Easter is one of the most meaningful holidays of the year. Beyond its religious importance, it has also become a time when families and friends gather to celebrate with food. But here’s the challenge: while everyone is eager to eat, not every restaurant keeps its doors open on Easter Sunday. Some close to let employees enjoy the holiday, while others open with adjusted hours or special menus.
If you’re wondering “What food places are open on Easter near me?”, this guide is for you. Whether you’re craving brunch, a traditional dinner, quick takeout, or Easter-themed treats, we’ll walk you through the best options—making sure your holiday is stress-free and delicious.
Why Food Matters on Easter 🌸
Easter Sunday isn’t just about chocolate eggs and candy bunnies. Across the world, food has always been at the heart of Easter traditions:
- Symbol of Renewal: Many Easter foods, like eggs, represent new beginnings.
- Family Bonding: Shared meals bring loved ones together.
- Tradition Meets Convenience: While ham, lamb, or hot cross buns remain Easter classics, many families now blend tradition with the convenience of eating out or ordering in.
👉 And that’s why knowing which restaurants are open on Easter is so important—you don’t want to waste precious family time driving around looking for food.
Easter Brunch 2025: Where to Feast Mid-Morning 🥞
Brunch has quickly become the star of Easter dining. It’s casual, family-friendly, and festive.
Popular Brunch Chains Open on Easter
- IHOP – Famous for pancakes, omelets, and kid-friendly options.
- Cracker Barrel – Southern comfort food with Easter specials like ham and hashbrown casserole.
- The Cheesecake Factory – Lavish brunch menus, from eggs benedict to rich cheesecakes.
- Denny’s – Open 24/7 at most locations, making it a reliable choice.
What to Expect on Easter Brunch Menus
- Eggs Benedict with ham or smoked salmon – A holiday classic.
- Waffles, pancakes, and French toast – Often topped with pastel sprinkles or seasonal fruits.
- Carving stations – Prime rib, turkey, or glazed ham.
- Dessert spreads – Carrot cake, cheesecakes, and hot cross buns.
Pro Tip for Families with Kids 🐰
Choose restaurants offering Easter egg hunts, coloring stations, or kid menus. Many local spots make Easter fun for children while adults enjoy their meals.
Easter Dinner: Traditional and Modern Options 🍖
If brunch isn’t your thing, dinner is where the holiday meal truly shines.
Restaurants Serving Traditional Easter Dinners
- The Capital Grille – Prime rib, roasted lamb, and upscale sides.
- Bonefish Grill – Seafood-forward menus with seasonal twists.
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Premium steaks and holiday desserts.
Plant-Based & Vegan Easter Options 🌱
Not everyone eats meat on Easter. Luckily, many restaurants now cater to plant-based eaters with dishes like:
- Roasted vegetable platters
- Vegan “lamb” made with Impossible™ or seitan
- Dairy-free cakes and pastries
Takeout & Family-Style Easter Meals
Many restaurants offer takeout Easter bundles with mains, sides, and desserts. Examples include:
- Honey Baked Ham Co. – Full hams with mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls.
- Whole Foods – Heat-and-serve meals with organic sides.
- Local Italian or Mediterranean spots – Pasta bakes, Easter pies, or roasted meats.
Quick Eats: Fast Food and Grab-and-Go 🍔
Not every Easter meal has to be formal. Sometimes you just want something quick and easy.
Fast Food Chains Typically Open on Easter
- McDonald’s – Burgers, fries, and breakfast (hours vary).
- Wendy’s – Famous for square burgers and Frostys.
- Subway – Sandwiches, wraps, and healthier grab-and-go meals.
- Domino’s & Papa John’s – Pizza delivery is a lifesaver for casual Easter evenings.
Grocery Stores & Prepared Meals 🛒
If you’d rather stay in, many supermarkets offer ready-to-heat meals:
- Whole Foods, Kroger, Trader Joe’s – Pre-made Easter dinners.
- Costco – Bulk holiday trays for family gatherings.
Sweet Grab-and-Go Options
- Panera Bread – Hot cross buns, cookies, and pastries.
- Local bakeries – Easter cupcakes, chocolate bunnies, and pastel cakes.
Local Gems: Finding Unique Easter Spots 🍷
Sometimes the best Easter dining isn’t at a chain but at independent restaurants.
- Ethnic restaurants – Italian spots may serve Easter pies or lamb dishes; Mexican restaurants might offer tamales.
- Upscale dining – Gourmet prix fixe Easter menus with wine pairings.
- Small-town cafés – Often open for the community with family-style meals.
💡 Tip: Check local dining guides or restaurant Facebook pages—many post Easter hours and menus weeks in advance.
Easter-Themed Treats and Desserts 🍫
No Easter is complete without something sweet!
- Chocolate Bunnies & Eggs – Found at chocolatiers and grocery stores.
- Hot Cross Buns – A classic spiced bread with icing.
- Carrot Cake – Symbolic of spring and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Regional specialties – For example, Italian Easter Pie (Pizza Rustica) or Greek Tsoureki bread.
Many bakeries also offer special discounts or promotions on Easter Sunday.
Tips for Dining Out on Easter 2025 📝
- Reserve Early – Easter brunch and dinner reservations can sell out weeks in advance.
- Check Holiday Hours – Hours vary by location; call ahead or check online.
- Plan for Larger Groups – Some restaurants only serve prix fixe menus or family-style platters.
- Consider Takeout – If dining out is too hectic, order a take-home feast.
- Keep Kids Entertained – Choose restaurants offering family activities or outdoor space.
Conclusion: Enjoy Easter Without the Stress 🌷
Easter is about more than just food—it’s about connection, renewal, and joy. But food helps set the stage for those meaningful moments. Whether you want to enjoy a cozy brunch, an elegant dinner, or just grab pizza and chocolate bunnies, you have plenty of options in 2025.
Instead of stressing over what’s open, use this guide to plan ahead, reserve a spot, or order a take-home feast. That way, you can focus on what really matters—celebrating Easter with the people you love.
FAQs About Food on Easter 🐣
1. Which restaurants are open on Easter 2025?
Many chains like IHOP, Cracker Barrel, Denny’s, and McDonald’s stay open. Upscale restaurants like Capital Grille or Ruth’s Chris often serve special holiday menus.
2. Do fast food places open on Easter?
Yes, major fast food chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and Wendy’s usually remain open, though hours may be shorter.
3. Can I order Easter dinner takeout?
Absolutely! Restaurants like Honey Baked Ham, Whole Foods, and local Italian eateries offer full Easter dinner packages.
4. Are there vegan options for Easter meals?
Yes. Many restaurants and grocery stores provide vegan roasts, plant-based entrées, and dairy-free desserts.
5. Where can I find Easter desserts?
Panera Bread, local bakeries, and grocery stores often feature themed treats like hot cross buns, cupcakes, and chocolate eggs.
6. Is Easter brunch popular in 2025?
Yes! Brunch remains one of the most sought-after Easter meals, with buffets, carving stations, and family-friendly menus.
