A Guide to Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cut of steak that is simply hard to beat. At DC STEAKHOUSE, we’re experts when it comes to filets and every other delicious steak. We put together this guide to filet mignon to answer the questions steak-lovers ask about this popular cut. Continue reading to learn all about filet mignon, including the different types of filet, the best wine pairings, and more. 

What is a filet mignon?

A small cut of beef taken from the tenderloin is known as a filet mignon. The tenderloin is an interior muscle located near the rib cage, towards the rear end of the animal. As opposed to other muscles, it does not become tough with exercise, which is what makes the meat so deliciously tender when cooked. The tenderloin muscle also has very little fat, making filet mignon a little bit healthier but just as flavorful as other types of steak cuts.  

Is beef tenderloin the same as filet mignon?

Although filet mignon is beef that is cut from the tenderloin, beef tenderloin is not another name for filet mignon. A beef tenderloin includes the entire tenderloin muscle, which can be divided into smaller cuts of steak. A filet mignon is cut from the smaller, front-end portion of the tenderloin. 

What are the different types of filet mignon?

Petit Filet

Filet steak cuts are widely known for their small size. In fact, the formal name “filet mignon” translates from French to “cute filet,” and refers to its size—an average filet is around six to eight ounces. However, filet mignon can be served in an even smaller portion known as a “petit filet,” which typically weighs around five ounces or less. 

Bone-In

Filet mignon is traditionally a boneless steak cut. However, the less common “bone-in filet” is becoming more popular among steak lovers. To create a bone-in filet, you simply divide a porterhouse steak. The porterhouse is a hefty steak cut that is made up of both a strip and a tenderloin, which are connected by a t-shaped bone. If you separate the tenderloin side of the steak away from the strip side by cutting through the bone, you end up with a bone-in filet mignon. 

Which wines go best with a filet?

The best wine to pair with any steak, especially filet mignon, is a red wine. Look for a dry red wine with low tannins, like pinot noir or merlot. The tannins in the wine cut through the fat in the meat to enhance the flavor. Because filets are a leaner cut, a less tannic red wine will not overpower the flavor of the steak. 

Filet Mignon Dinner in Downtown Chandler

If you’re craving a fresh, mouthwatering filet mignon, join us for dinner at DC STEAKHOUSE in Chandler, Arizona. We serve all of our steaks with a side of sautéed mushrooms and will cook your filet however you like. Don’t forget to enhance your meal with a glass of wine from the wide array of reds on our menu. Make a reservation with us online or give us a call at 480-899-4400 today!