Category: Canada

Longwood Brew Pub – Nanaimo, British Columbia
Bob here, 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 humans’ long-time pals.

Let me tell you, it was the perfect place to soak up a warm, friendly atmosphere. I nibbled on some scrumptious treats and reconnected with friends.

Since 2009, Longwood Brew Pub has been pouring its heart into the community.

They embrace the true spirit of adventure and the art of craft brewing.

Oh, you can feel the passion radiating from the brewmasters as they whip up unique flavours 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.

The warm lighting made this little rubber duck feel right at home. I spotted families and friends sharing special moments, what a delightful sight!
Now, let’s belly-flop right into the menu because that’s where the real fun begins!

First up, we dove into the Fish and Chips. The halibut, and let me 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 flavour 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. It burst with joy and reminded me why good food is such a marvel.

And let’s not forget about the fantastic 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.

If you are 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!

NEVER MISS A
May 2, 2025
Anton’s Pasta Bar – Burnaby, British Columbia

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.

In fact, it is a beacon for pasta enthusiasts!

As I floated into the restaurant, I was immediately enveloped by a warm, inviting ambiance.

The walls adorned with posters 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 wafting from the kitchen made my little rubber heart race in anticipation.

And the warm ambiance! Well, this travelling duck was as comfortable as though I were home.

Let’s splash into the culinary delights that made my taste buds do a joyful jig!

One of my humans chose 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. Bringing everything together beautifully.

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!

One of my other humans dived into the Penne Chorizo Alicia E Funghi.

The perfectly cooked penne intertwined with spicy chorizo and earthy mushrooms created a delicious symphony.

Each forkful was a mouthwatering delight, making me dream of waddling back to the kitchen for seconds. For that matter, maybe even 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 choice of my fourth human: the Tondi Nonna Angelina.

The round pasta, generously stuffed with a savoury mix of seasoned meat, was topped with a robust rose tomato sauce. This sauce whispered secrets of family traditions.

The entire meal was crafted with the love and care of a grandmother cooking for her family.

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 at home.

Let’s not overlook the heart behind the restaurant, the staff!

These guys were exemplary, always ready to lend a fin (or hand) with a smile while keeping my drinking fountain filled to the brim.

With an attention to detail and genuine care, they elevated our dining experience, making it feel personal and special.

In the spirit of making every moment memorable, I could feel the rich history and passion that flows through Anton’s Pasta Restaurant.

Add Anton’s Pasta as a must-visit when drifting through Burnaby!

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!

NEVER MISS A

May 1, 2025
Red Top Restaurant – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Join me as I dive into my latest dining escapade at the Red Top Restaurant in Winnipeg, Manitoba!

Nestled in the unique and charming St. Boniface area, this gem has delighted taste buds since 1960.

Talk about a culinary legacy!

Founded by the Scouras family, this beloved spot has been a cornerstone of the community.

In 2019, the dynamic duo Stavros and Chelsea Athanasiads took the reins, determined to maintain the heart and soul of the Red Top.

And let me tell you, they’ve hit the mark, even greeting you from the grill most days!

Regulars rave about the family-run vibe that makes this place feel like a cozy home away from home.

Perfect for a dapper duck like me who loves a warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food!

Red Top is a delightful treasure trove of comfort food!

Greek Cuisine

Hearty Spaghetti

Broasted Chicken

Each delicious meal is served in generous portions, sure to satisfy you.

And then there is their all-day breakfast!

Locals say it’s simply unbeatable and the perfect venue to gather with friends over a hearty home-style breakfast!

Dis you know that Red Top was featured on “You Gotta Eat Here!”?

Yep a little fame for a Winnipeg icon bringing their mouth-watering dishes to the forefront!

Speaking of fame, have you heard about their legendary six-patty burger?

It’s gigantic and oh-so-good, but I think even the Blue Bombers would struggle to tackle that behemoth!

Let’s flap our wings over to that all-day breakfast menu!

Red Top draws repeat customers who meet up daily, many times, creating a standing-room-only situation!

The smell of hot coffee and the lure of sizzling bacon get your beak watering as you make your way through the laughter-filled dining area to find a seat amongst the locals.

The classic breakfast is a favorite for my human; it always starts the day on a delightful note!

But here’s the cherry on top: the staff at Red Top are nothing short of extraordinary!

With smiles brighter than a sunny day, they ensure every visit is a delightful experience.

Their warmth and friendliness wrap around you like a cozy blanket, making every diner feel part of the family.

If you are waddling around Winnipeg and craving comfort food served with a side of history and heart, the Red Top Restaurant is your ultimate destination.

With a legacy rich in love, scrumptious dishes, and a truly remarkable team, this place has earned my quack of approval!

Until our next adventure, may your meals be as satisfying as a visit to the Red Top! Bon appétit!

NEVER MISS A

April 10, 2025
Fusion Grill – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Bob is back with another delightful culinary adventure from the charming city of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

This time, I had the pleasure of joining my human and her friend for a birthday celebration at one of Winnipeg’s finest dining spots, Fusion Grill, nestled in the vibrant River Heights area.

Since 1996, Fusion Grill has been the brainchild of the illustrious Scot McTaggart!

He envisioned a place that highlights unique Canadian-sourced ingredients through fine-dining options in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Known for his engaging personality and captivating stories, Scot often makes the rounds in the restaurant, ensuring everyone feels the warmth and passion he brings to his craft.

My human has been a loyal patron of Fusion Grill since its inception, and I can understand why!

Chef Lorna Murdoch, a culinary wizard whose journey spans the breadth of Canada, whips up dishes that are a symphony of local flavors delicately entwined with global influences.

Every meal is an adventure, tempting even a rubber duck like me to dive right in!

And speaking of incredible experiences, let’s talk about Raul!

He’s a gem of a server with genuine passion for hospitality that shines through in every interaction.

With impeccable timing, he ensures that our plates arrive just when we’re ready for the next taste, and he always keeps our glasses filled.

It’s as if he possesses a magical memory, recalling our favorites from previous visits and making us feel like VIPs at a star-studded gala.

Before we even caught a glimpse of the menu, Raul crafted their signature cocktail, the Fusion Royale.

This sparkling concoction was nothing short of enchanting.

Every sip was a delightful sparkle on my tongue, especially with a brandied cherry added, courtesy of Scot’s lovely mother.

What a treat!

Next up, Raul expertly paired our meal with a splendid bottle of Canadian wine from Orofino Vineyards in British Columbia.

It was rich and full-bodied, enhancing the vibrant flavors of Fusion Grill and adding a golden touch to our dining experience.

Raul’s enthusiasm for the menu is contagious, so not only did he suggest a fantastic wine, but we also asked him to expertly select sharing plates from the appetizer options on the menu.

So, let’s dive into his choices, which were a treasure trove for our taste buds!

A new treat on the menu was Smoked Steelhead Trout, what a delightful surprise! The smokiness added a depth that paired perfectly with fresh accompaniments. I dreamed of swimming in a pool filled with that exquisite trout.

Then came an all-time favourite: Crispy Vegetable Dumplings. These crispy treats were filled with fresh vegetables and herbs, providing a refreshing crunch that danced alongside the other appetizers, a joyous playtime for my taste buds!

We rounded the appetizer journey with succulent Mussels, steamed to perfection and kissed by a bright broth infused with garlic and herbs. I could virtually float in that sea of flavors!

As much as we wanted to keep indulging in Fusion Grill’s culinary wonders, we didn’t have room to continue.

The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance made my humans feel relaxed and unhurried.

They were able to savor every moment, including polishing off the wine and ending with a delightful finish of spiked Blueberry Tea.

What a perfect way to close another memorable dining adventure at a beloved establishment!

Fusion Grill isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant fusion of culinary traditions that embodies the essence of Canada itself.

Since its doors swung open in 1996, it has earned a special place in the hearts of Winnipeg residents and visitors alike, thanks to its commitment to local ingredients and inventive techniques.

With its warm atmosphere, scrumptious dishes, and passionate staff, our visit was genuinely unforgettable, even for a rubber duck like me!

NEVER MISS A

April 9, 2025
Le Croissant – Winnipeg, Manitoba
As a rubber duck who prides himself on experiencing the finest spots around Winnipeg, I must say that Le Croissant Bakery is a true gem.

Nestled in the heart of the city, this quaint bakery has been delighting patrons since its inception in 2005.

With a history steeped in passion for French baking, the owners brought their love for authentic pastries and hearty comfort food to life.

They’ve created a cozy haven for food lovers.

Upon waddling into Le Croissant Bakery, I was immediately embraced by the warm, inviting atmosphere.
Let me paint a picture:

Delightful aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air

Rustic tables adorned with little vases of flowers

Soft chatter of happy customers and the clinking of coffee cups

It is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
And then there is the menu! Le Croissant offers a range of scrumptious options.

The cheese and potato soup was an absolute standout. Creamy and rich, with melted cheese swirling through every spoonful.

It was like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The tomato soup was equally enchanting—bright and flavourful. It perfectly complemented the fresh focaccia bread accompanying my meal.

Oh, that focaccia! Soft, fluffy, and topped with aromatic herbs, it practically danced across my taste buds.

Of course, I couldn’t resist indulging in their signature croissant.

Flaky, buttery, and baked to golden perfection.

A true testament to the art of French baking!

I treated myself to a cup of their rich hot chocolate to wash it all down. It was decadently smooth and just the right amount of sweetness.

The perfect end to my delightful feast.

The bakery offerings don’t stop at savouries and sweets; they also feature an impressive selection of pastries, tarts, and artisan bread.

Each delicacy is crafted with care, and it’s evident that the staff takes immense pride in their creations.

Speaking of the staff – they were a highlight of my visit!

Friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the menu, they made my dining experience feel personal and welcoming.

In a city brimming with culinary choices, Le Croissant Bakery stands out as a cozy retreat.

Le Croissant is a place where you can savour delectable fare in a friendly, inviting atmosphere. Whether popping in for a quick bite or settling down for a leisurely meal, this bakery is a must-visit.

NEVER MISS A
January 16, 2025