Sure, there’s peeps and chocolate bunny rabbits galore and then there’s home-cooked meals with a glazed ham and grandma’s cheesy potatoes. But what about another option this Easter? Options that include more nutritional value than marshmallow chicks and substantially less work for grandma and everyone involved. Luckily, Maple Grove restaurants are offering that option this Easter Sunday. They are all work-free and include dessert (but go ahead and bite the ears off that tasty bunny anyway).
Houlihan’s
Houlihan’s first-ever Easter brunch will include favorites from their scrumptious Bed Head brunch menu. Sip on a $2 mimosa until 3 p.m. while enjoying quiche Lorraine ($8.95)—a mix of smoky bacon, swiss and gruyere cheeses and onions melded together in the cutest puff pastry shell. Think of it as edible (and delicious!) artwork. If that’s not quite your thing, there will be several frittatas to choose from, including a Southwest version $9.95 for those who like a little kick and a Philly version $9.95, because who doesn’t like roast beef and provolone. And don’t forget the kids; they won’t want to miss out on the cinnamon-y French toast $5.95–$8.95 and omelets $5.95 from the kids’ menu.
12725 Elm Creek Blvd. N.; 763.494.5380; houlihans.com
Malone’s
You definitely won’t want to overdo it on the chocolate beforehand if you head to Malone’s on Easter Sunday for perhaps the best deal, cost-wise, on this notable morning. They have four specials available: eggs Benedict, ham and cheese omelet, huevos rancheros or a Belgian waffle with your choice of strawberries or blueberries topped with whipped cream. Each comes with American fries and your choice of a bloody Mary, mimosa or screwdriver, all delivered to your table. Sometimes better than dishing it up yourself; reservations encouraged. All each $7.50.
12635 Elm Creek Blvd. N.; 763.447.6500; malonesbarandgrill.net
Redstone Grill
The Easter Bunny will be hoppin’ at Redstone Grill. So, definitely make sure to include the kids when you make a reservation. Redstone’s Easter brunch buffet might cater to those with sophisticated taste buds; manager Cassie Glover says it will be a “fancier buffet.” An exquisite assortment of rotisserie chicken, prime rib, eggs, fresh fruit, and pastries complement signature items from their brunch menu. Scrambled eggs with cream cheese or smoked salmon omelet anyone? Price TBA.
12109 Main St. N.; 763.420.0232; redstonegrill.com
Granite City Food and Brewery
It’s typical Sunday brunch and more at Granite City Food and Brewery for Easter Sunday. But don’t let “typical” fool you. Typical means luscious prime rib, fresh, gooey, huge caramel rolls, and baked Reggiano hashbrowns and more. The “more” means guests will have the chance to enjoy assorted soups and salads, biscuits and gravy, and a build-your-own omelet station. $17.95. 11909 Main St.; 763.416.0010; gcfb.net
Pittsburgh Blue SteakhousePittsburgh Blue’s Easter buffet is all “jazzed up,” according to general manager Felipe Navarro. And jazzed up it is. We’re talking lobster-mashed potatoes, shrimp scrambled eggs, oysters. Drooling yet? There’s more: Honey-baked ham and prime rib carving stations, popular spinach and chopped salads from the menu, fried chicken, and hash browns that “everyone loves,” says Navarro. A bloody Mary bar and mimosas will be available to quench your thirst. Dessert equals a mini buffet of petit fours, fresh cookies, brownies and cupcakes. It’s possible this is heaven. Reservations required. About $30.
11900 Main St. N.; 763.416.2663; pittsburghbluesteak.com
Maple Tavern
It’s the ultimate spoon-licking buffet menu at Maple Tavern this year. Reservations aren’t required, but they probably should be. “Dining will fill up fast,” says front-of-house manager David Lantos. Fresh made-to-order omelets, chafing dishes with eggs and potatoes galore, a carving station, and a plethora of hot and cold items will highlight this buffet. They will also feature a dinner item or two, as well as assorted desserts. Can’t decide where to start amongst all of this? We suggest the bloody Mary or a stop at the mimosa bar station. $14.95. 9375 Deerwood Lane N.; 763.425.2700; mapletavern.com
3 SquaresUp and at’em early on Easter Sunday? 3 Squares has got you covered—they start dishing out at 7 a.m. Brunch will be served family style and because all of the food is so savory and served in such a comfy atmosphere, you’ll feel like you are right at home, sans the dirty dishes waiting at the end. Plus, there’s a menu pleasing to the kiddos, too. So go ahead and put your feet up after your meal. We know you’ll want to. Price will vary.
12690 Arbor Lakes Pkwy.; 763.425.3330; 3squaresrestaurant.com
Claddagh Irish Pub
Looking to add an Irish twist to your Easter meal this year? Look no further than Claddagh Irish Pub located on Main Street. This buffet will include the staple omelet station and salad bars, but the carving station will include Irish baked ham and lamb. There will also be plenty of shepard’s pie to go around ($24.95). Afters (Irish for dessert) will include bread pudding and Bailey’s-infused cheesecake. Bloody Mary’s are $3, just as they are every Sunday, ensuring Easter at Claddagh will be a grand ol’ time!
7890 Main St. N.; 763.773.7400; claddaghirishpubs.com //