Steaks Archives - Rib’N Reef: Le Meilleur Steakhouse Restaurant à Montréal

16 November 2020

Your Guide to Levels of Steak Doneness

To determine what kind of steak to get, it is a good idea to know about what each level of doneness involves. The more it is cooked, the firmer it will feel. Keep reading to find out which one might be right for you to order.

Rare

If you want your steak barely cooked, this is what to order. The center should be warmed, and the outside will be charred. The middle is very red, and the sides are browned. When you touch the center, it should feel very soft, similar to the way that raw meat feels.

Medium-Rare

If you aren’t sure what you want, you might want to go with medium-rare. Many steak cooks say this is their favorite. It will be warm all the way through the middle. The center will be pink, not red, although there could be a hint of red as well. The sides will be fairly brown, and both the bottom and top should have a dark brown color to them. The center will not feel as soft as a rare steak, but it will still give just a bit in the center.

Medium

This kind of steak has a large amount of light pink in the center. The bottom and top will both be a dark color, but not quite black. The sides will also be a deep brown. In the middle, there is a bit of ply in this steak, but it should still feel firm when you touch it.

Medium-Well

If you aren’t a fan of having that much color in your meat, then this is the steak for you. This type of steak has just a bit of pink in the center of it. The outside of it will be very dark brown, and both the bottom and top will be well-charred. It will feel fairly stiff, but the center will still have just the faintest hint of pink in it.

Well-Done

If you aren’t a fan of steak, you might want to get this type of steak. You will not taste as much of the flavor when it is well-done. However, many people still get their steak cooked like this, especially if they don’t like the idea of eating meat that still has some pink in it. This is cooked low and slow so that the outside does not burn while the inside is cooking.

It will not be burnt on the outside of it. There will not be any pink in it. Although it will look brown, it will not be burnt. This steak often feels very firm when you touch it.

Closing Thoughts

Now that you know the levels of doneness, you will be better prepared to make an informed ordering decision the next time you visit a steakhouse. You’re making the meal special by going to a steakhouse, so why not make it as enjoyable as possible by getting the perfect steak for you and your company as well?

9 November 2020

What to Expect When Going Out to Eat During the Pandemic

Stay-at-home orders have eased in many areas, and people now want to go out to eat for date nights, celebrations, or just fun meals. However, the virus is spreading more, so many restaurants have made some changes to make dining safer. You can still enjoy a professionally prepared meal and stay safe.

Planning Ahead

If you can make reservations at the restaurant, this is a good idea so that you can avoid waiting a long time near other people who could potentially be carrying the virus. Before you book a table, check if the restaurant follows social distancing, which involves allowing separate groups or households to sit six feet apart or more. Another part of planning ahead involves making sure you have a mask with you.

Wearing Your Mask

Today, many areas require individuals to wear masks in indoor public spaces. Wearing a mask might help you to protect the staff as they take you to a table. The mask should fit over your chin, nose, and mouth securely.

In some areas, it might not be necessary to wear the mask once you have sat down. Nonetheless, you should wear your mask when you are ordering. That shows courtesy to the staff members that are bringing you the drinks and food.

Once the order does arrive, you can take off your mask. Make sure that you handle it by the straps or ear loops instead of the portion that touches your face. Place it in an area that is away from the silverware, glasses, or plates. You might want to have a separate bag to store it in so that you do not get exposed to any germs.

Once you have finished eating, you will want to put the mask back on so the staff members can safely remove your plates and get you the check. If you get up during the meal, it is also wise to replace the mask. It is a good idea to sanitize your hands before eating, especially after you handle the mask.

Other Tips

At many restaurants today, the tables and chairs are spaced so that when guests are sitting, they can stay far enough apart from other guests. However, if you need to get up, be careful to avoid other people so that you don’t get too close to them.

For example, if you see a friend in a restaurant, you should avoid walking across the room to greet them. You can text or call them later on. You can wave or smile with your eyes, and they will most likely understand. And if someone wants to shake your hand, you might want to avoid touching them.

Closing Thoughts

The good news is that restaurants are open again, although there are some changes. Being aware of these changes can help you to be better prepared to have a good experience. Then you can safely enjoy a delicious steak dinner.

2 November 2020

How to Order and Eat Steak the Right Way

Going to a steakhouse is a great way to treat yourself or have a celebration. It also makes for an amazing date night. But if you don’t know your way around a steakhouse, now is the time to learn. The good news is that it isn’t hard to learn what to do, and with your new knowledge, you can pick the perfect meal.

Understanding the Kinds of Beef Cuts

A steak is a steak, right? Wrong. You have many options when it comes to cuts or where the meat came from. Several are commonly found at restaurants:

New York Strip: This is a fillet cut that comes from near the ribs, and it has a medium amount of fat in it. While it is not as tender as some cuts, the flavor is stronger, and it has a pleasant aroma. This is one of the more common kinds of cuts.

Tenderloin: This comes from the sirloin near the legs’ sides. It does not have bones, and it is easy to cut through. People often order it fried in butter for the best taste, and it doesn’t take as long to cook.

Rib Steak: This comes from the cow’s ribs and does not have bones when served. While it does have more fat to it, some people find that this amount of fat allows it to be more flavorful. Its fat means that it doesn’t need to be cooked in butter.

T-Bone: This comes from the cow’s loin and is bigger than the other kinds of cuts. On one side, the cut is firmer, and on the other, it is more tender. Grilling is often a popular method of cooking it.

What Seasonings Do You Prefer?

There are many options when it comes to seasoning your steak. But for other people, they feel that it is not necessary to alter the flavor of the meat with seasonings. It’s common to order the steak cooked in butter. Or you might not want it to be cooked in anything. You can get seasonings such as pepper, salt, creamy sauce, red wine sauce, or soy sauce. Many times, people like to get their seasonings on the side to control exactly how much goes on each piece.

How to Eat Steak Correctly

While steak can be an amazing meal, it is sometimes hard to determine how to eat it correctly. When you first get the piece, it’s a good idea to cut the meat in half in the middle and look at the inside to see what color it is. You won’t be able to tell if it’s medium or medium-rare if you don’t do this. That way, you can make sure that you have gotten just what you ordered. Cut it against the grain to make it easier.

Closing Thoughts

Once you know how to eat steak correctly, it will be easier for you to get the experience you want at your favorite steakhouse. You’ll be able to knowledgeably order the right cut and ask for the perfect seasonings.

6 September 2020

What You Should Know About Steak

Sure, we all love steak. Who doesn’t? The rich, juicy flavour. The melt-in-your-mouth sensation of a well-cooked cut of meat. Enjoying the sip of red wine when you wash it all down. It makes your mouth water just thinking about it. But how much do you really know about steak? There are some facts that you might want to know if you consider yourself a die-hard steak lover. Learning more about steak will give you the knowledge you need to pick a great one whenever you go out to a local steakhouse, like Rib ‘n Reef. And when you know the right place to get steak and just how you like it cooked, you’re going to be in for a big treat. Here’s some of the info you should know.

So Many Amazing Sides

If you’re used to the old-school steakhouse experience, then you may order a baked potato with your steak every single time. Sure, that can be delicious when you’re in the mood for it, but why not try something different from time to time? You may want to indulge in a delicious plate of vegetables that complement the taste of the steak perfectly. If you go to Rib ‘n Reef, you also have the option of ordering seafood with your steak. The addition of seafood to your plate will make an already special meal even more luxurious, and the light flavours will complement your steak perfectly. Just make sure you check out the whole menu before you make a decision about what you want to pair with your steak.

Lots of Different Cuts to Try

All too often, people order the same cuts time and time again. They don’t consider switching it up because they think they already have the perfect cut every time. But if you really want to learn more about steak, you should expand your horizons and try something new every once in a while. Do you always tend to go for a filet mignon? It is a delicious cut that you’ll likely want to come back to time and time again. But that doesn’t mean that it’s the only thing you should ever try. A porterhouse may be a great option if you want to try something different. Or maybe you’ll find that you’re more of a ribeye person. Whatever the case may be, don’t be afraid to experiment.

Steak Is Better with Friends

It’s always great to enjoy a steak on your own. But you know what makes a steak even better? Sharing it with family members, friends, and colleagues. Don’t forget to share the love and invite your friends out for steak the next time you want to get together but don’t know what to do.

Looking for what may just be the best steakhouse in Montreal? Well, you can’t go wrong with a trip to see us here at Rib ‘n Reef. We can’t wait to provide you with a steakhouse experience you’ll never forget.

31 August 2020

Why Choose a Steakhouse for Your Next Date?

Are you trying to think of something to do with that special someone in your life? Sometimes, you want to do something different but can’t figure out what that something should be. Well, if you both love to eat, drink, and enjoy each other’s company, then a steakhouse might just be your best bet for your next date. It’s a great idea for a birthday or anniversary celebration. Or you can go out and celebrate just because. And if you want to visit one of the best steakhouses in Montreal, you should definitely make your way to Rib ‘n Reef. Let’s take a look at why a steakhouse is a great choice for your next date.

Something Special

You can go out to a movie or cook dinner at home together on any normal day. But every now and then, you’re looking for an experience that’s just a bit more special. An upscale steakhouse is the perfect setting for such a date. The atmosphere is relaxing and romantic, the setting is just right, and if you choose the right restaurant, the food is going to be delicious, too. Plus, a steak dinner feels special and lavish (especially when you pair it with top-notch seafood and the perfect wine). Sometimes, that’s just what you need for an incredible night with your special someone.

Amazing Food

When you’re on a date, you should enjoy the company regardless of what you’re doing. But it helps make the date even better when you’re having a great time. What could be more enjoyable than eating delicious food? If you’re both foodies, it seems like an obvious choice.

When you dine at Rib ‘n Reef, don’t be afraid to get creative with what you order. In addition to our extremely high-quality steaks, you’ll find items on the menu like grilled octopus, chorizo sausage, salmon tartare, and so much more … and those are just appetizers. You can choose from a wide variety of veggie dishes if you’re looking for a healthier bite. Explore the menu, then try something out of the ordinary next time you go out.

Finish with Dessert

You may not have dessert every night, but when you go out for a nice dinner, it almost feels like a necessity. Doesn’t it sound amazing to indulge in something sweet and decadent after your perfect steak and seafood meal? If so, make sure you check out the dessert menu at Rib ‘n Reef. From the classic crème brûlée to the to-die-for cherries jubilee, you’re going to want to order something. Want to share? Order one dish and get two spoons. But if you think you can finish a dessert all by yourself, there’s nothing wrong with getting your own, either.

The next time you’re looking for someplace nice to go on a date with that special person in your life, make sure you make a reservation at Rib ‘n Reef in Montreal. We can’t wait to help make your night as perfect as it can be.

12 August 2020

How Can You Tell You’re at a Top-Notch Steakhouse?

When you want to visit a really nice restaurant for a special occasion, where should you go? If you’re like a lot of people, the first thing that comes to mind is a good steakhouse. Where else are you going to get such a hearty meal that’s cooked to perfection every single time? Making a good steak at home isn’t always easy, especially if you’re not an expert in the kitchen. Therefore, going out for a steak just makes sense in a lot of cases. But how do you know you’re really going to the best steakhouse in town? There are some common traits you should be on the lookout for, whether you’ve got your eye on Rib ‘N Reef or somewhere else around Montreal.

Knowledgeable Waitstaff

At an average steakhouse, you’ll probably choose off the menu and be done with it. However, unless you’re an expert, you don’t know about all the intricacies that go into picking a good steak. Therefore, when you’re looking for a good steak joint, you should search for someplace that boasts a knowledgeable waitstaff. Your server should be able to give you all the information you need about how to choose the best possible steak for your tastes. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Comfortable Atmosphere

Let’s face it. You could be eating the most delicious steak in the world, but if the atmosphere is just blah, you’re not going to have as much fun as you could have. When you walk into a steakhouse, you want to make sure the atmosphere is comfortable and inviting. After all, if you want an amazing dining experience, even the smallest details matter. Don’t settle for less when there are restaurants like Rib ‘N Reef that make you feel at home from the second you walk in the door.

Fair Prices

You already know that you will probably pay more for a steak than for other types of food, but that’s OK. That’s what you’re signing up for when you visit a steakhouse, and it’s worth it. But at the same time, you should be paying a fair price. Different cuts of meat have different costs, so you shouldn’t be paying the same for every cut of meat. While you may want to avoid places that have very inexpensive menus, you’ll still want to pay a fair price. Don’t overpay when you know you can get an amazing steak at a local restaurant like Rib ‘N Reef.

Now, you have a better idea of what you should look for in a steakhouse. Remember, all these small details matter, and they can transform an average dining experience into an incredible one. There’s so much to love about Rib ‘N Reef, so it’s a great place to explore what a steakhouse should be like the next time you’re ready to indulge in a nice dinner. And, of course — don’t forget to enjoy the cigar offerings at this restaurant, as well.

5 August 2020

How Restaurants Are Changing in the Time of COVID-19

These days, everything looks a bit different. We’re all getting used to a new normal, and Rib ‘N Reef Steakhouse is no different. Not only is it important for companies to keep delivering the same high-quality service you’re used to, but you should also expect a level of safety when you visit your favourite local spots. Let’s take a look at some of the changes you might expect when you visit a restaurant like Rib ‘N Reef in town. It may just make you feel better about going out for some dinner … or just a nice cigar.

Physical Distancing

If you’re like a lot of people out there right now, you don’t want to spend a lot of time in very close proximity to others. It just doesn’t make a lot of sense. Instead, you’ll probably want to stick with your party and that’s it. That’s why you’ll notice more physical distance at a lot of restaurants. When you visited Rib ‘N Reef in the past, you might have been closer to other nearby diners. Now, you can expect a little bit more space.

Masks

Everyone’s wearing a mask these days … Are you? Experts agree that masks are critical to slowing the spread of COVID-19, so you’ll probably notice a lot more masks when you go out, whether you’re at Rib ‘N Reef or just going to the grocery store. This is a good thing because it means that other people and staff members at the restaurant care about your health. Want to make sure you do the same? You’ll want to bring a mask with you to wear when you’re not eating, drinking, or smoking. It’s the right thing to do.

Handwashing

You can rest assured that the team at Rib ‘N Reef is taking handwashing very seriously. They’re lathering up on a regular basis, which is one of the top ways you can prevent the spread of coronavirus. Of course, staff members did this before, as it’s important in keeping your food sanitary, pandemic or not. But now, things have been stepped up a notch. Knowing that your servers and the cooks in the kitchen are really going above and beyond when it comes to handwashing and hygiene should make you feel safer going out and enjoying everything you used to love doing before the beginning of the pandemic.

It’s true that these are hard times for all of us, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to grab a delicious meal outside of the house. At the end of the day, it really all just comes down to making sure you stay as safe as possible. When you know a location is doing everything possible to keep its customers safe, you can feel confident about going out and enjoying spending time with friends and family. When you’re ready for your next dining experience, remember to reserve a table at Rib ‘N Reef.

29 July 2020

Common Myths About Steak You Might Believe

Even if you eat steak on the regular, you probably don’t know everything there is to know about it. It’s one of those foods that seems pretty simple, but if you want to get it right, it takes some serious knowledge. There’s a good chance that you believe some of the most common myths about steak out there. With so many of these myths floating around, it’s no doubt that you’ve run into at least some of them from time to time. Luckily, when you visit a steakhouse like Rib ‘N Reef, you’ll be working with a knowledgeable waitstaff that can give you all the information you need. Before you do, though, you should check out these common steak myths.

Bloody Steak

Have you ever heard someone refer to a steak as “bloody”? We all have, from time to time. When you cut into a juicy steak, you’ll likely notice some red liquid bleeding from it. To a lot of people, this liquid looks like blood. That’s not really the case, though. It’s actually known as myoglobin, and it helps deliver oxygen to the animal’s blood. That may not sound great, but rest assured, it’s definitely not going to hurt you. Even if you always order your steak rare, you shouldn’t have to worry about ingesting any blood, whether you’re cooking at home or eating out at Rib ‘N Reef.

Only Eat Fillet

While fillet is a delicious cut of meat, it’s not your only option out there. It’s always a good idea to expand your horizons and try something new from time to time. This is especially true when it comes to a good piece of meat. Therefore, the next time you order from a restaurant like Rib ‘N Reef, take a close look at all the options on the menu. If you always order the fillet, you may want to switch it up and try something different for a change.

Never Use Sauce

Back in the day, people loved steak sauce. In fact, it was a staple in most people’s homes. These days, though, steak sauce has gotten less popular. This has led people to believe that they should never put any kind of sauce on their steak no matter what. But if you abide by this rule, there’s a good chance you’re going to be missing out. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different kinds of sauces, going beyond your traditional steak sauce. Something like a chimichurri can be even more delicious.

It’s easy to believe all the myths about steak out there. But if you truly want to have the best steak experience, you need to put those myths by the wayside, so you can enjoy the food that’s in front of you. When you visit Rib ‘N Reef, our servers can give you all the information you need about any item on our menu. They’ll make sure you have the best possible steak-eating experience available, so check us out.

28 April 2020

The Science Behind the Sear: Is Searing Meat a Myth?

If you have ever read a recipe on how to prepare a steak, you undoubtedly noticed instructions to sear the steak. At Rib’N Reef, we know how to prepare a steak that you will savor with the perfect balance of juice and a flavorful brown crust.

Searing a steak means to cook it quickly to brown the surface to seal in the juices. However, many chefs have scientifically proven that searing a steak does not add to the juiciness of a steak. In fact, steaks may lose more moisture after searing compared to roasted steaks. However, that does not mean the searing of steak does not have merit in a kitchen.

Locking in Juice

It is believed searing a steak somehow creates a situation where the juices are locked in. However, this theory was tested by cooking two steaks, one seared and the other not, and the moisture levels were found to be the same.

What Makes a Steak Juicy?

To understand what contributes to the juiciness of a steak, it is essential to understand what happens as a steak heats up. The muscle fibers react by contracting, which releases water. Also, the heat from cooking melts the fat, which contributes to the texture of the steak. If a steak is cooked enough to melt the fat, but not so much it contracts and releases too much moisture, the steak is a perfect balance of buttery and juicy. Many cooks agree that the optimal temperature results in a medium-rare steak.

What Is the Purpose of Searing a Steak?

While searing will not guarantee a juicy steak experience, there are still excellent reasons to sear your steak. The searing of steak creates a distinct reaction called the Maillard reaction, and this adds to the experience of eating a fantastic steak.

The Maillard reaction is a chemical reaction between the sugars and proteins within a steak. At high temperatures, this effect changes both the color and the flavor of food. This reaction between the protein and the sugar does not just change the color of the food; it also changes the entire aroma and flavor profile, making it even more tempting.

The Maillard reaction is different from caramelization, however. Although it does create browning, caramelization is a reaction of just sugars.

Enjoy Your Steak

It is understood that searing meat does little to lock in moisture and create a juicy steak to enjoy, as only proper cooking can create this sort of culinary masterpiece. However, searing steaks does improve the flavor due to the chemical reaction that takes place between the sugars and the proteins under high heat. If you are concerned the steaks you cook at home will not reach this level, come into Rib’N Reef to experience perfectly cooked steak on our charcoal pit.

21 April 2020

Degrees of Doneness: How Would You like Your Steak Prepared?

Sitting down for dinner with a beautiful steak on your plate is a great way to end a day. As you sit down at Rib’N Reef, you can expect a premier experience with extraordinary food. Your steak is no exception. At Rib’N Reef, we pride ourselves on creating mouthwatering cuisine that we prepare to your exact specifications.

What Is Happening When a Steak Is Broiling?

As your steak heats up on Rib’N Reef’s charcoal pit, it goes through some changes. The protein molecules unwind, and the heat causes the muscle fibers to shrink. Muscle fibers are mostly water, and as the muscle fibers shrink, they force water out. At the same time, the fat in the steak melts and absorbs into the muscle. This action tenderizes the steak and contributes to the flavor.

Doneness Levels for Steak

At Rib’N Reef, we are committed to ensuring we cook your steak perfectly and to your liking. As you contemplate how you would like your steak prepared, it is helpful to understand the different levels of doneness and how that changes the flavor and texture of the steak.

Rare

If you order your steak rare, the internal temperature of your steak will reach 120 degrees. Your Rib’N Reef steak will be warm, but the center will be red. At this temperature, the fat of the steak will not have a chance to heat up enough to render, or melt, which is lovely for those lean cuts. However, for a steak with a higher fat content, a higher temperature is worth considering.

Medium-Rare

If you prefer your steak medium-rare, expect your steak to be cooked to 130 degrees and warm all the way through. Also, there will be a hint of red in the center, with the rest of the steak being pink. At this level of doneness, the fat has not been able to heat up enough to melt, but most of the moisture has not had a chance to evaporate yet. This balance allows for both a buttery texture from the rendered fat and plenty of juice.

Medium

A medium-done steak will be cooked to an internal temperature of 140 degrees, and the steak will be pink with no hint of red. The fat will have melted into the steak, but some of the moisture will have evaporated.

Medium-Well

If you prefer Rib’N Reef to prepare your steak medium-well, it will be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. Just like the medium steak, the fat will have rendered into the steak, and much of the moisture will have evaporated. There will be a slight hint of pink at the center.

Well

A well-done steak will not have a hint of pink in the center, as it will be brown all the way through. The outside will not be burnt, however, because Rib’N Reef understands how to cook a well-done steak to an internal temperature of 170 degrees without overcooking the outside.