Category: Burnaby

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

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