Hop to options for Easter Sunday dining

Easter, like other major holidays, incorporates food as an integral part of the celebration. Depending upon cultural origins, traditional foods and meals may vary, but all are centered on the themes of rebirth, renewal and spring. The Easter egg, perhaps serving as a symbol of such themes, is a central and common food connection shared by many cultures.

In the United States, many families celebrate with traditional Easter meals at home. However, over the years more and more restaurants have been hosting special Easter meals. In Sarasota, these special menus take the form of Easter Sunday brunch or dinner.

Since many restaurants will be closed on Easter Sunday, we are highlighting a sampling from those offering Easter specials.

Easter Brunch Options:

• The Table Creekside
  5365 South Tamiami Trail

  Sarasota, FL 34231

  Offering an exquisite Easter Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for $19.95, which includes a free bloody mary or mimosa. Space is limited; call for reservations: 941-921-9465.
• Libby’s Café + Bar
  1917 South Osprey

  Sarasota, FL 3423

  Offering an out-of-the-ordinary Easter Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., showcasing traditional specialties with a twist. Adults $30, kids 12 and under $13. Call 941-487-7300 for reservations.
• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
  2001 Siesta Drive

  Sarasota, FL 34239

  Offering a three-course Easter Sunday brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., plus a $25 gift card valid for a future visit. $36.95. Children’s three-course menu: $17.95. Call 941-358-9463 for reservations.
• Carmel Café & Wine Bar
  Shoppes at University Center

  8433 Cooper Creek Blvd.

  Sarasota, FL, 34201

  Offering an extensive selection of traditional brunch items with a Mediterranean twist from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Adults who order any brunch specialty dishes on Easter Sunday will be offered their choice of a complimentary glass of Prosecco or a mimosa. Reservations accepted; just call 941-893-5955.
• Duval’s New World Café
  1435 Main Street

  Sarasota, FL 34236

  Offering a $20 all-you-can-eat Easter brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., plus $15 bottomless mimosas in a variety of flavors. Call for reservations: 941-312-4001
• Michael’s on East
  1212 East Avenue

  Sarasota, FL 34239

  Michael’s culinary team will be featuring their special Easter brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The price for Michael's Easter Brunch is $48.95 for adults, $19.95 for children ages 3 to 10 and free for children under 2 years old. Call 941-366-0007, ext. 224 for reservations.

Easter Dinner Options:

• Ophelia’s on the Bay

  9105 Midnight Pass Road

  Siesta, Key, FL 34242

  Ophelia's on the Bay will be serving Easter dinner from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. The waterside dining experience offers an incredible Easter menu featuring superb seafood, specialty meats and delectable desserts. Call 941-349-2212 for reservations.
• The Savory Street International Café and Bakery
  411 North Orange Avenue

  Sarasota, FL 34236

  Offering a special Easter dinner menu and early dining from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Choice of soup or salad and entrée is $20 per person. A special three-course Easter Dinner Special for two people is $49, and includes a complementary glass of wine. For reservations call 941-312-4027.
• Bijou Café
  1287 First Street

  Sarasota, FL 34236

  In addition to their full dinner menu, Bijou will be offering special Easter items such as maple-glazed, baked Virginia ham with grilled pineapple and rack of Australian lamb. Easter dinner is served from noon to 8 p.m. Please call 941-366-8111 for reservations.
• Beach Bistro
  6600 Gulf Drive

  Holmes Beach, FL 34217

  The Beach Bistro will be offering their regular dinner menu plus some Easter specials. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. Call 941-778-6444 for reservations.

So if the quality of food is as important to you as the time spent with family and friends, you might want to get hopping to one of the options above for your Easter celebration. Enjoy the holiday!