Going out for brunch on a special day like Easter Sunday and Mother’s Day is always a treat. So you want it to be the best experience possible, right?

Spring in Portlandia can be hit or miss with the weather. You’ll want to find out if you can be moved indoors if you request outdoor seating when you make your reservations.

The Most Unusual Idea

The Portland Spirit offers a two-hour Easter Brunch cruise that’s an all-inclusive price. It’s not a buffet, though, if you are hoping for that. You do get a reserved table with live piano entertainment. Champagne is available along with non-alcoholic options. If there are kids, or if there’s a kid in your heart, there will be a visit from Cinnabunny.

There are two seating options available. The first is in the morning with boarding time of 9am, and the afternoon boarding time is 2pm. You can see the sample menu here, and book your reservation here.

Boarding Location:1010 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204

Bring On the Buffet

Where is the best buffet in PortlandWhen people talk about brunch, they usually are thinking about a grand buffet with many sumptuous options to explore. Sadly, many buffet options aren’t available at the moment. But we found you one.

Brix Tavern

If you love classic American fare, Brix Tavern is hosting a special Easter Brunch Buffet. It starts at 9am and runs until 3pm You will want to make a reservation. 

They will have a full bar with many cocktail options (hot and cold). And they offer a Belgian waffle bar and a carving station with prime rib and slow-roasted ham. And, don’t forget to save room for the dessert bar.

This location is ideal for large groups.

Brix is located at 1338 NW Hoyt Street in Portland. You can call them at 503-943-5995. And look for a new location opening soon in Tualatin. 

Stuff Yourself Silly Option

Sometimes you want to eat so much and then snooze the rest of the day, or go for a pleasant stroll.

Fogo de Chão

If you want to get absolutely stuffed to the gills, you need to check out Fogo de Chão, the Brazilian all-you-can-eat-meat-on-a-sword-carved-at-your-table restaurant. But it doesn’t start there.  They also have an area where you can get cold salads, cheeses, charcuterie, and cold seafood. 

You’re given a sign that basically stops/goes if you want the server to stop and slice you off some delectable meat. You can usually get your preferred temperature. And they don’t just have beef. There’s also spicy pork sausage, pork loin, chicken legs, and lamb.

And in case you still have room, there’s caramelized banana as well as a full range of desserts. If it’s your birthday, you get cheesecake.

Located in the old Public Services building, they have many private and semi-private seating areas. Their wine selection is outstanding, as well as their house cocktails. 

You can make reservations here and see the menu here.

Simple Brunch Options

If you think buffets are just too much work, and you want to sit down and be served, we have some great suggestions for you.

Gracie’s

Gracie’s is located in the gorgeous Hotel deLuxe on SW 15th Avenue. You’ll find simple-sounding food like vegan avocado toast and lobster roll elevated and elegant. Brunch is offered from 7am until 2pm every day, so you can try it out if you’re not sure if you want to bring your relatives there on Easter Sunday. The menu has a variety of options, so you can order a lot and serve things family-style.

Salty’s on the Columbia River

This may be the most difficult reservation to get because it’s so popular. They have a special Easter bunch with fun decorations and special holiday selections. It’s fun for the whole family with something for everyone.

They’re offering leg of lamb and glazed ham for those who like going traditional and many options like shrimp and grits if you don’t.

They’ll be open from 10am – 5pm. You can see sample menus for the Columbia restaurant here. And you can call 503-288-4444 to find out more information.

Mother’s Bistro

If you want a big breakfast place with Bloody Marys and Mimosas, come check out Mother’s Bistro. You can get your breakfast nachos, wild salmon hash, many types of scrambles, and the ultimate biscuits and gravy.

Wait. You said scrambles. Does that mean they offer a tofu option? Yes! And an egg white only option. You’ll feel right at home at Mother’s.

They’re located at 121 SW 3rd Avenue in Portland, and you can call them at 503-464-1122. You can also make reservations online. They’re open Sundays from 9am until 2pm

Mama Bird

Whether you’re craving sweet or savory (or both), check out Mama Bird’s brunch. They offer grilled chicken and waffles for a lighter take on the classic dish. You can go large or light with many sides to add in. 

They do offer mimosas, Bloody Marys and Tequila Sunrises as well as a few other fun drinks and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks including French press coffees. Just know that they only offer poached eggs.

You can make reservations on Tock! Or call them at 503-348-2064. Brunch is served 930am – 230pm. And they’re located at 2145 NW Raleigh Street in Portland. 

And, if you’re looking to head out and grab a beer on the holiday weekend, read our blog post “Best Beer Breweries in Portland, Oregon.