The Pizzicato is in its third life now, after some setbacks: a violent fire that completely destroyed the restaurant in 2009, a closure in June 2014 and a reopen six months later by a new owner. We decided to rediscover this classic culinary life of Sherbrooke, who also celebrated 20 years of existence. New: the restaurant has now adopted the formula "BYOB".
On a cold Friday in February, at Valentine's Day eve, the restaurant was crowded, but thanks to our reservation, we were promptly directed to our table. We feared a slow service since the feast of Valentine's Day, the new 50 shades of Grey at the nearby cinema and previous experiences. We were pleasantly surprised by a prompt and courteous service.
The atmosphere was festive, despite the strong presence of couples compared to groups and tables of two really close to one another, as in our memories of Pizzicato 1.0. In terms of decor, nothing has changed from version 2.0.
The Pizzicato had the good idea to offer a special Valentine’s Day menu which included an appetizer, a starter, a main course and a dessert, all for $ 24.95. For a few dollars more, you had a cinema ticket included.
First, the appetizer, an olive tapenade and sundried tomatoes, was pleasant, though slightly oily. As starters, we chose the tomato basil cream and polpettes, that is veal meatballs in a spicy sauce and chunks of parmesan. Both entrees were delicious, although we would have preferred freshly grated parmesan on our balls and a truly spicy sauce.
Subsequently, we received the entrees, the pizzas, the specialty of the house, the main Pizzicato’s « attraction ». First, the special Valentine's Day pizza with pink sauce-arabiata, mozzarella, artichoke heart, roasted red peppers, Italian sausage and pesto-sundried tomatoes sour cream. Tasty, but obviously very spicy, given the presence of the sausages. Secondly, the #14, a tomato sauce pizza, merguez, goat cheese, onions, dried tomatoes and mozzarella. A happy blend of flavors, dominated by the creamy side of goat cheese.
To complete this romantic evening, we were entitled to a Raspberry Pavlova with the Special menu and we opted for the creme brulee for dessert. The pavlova is a dessert with meringue, crispy on the outside but soft on the inside, topped with whipped cream and raspberries. A very light dessert that is eaten easily. Regarding the creme brulee, it remains an ever popular classic.
Finally, we were pleased with our visit to the new Pizzicato. The value and quality is still one of the highlights and attracts many couples, groups of friends and some family ... to our surprise we saw children on Friday. At Pizzicato, the tradition continues to delight Sherbrooke, strongly attached to their fine pizzas.
Rating: 7.5 / 10
What impressed us most of our visit: Quick and courteous service, casual.
The specialty of the house: The fine pizzas
Do we recommend this restaurant: Yes, it is mandatory for all Sherbrooke residents!
What time of day did we make our visit: For Friday night, on Valentine's Day eve.
Pros:
The choices of fine homemade pizza
For two, with friends or groups
The value and quality
The new formula "BYOB"
Movie package
Cons:
Paid parking and some distance from the restaurant
Lack of privacy, space between tables