As steak frites becomes a core Dallas food, its allure is affecting restaurants’ whole menus. At Encina, Balke used to order eight to 10 racks of pork a week to cut into pork chops.

You love steak with a side of crispy fries ("steak frites" in French) but aren't always in the mood to head out to your local steakhouse or bistro and part with your hard-earned cash.

For $30, diners get coulotte steak with secret sauce, fries, salad and bread. It’s a “one choice” restaurant where the only thing to choose is how you want your steak cooked.