UPDATE: My first visit left a positive impression, however, recent actions from the restaurant have left a bad taste in my mouth. Therefore I will not be recommending this restaurant any more moving forward.
A new restaurant has just opened in Vancouver, and it’s already getting attention. Handson Steak and Frites is the latest addition to the city’s dining scene, specializing in one thing done exceptionally well: steak and frites. If you’re a fan of classic French-inspired comfort food, this spot is worth putting on your radar. Handson Steak and Frites is built on a simple concept: high-quality steak served with golden, crispy fries and a selection of sauces. Unlike steakhouses that sprawl across large menus, this restaurant keeps its focus tight, letting the quality of the beef and the execution of the sides shine. Taking over the former Ma Dang Goul (MDG), this restaurant is small and intimate. Check out my full review of Handson Steak and Frites below.
Handson Steak and Frites – Menu
While the official menu may expand over time, the core offering is all about the steak and fries combo. Expect: Steak cuts cooked to your preference, with an emphasis on tenderness and flavor. Frites – crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. Truly the perfect matchstick fry. Signature sauces – think Salsa Verde, Onion Mayo and Peppercorn Jus to complement your steak. A small selection of salads and starters to balance the richness of the main. A few dessert options to finish the meal on a sweet note. The simplicity is refreshing. You know what you’re coming for, and Handson delivers on that promise.
On our visit we got the following appetizers and steaks to share:
- Chips Tartare ($16.00) – grass fed beef (True North Farms), chips, smokey tallow, shallots, dijion, egg, onion oil
- 10oz Feature Ribeye ($62.00)
- Charred Broccolini with salsa verda ($12.00)
The Chips Tartare starts the meal off on a very strong note. The chips are the perfect thickness to be able to hold a decent amount of tartare. They aren’t too greasy and have a great crunch. This is my first time having tartare with tallow and it is stellar.
The flavour in this tartare is really lovely and the plentiful amount of chives on top make for an excellent bite.
For me it’s go big or go home so we had to get the 10oz Feature Ribeye. It was a medium rare as requested and was very tender and well cooked. It’s simple in seasoning so the beef flavour really shines through. The accompanying freshly fried frites are a delicious side to the dish.
The Charred Broccolini was excellent as well. The stems retain their crunch with a nice smokey flavour throughout. The salsa verde adds a nice brightness but isn’t really needed because the broccolini on their own is flavourful from the char.
To end on a sweet note we had to get their Lemon Creme Brulee ($12.00). It’s a nice little way to end dinner with a flair. The brulee is done tableside so you get a nice fresh sugar crust. The dessert was smooth and lemony and not too sweet. It does get really smokey with the brulee so be careful!
Worth a Try?
Handson Steak and Frites brings a focused, straightforward concept to Vancouver’s food scene. If you’ve been searching for the best steak frites in Vancouver or want to try one of the new restaurants in Vancouver 2025, this is worth adding to your list. Sometimes less really is more and Handson proves that with every plate.
From early visits, the vibe is modern but approachable, the kind of space that works equally well for a casual weeknight dinner or a Vancouver date night restaurant pick. The design leans into dark tones, comfortable seating, and a relaxed pace, making it easy to enjoy the meal without feeling rushed. Service is very attentive and your waters and drinks will always be quickly topped up. The space is quite small though so the tables are a bit tight. The table we were at was right at the pass so the servers were constantly going behind our table to get the dishes. It’s also an open kitchen concept so it can get quite warm especially on a hot day (no air conditioning).
Vancouver’s dining scene can get pricey, especially when it comes to steak. What makes Handson Steak and Frites interesting is its value-driven approach. By focusing on a single specialty dish, the restaurant keeps the price point reasonable while still delivering quality. It’s an appealing option if you want steakhouse quality without the high-end bill.
Handson Steak and Frites Restaurant
Address: 847 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2L7
Website: https://www.instagram.com/handsonyvr