Easter, like other major holidays, incorporates food as an integral part of the celebration. Depending on one's 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 menus. In Sarasota, these special meals take the form of Easter Sunday brunch or dinner.
Since many restaurants will be closed on Easter Sunday, we're highlighting a sampling from those offering Easter specials.
Offering an out-of-the-ordinary Easter Sunday Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., showcasing traditional specialties with a twist. $35 for adults and $14 for children ages 12 and younger. Call 487-7300 for reservations.
Offering a special Easter Brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., $24.95 for adults and $11.95 for children younger than 12. Buffet brunch. Call 312-4001 for reservations.
Michael’s culinary team will be featuring their special Easter Brunchmenu from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $48.95 for adults, $19.95 for children ages 3 to 10 and free for children younger than 2. Call 366-0007, ext. 224 for reservations.
Café L’Europe will be offering an outstanding Easter buffet brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. $39.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 12 and younger. For reservations, call 388-4415
Ophelia's on the Bay will be serving Easter dinner from 8 to 11 p.m. Waterside dining and an incredible Easter menu featuring superb seafood, specialty meats and delectable desserts. Call 349-2212 for reservations.
In addition to its 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 served from noon to 8 p.m. Call 366-8111 for reservations.
Open on Easter Sunday from noon to 9 p.m., Cosimo’s will be serving its regular menu with a number of Italian Easter specialty items. For reservations, call 922-7999.
For those seeking a more casual experience, “The Creek” will be offering its full lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner menu from 4 to 10 p.m.
So, for your Easter celebration, 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. Enjoy the holiday!
