Celebrating Easter with a Meal Out
Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and delicious food. While many people enjoy preparing a home-cooked meal, others prefer the convenience and variety of dining out. Whether you're looking for a traditional Easter brunch or a unique dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants open to satisfy your culinary cravings.
Why Dine Out on Easter?
Dining out on Easter offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Avoid the hassle of cooking and cleaning up
- Variety: Enjoy a wide range of cuisines and dishes
- Special Menus: Many restaurants offer exclusive Easter menus or buffets
- Family-Friendly: Some establishments provide activities or entertainment for children
"Easter Sunday is one of the busiest dining days of the year, second only to Mother's Day in many restaurants." - National Restaurant Association
Types of Restaurants Open on Easter
1. National Chain Restaurants
Many popular chain restaurants maintain holiday hours:
- Denny's - Open 24/7, including holidays
- IHOP - Most locations open regular hours
- Cracker Barrel - Special Easter menu available
- Buffalo Wild Wings - Limited hours at most locations
2. Fine Dining
For those seeking an upscale experience, fine dining restaurants often craft special Easter menus featuring:
- Roasted lamb
- Baked ham
- Spring vegetables
- Fresh seafood
Notable Options:
- The Capital Grille
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Morton's The Steakhouse
3. Hotels and Ethnic Cuisine
- Hotel restaurants typically remain open and offer special Easter brunches
- Asian restaurants frequently remain open during Christian holidays
- Italian and Mexican restaurants often offer unique Easter specials
Best Times to Dine
To avoid the largest crowds, consider these off-peak times:
| Meal | Best Time to Dine |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Before 9:00 AM |
| Brunch | After 2:00 PM |
| Dinner | After 7:00 PM |
Making Reservations
Most restaurants accept reservations through:
Alternative Options
If traditional restaurants aren't available, consider:
- Hotel bars with food service
- Casino restaurants
- Airport restaurants
- Delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub
- Meal kits from services like Blue Apron or HelloFresh
Tips for Easter Dining
- Make reservations early - at least a month in advance
- Call ahead to confirm holiday hours
- Expect higher prices for special holiday menus
- Be prepared for larger crowds
- Check special menus and dietary accommodations
- Show extra appreciation through generous tipping, as staff are working on a holiday
By planning ahead and choosing from these many options, you can enjoy a delicious and stress-free Easter meal with your loved ones.