It’s time for festive Easter parades, egg hunts, decorating contests, and holiday dinners. New York City is renowned for its colorful offerings: spend the day whatever way you wish, but do be sure to indulge in some fine chocolates. For a non-traditional twist, head to Luv Tea—a serene Manhattan tea house with a Zen garden.
Catch NYC
Hop on over to the trendy Meatpacking District’s Catch NYC to celebrate Easter. Brunch specials, which run from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., include delish dishes such as duck egg ravioli with goat cheese, crispy prosciutto, maitake mushrooms, truffle, and creamy white wine. Those who prefer eggs can indulge in the egg white frittata, which features turkey bacon jam, mixed greens, yukon potatoes, crispy artichokes, and pecorino. Dessert time calls for exotic passion fruit egg mousse made with chocolate hazelnut ganache, chocolate tart, toasted hazelnut, and a decadent gold leaf. Catch NYC’s full a la carte menu will also be available on Easter. For reservations, email canycinfo@catchhg.com. 21 Ninth Ave., 212-392-5978,;catchrestaurants.com
Luv Tea
This year, Easter shares the same date with National Tea Day. Those seeking a fun Easter experience can enjoy an Easter tea at the West Village’s Luv Tea. The serene tea haven boasts a large Zen garden that is ideal for some holiday R&R. A seasonal menu offers Taiwanese oolongs, signature cold drinks, herbal blends, and hot and cold milk teas. Enjoy a cold brew of oolong and green teas blended with fresh fruits and herbs, or opt for a milk tea that’s free from artificial flavorings and unnecessary additives. Those who yearn for a bit of decadence can enjoy a tea service with macarons and other tasty treats prepared by pastry chef Miwa Oizumi. After unwinding at Luv Tea, stroll the picturesque streets of the West Village or the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, which is only a few blocks away. 37A Bedford St., 212-804-7600, luv-tea.com
Li-Lac Chocolates
Li-Lac Chocolates has a 95-year history of handcrafting gourmet, small batch chocolate and confections in Manhattan. The luxe chocolate house traces its history back to 1923 when French-trained George Demetrious unveiled a small shop on Christopher Street. Although the brand is currently helmed by Master Chocolatier Anwar Khoder, it continues to employ the same old-world cooking methods and time-honored recipes. Li-Lac offers an array of Easter treats, which are ideal for stuffing baskets or nibbling as you stuff baskets. Choose from Easter lambs; village bunnies; egg and bunny pops, or vintage chocolate eggs, which mark a favorite Li-Lac tradition that dates back to the early years. Each “egg” is an edible chocolate shell that opens to reveal an assortment of chocolate-filled squares and Easter nonpareils. Fillings include caramel, mousse, marzipan, hazelnut truffle, and chocolate fudge. Each egg is carefully wrapped in colorful foils and tied with festive bows. Li-Lac Chocolates just unveiled its sixth shop at the Shops at Hudson Yards, Level 4, 20 Hudson Yards, 212 924-2280, hudsonyardsnewyork.com/food-drink/li-lac-chocolates. Other Manhattan locations are available.
Neuhaus
Spread a bit of holiday cheer. Gift the special bunnies in your life (or treat yourself) to some premium authentically Belgian chocolates from Neuhaus—a chocolatier that dates back to 1857. A symphony of taste and texture, the luxe chocolates are crafted in Belgium with the finest non-GMO ingredients. This year’s elegant Easter Collection includes the Big Easter Egg (28 pc.), which comes in an oval gift box that is adorned with a pastel floral motif. The specialty box is hand-filled with an assortment of velvety Belgian dark, milk, and white chocolates. It includes a selection of festive foil wrapped chocolate eggs. Among the featured chocolates are its signature pralines and hand-made “Star” pralines. Available at Neuhaus boutiques; neuhauschocolate.com/en/store-locator.htm
Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Decorating Contest at Monarch Rooftop & Indoor Lounge
Easter festivities abound! Saturday, April 20th marks the Annual Easter Egg Hunt and decorating contest at Monarch Rooftop & Indoor Lounge. Located on the 18th floor penthouse, this swanky rooftop lounge offers unbeatable city panoramas. It’s an ideal locale for families and revelers of all ages to enjoy several springtime cocktails, games, and raffle prizes. The event will be held from 12pm to 3pm. In the spirit of giving, proceeds from the sale of cocktails will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC. Egg baskets will be provided for the wee ones—they’re also more than welcome to bring their own. Light fare and soft beverages will be served. Tickets are available at https://addisongroupnyc.com/venues/monarch/. 71 W. 35th St., 18th fl., 212-630-9993, addisongroupnyc.com/venues/monarch/
