Easter Eating 2009

Easter Eating 2009

Good morning, sunshine (Photo by darkmatter)

For Torontonians who are not so confident in the kitchen, or who simply prefer to spend Easter handling mimosas rather than roasting pans, here are some of the city’s top hotels offering family-friendly menus on April 12.

Drake Hotel: Always a favourite of brunch-goers, The Drake has no intention of fixing what’s not broken. Chef Anthony Rose’s à la carte options are on offer for Easter Sunday, along with a holiday prix fixe menu at $23. Among the highlights: maple-baked ham, butterscotch-banana pudding, and creamy mushroom soup with tomato mascarpone. A true adult affair, The Drake is both bunny-free and alcohol friendly: the menu includes a choice of bellini, mimosa or a glass of rosé. April 10 to 13, 11–4. 416-531-5042, www.thedrakehotel.ca.

Fairmont Royal York: True to its name, the bill of fare at Epic is stacked with luxurious festive treats. The traditional buffet stars roast sirloin and leg of lamb, as well as less obvious Easter selections, like sushi. While playing with food is discouraged, there is a kids’ activity room with colouring and movies, as well as a guitarist. April 12, seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. $70 per person, children five to 12 $35, children under five free. 416-860-5050, www.epicrestaurant.ca.

Four Seasons Hotel: The elegant Truffles has something special cooking for Easter: a buffet featuring an array of smoked fish, Canadian cheeses and a carving station. A children’s corner and playful mascot-style rabbit are good distractions for younger diners. April 12, 11–2. $75 per person, children $40, children under five free. 416-928-7331, www.fourseasons.com.

The King Edward: Le Méridien puts a twist on its brunch by offering a movable holiday feast. While still serving on-site, the restaurant is inviting customers to pick up their meals and return to the comforts of home. The menu features beef Wellington, herb-crusted rack of lamb with mint jelly, and maple-brushed salmon pastry puffs—and, of course, plenty of chocolate. The mobile banquet can also be customized for Passover. April 12, 10:30–3. Dine-in $55 per person; takeout serving six to eight people $275, serving 10 to 12 people $375. Reservation required. 416-863-4125, www.lemeridien-kingedward.com.

The Old Mill Inn and Spa: The Old Mill is offering a variety of items this year, including breakfast treats—waffles, blintzes and scrambled eggs—and such midday items as roast beef, poached lobster and a chocolate fountain. In addition to the bubbly ($41 per bottle), an attendant dressed as the Easter Bunny will help get celebrations hopping. April 12, 10:30–2:30. $42.95 per person. Reservations taken only for parties of eight or more. 416-236-2641, www.oldmilltoronto.com.