Some great hunches for Easter brunches

Easter Sunday is cause for celebration for many people, what with religious observances and related activites.

One of those family traditions revolved around the venerable Easter Brunch. Several outstanding local restaurants are hosting those events with the best of food and fun guaranteed for those who partake.

Vintana 

Vintana Wine + Dine presents a delicious 3-course menu to enjoy from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at The Centre at Lexus Escondido. Chef Deborah promises to outdo herself with Vintana favorites like Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon, Crab Cake Hash and the decadent Blueberry and Peach Crisp.

Starters include the likes of Lobster Bisque sherry and cream along with shrimp and corn fritter, Caesar Salad and Shrimp cocktail among other choices. Entrees also include Pan Roasted Chicken Involtini prosciutto and asparagus stuffed, Lamb Osso Bucco creamy polenta and many seafood extravaganzas.

A kid’s menu is available featuring such favorites as Grilled Skirt Steak, Mac n’ Cheese elbow macaroni and Chicken Tenders. Desserts, they’ve got a few, including Key Lime Tart key lime curd with blackberry puree and meringue, Blueberry and Peach Crisp and Chef Deborah’s Potted Brownie with banana ice cream, walnuts and ganache.

Most dishes are gluten free or may be prepared gluten free upon request. Adults enjoy the repast for $49 while kids eat for $12.95. Call (760) 745-7777 for reservations

Bellamy’s

Bellamy’s Restaurant presents its special Easter Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 27. Jim Melome adds to the flavor with live music. It all goes down for $49 per person. House Sparkling cocktails and Blood Mary’s are $6 each with one-half off selected bottle of win. A kids menu is available.

Bellamy’s menu begins the beguine with parfaits, Cafe du Monde Beignets, Maine Lobster Bisque and Belgium Endive Salad. Entrees include Traditional Eggs Benedict, Croque Patrick, Ham and Cheese or Seafood Crepe, Flat Iron Steak and Ginger Lacquered Local Catch. Desserts include White Chocolate Passion Fruit Cake, Vanilla Creme Brûlée, Bellamy’s Signature Chocolate Bisque.

Patrick Ponsaty and Jonathan Freyberg handle the cuisine while Derry Van Nortwick and Kristina Miller handle wine and service. reservations may be made by calling (760) 747-5000.

Bandy Canyon

Easter Brunch at The Ranch at Bandy Canyon takes place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 27. It costs $45.99 for those over age 11 and $25 for others.

A Bottomless Bloody Mary Bar is $15 and Bottomless Mimosa Bar is $15. “Unlimited activities” cost $10 and include jumper and obstacle course, Easter egg hunt, face painting, Easter bunny photo opp, petting zoo and pony rides.

Easter menu features a choice of Farmhand Salad, Kale and Little Gem Salad or Quinoa Salad. Shrimp Crab Clusters and smoked Salmon lead the entrees. An Egg Station is available where diners may make their own omelet or scramble. Pastries include croissants, assorted muffins, brioche

A carving station includes Prime Rib, Leg of Lamb and Glazed Ham. Vegetables include Roasted Red Potato, Ratatouille, Green Beans with Toasted Almonds. A Dessert station includes assorted mini pastries, fruit platter and crepe station

The Ranch at Bandy Canyon is at 16251 Bandy Canyon Road. Call (760) 871-6494 for reservations.

Hacienda de Vega

Easter Morning Brunch extends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Last brunch seating is at 2:30 p.m. Regular menu choices are offered 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Regular buffet is $29. Champagne Buffet is $36. Kids 10 years old and younger get in for $10.

Huevos Albanil, Filet mignon tips, Poblano chicken, Veggies Cazuea and Chilaquiles or tortillas simmered and topped are main brunch items. Rice, beans, sausage links, bacon and breakfast pancakes also will be Easter brunched.

Hacienda de Vega is at 2608 S Escondido Blvd. Call (760) 738-9804 for more information.