It’s the season of gathering and good cheer—what better way to celebrate than with a holiday brunch that highlights the best of Niagara? With Antipastos’ premium offerings and fresh local ingredients, you can create a spread that’s sure to be the highlight of the season for your guests. We’ll give you the breakdown of what you need to make your holiday brunch easy and stress-free.
Your Holiday Brunch Planning Checklist
Hosting a memorable holiday brunch requires a little preparation, but with a few key steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating an event your guests will remember. Here’s your pre-brunch checklist to get started:
Set a Date & Time: Choose a time that works for most of your guests. Whether it’s a late morning event or an early afternoon affair, setting the date and time early ensures your guests can plan accordingly.
Send Invitations & Collect RSVPs: Whether through email or a beautifully designed invitation, make sure your guests know when and where to gather. There are plenty of great websites to help you craft beautiful invites (many free or for a small fee) to streamline the process. Don’t forget to follow up for RSVPs so you know exactly how many to expect!
Create a Relaxed Atmosphere: It’s all about setting the festive mood! Plan your table setup with festive linens, elegant tableware, and seasonal centerpieces. Don’t forget the small details like napkins, place cards, and a few candles to enhance the ambiance. At Antipastos, we offer a selection of beautiful tableware options to help you create the perfect look.
Plan for Seating & Flow: Make sure there’s enough seating for everyone to be comfortable. Arrange your tables to allow guests to mingle, but also consider how the buffet or food station will flow so everyone can serve themselves with ease.
Consider Special Dietary Needs: Check with your guests if anyone has dietary restrictions or preferences. A well-rounded spread will accommodate everyone’s needs, from vegetarian options to gluten-free choices—both of which we happily offer!
Get Your Beverages Ready: A good holiday brunch isn’t complete without a few drink options. Plan for both non-alcoholic beverages, like sparkling water and fresh juices, and something a little stronger, such as a festive cocktail or local wine.
Your Antipastos Holiday Brunch Menu
Now, it’s time for the highlight of your brunch — the menu! We’ve put together a few ideas that blend our delicious, authentic offerings at Antipastos with the fresh, local flavours of our home, Niagara, ensuring your spread will be both memorable and satisfying.
Build the Perfect Charcuterie Board: Start your brunch with an eye-catching charcuterie board featuring Antipastos’ finest selection of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated olives. Add some pickled vegetables or a loaf of our fresh focaccia for the perfect Italian-inspired starter. Looking for a stress-free option? Call us or order online from our catering menu to have us design the perfect charcuterie board for you!
Seasonal Salads and Pasta: Incorporate fresh produce from the St. Catharines Farmers Market to create colourful salads that celebrate the flavours of winter — think roasted squash, kale, and pomegranate seeds with a balsamic drizzle. For a heartier option, whip up a baked pasta dish like lasagna using Antipastos’ various noodles and house-made sauces.
A Sweet Finish: No holiday brunch is complete without a touch of sweetness. Treat your guests to traditional Italian panettone and Baci chocolates, or head over to our dessert counter for endless options of fan favourites like cannoli, biscotti, squares, or a decadent lava cake. These desserts make for the perfect post-brunch indulgence.
Don’t Forget the Drinks! No brunch is complete without a toast! Grab sparkling wine from a local Niagara winery — the region’s crisp, bubbly options are perfect for mimosas or sipping on their own.
Gift Giving Made Easy
Looking for the perfect holiday gift to give your guests? Give the gift of gourmet with one of our gift baskets! Filled with handpicked delights, from artisanal jams to specialty pasta and premium olive oils, we offer a wild selection that is sure to bring joy to every guest on your list.
Celebrate Local, Celebrate Together
And that’s it! With this checklist and menu in mind, let Antipastos and Niagara’s local bounty inspire your gatherings this holiday season. By combining our high-quality offerings with fresh finds from Niagara, you’ll host a brunch that’s as memorable as the season itself.
Happy holidays from all of us at Antipastos! 🎄
