Mr. Ménard

"The realization of the project proves to be more arduous. A space must be leased and a complete set of kitchen equipment acquired, rotisseries purchased, utensils, tables, chairs. Quite the program! The Légers quickly come up against the limits. Their savings, the result of previous businesses, may seem substantial for the time—$7,500. However, this is a bit tight for investing in a restaurant. As for credit, the couple doesn’t even consider it! Back then, French Canadians had little capital and banks were hardly willing to lend to them. But this kind of concern does nothing to diminish the determination of the young entrepreneurs. After several days of searching, they finally find a space. The place is decent, no more, but a good coat of paint and a thorough cleaning should be enough to turn the pumpkin into a carriage. Hélène and René quickly call the owner, a certain Mr. Ménard."

"Spring 1957. A restaurant adjoining the St-Hubert Bar-B-Q closes. What’s more, the building that housed it is put up for sale. For the Léger family, it’s now or never to expand their dining room. However, they don’t have the means to acquire the building. At least for now. Once again, Mr. Ménard comes to their rescue. Hélène and René convince their landlord to buy the building on their behalf. In exchange, the rotisserie owners will rent the premises from him for 10 years with a purchase option of $90,000. The agreement is signed in May. Once again, sleeves are rolled up at 6355 Saint-Hubert Street. Mr. Ménard’s building is turned upside down: a basement is dug, the framework is redone. The shared wall is knocked down to expand the rotisserie dining room. Ninety thousand dollars! The commitment is colossal; it requires constantly rising revenues. But the Léger family believes in their star more than ever. The events that follow will soon prove them right."