Growing up Easter Sunday always seemed like the beginning of spring. Now in reality the average temperature in Upstate New York is still around 45-50 degrees on Easter, so my memory doesn’t always accurately reflect reality. Living in the Washington, DC area (Alexandria to be exact), spring has already started to show signs that it’s here and we can’t believe that April has begun.

Throughout the area restaurants are stepping it up once again in preparation for the celebration and offering several special menus. Here’s our list of 10 Easter Specials you should consider this weekend:

The Greek Easter Festival is once again coming to Zaytinya, now in it’s 4th year. The festival begins with Agorá (rescheduled for Easter Sunday) which will transform the outdoor patio area into a traditional Greek Market, and will conclude with $35 prix-fixe brunch menus for Western Easter Brunch (4/5, 11am-4pm) and Greek Easter Brunch (4/12, 11am-4pm). After having a chance to sample several of the dishes we especially enjoyed the…

Rosa Mexicano is hosting an Easter Sunday brunch dedicated to the holiday. Specialty cocktails (Bloody Maria or the mocktail Mex-a-Mango) along with the dishes Huevos Rosa and Mexico City Chilaquiles will all be making appearances and you really don’t want to miss them.

American Eats Tavern is hosting an all-you-can-eat Easter Sunday Brunch from 10am-3pm ($45 per person or $25 for diners under 10). The menu is highlighted by the seafood bar, ham biscuit station, jambalaya station, and a continental breakfast table to name a few. For dessert head over to the cake table and don’t miss the best key lime pie we’ve ever had.

City Tap House will have Easter Sunday specials from 11am-3pm, prices will range from $5-$26. If you’re in need of another reason to visit this beer centric restaurant the complimentary dessert buffet should do the trick. For the younger guests, they’ll be happy know the Easter Bunny might be stopping in with some candy.

The award-winning Blue Duck Tavern will be serving new seasonal classics during their 3-course Easter brunch from 11am – 230pm ($95 per person for adults, and $42 for children between six and 12). Highlights from the menu include Belgian Waffles, Duck Confit Hash, and Oven Roasted Rabbit Sausages. Capping things off will be seasonal desserts found on display in the pantry.  

After visiting Ambar recently we can’t say enough good things, hearing they’re offering a special brunch menu is more than enticing. The menu will be available from 10am-330pm and includes unlimited small plates and cocktails for $39 per person. Highlights from the menu include an Egg BLT, Eggs Benedict (English muffin, prosciutto, and Kajmak sauce), a Poached Pear Waffle, and when it comes to drinks don’t miss the Rakia. 

The Penn Quarter favorite, nopa Kitchen + Bar,  will be offering French influenced garden fresh vegetables, select meats, and fish on Easter Sunday. Standout dishes will include Slow Roasted Lamb Loin, Grilled Local Beef Tenderloin & Eggs, and a Lime Bar or Berlinerswhen you’re ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. Brunch will be available from 11am-3pm and dishes will range from $12-$27.  

If you’re looking to start early The Hamilton is just the spot for you. A full menu will be offered for Easter Brunch and will occur from 830am-4pm in the dining room, with special performances being included at the Hamilton Live. Some of the menu highlights include Breakfast Sliders, Breakfast Burriot, and the Shrimp & Grits.This is one of the few locations you can enjoy good food with a live performance on stage.

Both El Centro D.F. locations will be serving up its bottomless authentic Mexican brunch from 10am-3pm on Easter Sunday. Available for $35 per person, brunch includes both unlimited small plates and beverages. Don’t miss out on the Jalapeño Beef & Chorizo Slider,Buttermilk Pancakes, or Bacon, Egg and Cheese Tacos. We always love our experiences at El Centro D.F., and remember guacamole is OK to have at every meal.

Easter brunch isn’t the only reason to head out this weekend. Red Velvet Cupcakery (both locations), will be offering 2 desserts throughout the spring, starting with the Ricotta Poppy Seed Pound Cake from April 3-9th. This treat could be the perfect way to complete a day out, or could be used as the reason for your trip in the first place.

What are your Easter Sunday plans?