What better way to celebrate Easter than by dining out at brunch? Forget that boring, old, dry spiral ham and try some of the more creative dishes at our local eateries.  The following are what I know of; please add anything you think might have been overlooked.

The one I am most excited about is Common Table. I’ve only been there once and I only had a drink, but it was one of the best Manhattans I have ever had and I know my Manhattans. It also just has a cool vibe. For Easter, they have the best bargain I’ve seen. Their Facebook page lists the prices at $15 for adults and $8 for kids. A Bloody Mary or mimosa is only $2 and the menu includes Eggs Benedict two ways, vegan pumpkin french toast, lox and bagels, bacon, sausage, vegetarian quinoa quiche, sauteed potatoes, fresh fruit salad, green salad and two desserts. Hours are 10:30 to 2:00, call 541-639-5546 for more information.

Next up is Cafe 3456, located at the Bend Airport. Again, I have only been here once but I absolutely fell in love. The view isn’t bad and the food is ridiculously tasty. Owner/chef David Hatfield isn’t bad to look at either so ladies – if  you’re going out with the girls, this may be the place for you! I couldn’t find any menu details on either their Facebook page or blog, but I have every confidence that it will not disappoint. Easter breakfast will be served from 7:30 until closing at 2:00.

Last year I tried McMenamin’s and had a really nice time. The best part wast watching “It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown” on the movie screen, which may make it the best choice for families. Their buffet includes honey lime fruit salad, mixed greens with fresh strawberries, feta & poppy seed dressing, tortellini salad with asparagus, french toast sticks with maple syrup, scrambled eggs, smoked bacon & sausage, Potatoes O’Brian, biscuits & gravy, cider-brined  ham, house-smoked Pacific salmon with mini bagels & cream cheese, assorted breakfast breads and a seasonal dessert display. Reservations are required and hours are 9:00 until 3:00 p.m. – call 541-382-5174. 23.95 adults; $18.95 for seniors; $11.95 for kids 6-12; free for kids 5 and under.

Another great family choice is Seventh Mountain Resort. If you don’t mind the short drive up the hill, I think they have a pretty great buffet plus an Easter egg hunt for the kids at noon. Call for reservations – 541-693-9148. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and I didn’t see anything on prices, so make sure to ask when you call.

I just checked the menu for Sunriver Resort and I’m already drooling and willing to make the drive to fill up on their goodies. Their prices are $34.95 for adults (which includes bottomless champagne or mimosas!), $14.95 for children 6 – 12 years and complimentary for children 5 years and younger. And check out some of the food – carved leg of lamb and prime rib, seafood station, housemade sushi, blintz station with flambeed marionberries, Caesar salad bar, smoked salmon, french toast, sausage and bacon, eggs benedict, cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, pastries, cookies and a children’s table. Their hours weren’t listed on their website, but reservations are required, so call 541-593-3740.

If that hasn’t gotten your juices flowing, check out the offerings at Black Butte Ranch, being served from 9:30 to 2:30 – ranch salad bar, truffle potato salad with roasted mushrooms, imported and domestic cheeses, hickory smoked bacon, Ranch Benedict with Parisian ham and pepper vodka and herb hollandaise, amaretto french toast with candied pecans, orange glazed lamb shoulder, pan-seared salmon with a port butter sauce, prime rib, omelet station, raspberry cheesecake, chocolate hazelnut tarts, white chocolate mousse with berry compote, assorted pastries and muffins and bread pudding. They have a special buffet menu for kids which includes waffles, scrambled eggs, chicken strips, tater tots, pasta and Easter candies. Prices are $35.95 for adults, $17.95 for kids 5 -12 and freed for kids 4 and under. Call for reservations – 541-595-1252.

Well, I’m hungry now. I don’t know how I’m going to choose from all of this deliciousness. How about you?