Looking for a special place to dine out this Easter? Northeast Indiana’s restaurants have crafted menus and experiences for every taste and celebration. Whether you’re gathering with family, exploring festive activities, or treating yourself to fine dining, there’s a place for you.

• For those craving an indulgent buffet experience, Eddie Merlot’s, 1502 Illinois Road, is hosting an Easter buffet Sunday, April 20, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Start your morning with eggs Benedict, French toast, and bacon from the breakfast station. Move on to fresh seafood with shrimp cocktail and oysters, followed by carved filet mignon, lamb rack, and ham. Desserts like mini carrot cakes, brownie sundaes, and bananas add the perfect finishing touch. Adults dine for $75, while children aged 10 and under are priced at $19. Pair your meal with mimosas or Bloody Marys for an additional $9.95.

• Granite City Food & Brewery, 3809 Coldwater Road, presents an Easter brunch buffet that caters to all tastes. 

Enjoy carved ham and prime rib alongside a jumbo shrimp cocktail. Warm biscuits and gravy and French toast with strawberry sauce provide comforting options, while the build-your-own omelet station adds a personalized touch. 

Prices range from $24.99-$28.99 for adults and $8.99 for children, making it a practical choice for family gatherings.

• For a more casual option, Cracker Barrel, 1609 W. Washington Center Road and 10427 E. Maysville Road, and its Auburn location, 1410 Shook Drive, deliver homestyle Easter Heat n’ Serve meals. 

Serving 4–6 people for $99.99 or 8–10 people for $149.99, these meals feature ham or turkey dinners alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, and pies. Their French toast bake with vanilla custard and cheesecake filling is also available for a sweeter touch. Meals can be ordered for dine-in, pickup, or delivery, simplifying holiday plans.

• Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 224 W. Wayne St., celebrates Easter elegantly. 

Their seasonal specials include lamb chops and center-cut filets paired with blackened scallops. Sides like potatoes au gratin and grilled asparagus complement the mains. A spring cocktail menu offers refreshing beverage options to complete the meal. Dishes are priced individually, giving diners flexibility to curate their experience.

• For traditional comfort food, Bob Evans restaurants feature Farmhouse Feasts this Easter. 

Meals start at $89.99 for 4–8 people and $159.99 for 8–10 people. The spread includes hickory-smoked ham, slow-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans with ham, rolls, and a whole pie for dessert. These feasts are ideal for families who prefer hearty, familiar flavors.

Here’s a can’t-miss. Bunny Brunch at Fort Wayne Zoo, 3411 Sherman Blvd., combines breakfast with wildlife exploration. 

Scheduled for Saturday, April 19, from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., the brunch includes pastries, eggs, sausage, and other morning favorites. Tickets are priced at $30 per adult and $15 per child aged 3–12. After brunch, guests receive wristbands to explore the zoo’s attractions, making it an engaging and family-friendly event. Admission is not included.

Ducky’s at The Pearl opens downtown

Ducky’s at The Pearl, 249 Pearl St., is downtown Fort Wayne’s newest addition to the dining and entertainment scene. 

With its fresh approach to comfort food, Ducky’s offers smash burgers, crispy chicken tenders, and duck carnitas nachos that blend familiar flavors with creative twists. Tiki cocktails add a unique flair to the drink menu, making it a vibrant spot to unwind. 

Ducky’s is open Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 4 p.m.-midnight, and Sunday 4-10 p.m.

Próximo, GnomeTown offer pairing dinner

Próximo, 898 S. Harrison St., and GnomeTown Brewing are teaming up to offer an unforgettable dining experience. 

Their Beer Pairing Dinner on Monday, April 14, showcases creative pairings across six courses. Highlights include Wagyu Corn Dog and Venison Au Poivre, matched with craft beers like Sour Beer and Espresso Stout. 

Tickets are $150 per person, with reservations available at proximofw.com/private-event-2.

Off the Eaten Path is the Whatzup weekly column that covers Northeast Indiana’s restaurant and food news. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.