Category: British Columbia

  • Valley Grill – Hope, British Columbia

    Valley Grill – Hope, British Columbia

    As a well-travelled rubber duck, I’ve had my fair share of adventures, but let me tell you about a delightful pit stop I made on a recent journey. While hopping back to Winnipeg from Vancouver, my humans and I were cruising along when we stumbled upon an intriguing sign: HOPE, BC. Naturally, we had to take a break in a place that promised, well, hope!

    Upon arrival, the scenery took my little rubber duck heart by storm. Imagine this: towering mountains, glistening waterways, and streets so pristine they could rival a duck pond! Something was enchanting about the intricately crafted wooden carvings scattered throughout the town; each one told a story and added to the charm. We made a mental note to return for an in-depth exploration, but first, our bellies were calling for an adventure of their own.

    We waddled over to a cozy, locally owned restaurant named Valley Grill. This hidden gem was a breath of fresh air!

    The refreshing scent of breakfast greeted us as we entered, and we were welcomed by a team of cheerful ladies whose smiles could brighten any day. The spotless environment was perfect for a rubber duck like me, and the unique artwork on the walls truly connected the diner to the town’s spirit.

    Each piece was a window into the local culture, and one of my humans was so captivated that they purchased a piece, which now serves as a delightful reminder of our visit.

    The menu at Valley Grill is the kind of honest, hearty fare you crave after a long drive. My humans made some delicious choices.

    One got a skillet packed with sausage, crisp potatoes, melty cheese, and topped with perfectly cooked over-easy eggs. Just the sight of it could make any duck’s bill water!

    The other human opted for a mouthwatering perogy plate, accompanied by eggs and sausage. Every morsel was enjoyed to the fullest, and we left with our appetites fully satisfied.

    After sharing hearty laughs and delightful conversations with the staff, we set off again, rejuvenated and ready for the road.

    Our brief visit to Hope was simply a taste of its charm, leaving us eager to return for a longer adventure the next time we explore Western Canada.

    So, stay tuned, as I’m sure the next chapter in our travel tale will uncover even more of this town’s enchanting attributes!

    NEVER MISS A

  • La Casa Gelato – Vancouver, British Columbia

    La Casa Gelato – Vancouver, British Columbia

    On our recent grand adventure to Vancouver, BC, my humans couldn’t stop raving about this gelato shop that boasted a jaw-dropping 238 flavours! I thought they were pulling my webbed little leg—after all, 238 flavours? That’s beyond what this rubber duck could possibly fathom!

    Located in the heart of Vancouver, BC, La Casa Gelato, the delightful gem, first opened its doors back in 1982. Originally called La Casa Gelato/International Sports Bar, it served up Italian classics like pizza and panini alongside a mere twelve flavours of gelato and sorbetto. Somewhere along the line, the owners, Vince and Pina Misceo, decided it was time to make gelato their flagship, and let me tell you, the family has been spinning magic ever since—much to my delight!

    Fast forward to 2019, and La Casa Gelato bagged a spot in the Guinness World Records for having the most flavours on-site in the world. A record that still stands today!

    The family has created nearly 600 flavour combinations and continues to experiment with daring new ones. I found a gem of a quote from the patriarch of the family:

    “Once I run out of flavours, I’ll be a dead guy.”

    This dedication to their craft is truly inspiring!

    As we waddled into La Casa Gelato, through the vibrant pink doors of this iconic building, it felt like stepping into a luscious strawberry ice cream bowl—pink everywhere!

    The atmosphere was positively bursting with fun, making it impossible not to grin as we perused the endless rows of coolers. It was a joyous and lively experience, with vibrant colours and playful decor adding to the excitement of choosing a flavour!

    First things first, we lined up to pay, right by a tantalizing display of exquisite ice cream cakes, Italian pastries, and chocolate delights. Ah, so tempting!

    But our mission was clear: select one or two of those legendary 238 flavours. We paid for our scoops and received a nifty token that allowed us to bypass the melting treat dilemma while we made our selections—brilliant!

    Now came the moment of truth, narrowing down from 238 glorious options to our two scoops each.

    The flavor lineup was out of this world: lychee, chocolate bacon, mango, kimchi, durian, black sesame, lavender, basil, chai tea, the classics like chocolate and vanilla, and even more outrageous combinations like chocolate Jack Daniels, berry and jalapeno, pear gorgonzola and blue cheese, and sour cherry, to name a few. Each flavour was a unique and delightful surprise, a testament to the creativity and dedication of the gelato makers at La Casa Gelato. Talk about a flavour buffet!

    Despite the overwhelming choices, my humans were victorious, each emerging with their scoops and smiles wide as can be, playfully challenging one another to see who made the best selection. They sampled each other’s scoops, resulting in a delightful gelato tasting spree, racking up eight flavours in total! The gelato was rich and creamy, each flavour a burst of unique and intense taste. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement, making the experience even more enjoyable.

    The human who writes for me swears her choices of black sesame and sour cherry were the crème de la crème, but I have a feeling she’s a tad biased. Regardless, every last bite was heavenly!

    All in all, it was a fantastic experience, bursting with flavour and joy. I can hardly wait for our next visit to Vancouver, where I’ll be ready to dive into more delightful gelato adventures at La Casa Gelato and see who can pick the champion flavour next time!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Haidilao Hot Pot – Burnaby, British Columbia

    Haidilao Hot Pot – Burnaby, British Columbia

    Quack! It’s Bob the rubber duck back to share my splashtacular experience at Haidilao Hot Pot in Burnaby, BC! If you’re looking for an adventure that’s as delicious as it is fun, this vibrant eatery is where you need to be. The energy in the restaurant is infectious, making it the perfect spot for families and foodies alike!

    As I floated into Haidilao, I was greeted by a clean and bright environment that sparkled with warmth. It felt like I was swimming into a culinary haven where good times and great meals awaited! The atmosphere buzzed with laughter and chatter, showcasing the joyful spirit of families as they enjoyed their time together.

    Let’s dive into the hot pot experience! For those who are new to this, hot pot is a communal Chinese cooking method, where you cook a variety of ingredients in a simmering pot of broth at your table. First, we had to choose our soup base. With so many options, I felt like a kid in a candy store! Whether you prefer spicy or mild, they’ve got something to tickle your tastebuds. I felt my rubber heart race with excitement as we selected four rich, flavorful broths that promised a fantastic cooking adventure.

    Then came the star of the show—the incredible variety of ingredients! From fresh veggies to tender meats and sumptuous seafood, the selection was truly a feast for the senses. I watched in awe as my humans loaded up the pots with their choices of colourful noodles, juicy meat slices, succulent seafood and vibrant greens.

    They even had a vast spice and sauce bar, where you could concoct your perfect dipping sauce! It was like a flavour explosion waiting to happen in each bite, and we couldn’t wait to dig in.

    And let’s talk about the exceptional customer service! The staff at Haidilao were nothing short of extraordinary. My hat is off to the manager for assembling such a fantastic team of humans who all seemed to love their jobs.  Each member of the team was eager to help, making sure everyone’s experience was top-notch. They made me feel valued as well, constantly checking in to ensure my drinking fountain was full and that my humans had everything they needed. Their attentiveness made the dining experience feel uniquely personal, and we all felt like cherished guests.

    One of the most captivating moments of our visit was the renowned changing of the mask ceremony, a spectacle that occurs three times a day. I couldn’t believe my plastic eyes! The skill and artistry of the masked staff member were mesmerizing as he transformed his mask right before us. It was a cultural treat that added an extra splash of excitement to our meal, leaving us all in awe.

    But the cherry on top—or should I say the cherry on the hot pot—was the delightful surprise they prepared for my human’s birthday! The restaurant staff came together to sing and celebrate in a special way, making the day unforgettable. Watching them shower my human with kindness and joy made my little rubber heart swell with happiness.

    If you’re ever in Burnaby, don’t let this chance swim away! Haidilao Hot Pot is a treasure trove of culinary delights, heartwarming service, and a great place for family fun. Between the incredible food, friendly staff, and memorable experiences, it’s truly a quack-tastic dining destination! So gather your loved ones and make a splash at Haidilao—you won’t regret it!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Troll’s Fish and Chips – Horseshoe Bay, British Columbia

    Troll’s Fish and Chips – Horseshoe Bay, British Columbia

    Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Horseshoe Bay, British Columbia, Trolls Fish and Chips is a local treasure that has been tantalizing taste buds since 1946. As Bob the rubber duck, I’ve had the pleasure of waddling into this iconic spot during my human’s rare visits, and let me tell you, it’s a quacking good time!

    With a rich family history, Trolls was initially opened by Joe and Dorothy (“Dot”) Troll, who catered to local fishermen with their weekend-only service. Through the years, the restaurant has remained a beloved family affair, passed down to Gary Troll and his wife Carol, who ensured the tradition continued even after Gary’s luck with the lottery. Now, Albert, Gary’s son, keeps the family legacy alive, and it’s clear he’s doing a fantastic job!

    From the moment you step into Trolls, you’re embraced by the warm smiles and engaging banter of the staff, thanks to the exceptional management by Kim, who ensures that the welcoming atmosphere reflects the values of the Troll family.

    The lively space is adorned with caricatures of notable patrons, making it an entertaining feast for the eyes while you wait for your food.

    Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the food! My humans savoured the halibut and chips as well as the cod and chips, and oh my, were those dishes a masterpiece on a plate! The portions were more than generous, the fish was fried to a heavenly golden brown, and it was succulent and bursting with flavour. And those chips? Crisp and delightful! It’s crystal clear that after nearly 80 years of honing their craft, Trolls has perfected the art of fish and chips.

    So, if you find yourself in the Vancouver area, make sure to dive into this local treasure that has been captivating crowds for decades.

    I can’t wait for my next visit to Trolls Fish and Chips—there’s nothing quite like soaking in the views while enjoying top-notch fish and chips in this beautiful corner of Canada! Quack!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Kazumi – Victoria, British Columbia

    Kazumi – Victoria, British Columbia

    Hello, fellow food adventurers! Bob the Rubber Duck here, ready to take you on a quacky culinary journey to a favourite spot in Victoria, BC—Kazumi Restaurant! This charming eatery isn’t just a place to chow down; it’s a vibrant gateway to Japan, where every dish tells a delicious story.

    The chef, a master of Japanese culinary traditions, has journeyed across Asia, gathering culinary treasures before settling in Victoria. Their dedication to sharing authentic flavours is evident in each meticulously crafted dish, ensuring that every bite is an authentic taste of Japan that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight!

    Let’s talk about the fun part—the name and logo! Kazumi’s logo, a whimsical tribute to their beloved cat, adds a playful touch to the restaurant. It perfectly captures the spirit of the place, reminding us that good food should always be served with a side of joy and playfulness!

    Kazumi truly knows how to shine in the kitchen.

    One dish that stole the show was the Takoyaki with cheese—a playful twist on the classic octopus balls! Picture gooey cheese nestled within those perfectly crafted balls, topped with crisp, shaved fish skin that dances in the breeze from the overhead fan. It’s a real showstopper that you absolutely must try!

    And let’s not forget the Sweet Chili Karrage—bite-sized pieces of chicken that are irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A hint of sweetness plays on your palate like a cheerful melody, making each bite utterly delightful!

    Now, no trip to Kazumi would be complete without indulging in one of their fabulous Udon dishes. My human opted for the Beef Yaki Udon, and let me tell you, those soft, chewy noodles stir-fried with succulent beef and fresh veggies in a savoury sauce were a dream come true! You’ll find yourself wishing for just one more bite—believe me, it’s that good!

    Kazumi is not just a place to eat; it’s a jubilant celebration of culture, flavor, and a profound love for authentic Japanese cuisine—all right here in Victoria!

    So, if you’re fortunate enough to be in the area, make your way over and immerse yourself in these delightful offerings. Trust me, whether you’re a duck or a human, this dining experience is one you won’t want to miss!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Little Yunnan Restaurant – Victoria, British Columbia

    Little Yunnan Restaurant – Victoria, British Columbia

    Bob here, paddling in with a quackers tale from my recent escapade at the delightful Little Yunnan Restaurant in Victoria! This charming treasure is nestled in a cozy corner of Chinatown, winning the hearts of food lovers like yours truly with its scrumptious dishes and authentic Yunnanese flair. As a duck on a delicious mission, I couldn’t wait to dive beak-first into this culinary adventure!

    As I floated through the entrance, I was immediately enchanted by the warm vibes and cozy décor. It felt like I had just waddled into a vibrant corner of Yunnan itself! Splashes of colour, traditional carvings, and charming decorations created an inviting atmosphere that made my rubber heart flutter with excitement. Talk about a cozy little nook for a discerning duck like me!

    Now let’s not forget the fantastic staff! They were a flock of friendly faces, ready to greet me with smiles and serve a heaping portion of hospitality. Each interaction was like a warm hug for my rubber soul. Oh, and guess what? I even made a delightful new friend—a sweet little girl whose giggles and curiosity turned my meal into a joyful playdate! We were two peas in a pod, exploring the wonders of food and laughter together.

    Now, let’s dive into the dazzling dishes that made my heart swim with joy! First up were the Handmade Pan-Fried Dumplings, bursting with succulent shrimp, savoury pork, and fresh cabbage. My ducky goodness, these dumplings were a taste of heaven! Crispy on the outside and bursting with filling, every bite was a flavour explosion that had my flippers doing a happy dance. You could practically taste the love that went into each dumpling—I was quacking with delight!

    Next came the star of the show—the historically rich Crossing the Bridge Noodle dish! Not only did it look like art on the tray, but it also came with an extraordinary backstory that made my rubber dreams flutter. Legend has it that a devoted wife, crossing a bridge daily, would bring fresh ingredients to her studying husband on an island. She’d prepare a steaming bowl of broth to cook all those vibrant goodies right before his eyes, symbolizing love and togetherness. Each spoonful felt like a warm hug, and let me tell you, the noodles were perfectly cooked! It was a delicious trip through history, love, and culinary bliss when dipped into that aromatic broth. Tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots—you name it! My taste buds were having a festive celebration, especially with that house-made chili paste that added just the right amount of zing!

    While my humans savoured their meals, my new little friend and I were busy creating our own fun. She taught me a fabulous trick—doing somersaults! Though I bumped my head a few times in training, it was all worth it for the laughter we shared. My rubber heart was brimming with joy as we danced and giggled through this wonderful experience together!

    In a nutshell, my adventure at Little Yunnan Restaurant was truly quack-tastic! With authentic flavours, charming staff, cozy ambiance, and new friendships made, it’s a dining experience that will ripple through my memories for a long time. So if you ever paddle through Victoria, don’t let this hidden gem float past you! Make a splash at Little Yunnan, where amazing flavours and unforgettable moments await—because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on these delightful memories! Quack-tastic times are waiting for you at this lovely establishment!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Breakwater Cafe and Bar – Victoria, British Columbia

    Breakwater Cafe and Bar – Victoria, British Columbia

    Oh, quack, quack, fellow adventurers! It’s me, Bob the Rubber Duck, and I’m back to share my delightful experience at the Breakwater Café and Bar, perched on the iconic Ogden Point Breakwater in beautiful Victoria, BC. If you haven’t been, let me tell you—it’s a must-visit!

    The café buzzed with energy, and the sound of laughter, combined with the soothing waves, created an atmosphere that was simply perfect for a cozy meal.

    The menu at Breakwater is a treasure trove of delicious options that cater to all palates, whether you’re a human or a rubber duck like me! While I didn’t nibble on a full meal this time, I couldn’t resist sipping a refreshing cocktail. On a sunny day, it’s the ultimate way to chill!

    On a previous visit, my humans indulged in a delightful selection. The West Coast Poke Bowl was a hit, bursting with flavours, crispy wontons, and tender tuna that had my humans talking for days! The fish and chips were also a standout, leaving my human friend happily licking his lips after every bite. And let’s not forget my vegetarian buddy, who thoroughly enjoyed the hearty mushroom lentil burger. There’s something for everyone at The Breakwater Café!

    Now, let me talk about the views! As I bobbed along the water, I took in the stunning panorama of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Boats glided gracefully by, and the lighthouse waved hello, making it feel like a scene from a postcard. It’s a place where you can lose track of time, soaking up the sun and enjoying a fizzy drink while gazing at the beauty all around you.

    I have to admit, I kicked myself for not saving room for dessert, especially with that tempting ice cream shop nearby! Next time, I’ll definitely make room for a scoop (or two), because who can resist that creamy goodness?

    If you’re ever waddling through Victoria and looking for a fantastic spot to relax and refuel, make a splash at Breakwater Café and Bar. With its incredible service, mouthwatering menu, and unbeatable views, it’s the perfect pit stop for adventurers of all kinds—rubber ducks included! So, dive into the experience, and don’t forget to quack about your visit afterward!

    NEVER MISS A

  • 17-Mile House Pub – Sooke, British Columbia

    17-Mile House Pub – Sooke, British Columbia

    Hello, fellow water wanderers! It’s me, Bob, ready to splash into the delightful tales of one of the most charming stopovers on Vancouver Island— the legendary 17 Mile House Pub in Sooke, BC!

    Imagine the year is 1894, and I’m navigating the rugged roads like a buoyant explorer. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the countryside, the enchanting lanterns of the 17 Mile House twinkle like beacons for weary travellers! Fast forward over 130 years, and this historic pub continues to welcome newcomers and locals alike with its lively spirit and rustic charm.

    As I approached 17 Mile House, the first thing that caught my eye was a bold sign that proclaimed, “HOT BEER, LOUSY FOOD, BAD SERVICE.” My expectations plummeted—but little did I know, I was in for a delightful surprise!

    The team there quickly turned those ominous words on their head. Even amidst the lunchtime rush, their service was nothing short of stellar. The beer? Ice cold and refreshing. And as for the food? Let’s say it earned a flawless score of five out of five quacks from this duck!

    Now, let’s waddle over to the menu—oh boy, are you in for a treat! The culinary team at 17 Mile House serves up a delightful array of West Coast fare that makes my rubbery self quack with joy!

    Imagine enjoying all this deliciousness while seated in the airy bay window, overlooking a blooming garden, or nestled beside a crackling fire, soaking in the warm ambiance. With games of chess, crib, and darts to keep you entertained, there’s never a dull moment at the 17 Mile House.

    So, whether you’re a local stopping by for a pint or a traveller making your way to Sooke, remember to pause and soak in the hospitality lavished here for over a century. After all, even if the road no longer leads to gold, it certainly leads you to the treasure trove of flavours, friendships, and fun at the enchanting 17 Mile House Pub!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Longwood Brew Pub – Nanaimo, British Columbia

    Longwood Brew Pub – Nanaimo, British Columbia

    Quack, quack, my fellow waterfowl enthusiasts! It’s me, Bob the rubber duck, splashing onto the scene to share my delightful adventures at Longwood Brew Pub right in the heart of Nanaimo, BC! This vibrant nook is a true treasure, recommended by one of my human’s long-time pals. Let me tell you, it was the perfect place to soak in a warm and friendly atmosphere while nibbling on some scrumptious treats and reconnecting with friends.

    Since 2009, Longwood Brew Pub has been pouring its heart into the community, embracing the true spirit of adventure and the art of craft brewing. Oh, you can just feel the passion radiating from the brewmasters as they whip up unique flavors that tickle the taste buds!

    As I floated through the lively pub, the joyful sounds of laughter and chatter surrounded me like a cozy blanket. The spacious interior was beautifully decorated with charming wood accents and warm lighting, making this little rubber duck feel right at home. I spotted families and friends sharing special moments together—what a delightful sight to behold!

    Now, let’s belly-flop right into the menu because that’s where the real fun begins! First up, I dived into the Fish and Chips. One of my humans went with the halibut, and let me just say, it was an absolute catch! Perfectly cooked, with that iconic Longwood ale tang dancing on the palate—what a treat!

    Next came the star of the show: the Longwood Burger. Whoa, what a flavor explosion! Juicy and cooked to perfection, this masterpiece was piled high with all the fixings. Each bite was like a party in my rubber heart, bursting with joy and reminding me why good food is such a marvel.

    And let’s not forget about the amazing staff! The team at Longwood Brew Pub was like a breath of fresh air—so friendly and eager to help! They shared their keen knowledge and ensured our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. I felt like a VIP, even while bobbing around in my little rubber form!

    Longwood Brew Pub isn’t just a place to grab some grub; it’s a vibrant community hub celebrating the artistry of brewing and the joy of good food.

    So, if you ever find yourself paddling through Nanaimo, make sure to swing by this quack-tastic spot! With a menu full of flavorful dishes, refreshing brews, and a lively atmosphere, it’s an experience every rubber duck—and human, for that matter—should not miss! Make a splash and dive into a little piece of Nanaimo’s brew culture! Quack on!

    NEVER MISS A

  • Anton’s Pasta Bar – Burnaby, BC

    Anton’s Pasta Bar – Burnaby, BC

    Quack! Bob, here with a splashing tale to tell you about my recent visit to Anton’s Pasta Restaurant in Burnaby, BC! Nestled in a bustling neighbourhood rich with culture and diversity, this charming eatery has delighted its patrons since it opened its doors in 1983. With family recipes passed down through generations and a steadfast commitment to fresh, local ingredients, Anton’s has become a beloved staple in the community—a beacon for pasta enthusiasts, including rubber ducks like me! Their dedication to local produce makes you feel connected to the community with every bite.

    As I floated into the restaurant, I was immediately enveloped by a warm, inviting ambiance. The walls adorned with whimsical murals and photographs celebrating Italian culinary traditions made me feel like I was swimming right into a cozy Italian kitchen. The aroma of herbs and spices dancing in the air made my little rubber heart race in anticipation. This warm ambiance made me, a humble rubber duck, feel comfortable and at home.

    Let’s splash into the culinary delights that made my taste buds do a joyful jig! My first dish was the Seafood Cannelloni; I must confess, it was nothing short of a masterpiece. The tender pasta wrapped around a luscious blend of shrimp, scallops, and other seafood available on that day was all steeped in a rich rose cream sauce that made waves of flavour wash over me with each delightful bite. It was as if I had caught a glimpse into the ocean’s bounty—a true treasure that lifted me a little higher in my seat!

    Next, I dived into the Penne Chorizo Alicia E Funghi. The perfectly cooked penne intertwined with spicy chorizo and earthy mushrooms created a delicious symphony that played a tune of spicy and savoury. Each forkful was a mouthwatering delight, making me dream of waddling back to the kitchen for seconds (or thirds, who’s counting?).   However, true to the restaurant’s promise of no one leaving hungry, I could not even finish the firsts.

    Then came the Agnolotti Cardinal, little pillows of bliss filled to the brim with a heavenly blend of ricotta and spinach. When drizzled with their sumptuous marinara sauce, it felt like a warm hug wrapping around me after a long day of paddling through the pond—comfort food at its finest!

    And I can’t forget the grand finale—the Tondi Nonna Angelina. Ah, this dish brought a tear to my plastic eyes! The round pasta, generously stuffed with a savoury mix of seasoned meat, was topped with a robust rose tomato sauce that whispered secrets of family traditions. It was clear that this was no ordinary meal; it was crafted with the love and care of a grandmother cooking for her family, which made each bite feel like a cherished memory.

    Every dish filled my humans far before the plate was cleaned, but they were not leaving one morsel behind. It was “ducky” bags for all, so the entire meal will be enjoyed again after a home reheating.

    Let’s not overlook the heart behind the restaurant—the staff! They were exemplary, always ready to lend a fin (or hand) with a smile while keeping my drinking fountain filled to the brim. Their attention to detail and genuine care elevated the dining experience, making it feel personal and special. Their exceptional service made me, a humble rubber duck, feel valued and important.

    In the spirit of making every moment memorable, I could feel the rich history and passion that flows through Anton’s Pasta Restaurant. Don’t let the chance swim away if you ever find yourself drifting through Burnaby! Make a splash at this delightful establishment. With a menu filled with mouthwatering dishes and a team that welcomes you with open arms, it’s a dining experience that no rubber duck (or human) should miss! Quack-tastic memories await you!

    NEVER MISS A