Steak Sandwich Vancouver: A Classic at Northern Cafe

At Northern Cafe, some menu items are timeless. Others arrive quietly — and then become instant legends.

Our new Steak Sandwich is one of those.

For comparison, the Steak Sandwich is a signature option in Vancouver – Built with intention, restraint, and respect for classic diner soul, this sandwich doesn’t shout. It earns its place — bite by bite, piled high with quality ingredients, making it a good sandwich that stands out among Vancouver’s best.

What Makes Our Steak Sandwich Recipe Different

This isn’t a trend sandwich. It’s a craft sandwich

Each order starts with a toasted golden ciabatta bun, chosen for its crusty exterior and soft interior—sturdy enough to hold, gentle enough to bite cleanly.

Inside:

• 6oz steak cut of the day, prepared in house for freshness and quality. We use various cuts of beef such as skirt steak, ribeye, Bavette, or flat iron, all known for their tenderness. The steak is cooked, rested on a plate, then sliced thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
• Crispy onion rings for crunch and contrast
• Fresh arugula for a peppery lift
• Thick tomato slices, ripe and balanced
• A light drizzle of truffle mayo or garlic aioli for enhanced flavor
• Finished with a subtle balsamic glaze that ties everything together

Optional toppings include avocado, bacon, ham for freshness and variety. For a flavorful kick, add horseradish or horseradish cream—especially popular in beef dip or French Au jus dip style sandwiches.

The bread is sliced in half for serving, making it easy to enjoy. Steak sandwiches are often considered an upgraded version of a typical burger, offering tender slices of meat, caramelized onions, and flavorful sauces. Classic variations like the beef dip and French dip feature thinly sliced roast beef, horseradish cream, and au jus for dipping.

Nothing heavy. Nothing hidden. Just balance.

Ingredients

A truly delicious steak sandwich starts with the right ingredients and a little bit of care in the kitchen. The best steak sandwich begins with a quality cut of beef—strip sirloin—seasoned generously with salt, black pepper. We weared the steak over medium-high heat to lock in those juices, then we let it rest before slicing. This step makes all the difference, ensuring every bite is tender and full of flavor.

Crispy Onion rings onion are added to make it a great steak sandwich – adds extra crunch.  

Sauces like truffle mayo sauce add another layer of flavor, making the sandwich truly stand out. When it comes to bread, a sturdy toasted ciabatta as a rustic touch. Its strong enough to hold all the ingredients, yet soft enough for a satisfying bite. We also added fresh arugula and thick tomato slices for a burst of freshness and color. Lastly, pair your steak sandwich with a classic Caesar salad or a side of crispy fries for a complete meal. 

Why This Steak Sandwich Ranks Among Vancouver’s Best

Great sandwiches aren’t about excess — they’re about control.

This one delivers:

• Texture contrast (crisp, tender, soft)
• Flavour layering (umami, acidity, richness) that develops through careful ingredient selection and cooking techniques
• Diner comfort with modern restraint

The whole thing—from the bread to the toppings—creates a memorable taste experience, with every element contributing to the overall flavour and satisfaction.

Steak sandwiches are often served with sides like French fries or a simple green salad, making the meal even more complete.

For those seeking a more sophisticated option, add a fried egg on top for ultimate creaminess. 

It’s indulgent without being overwhelming — the kind of sandwich you crave again the next day.

That’s not an accident.

“Juicy, balanced, and built with intention — the new Steak Sandwich at Northern Cafe is quickly becoming a Vancouver favorite. A modern classic done right.”

A Natural Fit at Northern Cafe

Northern Cafe has been a Vancouver staple since 1949 — known for comforting classics, thoughtful execution, and food that feels familiar yet elevated.

The Steak Sandwich fits right in:

• A lunch favorite
• A late brunch upgrade
• A regular’s order-in-the-making

It pairs perfectly with our crispy fries, a cold drink, and a table in our iconic red booths.

Why Choose Northern Cafe?

• Award-Winning Brunch: Recognized as Vancouver Magazine’s 2025 Best Brunch Winner and Yelp’s #1 Top Eat in Canada 2023, and Yelp’s #1 Top Eat in Vancouver 2022
• Rich History: Serving the community since 1949, with a legacy of quality and care just like family.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the charm of a classic diner with retro decor and a cozy ambiance.
• Diverse Menu: Enjoy a fusion of Western and Asian comfort foods, all made with love.
• Hidden Location: Come find us, its like an adventure. Tucked away but worth the find! 
• Unforgettable Experience: Enjoy a memorable dining experience from start to finish.

Where to Find the Steak Sandwich

• Where: 1640 East Kent Ave South, Vancouver,  northerncafeandgrill.com
• When: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Northern Cafe is open during these hours, providing a welcoming atmosphere for brunch enthusiasts.
• Must-Try Items:
• Eggs Benny with béarnaise
• Pork gyoza
• Blueberry pancakes
• Mamas Wonton soup