called Caw Caw and Robè!
6. A song title that best describes Rouge Bar. [Technically not a question, but we understand each other.]
‘Jump Around’. With this song, everyone is standing with their hands in the air!
As well as, ‘Hey Baby’. Very popular especially towards the end of the evening, this song has stood the test of time at Rouge Bar.
[Two for the price of one, we’re spoiled!]7. Where should we go eat when we leave Rouge Bar at 2-3am?
It depends on what the person we met that night wants to eat!
But there are always the classics: La Belle Province, Shish Taouk and Pizza Madona.
8. What role does Rouge Bar play in Montreal’s nightlife?
An institution, a guaranteed party, an unpretentious meeting place and a friendly atmosphere.
One of the few places in town to dance with a clientele from 25 to 35 years old.
9. What can we expect for Rouge Bar’s 10-year anniversary celebrations?
Loyal party animals, an evening full of surprises, an electrifying atmosphere. Think of how you’d describe fun … that’s what it’s gonna be!
10. What can we look forward to for the next 10 years?
Continue to provide the same quality of products to our customers, be ahead of trends and fashions, as well as being attentive to what our loyal and future customers want.
11. BONUS QUESTION – Who should we interview next in your opinion? A kind of “Ice Bucket Challenge”.
Steve from La Vieille Europe, cause it’s been a while since he’s on the boulevard!
Photo credit – Marie-Christine Huot
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