What a festive day it was! On Christmas Day 2024, I found myself wandering the streets of Winnipeg, and let me tell you, even with the clouds overhead, a balmy -1°C felt downright cozy—perfect for a bit of holiday adventure!
My adventure began in the charming St. Boniface area, where I floated downtown via the Provencher Bridge. This isn’t just any old bridge; it’s a four-lane wonder that’s a rubber ducky’s dream! It spans the Red River, connecting Winnipeg East to the city’s electrifying heart. Built in 2003, it’s like the superhighway for adventurous ducks, taking over from an old bridge that had seen a whopping 90 years of duck traffic. Impressive, right?
But hold onto your feathers because the real star of my winter wonderland? The mighty Esplanade Riel Bridge! This pedestrian delight opened just a few months after Provencher, and let me tell you, it’s a swaying paradise. I waddled along the suspended walkway, far from the honking cars and smoky fumes, revelling in the rich cultural vibes of Winnipeg.
The idea behind the Esplanade Riel Bridge was all about bridging gaps—literally! The bridge was designed to unite Winnipeg’s Anglo and Franco communities, with its name paying homage to Louis Riel, the Métis co-founder of Manitoba. It’s not just a crossing; it’s a symbol of togetherness! Initially, the plan included a restaurant on the bridge for guests to enjoy a meal with a view—talk about dining with a backdrop! When the bridge opened in 2003, though, that space was surprisingly empty.
Fast-forward to July 2005, when The Salisbury House decided to dive in and turn it into a culinary hotspot. Summer came, and foot traffic was as lively as a duck pond on a sunny day, but once winter rolled in, the guests slipped away faster than I could quack. By 2008, they decided to go seasonal, and by 2013, they floated off the bridge but remain a Manitoba icon throughout the city.
Since then, several other attempts have fluttered in and out: Chez Sophie sur le Pont gave it a shot in 2013 but folded by 2015, and Mon Ami Louis opened in July 2015 only to close its doors in 2020. The *restaurant on a bridge* dream seems more burdensome to pull off than expected!
But don’t worry! The Esplanade Riel Bridge is still a beloved icon! It’s not just a bridge; it’s a fabulous hangout spot for walkers and a paradise for photographers. I mean, come on! It offers breathtaking views of the river, the historic forks, and the impressive Canadian Museum for Human Rights while framing the downtown skyline in the background. Even my rubber self couldn’t resist striking a pose!
The sights from the bridge are nothing short of spectacular. I watched the icy wind tussle my feathers and saw how folks braved the weather. But fear not, my adventure-seeking pals—I plan to return when the summer sun shines bright, the souvenir kiosks buzz with energy, and the bridge is alive with laughter and joy.
I have a tale to tell you from the frosty corners of Winnipeg, Manitoba! On December 6th, I waddled onto the scene when I heard about a truly inspirational human—Trevor, our Big-Hearted Biker. He’s set up camp for ten epic days to splash holiday cheer throughout his chilly neighbourhood!
Picture this: a bright red tent popping against winter’s white canvas! It’s situated at the buzzing corner of Main and Higgins, where Trevor is collecting donations of food and toys to throw an unforgettable community Christmas dinner on December 14th. And guess what? Santa’s on the guest list! Can you imagine the twinkling eyes of the little ones as they unwrap toys? It warms my rubber duck heart!
While many folks talk about spreading holiday cheer, Trevor is making it happen. I was excited when I heard about this chance to join in, so I rallied my human friend Rick to grab some goodies from Trevor’s wish list. Off we waddled to the collection site, and boy, was it a sight to behold!
We found Trevor effortlessly hauling donations with a genuine smile that could melt the iciest of hearts. He was wearing a leather motorcycle vest adorned with patches—a member of the extraordinary Veterans’ motorcycle community! He and his wife were sitting at a small table, enjoying each other’s company, with a cozy vibe that was more inviting than a warm bath!
Soon, we learned that this wasn’t Trevor’s first rodeo—his charitable efforts started in 2017! Though the pandemic put a little damper on things, Trevor’s spirit never wavered. An act of kindness even brought him and his wife together—a true love story fueled by the giving spirit!
His journey began in 2017 when he needed to return home from Nova Scotia. Faced with the typical red tape (don’t get me started on that!), the system suggested hitchhiking, so he took on the challenge. This fellow walked over 3400 kilometers (about 2112 miles) and turned his trek into a goodwill mission! He helped tidy up towns, built wheelchair ramps, and spread kindness like confetti, leaving a trail of hope and inspiration in his wake!
Six months later, he finally soared home for Christmas, only to find his old neighbourhood desperately needing some holiday sparkle. Cue the heartfelt “HUMBUG!” Determined to revive the festive spirit, he organized his first community celebration, and guess what? Three hundred people showed, their faces lit up with joy and anticipation! Talk about a party! After a few quiet years due to shifting COVID restrictions, Trevor sprang back into action and hopes to throw his biggest bash to date, spreading joy and warmth to all who attend!
As of December 7th, Trevor had gathered about 80% of what he needs to ensure this festive gathering is a blast, and I bet he’ll overshoot that target like a duck soaring through the air!
But wait, there’s more! Trevor doesn’t stop with Christmas cheer; he’s also a committed member of the Veterans’ Motorcycle Club, working to ensure veterans get all the respect and support they deserve!
Inspired doesn’t even begin to cover it! I’m thrilled to share Trevor’s story, especially knowing he’s braving the Manitoba winter temperatures that might dip as low as minus 27 degrees Celsius (minus 17 degrees Fahrenheit).
So, let’s make some waves together! Please share this post far and wide to help boost Trevor’s donations and support the most spectacular celebration his community has ever seen!
This Big-Hearted Biker is a beacon of inspiration whose selfless actions inspire us all. His tireless efforts spread joy and kindness to the community.
Bob here, the rubber duck who’s just ventured out into the world to find some fun and adventure. Recently, I had the pleasure of soaking up the charm at Audrey’s Motel in Missouri, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience!
The delightful duo of Hank and Mary own and operate Audrey’s Motel. Their passion for hospitality shines through every nook and cranny of this cozy establishment. It’s evident they’ve put their heart and soul into creating a welcoming atmosphere for all guests, and as a rubber duck who knows a thing or two about comfort, I can appreciate that!
Now, let’s talk about the cleanliness of the lobby and the rooms. I must say, I was highly impressed! The rooms were sparkling clean — no dust bunnies in sight! It was as if they were polished just for me. I felt right at home as I floated around the bathroom sink. They prioritize cleanliness here, which makes for a comfortable and pleasant stay, whether you’re a human or a rubber duck.
Speaking of pleasant experiences, the friendliness of the owners is truly unmatched. Hank and Mary greet guests with smiles and warmth, instantly making you feel like part of the family. They’re always down for a chat or to share interesting stories and local tips, which makes for a cozy, homey experience. Their genuine kindness extends to everyone; you can feel the love and care they pour into their motel, making you feel welcomed and at home.
One of the standout features of Audrey’s Motel is the unique room dedicated to John Deere tractors! Now, I may not be a tractor, but the decor in that room is truly something to quack about. From Deere-themed artwork to bedspread patterns that would make any farmer proud, it’s a perfect homage to the beloved green machines. If you’re a fan of tractors — or want to experience something truly unique — this room is a must-visit!
Hank is a long-time motorcycle enthusiast, so as you can imagine, riders are a welcome addition to their clientele. If you pull in on a motorcycle, an ice-cold beer will greet you at check-in, and Frank will pull his Harley out and even act as a local tour guide around Mound City if he has time. There is no end to the riding stories that Hank has to share.
I can’t forget to give a special shout-out to Hank and Mary’s dedication to veterans. Hank is a disabled American veteran who swells with pride for the United States and his contributions to freedom. They go above and beyond to honour others who have served our country. From special discounts to walls adorned with memorabilia celebrating their service, they have a heart for veterans. As a rubber duck who loves freedom, I truly admire their commitment to giving back to those who protect it.
Audrey’s Motel is a gem in Missouri that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a delightful stay. With its immaculate rooms, rider support, charming John Deere theme, respect for veterans and owners on site to share their many passions, this little motel has it all. So, if you find yourself quacking around Missouri, check in at Audrey’s — you won’t regret it!
As we embarked on our journey from Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Ottawa, Ontario, we made a splash with a delightful stop in Ashland, Wisconsin. Being a seasoned traveller, I was excited for our planned stay at the Ashland Best Western, a favourite among my humans.
At first, we paddled past the hotel a couple of times. It wasn’t until I quacked a little louder that they realized the Southern mansion-style building was indeed our destination. Talk about a quacking good surprise!
It felt more like we were checking into a charming museum than a motel. The era-specific furnishings and nostalgic photos transported us back in time, sparking stories of days gone by.
But don’t let the historical charm fool you—the room was equipped with all the modern comforts my humans love at Best Western. After a day of road travel, it was just what we needed for a peaceful night’s sleep.
While my humans took a stroll, I floated alongside them, discovering a magical back porch overlooking Chequamegon Bay, right off Lake Superior. What a stunning view! With the shimmering waters in the background, I couldn’t help but quack in approval—it was the perfect photo op!
Come morning, we were treated to a hearty, complimentary country-style breakfast. I watched as my humans dug into delicious pancakes and scrambled eggs, wishing I could join in. Sadly, our time in Ashland flew by, and soon we were back on the road, leaving behind the charm of the hotel and the beauty of the bay.
But fear not! We plan to return in the summer. I can’t wait to make more waves at this unique Best Western. Until next time, Ashland! You can bet I’ll be quacking about our adventure for a long time to come!
Today, I am sharing highlights of an inspiring experience I had during my incredible adventure in a charming little coastal town in the breathtaking Costa Rica!
Picture this: I’m nestled in a vibrant beach house, surrounded by swaying palm trees and the soothing serenade of ocean waves. It felt like paradise, and I was ready to dive headfirst into every delightful moment!
We were greeted by our wonderful caretaker, a genuinely kind soul named Andres. His broad smile was like sunshine breaking through the clouds, and every laugh was a splash of joy against the sunny backdrop of our beach getaway.
Andres’ family, just as warm and inviting as the golden rays above, lived in a cozy little cottage right by the shore where happiness floated like the sweet scent of ripe coconuts.
Although they didn’t have a mountain of toys like I do, their hearts overflowed with love. Andres adored his little dogs, who zipped around like furry torpedoes, filling our days with laughter. I cheered them on from my comfy spot, feeling the simple thrills of vacation joy.
Andres was a man of endless talent—always on the lookout for small jobs to bring in extra income. He painted houses with meticulous care, landscaped yards with a touch of creativity, and sold refreshing coconuts and cold drinks to beachgoers. His entrepreneurial spirit was contagious, reminding us to appreciate the simple pleasures life has to offer.
One of the highlights of my life was an unforgettable day of spearfishing! I bobbed along the coast, grinning with excitement as the brisk ocean breeze whipped around us. When we caught our first fish, I could barely contain my excitement—quack! As the humans dived into the deep, I floated above, marveling at the beautiful underwater ballet of colorful fish.
Andres also introduced us to the thrill of racing motorcycles along the pristine beach, with the salty breeze tousling our hair as we zoomed down the shoreline.
As the sun began to set in a blaze of fiery colors, he surprised us with fresh fruit, handpicked and oh-so-delicious.
He even helped us evict any pesky lizards from our deck, always keeping our comfort at the forefront!
Evenings were magical, filled with laughter and glowing camaraderie under a blanket of stars. We gathered around a crackling fire, sharing stories from our worlds. Despite the occasional language barrier—our Spanish and his English were limited—we found delight in our shared gestures, laughter, and experiences. We didn’t just become friends; we became family.
When the sun dipped below the horizon, Andres patrolled the property, ensuring our safety while we enjoyed the tranquility of the beach. His unwavering care made us feelat safe and oh so special.
As our vacation began to fade away like a gentle tide, I felt a twinge in my rubber heart. The thought of leaving Andres and his family, who had become cherished friends, cast a shadow over my otherwise sunny adventure. They showed me the true essence of joy, resilience, and the dazzling moments we often overlook.
So, here’s a huge thank you to my dear friend Andres! For all the adventures, laughter, and unforgettable memories, the bond we formed will forever dance in my heart like a beautifully shared dream at sea. Your kindness and warmth have left a lasting impression on my rubbery soul. Until we meet again in the waves, keep shining and spreading your joyful spirit! Quack-tastic friends forever!
Hello, fellow adventurers! It’s your favourite travel buddy, BOB the Rubber Duck, ready to paddle you through one of my absolute favourite places to chow down—Los Congos, near Orotina, Costa Rica!
This charming little gem is a must-stop if you’re cruising along the Pacific Coast and swinging by hotspots like Jaco or Manuel Antonio! Now, exploring the world from my bathtub isn’t quite the same as having feet, but I’m all about diving into Costa Rica’s culinary treasures—one splash at a time!
As I waddled up to Los Congos, I couldn’t help but admire the enchanting carvings that adorned the entrance—talk about eye candy! Colourful wildlife and even an anatomically correct howler monkey greeted me, making it impossible to resist stopping for a bite.
Walking into Los Congos was like being wrapped in a big, cozy hug! The rustic wooden decor and open-air seating created a warm and lively vibe. Plus, the gentle trickle of water from a nearby fountain gave the whole place a downright soothing soundtrack. This was a haven for locals and travellers looking to enjoy scrumptious grub and good company.
Let’s talk about the staff—my quack, they were terrific! They treated me like royalty from the moment I splashed through the door! Their genuine smiles and enthusiastic service made me feel like a superstar. They were eager to share their recommendations and made me feel like I was in the hands of culinary wizards!
Since I arrived bright and early, breakfast was calling my name! I dove into a traditional Costa Rican omelet, and let me tell you, it was pure magical deliciousness! Each bite had my little ducky taste buds singing with joy! With a satisfied belly, I was already daydreaming about my next visit to explore their lunch menu.
And, oh boy, did I return! A few days later, I flapped from Playa Bendera for a late lunch with my beak practically watering! The star of the show? A whole fried fish dinner that was out of this world! The fresh catch was perfectly seasoned, served with giant prawns, crispy fries, and farm-fresh veggies. The flaky, tender fish melted in my beak like a dream!
But wait! I couldn’t paddle away without indulging in their steak dinner. What a treat for my taste buds! The steak was perfectly grilled with a beautiful char on the outside and oh-so-tender on the inside. It was a culinary masterpiece, paired with those giant prawns, roasted veggies, and a scrumptious chimichurri sauce. Each bite made me feel like the luckiest little rubber duck in the universe!
As I floated away from Los Congos, my heart and belly were brimming with joy—the inviting ambiance, friendly staff, and mouthwatering food made for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a local or passing through Orotina, you must make a splash at Los Congos!
Until next time, adventurers! May your journeys be filled with joy, delectable eats, and maybe a little quacking!
Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Your favourite rubber ducky is back and ready to quack about my latest joyous jaunt at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, tucked away in the enchanting rainforest near Dominical, Costa Rica!
Perched on the mountainside, the Jolly Roger offers views that make even the grumpiest geese smile. I settled on the edge of a table, gazing down at the sprawling rainforest canopy that spread below me like a lush green quilt. The palm leaves swayed in the breeze, and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean sparkled in the sunlight just beyond the trees.
I felt like I was at the world’s most breathtaking front-row seat!
As I soaked in the sights, I was treated to a spectacular show! A splash of colour zipped through the trees, and lo and behold—a pair of magnificent macaws swooped overhead, flaunting their bright red and blue feathers like nature’s very own confetti! The jungle buzzed with life; toucans chimed in with cheeky calls, creating a symphony that made my little rubber heart sing!
The mood at Jolly Roger was electric, and the sounds of hungry nature wrapped around me like a warm embrace. The rustle of the leaves, the ocean’s distant roar, and the birds’ joyful chatter set the perfect stage for an unforgettable dining experience. I nearly wished for wings so I could join in the revelry!
Jolly Roger’s claim to fame as the ultimate jungle Wing Bar boasts 23 flavorful wing creations. But wings are not alone on the North American style menus: mouthwatering burgers, vegan cauliflower wings, legendary Storm fries, fresh salads, and even “jungle” pizza that delights any palate. And when it’s time to wash down this deliciousness, I wholeheartedly recommend their house margaritas, delightful cocktails, or an ice-cold beer that’s as refreshing as a jungle waterfall!
Picture this—a tantalizing blend of the freshest coconut water, piña-whiz magic, and a splash of rum, all swirled together to create a drink that feels like a dreamy float through paradise! Seriously, one sip had me feeling like I was lounging on a fluffy cloud while the sun kissed my little rubber cheeks! They certainly do not hold back on the rum!
As I nestled in, soaking up the ambiance and the as-fabulous-as-it-gets views, gratitude washed over me like the ocean waves below. The Jolly Roger is not just a restaurant; it’s a magical experience where nature’s beauty dances with culinary creativity.
As the sun dipped lower, casting a golden glow over the landscape, blissful waves of contentment rolled through my tiny rubber body. This ducky adventure led me to a paradise where flavours, sounds, and sights melded into memories I’ll treasure forever.
So, if you find yourself in Dominical, do not miss the chance to land at the Jolly Roger Restaurant. With over 17 years of deliciousness, an awe-inspiring view, and staff that brings the fun, it’s an adventure that can’t be beaten! Anytime is Jolly time in Costa Rica!
Get ready for a thrilling ride because I’m about to share my exhilarating adventure on the iconic Route 66 with Rick and The Badgers Group!
On July 13, 2023, Rick strapped me onto his gleaming Goldwing, and off we set from Winnipeg, Manitoba, bound for Pontiac, Illinois, for the Route 66 Passport Run.
Sonny and Angie Badger and their dedicated crew crafted an epic route brimming with original Route 66 charm. We were set to cover a breathtaking 2,278 miles from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier, with daily rides of about 300 miles!
Rick’s dream of riding the Original Route 66 has been brewing for ages and Sonny and Angie had brought his dream to an early reality.
His excitement was infectious, and we all felt it as we arrived in Pontiac on July 15, checking into the Best Western Pontiac alongside around 90 other passionate riders.
The camaraderie was palpable, and I couldn’t help but quack in delight at the vibrant atmosphere.
Each segment of our journey was a treasure trove of unique experiences, and I’ll share a few highlights to spark your wanderlust and inspire you to add Route 66 to your bucket list!
On the bright and sunny morning of July 16, we zipped over to Chicago for some snazzy photo ops at the historic starting point of this legendary route.
The evening? Oh boy, it was a blast! Thanks to Sonny and Angie, Pontiac threw us a party worthy of the grandest duck ball! They shut down the streets for our motley crew, and we revelled in a charming old theatre, feasted on delicious grub, and then hit the hay early to gear up for our grand ride on the 17th.
To ensure that the ride was more manageable, The Badgers had organized a chase trailer and folks to help in emergencies, and we had created smaller daily riding groups: Our group was Fiona, Christina, Darrell, Greg, Joe, Shawn, Rick and me (BOB).
By July 17, we were off to our first stop, Rolla, Missouri. With quacks of joy, we kicked off the ride at 7 a.m. Riding on the original Route 66 transported us back to simpler times when every pothole told a story! It was a real nostalgia trip for everyone on board.
Pontiac, Illinois to Rolla, Missouri – 306 miles
With the sun peeking over the horizon, we revved our engines at 7 am! The first leg of our quest whisked us back through time as the nostalgic vibe of Route 66 wrapped around us like a warm feather blanket. Those cobblestone roads in Missouri felt like a hug from history! I was flapping my wings joyfully, soaking in the sights and sounds!
Rolla, Missouri to Stroud, Oklahoma – 394 miles
Now, here’s where things got quirky—who could resist stopping at Uranus? No kidding! This zany little store greeted us with a cheeky “Welcome to Uranus!”. It was all giggles from here on out, especially when we discovered their famous fudge! Now that’s a treat worth quacking about!
Next up was a delightful stop at The Hangar Kafe, where I had to ruffle my feathers in awe. Not only did they serve scrumptious food, but the place was filled with flying things—hot air balloons and rocket ship replicas galore! And let me tell you, imagine taking a hot air balloon ride with the wind under my wings!
And if that is not enough, the Kingsley family operates the hangar as a growing crop-dusting business but also offers you the BOBortunity to take a ride on a hot air balloon or plane, watch the skydivers on good days and maybe even witness a Chinook helicopter stop in for breakfast.
Just as we were getting into the groove, disaster struck! Goldie, our trusty steed, suffered a blowout at full speed. Yikes!
Seasoned as he is, Rick faced his first “deathtime wobble,” A term used in the motorcycle community to describe a sudden and severe wobble in the front wheel. I flapped nervously in my seat, but our fantastic riding group rallied around us, supporting Rick while he limped Goldie to safety.
A massive shoutout to our new buddy, Darryl, who stood by our side for four hours while we waited for help. Quack-tastic teamwork!
A massive shoutout to our new buddy, Darryl, who stood by our side for four hours while we waited for help. Quack-tastic teamwork!
Stroud, Oklahoma to Amarillo, Texas – 316 miles
After a speedy pit stop at Shawnee Motor Sports—thanks, guys!—we charged ahead to Amarillo.
Rick decided to hit the Interstate to make up for lost time, and even though we missed some of those Route 66 gems, we still indulged in a legendary steak dinner at The Big Texan! I cheekily ordered my “bob-sized” plate—thankfully avoiding the daunting 72-ounce challenge!
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and nothing felt better than being back with our fantastic crew.
Amarillo, Texas to Grants, New Mexico – 363 miles
Buckle up your feathers because this ride from Amarillo to Grants was a quacking good time! We were cruising and hit the halfway mark of our grand adventure.
One of the coolest stops was the Mid-Point Café—a true desert oasis! There I was, surrounded by a sea of dusty roads, when suddenly, BOOM! The café appeared like magic! We waddled in to grab some souvenirs, freshen up, and munch delicious snacks. I couldn’t resist posing for a photo by the sign proclaiming we were at the midpoint of Route 66. Talk about a feather in my cap!
Next up was Tee Pee Curios, a delightful little spot that used to be a gas station in 1944. After the highway was widened, the enterprising folks turned it into a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs. Let me tell you, I had a whale of a time digging through all the quirky curios!
Grants, New Mexico to Williams, Arizona – 282 miles
I wanted to keep this tale brief, but I couldn’t help myself—there’s so much fun along this iconic stretch! I even had my photo taken at one of the last remaining Wigwam Villages, marvelled at a massive meteor crater from 50,000 years ago, and met some wacky alien replicas in Winslow, Arizona, right next to that famous flatbed Ford from the Eagles’ “Take It Easy.” Imagine me posing next to it, quacking along!
Rumour has it that some of our group even chose to seize the BOBortunity to break out their line dancing skills instead of just “standing at the corner of Winslow, Arizona,” as the song suggests. Party on, my feathery friends!
Williams, Arizona to Victorville, California – 349 miles
Then came Oatman, Arizona—a site straight out of a Wild West movie! We took the Arizona Sidewinder Highway to get there, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! Watch out for the donkeys; they’re on a mission for breakfast and might pop up unexpectedly!
Oatman is a ghost town buzzing with history. The old buildings and roaming donkeys reminded me of the cowboys of yore.
If only we had more time! We could’ve explored the mine, witnessed a wild shootout, and even ventured to Joshua Tree! But alas, the sun was blazing, and my rubbery self could only take so much heat. I’ll have to convince my buddy Rick to make a return trip!
All great BOBortunities must come to an end. The last stretch through Death Valley was, to put it mildly, a scorcher! At 127 degrees, I nearly melted into a puddle! We all felt the burn as we navigated the sweltering desert, but laughter and hydration kept us afloat.
Eventually, we reached our final destination—Victorville—around 4 PM, hot, tired, and feeling pretty awesome! But wait, the journey wasn’t over yet! We made it to our final planned destination of Victorville around 4 pm, hot, tired and feeling accomplished. We made it! BUT…we wanted to see the end of Route 66…SO….
Bonus Day – Victorville, California to Santa Monica Pier, California
Some crew decided to cruise to Santa Monica Pier for one last hurrah. We explored the pier, gobbled up a farewell lunch, and said our goodbyes while I floated happily in my little ducky world.
What a wild ride on Route 66! There are so many memories and a quack-tastic adventure to cherish forever. Here’s to more journeys and endless fun! Waddle on, my friends!
Hey there, fellow flavour fans! It’s me, Bob, your favourite rubber ducky, paddling into your hearts with a tale from one of the coziest nooks in Highland, Illinois—Blue Springs Cafe! If you’re on the hunt for a dining experience that wraps you in warmth and joy, you’ve just flapped your wings into the right spot. This charming eatery serves up not only scrumptious meals but also a heaping side of heartwarming hospitality!
As soon as I quacked through the door of Blue Springs Cafe, it felt like slipping into a fluffy towel after an invigorating swim—pure bliss! The staff welcomed me like a long-lost pal, and I knew right away that this wasn’t just dinner; it was going to be a celebration of family, friends, and good food. They serve meals family-style, which means there’s plenty of deliciousness to share, just like a big, happy duck family!
Now, let’s dive into the culinary delights! Oh, where to begin? We chose the fried cod, pan-fried walleye, and the chicken fried steak—each dish was a masterpiece! The fish was crispy on the outside and delightfully flaky inside, while the chicken fried steak was dripping with luscious white gravy that could make even a grumpy duck like me crack a smile. Now, that’s saying something!
And hold onto your feathers, because the side dishes were an endless parade of yum! We had coleslaw, house-pickled beets, real mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, fluffy biscuits, and sweet apple butter. The variety was enough to make my little rubber heart dance! My human adored the beets—sweet, earthy, and downright delightful. It was as if the kitchen had conjured up a special dish just for us!
But, oh dear, let’s not forget about the stars of the show: the mile-high pies! Seriously, these towering treats are taller than me! The meringue was like a fluffy cloud that you could lose yourself in. Even after devouring so much delectable food, we couldn’t resist boxing up a lemon meringue pie for later. My human has a sweet tooth for cherry pie, so she snagged a slice for our road trip ahead. Whether you fancy classic fruit pies or creamy delights that stand tall, these beauties are reason enough to veer off the interstate and indulge!
So, if you find yourself navigating the waters of Highland, make sure to steer your boat towards Blue Springs Cafe! With its inviting atmosphere, friendly faces, and mouthwatering fare, it’s a true gem celebrating the joy of good food and great company. Trust me, every quacking good bite is a delightful adventure you can’t miss! Quack quack, and happy dining, my friends!
