It’s official: Though it was mentioned as a possibility a few weeks ago, word has come in from Payard Bistro that the restaurant has closed after more than a decade on the Upper East Side. According to the release: “Unfortunately, [Payard] is forced to close his operation due to untenable rent increases being levied by his landlord. Alexandra Payard will continue to operate her catering business, Tastings, as usual and will employ some of the patisserie and bistro staff.”