Family, friends and food — not necessarily in that order — are among the hallmarks of the holiday season.
There also may be more time to relax and linger over that not-quite-breakfast, not-quite-lunch meal we occasionally enjoy on the weekends.
Throughout the region, there are brunch opportunities for fellowship, picking up some cooking skills, even bird watching and gearing up for a popular “suds” fest (with some bites in between) come the new year.
So head into the noshing season with a hearty appetite and enjoy.
Not just for the birds
The National Aviary on Pittsburgh’s North Side is again offering holiday brunches featuring Atria’s Specialty Catering in the Garden Room.
This year’s final seating is at 11 a.m. Dec. 17 and and tickets include admission to the Aviary’s warm tropical habitats.
Diners can enjoy offerings including whole wheat cinnamon French toast, firecracker chicken and waffles, poached Atlantic salmon, artisan butternut ravioli, barbecue ham, cheesy scrambled eggs, mini potato pancakes and a selection of Potomac Bakery pastries, along with fresh-cut seasonal fruit.
“The National Aviary’s Brunch in the Garden Room is a holiday tradition families can celebrate together, with scrumptious offerings courtesy of Chef Josef Karst of Atria’s,” reads an Aviary statement. “It’s a great way to spend a day with loved ones because you get to enjoy a meal together and then spend the rest of the day walking through immersive habitats.”
Tickets are $55, $35 for those under 12. Beer, wine and cocktails will be available for an extra charge. More info: aviary.org