In defence of ‘Nosh,’ Montreal’s chefs rally around Arthurs
Montreal business owners are displaying the Yiddish word “nosh” on their storefronts to support Arthurs Nosh Bar after the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) challenged the term’s use on the restaurant’s signage. This rally follows a letter from the language watchdog to owners Raegan Steinberg and Alex Cohen regarding their trademarked sign, according to reports from The Gazette.
The dispute has sparked a wave of solidarity across the city. David McMillan, a prominent chef, posted a video of himself writing “Nosh” on the door of his West Island restaurant, Grille-Nature. Benji Greenberg’s Yan’s Delicatessen shared a similar video, while the salad chain Mandy’s posted a photo of its window featuring food words from various languages, including “nosh.”
Even non-food businesses have joined. Eyewear company Vintage Frames sprayed “NOSH” in white paint across its storefront window. In the digital space, the controversy has led to memes, including an image rebranding the Orange Julep as the “Orange Tabarnosh.”
Why did the OQLF target Arthurs Nosh Bar?
The OQLF took issue with the Yiddish word “nosh” appearing on the restaurant’s sign. Raegan Steinberg told The Gazette that “nosh” is the Yiddish word for “grab a bite” or “have a nibble.”
Steinberg described the complaint as “frustrating” and stated she is attempting to bring the restaurant into compliance. However, she noted that the agency “didn’t offer much of a solution.”
This action comes as the OQLF has received significantly more resources to enforce provincial language laws. Its annual budget has roughly doubled to approximately $49 million.
How do new language laws affect Montreal businesses?
Sweeping new language rules that took effect last June have forced business owners to manage the bureaucracy and costs of ensuring branding complies with French-language requirements. Montreal, which generates more than half of Quebec’s economy, is often portrayed by National Assembly politicians as a source of cultural dilution.
Other establishments have faced similar scrutiny. A Syrian-Armenian-Lebanese bakery in Villeray, Lahmajoune, received a complaint regarding its social media accounts earlier this year.
The Burgundy Lion Pub also encountered the OQLF last year. Owner Toby Lyle told The Gazette the agency questioned the word “Burgundy” on the sign, despite it referring to the Little Burgundy neighborhood. The agency later apologized and allowed the sign to remain.
What happens next for Arthurs Nosh Bar?
Because the OQLF has reportedly not provided a clear solution for compliance, the restaurant may face continued regulatory pressure. The owners could be forced to alter their trademarked signage to satisfy provincial requirements.
The ongoing public backlash and social media campaign suggest that other business owners may continue to challenge the agency’s interpretations of language laws through public displays of solidarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the word “nosh” mean?
According to owner Raegan Steinberg, “nosh” is the Yiddish word for “grab a bite” or “have a nibble.”
How much is the OQLF’s current annual budget?
The budget has roughly doubled to about $49 million.
When did the new language rules take effect?
The sweeping new rules took effect last June.
Do you believe language laws should exempt words from endangered languages?