The Municipal Council of Monaco has issued a formal clarification in response to a growing public petition opposing the potential closure of the popular Le Zinc bar, amid the restructuring of the Halle du Marché de la Condamine.

With the petition Contre la fermeture du bar Le Zinc à Monaco gaining traction online, the Municipal Council has moved to explain the rationale behind the decisions taken as part of the Condamine Market redevelopment project — and to address what it describes as “various comments published on social media” regarding the market’s future look and feel.

According to the Council, extensive studies were conducted to guide the market’s transformation, with careful analysis of each vendor’s offer and the overall commercial coherence of the planned space. Of the 18 merchants expressing interest in remaining in the updated hall, 17 were selected to join the next chapter of the Condamine Market.

Monaco Mayor Georges Marsan had previously outlined this vision during a press conference on 1st October, stressing the aim of creating a more functional and welcoming space for the community, without compromising the spirit of the market. The vast majority of vendors, the statement notes, have expressed satisfaction with the support they’ve received during the transition.

However, the case of Le Zinc proved more complex. Since February 2025, the bar’s operators have reportedly met with the Mayor and municipal services on several occasions. During these meetings, they were invited to propose a new concept more in keeping with the vision for the redeveloped market. No such concept was submitted within the required timeframe, according to the Council, and therefore the bar’s inclusion in the new plan could not be secured.

In response, the Mairie says it offered Le Zinc’s operators a form of financial compensation and confirmed that they would be welcome to apply for open tenders that will be launched during 2026.

Conceptual designs still in development

In addressing broader concerns expressed online about the design direction of the renovated market hall, Mayor Marsan clarified that the renderings currently in circulation are still in early draft stages. Updated visuals, complete with final layouts, furnishings, and social spaces developed in consultation with vendors, are expected in early 2026.

Deputy Mayor Marjorie Crovetto, who oversees the Communal Domain, Commerce, Halles and Markets, reiterated that the renovation has been designed to preserve the market’s identity while enhancing its appeal.

“The renovated Marché has been conceived as a place where the population can feel welcome and at home, while enhancing its soul and attractiveness,” she said.

She also emphasised that multiple food businesses in the new hall will be able to offer beverages alongside their culinary activities. Patrons can expect a wide range of retail and dining options, including a butcher, diverse restaurants, and vastly improved hospitality standards.

Crucially, she added that the aim is not to create a luxurious or exclusive venue, nor to turn the market into a “giant restaurant”. Rather, the Council says the entire redevelopment has been driven by the desire to foster a space of authenticity and community — one that remains accessible to all, while securing the long-term viability of this emblematic part of Monaco life.

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Main photo by Monaco Life