Pas de problème: a love letter to Jamaica in Saint-Henri.

A Family Affair

You probably know Three Little Birds, the famous Bob Marley song with its reassuring chorus: “Don’t worry about a thing.” That very melody inspired the name of Saint-Henri’s new trendy café: Pas de problème. A place where worries fade away over a cup of coffee, and where time slows down. That’s exactly what Paris, his father Royden, and his brother Kingston set out to create: a welcoming space to relax, unwind, and take it easy. This is truly a spot to disconnect — there’s no Wi-Fi, just good music, great coffee, and even better conversation.

At Pas de problème, Jamaican culture is celebrated — through its food, of course, but above all, its deep sense of community. This café is, first and foremost, a family project. Royden, the father, was born in Kingston, Jamaica. After running a pub just steps from the current location, he returned to his homeland for a few years before coming back to Montreal with a new dream: to open a place that he could pass on to his children. A heartfelt project. A legacy.

Jamaican Flavours

Brunch is served daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Among the must-tries: the breakfast sandwich — brioche bun, egg, bacon, cheese, and a house-made spicy jam that takes it to the next level. Fans of hearty classics can go for the Yardman, a generous traditional plate featuring eggs, beans, sausage, and homemade bread — all the bread here is baked in-house daily by their pastry chef.

Another highlight: the Jamaican patties, arguably some of the best in town. Filled with beef, they’re flavourful, tender, and just the right amount of spicy. Royden prepares them fresh each morning using his secret recipe — a perfect embodiment of the family spirit behind the menu. Even the mac and cheese — Paris’s favourite dish — is made from their grandmother’s recipe.

Dinner service starts at 3 p.m. and runs until closing at 9 p.m. The jerk chicken is not to be missed. Every day, Royden smokes it himself on a small backyard smoker just behind the café. You can also enjoy it in a grilled cheese, layered with their famous spicy jam — another standout.

Drinks from Afar, Atmosphere from Here

The coffee alone is a tribute: they serve Blue Mountain, the world-renowned Jamaican coffee grown at high altitudes in rich volcanic soil. The result? A smooth, rich, velvety espresso with notes of chocolate and hazelnut. Those looking for a less caffeinated option will appreciate the hojicha, a roasted Japanese green tea with toasty, nutty flavours. For something refreshing, try the sorrel — a traditional Jamaican drink made from hibiscus flowers and ginger.

The minimalist, industrial decor mixes raw concrete with metallic touches. The vibe is warm and relaxed — perfect for long chats with friends or peaceful solo moments. A large, colourful mural celebrating Jamaican cultural icons anchors the space — a vibrant nod to the family’s roots.