Restaurants Open on Easter 2025: Where to Dine This Holiday
Easter Sunday is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and delicious meals. While many families choose to prepare a home-cooked Easter brunch or dinner, others prefer the convenience and variety of dining out. If you’re wondering which restaurants are open on Easter Sunday 2025, you’re in luck. Many popular chains and local restaurants will be open, offering special Easter menus and holiday-themed dishes.
In this article, we’ll cover which major restaurants will be open on Easter, what kind of meals they’ll be serving, and how to make sure you secure a table for the holiday.
Why Dining Out on Easter Is Popular
Dining out on Easter has become increasingly popular for several reasons:
Convenience: No cooking or cleaning required.
Special Menus: Many restaurants offer Easter-themed dishes and prix fixe menus.
Family-Friendly: Kid-friendly options and Easter-themed activities are common.
Variety: From brunch buffets to elegant dinners, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, there’s likely a restaurant nearby that’s open and ready to serve you on Easter Sunday.
National Chains Open on Easter Sunday
Here’s a list of popular national restaurant chains that are typically open on Easter Sunday:
1. Cracker Barrel
Hours: Regular hours (check local listings)
Special: Easter ham dinner and a selection of seasonal sides
Reservations: Not required, but recommended for large groups
2. IHOP
Hours: Open 24/7 (may vary by location)
Special: Easter-themed pancake stacks and family meal deals
Reservations: Walk-ins welcome
3. Olive Garden
Hours: Regular hours (usually 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM)
Special: Easter pasta specials and unlimited breadsticks
Reservations: Recommended for larger groups
4. Denny’s
Hours: Open 24 hours
Special: Easter-themed breakfast platters and desserts
Reservations: Not required
5. Outback Steakhouse
Hours: Open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special: Easter surf and turf options
Reservations: Strongly recommended
Fast-Food Chains Open on Easter
If you prefer a quick and casual meal, several fast-food chains will also be open on Easter Sunday:
1. McDonald’s
Hours: Most locations open 24 hours
Special: Regular menu available
Reservations: Not required
2. Chick-fil-A
Status: Closed – Chick-fil-A is always closed on Sundays, including Easter
3. Starbucks
Hours: Most locations open (check local listings)
Special: Easter-themed coffee drinks and pastries
Reservations: Not required
4. Burger King
Hours: Most locations open (check local listings)
Special: Easter combo deals
Reservations: Not required
Local Restaurants and Special Easter Menus
Many local restaurants and smaller chains will offer special Easter brunches and dinners. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Fine Dining
Prix fixe menus with options like prime rib, lamb, and seafood.
Wine pairings and Easter-themed cocktails are often available.
2. Casual Dining
Family-style meals with comfort foods like roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese.
Some locations may offer Easter egg hunts or kids’ activities.
3. Buffets
Easter brunch buffets with omelet stations, carving stations, and dessert bars are popular at hotels and large restaurant chains.
Reservations are often required for buffets.
Best Easter Brunch Spots
Easter brunch is a popular choice, with many restaurants offering unique breakfast and lunch combinations. Here are some of the best brunch options:
1. The Cheesecake Factory
Brunch specials featuring eggs benedict, pancakes, and mimosas.
Reservations recommended.
2. Mimi’s Café
Traditional Easter brunch with quiche, pastries, and specialty coffees.
Reservations strongly recommended.
3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Upscale Easter brunch with steak and eggs, seafood, and signature cocktails.
Reservations required.
How to Make Reservations
To secure a table at your favorite restaurant on Easter Sunday, follow these tips:
Book Early: Easter is one of the busiest days for restaurants. Make a reservation at least one week in advance.
Use Online Platforms: Apps like OpenTable, Resy, and Yelp allow you to book tables and check availability.
Call Directly: If online reservations aren’t available, call the restaurant directly.
Confirm the Day Before: Double-check your reservation to avoid any last-minute issues.
Tips for Dining Out on Easter
Here are some additional tips to make your Easter dining experience smooth and enjoyable:
Arrive Early: Restaurants are busiest between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Be Flexible: Some restaurants may have limited seating times or adjusted menus.
Check for Holiday Fees: Some restaurants may charge a holiday service fee.
Consider Takeout: If seating is limited, order ahead and enjoy Easter dinner at home.
What to Expect from Easter Menus
Most restaurants will offer a mix of classic Easter dishes and regular menu items. Here’s what you can expect:
Starters: Deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail, and seasonal salads.
Main Courses: Ham, lamb, prime rib, and seafood.
Sides: Mashed potatoes, asparagus, glazed carrots, and stuffing.
Desserts: Carrot cake, chocolate eggs, and specialty cheesecakes.
Family-Friendly Easter Dining Options
If you’re dining with kids, look for restaurants that offer kid-friendly menus and activities:
Golden Corral: Easter-themed desserts and chocolate fountains.
Bob Evans: Easter kids’ meals and activity packs.
Chuck E. Cheese: Special Easter games and prizes for kids.
Conclusion
Dining out on Easter Sunday 2025 offers a stress-free way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. From upscale brunches to casual dinners, there’s no shortage of options for a memorable Easter meal. Be sure to make your reservations early and plan ahead to avoid long waits.
Whether you’re craving a hearty steak, a pancake breakfast, or an elaborate Easter buffet, you’ll find plenty of restaurants open and ready to serve you on Easter Sunday.