I will forever maintain that French fries are the best side to any meal, and if a dish doesn’t come with fries on the side, we should order a plate for the table. A simple deep-fried and perfectly salted fry is a classic for a reason, but what about those times when I want a bit of flare or finesse? These are my favourite spots in Vancouver for fries.

Oddfish

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The menu at Oddfish boasts “the best handcut fries,” and I know why they feel confident in saying so. While Oddfish is a seafood restaurant, the fries are deliciously thick and crispy—a must when dining in. These chunky fries come with a side of malt vinegar mayo and ketchup, making the perfect accompaniment to the mussels.

Street Hawker

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Street Hawker’s crinkle-cut fries are a nostalgic treat reminiscent of outdoor ball games and school cafeteria lunches. However, unlike the often too-thick fries of the past, Street Hawker (little sister to Potluck Hawker Eatery) has perfected its signature shaker fries, served with a secret dusting and crispy curry leaves. Plus, for an additional cost, you can add a salted egg to add more Malaysian flavour. 

Monzo Burger

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Monzo Burger has mastered the flavour combination of burgers with a side of fries. The fuss-free fries are cooked in rendered beef fat and finished with a pinch of sea salt to let the tallow flavour come through—no ketchup needed! Do you need more beef fat? Order the hand pie made in the same fryer for a sweet and savoury dessert.

Japadog

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From humble beginnings comes Japadog, a Vancouver staple that started as street food stands before opening several dine-in and take-out restaurants (there is even a cart location on the Santa Monica Pier). Known for its hot dogs with Japanese-inspired toppings, the fries are often overlooked, but don’t miss out on them. The shaker fries come in classic Asian combos like aonori (seaweed) or butter and shoyu (soy sauce).

Fritz European Fry House

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I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve never had Fritz sober, but the drunk version of me is convinced this is the best spot to get fries after a night out on Davie Street. In my defence, Fritz knows this about itself and is open until 2am Thursday through Sunday. Customize your fries with over half a dozen toppings and unique dips, including my favourite: peanut sauce (that might be the slightly intoxicated version of me talking).