Six standout dishes worth a Vancouver detour this month

Vancouver's food landscape shifted in May with high-profile rebrands, decade-old stalwarts hitting their stride, and a massive market opening. Here are six dishes that captured the moment.

Jack's Fish and Chips (formerly Jack's Chowder House, now with two locations at 5772 Fraser St. and 1055 Dunsmuir St.) refreshed its fish sandwich repertoire. The signature crispy fish patty comes with cheese, bread-and-butter pickles, and house-made tartar sauce—but the Nashville hot version dunks it in hot sauce, adding heat and depth. The chowder that went viral remains, served in a bread bowl.

Lucia on Main Street underwent a menu overhaul under new chef Marquella Uhrig, pivoting to house-made pizza dough and fresh pasta. The standout is radiatore dressed in a leek and wild mushroom cream sauce topped with smoked scamorza. The antipasti and wine program are equally stellar.

On The Other Hand by Handson (847 Denman St.) represents a rebrand of Handson Steaks and Frites into something more playful and expansive. The Argentina Red Shrimp Tartare—served with lovage emulsion on croissant pudding—is sophisticated and unexpected. The cocktail list is a commitment; the "We Shouldn't Have Stayed" pairs cold brew coffee, rose wine, and date caramel with a side of ice cream.

Touk (1152 Alberni St.) keeps earning repeat mentions because the food keeps delivering. Its recently launched lunch menu includes the Bai Kdang—a puffed glutinous rice tostada topped with uni, albacore tuna, and shaved fennel. Almost every plate deserves consideration.

Annabelle's nailed the seasonal moment with an Iced Matcha topped with rhubarb cold foam. The café itself—cute space, excellent pastries, excellent drinks—rewards a visit on its own terms.

May proved Vancouver's dining culture still prizes freshness, technique, and a willingness to play with tradition. These six spots represent different corners of that ambition.