Family-friendly Easter brunches

Brookfield Zoo
Omelette and carving stations, a sweets table and other treats await hoppers of all ages during Brookfield Zoo’s brunch bash featuring photo ops with Mr. and Mrs. Bunny, music by the Banjo Buddies Dixieland Trio and appearances by rabbits, chickens and other petable friends from the Children’s Zoo. 11am, 1:30pm; $49 ($39 members), $35 ($29 members) kids ages 3–11, kids 2 and under free.

Chicago Botanic Garden
After chowing down on an all-you-can-eat buffet with made-to-order omelettes and a carving station, take a breather in nature by exploring the Botanic Garden’s greenhouses and blooming grounds. 9am, 11am, 1pm; $60, $28 kids ages 3–12, kids 2 and under free.

Mon Ami Gabi
Kids get an Easter basket full of holiday treats and their own menu at this Lincoln Park bistro. And adults—they get quiche, crêpes and anything they want from the regular bistro menu. 10:30am–3pm; à la carte menu.

Osteria via Stato
How do Italians celebrate Easter? With a buffet. David DiGregorio stocks this Easter fest with frittatas, French toast, strada, an omelette station and—are you ready for this?—a ricotta doughnut station. Kids will love the Easter candy table stocked with tons of sugary bites, including about 15 dessert options. 11:30am–3pm; $40, $20 kids ages 5–10, kids 5 and under free.

Pinstripes
The bowling alley/restaurant/music venue/bocce haven with two locations in the Northwest 'burbs, ups the ante for family Easter fun with a brunch (one mimosa included for the over-21 set), egg hunt and Easter Bunny photo ops. The brunch includes Easter faves such as carved prime rib, fresh seafood, waffles, made-to-order omelettes and more. The egg hunt starts at 9:30am. 9:30am–3pm; buffet $28, $14 kids ages 5–12, kids 4 and under free.

RIVA Crab House
Expect a flashy display of shellfish as well as omelette and carving stations and a dessert table at this Navy Pier seafood emporium where large parties are welcome. The Easter Bunny will also be hopping in for photos with kids. 11am–3pm; $43, $18 kids 12 and under, kids 3 and under free.

Spirit of Chicago Cruises at Navy Pier
Set sail for a culinary tour featuring globally-inspired dishes in addition to a lineup of brunch classics. Kids score goodie bags and face time with the Easter Bunny (keepsake photos are $20) and a DJ spins pop tunes. 12:30pm–2:30pm, ship boards at noon; $53, $32 kids ages 3–11, kids 2 and under free.