Le Méchant Steak is one of the 22 restaurants participating in “Sherbrooke met la table”, a unifying event taking place from October 14 to 30, 2022 for its ninth edition. During these 16 days, it is possible to taste the best gastronomy in the region by having access to unique tables d'hôte, at reduced and fixed prices, offered at dinner time or in the evening. “Sherbrooke met la table”, initiated by Destination Sherbrooke, offers menus for all tastes, whether vegetarian or allergen-free such as lactose, gluten or nuts.

Planning an evening with a couple of friends, we set our sights on the Méchant Steak, first because of its tempting three-course menu for $50 and because it offers the “bring your own wine” option. We had already discovered the Méchant Steak in Magog a few months ago (see Méchant Steak column: grills for all tastes), but it should be noted that they are not the same owners in the two cities.

We had obviously reserved in advance, which is desirable during events such as "Sherbrooke met la table", where places are quickly sold out. When we arrived after a ten-minute walk, as a result of the closing of the parking lots on Wellington Street North, we were warmly welcomed and accompanied to our table. This one, located in an alcove and surrounded by three benches, offered us perfect privacy and unparalleled comfort.

We had the honor of being served throughout the evening by the owner of the place, Stéphanie, whose service was very courteous, friendly and efficient. We particularly appreciated his advice on cooking meat.

While sipping a beer, we once again learned about the menu offered during “Sherbrooke met la table”, a menu consisting of a choice of three starters, three main meals and a dessert. The hot crispy goat cheese accompanied by a balsamic onion compote, a pineapple chutney with Espelette pepper and croutons was a popular and unanimous choice since all the guests around the table chose it without hesitation. Delicious, the marriage of the different ingredients tickled our taste buds and pleasantly prepared us for the rest of the meal.

As a main course, Nicolas' choice fell on braised beef cheek, completed with mashed turnip, candied onion, pan-fried Brussels sprouts, carrot, mushroom sauce and of kale chips. The meat, tender and cooked just as it should, was enhanced by the tasty sauce covering the seasonal vegetables. He was particularly fond of kale chips, which he described as a great discovery.

As for Julie, she opted instead for the six-ounce hanger steak, medium-well done, paired with pan-fried vegetables, potato gratin, all drizzled with a stock sauce veal and red wine. Thanks to Stéphanie's good advice, the meat melted in your mouth. Particularly successful, the potato gratin went wonderfully with the piece of meat as well as the seasonal vegetables, carrots and zucchini among others.

The meal ended with a divine piece of carrot cake, placed in a small cup. Although small in size, it was sweet and tasty enough to close this feast.

After this charming evening, our friends and we agreed to make “Sherbrooke met la table” a fall tradition, allowing us to discover original and gourmet menus every year. Le Méchant Steak turned out to be an excellent choice and we promise to return at another time, whether to taste their grilled meats or to get their lovely gift cards, to offer or to treat ourselves without moderation. Satisfied by so much good food, we had to do against bad luck, good heart and climb the hill of King Street in high heels to get to our car while rehashing the benefits of physical activity.

Rating: 9/10

What struck us the most during our visit: The efficiency of the service, especially with the traffic brought by “Sherbrooke met la table”

The most expensive main meal on the menu (apart from “Sherbrooke met la table”): Beef filet mignon 6 ounces

The least expensive main meal on the menu (apart from “Sherbrooke met la table”): Cod fish & chips 8 ounces

Do we recommend this restaurant: Yes

What time of day did we visit: Dinner

Pros:
Service
Cooking meat
Bring your own wine
The combination of sauce, meat and seasonal vegetables

Cons:
The scarcity of nearby parking