Mondragon’s last week of business has been a busy one.
The outpouring of support for the cooperatively-run Mondragon Coffeehouse and Bookstore in their last days of being open, has been overwhelming for past and present co-op members. In fact, the support has been so large this week that they ran out of food on one of the days.
Mondragon members have been doing their best to keep up with brisk sales in books and with serving long lines of patrons ordering their last meals at this unique neighbourhood cafe that’s been a cultural and social fixture for two decades in Winnipeg’s Exchange District. As hungry customers wait in line, some are picking up armfuls of books at 66% off their regular price, and on sale until Sunday.
A line up to purchase food and books greeted patrons this week.
Most patrons are sad to see Mondragon close. Many say they will miss the unique vegan café, bookstore and grocery, the political views and provocative events. Some wonder what is planned next for this space, while others are hoping Mondragon will make a comeback. There are not many venues in Canada like Mondragon.
‘Mondragon Favorite Recipes’ is a popular read at $2 per copy.
While people have been asking for recipes, Mondragon has created a pamphlet f0r sale at $2.00 each with a few of their delicious recipes listed.
Past and present co-op members are organizing events for this coming Saturday and Sunday, the last weekend it will be open.
On Saturday, an event called the ‘Mondra-gone but Not Mondra-forgotten’, featuring Greg MacPherson, DJ Silver Fox and DJ Theo Tzu along with special guests, will run from 9:00 pm until close, whenever that will be. The cost for this event is $10.
On Sunday, there will be a vegan brunch along with music put on by the folks from the Anarchist Black Cross. On the menu will be beans, greens, hash browns, tofu scramble, toast, orange juice and coffee. Brunch runs from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. The cost is $10 – $15 with a sliding scale donation for people who cannot afford full price.
Following this final Anarchist Black Cross brunch, there will be an Open House at 3:00pm where tea, coffee and a few treats will be served.
In its final days, Mondragon is attracting a large number of patrons who are showing their support, reminiscing about old times and saying their last goodbyes.
All photos by M. LeBlanc
