Category: USA

Phillips Street Diner – Sioux Falls, South Dakota

What an unforgettable adventure it was to visit Sioux Falls, South Dakota! And a trip to this charming city is incomplete without a visit to the iconic Phillips Avenue Diner. The nostalgic vibes emanating from the stunning Airstream façade, even from my cozy seat in the travel bag, were truly a sight to behold!

Located in the heart of downtown, amidst modern buildings and quirky sculptures, the Phillips Avenue Diner stands as a testament to commitment.

Did you know that this iconic eatery wasn’t always here? It moved from its original location on Louise Avenue, a bold move that truly reflects its dedication to customer service.

That relocation turned out to be a brilliant move! The diner has found its groove in this vibrant spot, serving up delicious meals alongside top-notch customer service. Just ask anyone in town—they’ll tell you that on busy days, especially Sundays, there can be a line of hungry patrons willing to wait up to 45 minutes to experience the culinary delights inside!

When my companions walked in, they were warmly greeted by Alex, the charming host. His infectious positivity was a wave of joy that could brighten anyone’s day! He took the time to learn a bit about their journey, seated them with care, and even became their personal tour guide by suggesting must-see spots in Sioux Falls. Alex, you know how to make someone feel special!

Now, onto the star of the show: the food! My one human couldn’t resist the chicken and waffles, and let me tell you, these weren’t your everyday chicken strips. Oh no! They came in a glorious breaded form that could challenge any chicken out there! Paired with rich pecan butter and sweet maple syrup, they created a breakfast masterpiece that was simply mouthwatering!

Then there was the other human, who chose the Spinach and Tomato Omelette. Cooked to perfection—no jigglies allowed! It was stuffed to the brim with fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, asparagus, and the heavenly twist of smoked gouda cheese. And don’t get me started on the perfectly toasted sourdough bread and crispy hashbrowns—what a feast! My human was so enamoured with the flavours, she wished she could have polished off every last bit.

And me, well, I thought I would start my day floating in a mimosa….what a great way to say good morning!

In a nutshell, stopping by the Phillips Avenue Diner turned out to be one of the best decisions of our journey.

Thanks, Alex, for your attentiveness and for making us feel right at home. I can’t wait to come back for more tasty treats and cheerful banter! Quack-tastic!

NEVER MISS A

June 17, 2025
Country Cafe – Ellensburg, Washington

Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! It’s Bob, your well-travelled rubber duck, and let me tell you about my culinary adventure at the charming Country Cafe in Ellensburg, Washington. If you’re ever in the area, this spot is a must-visit—trust me, even a rubber duck like me knows where to find the good grub!

As soon as I waddled up to the table, I was enveloped in an atmosphere that felt like a warm hug from an old friend. The blend of historic charm and modern flair certainly washed over me like a gentle stream. You could practically hear the café whispering stories from yesteryears while celebrating the joy of the present—a sound I found utterly delightful!

Now, let’s dive into the service, which was as refreshing as a morning splash! Our server greeted us with a smile as bright as a sunny day. She was not just friendly; her dedication to making our experience perfect was evident in every interaction. It felt like being part of a big, friendly family—something every rubber duck yearns for!

We arrived between the morning and noon crowds, and my humans seemed torn between breakfast and lunch. Classic human indecisiveness, right? After a brief but friendly debate and a bit of attitude, they ultimately decided to stay friends and make different choices.

First up was the breakfast combo; the biscuit and gravy were worth the stop! The biscuit was so fluffy it could have floated away with me—a perfect ratio of crispy to pillowy goodness. Then, the creamy gravy, seasoned like a pro, was heavenly. The eggs? Cooked to perfection, and the sausages? Simply marvellous. I couldn’t help but let out a little quack of approval!

Moving on to the lunch selection, my human opted for the BLT sandwich with a side of fries. Oh, what a sight! The bacon was crispy, paired with lettuce and tomato that seemed to be freshly picked – oh so delicious. The sandwich was stacked higher than my little rubber head, and the massive portion of fries – well, let’s say that we had two meals in one—lucky me!

The entire experience at Country Cafe was like a picturesque day on the river, complete with cozy corners and delightful décor.

If you’re ever floating through Ellensburg—whether you’re a local or a traveller like me—be sure to paddle your way over to this hidden gem. You won’t regret it, and I’m already dreaming of my next visit. Who knew dining could be this much fun? Until next time, keep quacking and keep eating!

NEVER MISS A

May 1, 2025
Doc Holiday’s Roadhouse – Williston, North Dakota
Quack, quack, my friends! Buckle up for a wild ride through my latest adventure at Doc Holiday’s Roadhouse in the heart of Williston, North Dakota! As Bob the Rubber Duck, I may not fit the mold of your ordinary diner, but trust me, this place is downright splash-tastic!

So, picture this: I’m cruising down 2nd Avenue, my little rubbery heart racing with excitement, when lo and behold, I spot what looks like a stampede of wild buffalo charging through town! But as I rolled closer, I realized these were no ordinary buffalo; they were life-sized metal sculptures, glistening in the sun. The scene felt like a page from the Wild West, complete with cowboys, Indians, and even a stagecoach! My humans couldn’t resist pulling into the parking lot to investigate the magic behind this quirky display.

Stepping into Doc Holiday’s, I was immediately immersed in a vibrant pool of Western-Mexican charm, spiked with a passion for motorcycles and sprinkled with vintage signage. The decor was a unique blend that piqued my curiosity and set the stage for a memorable dining experience.

The walls proudly display over 1,000 cowboy boots, each with a story to tell. Hand-painted cow skulls and license plates from all over the U.S.A. add to the charm. The decor sets the stage for lively conversations and laughter, creating an atmosphere as unique as it is inviting.
We were fortunate to meet one of the restaurant’s founders, Marcus Jundt, a true dynamo! His eyes sparkled as he shared the stories behind each quirky adornment; his passion for unique items that spark joy for everyone who walks through those doors was truly inspiring. With a track record of successful dining ventures, you can bet he knows how to whip up a good time!

Now, let’s get to the mouthwatering main attraction—the FOOD! Oh, my ducky goodness! The menu reads like a treasure map filled with culinary delights. The steaks? Legendary! Cooked to perfection and seasoned just right, I could almost taste the cowboy campfire flavour wafting through the air. And the burgers? Each is a juicy masterpiece that takes the classic to a new level. Whether you’re a meat lover, a veggie fanatic, or somewhere in between, something scrumptious awaits you!
And let’s not forget the cocktails! The mixologists here are true artists, crafting concoctions that would excite even the most jaded palate. They’re the perfect accompaniment to the hearty meals, and just thinking about them has me bobbing in delight!

Still have room left for dessert? How’s about a cowboy-sized ice cream sundae that could make any rubber duck swoon! With about ten scoops of creamy goodness, it’s a dream come true. Unfortunately, my humans weren’t ready to indulge on our visit, so I had to drool vicariously through the happy diners around us.

So, if you’re seeking a place that celebrates creativity, culinary wonders, and the adventurous spirit of the American West, look no further than Doc Holiday’s! It’s not just a restaurant; it’s an unforgettable escapade filled with fun, flavour, and one rubber duck’s dream experience! Join the quack-tastic party—you won’t regret it! Quack on!

Never Miss A
May 1, 2025
Mexico Lindo – Liberty Lake, Washington

At the suggestion of Nick, our Happy Hour host from the Best Western, I found myself waddling my way into Mexico Lindo. I got a splash of joy right from the start! The moment we quacked open the door, the warm, family-friendly atmosphere wrapped around us like a cozy floatie. Laughter bubbled up around us, and families enjoying their meals were as lively as a pool party on a sunny day.

A Happy Birthday wall immediately by the front door added to the family feel. What a splash-tastic idea! It was filled with photos from celebrations, adding an extra sprinkle of happiness to the ambiance.

The restaurant was almost full when we arrived, but a phenomenal and attentive team of servers still welcomed my humans and me. We wanted for nothing as they all worked together to ensure our glasses were full of water, our chip bowl was replenished as needed, and they even stopped to have their photo taken with me.

As we settled into our booth, crispy house-made tortilla chips and zesty salsa arrived at our table faster than I could say “quack!” Let me tell you, those chips were still warm, and that salsa—WOW. I’m not sure what the special ingredient was, but it was beak-smaking tasty.

The drink menu had a few interesting options, with my human choosing a house specialty – Pink Potion—a drink that whisked her straight to a tropical paradise. It’s like a piña colada, but with a splash of magic that makes it unique. They know how to mix up a good time!

For the main event, we dove into some delightful dishes. The Camarones al Mojo de Ajo had plump shrimp and mushrooms sautéed with a shower of garlic goodness—irresistible! The Mexican rice, beans, and salad accompanying it were the perfect sidecars for this delectable dish.

My other human chose the Taco Salad from the Light section of the menu. The perfectly cooked and seasoned beef was atop a taco shell full of rice, beans, fresh veggies, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a family meal, or simply indulging in delicious Mexican flavours, Mexico Lindo is the place to be. I’m just a rubber duck, but even I can appreciate a great dining adventure! Quack-tastic!

NEVER MISS A

April 30, 2025
Clark and Lewie’s Pub and Grill – Great Falls, Montana

Today, I am sharing my experience at the Clark and Lewie’s Pub and Grill at the O’Haire Inn in Great Falls, Montana. The restaurant exuded a welcoming vibe that made me, a rubber ducky, feel right at home. My little rubber ducky heart fluffed with delight as I watched people enjoy their meals, and laughter filled the air.

We were greeted by the ever-welcoming server, Amanda. This charming gal wasn’t just taking orders; she was like a spark of sunshine, making each guest feel like a special friend. Her exceptional service made us feel valued and important. It was evident that she genuinely cared about everyone’s dining experience.

As she glided from table to table, I noticed how she greeted patrons by name and often knew precisely what they wanted to eat, which was incredibly impressive! Trust me, even this rubber duck was taken by her fantastic energy. I couldn’t help but feel the heartwarming atmosphere wash over me!

We started with a cocktail as recommended by Amanda. She created a masterpiece that was as refreshing as it looked – I wish my little duck brain could recall the name or at least the ingredients?!?

For our meal, we decided on fish and chips, a choice that proved to be a culinary treasure! The generous portion was not only satisfying but also left enough leftovers for my humans to take home for another adventure the next day! The fish was tender, the chips were crispy, and the overall taste was simply delicious. Can you believe it? I’ve never been so grateful for a meal (and I’ve soaked in my fair share of rubbery snacks).

The cheerful mood in the restaurant was contagious, and I like to think Amanda was the driving force behind it. Her enthusiastic engagement with every table brought smiles all around. It truly felt like a community gathering, where everyone was welcome to share in the joy of good food and warm company.

So, if you find yourself paddling around Great Falls, let me assure you, the Clark and Lewie’s Pub and Grill is a must-visit! With Amanda adding her special touch and plates full of deliciousness, you’re bound to leave with a full belly and a happy heart!

Never Miss A

April 30, 2025
Cowboys Bar and Museum – Great Falls, Montana

Hey there, friends! It’s your favourite floaty companion, BOB the rubber duck, splashing in with exciting news about a must-visit gem—Montana’s Cowboys Bar and Museum! Now, let me save you from the rookie mistake my humans made. We strolled in at 8 a.m. expecting breakfast, completely glossing over the word “BAR” in the name! Oops!

But no worries! The friendly folks at the Cowboys Bar and Museum shared a hearty laugh, offered us a refreshing beer, which we politely declined, and, since we were the only patrons at that hour, treated us to a personal tour.

Imagine being transported back to the wild days of the American West, all within the cozy confines of a charming log cabin from the 1930s.

This unique setting is a goldmine of over 500 fascinating artifacts from the cowboy era, including rawhide ropes, sturdy ox yokes, and gleaming spurs.

The enthusiastic crew from the Montana Cowboys Association runs the museum, and they’re always eager to welcome new friends to celebrate their storied cowboy legacy. If you are curious about cowboy culture, don’t hesitate to reach out or paddle your way over for a visit.

But the Cowboys Bar and Museum is not just about historical exhibits. It’s a place where you can enjoy karaoke nights, tasty cocktails, lively dancing, delicious pizza, and even a casino! It’s a full-blown hoedown that’s sure to get your spirits soaring and keep you entertained.

Now, let’s talk about the museum itself. This stunning log cabin was built by the National Youth Administration in the late 1930s and opened its doors in 1941. You can almost feel the history seeping through the walls.

Once inside, prepare to be amazed! You’ll encounter genuine items once wielded by cowboys, like branding irons and cowpoke saddles. Don’t miss the beautifully crafted custom-made saddles, plus some incredible Native American artifacts.

And how about this—a Kimball reed organ floated down the river from St. Louis to Fort Benton in 1876! Now that’s a tale worth telling!

Gun enthusiasts will delight in the incredible historical pieces on display, including an old muzzleloading shotgun and a stunning flintlock rifle—perfect treasures for spinning a few cowboy yarns! There’s even a great poster from the 1946 Calgary Stampede—these guys have everything, Cowboy!

The list of artifacts does not end; you must see it to truly appreciate the work and camaraderie resulting in the collection housed in this unique setting.

So, rustle up your cowboy spirit and head down to the Cowboys Bar and Museum! It’s an enchanting chapter of the nation’s history and a priceless piece of Montana’s vibrant past.

Never Miss A

April 29, 2025
A Family Affair Restaurant – Great Falls, Montana

Hi there, friends! Buckle up, because I, Bob the Rubber Duck, just had an unforgettable breakfast experience at A Family Affair Restaurant in Great Falls, Montana, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

I waddled through the doors at 10 AM, and wow, was it bustling! There was an enthusiastic crowd waiting outside, eager to dive into a delicious breakfast. The energy in the air was contagious, making me even more excited to see what was in store.

Now, let me tell you about the service. A remarkable woman was juggling orders and happiness like a pro! Her warm smile was as inviting as the warm biscuits I was about to taste. She zipped around the restaurant, making sure every guest felt special, whether they were part of a family, a couple, or dining solo. It was heartwarming to see such a diverse mix of people coming together for a shared meal! Sitting next to us were what appeared to be three generations of ladies, all sharing their excitement over the menu, which is a testament to the timeless yet modern menu choices.

Ah, the food! Let’s get to the good stuff. The biscuits and gravy platter was an absolute showstopper—a hearty helping of eggs, sausage, and hash browns paired with fluffy and heavenly cheese biscuits, smothered in a savoury gravy that had my little rubber duck heart soaring!

And then there were the Chef’s Hot Cakes. These were not your typical hot cakes at all – the batter was infused with potato and bacon. Can you believe it? A savoury twist that was simply divine! Each bite was a delightful blend of flavours that made my beak smile from ear to ear. I was genuinely thrilled, and I’m just a duck!

The cash register was located at the irresistible bakery showcase! My humans were too full to even finish their breakfasts, but they could not resist scooping up a giant cinnamon roll on the way out. When they finally tried it later on that night, it was as sinful as it sounds…and worth every calorie.

The ambiance of the restaurant was like a cozy trip down memory lane. With its rustic decor, wooden accents, and charming knick-knacks, I felt right at home amid the lively chatter. It was the perfect backdrop for a hearty breakfast!

So, if you ever find yourself in Great Falls and your tummy starts to grumble, swing by A Family Affair Restaurant! You won’t just get a fantastic meal in a delightful setting—you’ll also be treated like family, even when the place is buzzing with fellow breakfast lovers. Trust me, from one rubber duck to another, you won’t regret hopping in for a visit!

Never Miss A

April 28, 2025
The Antlers Restaurant – Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
As we travelled from Ontario back to our home base of Winnipeg, we decided to cross over to the US at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. We were feeling hungry, so we asked around town for suggested local places to grab a bite. Several locals said, “You have to go to The Antlers.” As a rubber duck with a penchant for adventure, I waddled on over, and I can assure you that dining there is quite the experience, bursting with history, character, and, of course, delicious food.

Let me take you back to the beginning. This legendary establishment has quite a storied past, starting off as the Bucket of Blood Saloon during the Prohibition era. Imagine an ice cream parlour making a hefty profit of $900 while only selling a couple of cones in the month… It did not take long before the government caught wind of it, and miraculously, it emerged as a lemonade stand! Talk about a twist in history!

The Antlers has had six families involved throughout its over four generations of heritage. It was exciting to learn about the infamous Kinneys, two Detroit cops, who bartered their way into creating an impressive collection of taxidermy that adorns the walls and ceilings. The Szabo family now carries on this tradition, ensuring that The Antlers remains a family-owned landmark.

Today, Northern Michigan folks gather at The Antlers, share stories, play some cards and lift their glasses to the stories of the past.
Now, let’s talk about the ambiance. Walking into The Antlers is like stepping into a rustic cabin filled with over 200 taxidermy specimens. The impressive collection showcases the passion and dedication that went into the hunt for these eclectic animals. Each mount tells a unique story and adds to the charm of the place—it’s like an adventure waiting to unfold.
It was a little scary at times with polar bears and lions looking down on us from the rafters, but then I saw a friendly swan…he wouldn’t eat me right!?!

And if you’re into ghost stories, The Antlers even had its moment in the spotlight on A&E’s Biography channel when they explored its haunted legends. Just imagine the excitement of dining among tales of the past!

Now, let’s get to the main event—the food!

I had the pleasure of sampling their fish and chips, as well as the classic hamburger and fries. The fish and chips were delightfully crispy and golden brown, served with a side of tangy tartar sauce. Each bite was a delightful crunch that echoed the thrill of a good hunt! The freshness of the fish, paired with perfectly seasoned fries, made for a meal that was simply outstanding.

The hamburger and fries, on the other hand, were a hearty and satisfying option. Juicy and flavorful, it was cooked to perfection and served on a fluffy bun. The fries were crisp and seasoned just right, giving that nostalgic comfort that everyone loves. You really can sense the “Up North” tradition in each mouthful—rustic, homey, and made with passion.

So, if you’re in the area and craving a meal filled with heart, character, and a dash of history, don’t miss your chance to visit The Antlers Restaurant. Whether you’re there for the stories or the scrumptious Northern Michigan cuisine, you’re in for a quacking good time! Grab a table, soak in the ambiance, and don’t forget to try the poutine while you’re at it—just trust me on this one!

NEVER MISS A
March 8, 2025
The Waffle House – Key Largo and Sarasota, Florida

As BOB the rubber duck, I’ve had my share of adventures, but one of the most memorable was when my humans decided to take a road trip through the sunny Florida Keys. One early morning, after a night of floating under the stars, I noticed my humans were getting a bit grumpy due to hunger, and the rain had started to sprinkle down. That’s when they spotted a Waffle House in Key Largo!

Now, I’ve heard whispers in the bubble bath about Waffle House being a magical place with incredible breakfasts, so I was thrilled for my first visit! As we waddled in, we were greeted by the warm aroma of coffee and sizzling food. My humans settled in, and I perched proudly on the table, ready for the feast to begin.

First came the piping hot coffee and tea to warm our souls.

Then fluffy, golden, and oh-so-delicious waffles, my human couldn’t stop raving about them. The sausages made the perfect sidekick, adding a delightful crunch to the meal.

Meanwhile, my other human was enjoying a BLT sandwich stuffed with crispy bacon that seemed to sizzle with joy. With the sides of hashbrowns and mushrooms—a true breakfast treat!

But the real highlight? The staff at Waffle House! They were like a family, buzzing around with huge smiles and an infectious energy that made everyone feel right at home.

Their friendliness and teamwork were something special; it was a joy to watch them serve with such enthusiasm. With our bellies full and hearts happy, we left with a glimmering positive image of this franchise, feeling as if we were part of their warm and welcoming family.

Fast forward two weeks, and the journey carried us from Fort Myers, Florida, all the way to Ontario, Canada. After an hour on the road, my humans were on the lookout for another breakfast stop. Lo and behold, another Waffle House sign appeared, and excitement bubbled up inside me! We followed the signs to the Sarasota location, eager for round two.

This time, the place was buzzing with activity! From the moment we entered, it was clear this crew knew how to hustle. Customers were greeted warmly, many by name—talk about impressive! The staff was synchronized like a well-oiled machine, and I couldn’t help but bob along as they shouted orders and expertly delivered meals at warp speed.

Just like the Key Largo location, the food was fantastic, and the experience was even better than the food at Sarasota. My humans and I felt right at home, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Once again, leaving with smiles on our faces, ready for more Waffle House adventures on future travels.

So here’s the scoop—if you’re ever passing a Waffle House, don’t hesitate! You might find yourself enjoying an unforgettable breakfast, accompanied by fantastic staff and a whole lot of warmth (and maybe a rubber duck too)!

NEVER MISS A

February 28, 2025
Sonny’s BBQ – Homestead, Florida
Hey there, fellow food voyagers! It’s your pal Bob, paddling through the flavorful waves of Sonny’s BBQ in sunny Homestead. While I might not have taste buds, I’ve got a front-row seat to the culinary spectacle unfolding at this delightful joint!

First, let’s give a big splashy shout-out to our fabulous server, Danielle! She was as bubbly and cheerful as a fresh bubble bath! Her sunny smile and expert menu guidance made us feel like we were the only ones in the restaurant. Her service was so good it could make even the grumpiest of ducks crack a smile!

Now, let’s dive into the feast! I kicked things off with the Candied Bacon Burger, a quacking creation that combined the burger’s juiciness with the sweet dance of candied bacon. The fries on the side were a crunchy delight—golden and crispy, making the most satisfying crunch sounds as they vanished. Dipped in ketchup (my bubbling bath), they were irresistible!

Next came a real game-changer: the Florida Orange Chicken Wings. Oh boy, these beauties were like a sunny day in wing form! Drenched in a tangy orange glaze, they had my rubber feathers fluttering with joy. Each sticky bite burst with zesty citrus goodness, making me feel like I was diving into a crystal-clear pond on a hot day—so refreshing and delicious!

I sipped a sparkling Mimosa and a Green Cucumber Rum Drink to quench my thirst. Like my buoyant personality, the mimosa was bubbly and bright, perfectly mixing citrusy vibes with effervescence. And that Green Cucumber Rum Drink? Talk about a refreshing twist! Its garden-fresh flavor transported me straight to a shady poolside float—divine!

The restaurant’s cozy, rustic charm, with its wooden furniture and warm lighting, created a perfect setting for a delightful meal. Overall, my adventure at Sonny’s BBQ was nothing short of quack-tastic! With scrumptious dishes and outstanding service from Danielle, I couldn’t have asked for a better outing.
So, if you ever find yourself splashing by Homestead, float over to Sonny’s BBQ for a meal that’ll leave you as happy as a duck in a sunny pond!

NEVER MISS A
February 25, 2025