HOLIDAY/DINING: WHERE TO EAT AND WHAT TO DO TO HAVE A HOPPY EASTER 2016

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WHERE TO EAT AND WHAT TO DO TO HAVE A HOPPY EASTER 2016

As with most holiday columns I’ve posted on INAM in the six years since it’s launch, I look back over the past years to make sure I don’t write the same things.  (And I use them for inspiration, as well.)  And when I did that recently for Easter, I noticed that, more often than not, I was harking back on the occasion.

hungry-history-easter-foods-from-lamb-to-eggs-ESo, yes, I have had some happy, and colorful, Easters, and it’s a holiday I enjoy.  It’s always been fun to polish each nail to look like an Easter e-word, and to put together an afternoon tea for my pals.  But this year, I think I’ll stay in the present for you.

Judging by how many press releases I’m getting from local Los Angeles restaurants about their special brunches or dinners this Sunday, you won’t have a dearth of places to eat, if you choose to go out.  (I’ll tell you about my favorite in a second.)

But, as much as I love dining out, especially for holiday brunches, and despite what I’m expecting to be beautiful Spring weather here in L.A., I’m pretty sure I’ll be staying in, (at least in the afternoon,) to watch the second day of the Elite Eight of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.  I’ve been obsessed with this tourney for years–nay–decades, now, and I’m grateful when I can manage to make the time to watch it all, as I’ve done this year.  (I’ve had to record a lot of it, so I can actually go out and live life, but, although it took me several extra days, I finally got caught up…just as the next phase—yesterday’s Sweet 16–was starting!)

The welcoming entrance of the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant.  Photo by Karen Salkin.

The welcoming entrance of the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant. Photo by Karen Salkin.

If I did have time to fit in a brunch before the games begin, though, I know just which one it would be—the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant adjacent to the Van Nuys Airport! Mr. X and I had a wonderful meal there two Sundays ago, and they told me that the brunch will be even more special on Easter! (We don’t see how, though—it was perfect then!) So, it’s the only one I’m recommending to you this year.

Just part of the dessert bar inside, overlooking the patio.  You can watch the planes from all areas of the eatery.  Photo by Karen Salkin.

Just part of the dessert bar inside, overlooking the patio. You can watch the planes from all areas of the eatery. Photo by Karen Salkin.

We got there at 1PM that day, and when we saw the array of choices, I told them that next time, we’ll have to arrive at 9AM, so we can eat the breakfast items, take a nap, and then continue our repast! It was unbelievable. And from all the Easter menus the other eateries have been sending me, this one is also the most reasonably-priced! And you can sit either in the cozy interior (maybe even near the fireplace,) or on the fire-pit-heated patio, complete with live ducks in the penned-off fountain area, and watch the planes from close range. You win, no matter where you sit.

The food is all delicious, and so plentiful that we didn’t even get to try every dish! But I especially recommend the very flavorful chicken, sausages (yes, I did cheat with the sausage and bacon, but when I saw how beautiful they looked, I just could not help myself,) and the amazing just-baked chocolate cookies! I actually began my visit with one of those sweet treats!

The best cookies I've ever had in my entire life!  OMG!  I'm drooling just looking at them!   Photo by Karen Salkin.

The best cookies I’ve ever had in my entire life! OMG! I’m drooling just looking at them! Photo by Karen Salkin.

Those are my faves, but there are also stations for: sushi, seafood, (including peel-and-eat shrimp,) carving meats, made-to-order omelettes and pasta, and so much more. And let’s not forget the chocolate fountain!

You can read my review of their dinner here, (itsnotaboutme.tv/news/dining-94th-aero-squadron-restaurant,) but, as good as that was, their brunch is a whole other animal—it’s the star!!! (Speaking of animals, I heard that the Easter Bunny will be making a appearance.)

I think you might need reservations for Easter, but the personnel there is so pleasant, I’m sure they’d welcome you even if you arrive without them.

Just in case, here’s their website for more info: www.94thvannuys.com

So, whether you take my brunch advice or not, or join me in watching the always-interesting college basketball games, I wish everyone a super Hoppy Easter!

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