OK, moms, let’s face it: when it comes to vacations, you take the lead even on Mother’s Day. This is usually the case for different reasons (1) You celebrate your own mother while your children celebrate you (2) You like to take control (3) You really have no choice but to take control.
Whatever the reasons, we’ve rounded up recommendations for 10 local restaurants that are sure to meet every different mom’s cravings. Does your partner take care of the restaurant reservation? Then just pass that article on its way.
Enclave Cafe is a great restaurant for the conscious mom. The restaurant — which has locations in Scripps Ranch, La Jolla and Del Mar — is on a mission to put the “fun” into functional foods and bring delicious, nutrient-dense foods endorsed by functional medicine physicians to the south from California. Led by Chef Lan Thai, Enclave Café’s varied menus are consciously selected to include medicinal ingredients sourced from Enclave’s 19-acre regenerative farm in Bonsall. Customers can expect meals loaded with antioxidants and rich nutrients to support overall health by increasing circulation, improving gut health and boosting immunity.
Tip: Times vary from place to place, so be sure to check them online before you travel!
For moms wanting something classy, head to Lionfish at the Pendray San Diego Hotel downtown. Guests can expect the debut of La Papillote, made with steamed halibut, lobster beurre blanc, heirloom tomatoes, asparagus, dill and fennel. Guests can also expect “fresh catches” such as charcoal-grilled Baja striped bass and spaghetti lobster, sushi and sashimi or oysters. Reservations are recommended and can be made on OpenTable here.
Tip: Be sure to order the Kampachi Crudo to start and share!
Harrah’s Resort Southern California
Moms who want to have fun (or want to earn a few extra bucks) can head to Harrah’s Resort. Enjoy some time at the casino, then head to Coffee where you can taste a fillet tournedos accompanied by mashed sweet potatoes and asparagus and topped with a Béarnaise sauce. Guests can also try Fiorethe establishment’s classic steakhouse, or ‘Ritas Cantina for a little spice!
Tip: Make it a fun weekend by booking a hotel room. You will enjoy a break from the grind while floating in the lazy river.
Head to the iconic Hotel del Coronado for a meal at Serẽa Coastal Cuisine where you can indulge in a daily selection of Mediterranean-inspired oysters, sashimi, and appetizers, among other fresh dishes. Reservations are recommended and can be made on OpenTable here.
Tip: Be sure to call ahead and make reservations as soon as possible for outdoor seating on the two-tier terrace for dinner and epic sunsets.
Are you looking for a relaxed and fun environment for the whole family? Try Local Roots’ new Boochyard in Vista where there’s plenty of room to relax and play. Serving Mothers and Families from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mother’s Day, patrons can expect a free dessert for all matriarchs with an entrée purchase. Mothers will also get 25% off all on-the-go kombucha. Even better than all that? The Boochyard is hosting a Can-for-a-Cause with proceeds going to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. This is something mothers could be proud of!
Tip: Vegetarian dumplings with Buddha sauce are a must!
Show mom your gratitude by treating her to a memorable plant-based brunch at Café Gratitude. Executive Chef Dreux has planned the ultimate brunch with oatmeal Belgian waffles and berries, shiitake mushroom toast, smashed avocado toast, chilaquiles, and more. A special Mother’s Day dessert is also planned: the “You Are Appreciated” Strawberry Cheesecake ($12) made with a raw cocoa pecan crust, cashew whipped cream, strawberry raspberry reduction and micro-flowers.
Tip: Try the chicken and waffles for something really delicious.
Treat your mom to an Asian-inspired feast with Animae where chef Tara Monsod has planned a special brunch. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests can feast on a four-course meal featuring dishes such as poached shrimp with papaya, herbs and lime salt, chicken congee with chicken confit, ginger , garlic and garlic chives, soft and moist steamed buns. with mushrooms, tofu and vegetables or delicious crab cakes with kimchi tartar sauce, pickled mustard seeds, frisee and mustard greens. Finish the brunch with the sweet strawberry roll cake with fresh strawberry, pearls and strawberry diplomat. Make a reservation through open table.
Tip: Valet your car to avoid the stress of parking.
Ready for a day of outdoor fun at the beach? Belmont Park is in full bloom this Mother’s Day! Spend the day in Belmont Park and enjoy vibrant artwork, delicacies, a flower truck, and live entertainment. Stop by the flower truck on Sunday May 8 where there will be flowers for moms all day. Treat mum to a specialty spring cocktail at one of the boardwalk restaurants, Cannonball, beach house or Draft. Enjoy live music in the food court from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tip: bring sunscreen!
Every mom deserves a European vacation, but if you don’t have a trip planned, this restaurant in Leucadia brings Europe to you. Treat mom to brunch at Valentina where you’ll find signature dishes such as Paella de Mariscos made with saffron Spanish rice, chorizo and a mix of seafood and the Mother’s Day special, a Benedictine with Spanish-influenced crab. Dishes can be paired with the restaurant’s extensive list of natural and bubbly wines, sourced from producers ranging from the mountains of Napa Valley to the hills of the Rhone. If brunch isn’t for you, Valentina also offers Mother’s Day dinner.
Tip: The restaurant has crayons for the kids, so bring a coloring book, which will give you more time for a glass of wine.
Treat mom to brunch, bubbles and relaxation for Mother’s Day at the Lakehouse Hotel & Resort. Book the “Mom’s Weekend Retreat” package, which includes a flight of mimosa delivered to the room, a complimentary ticket to Mother’s Day brunch, and waived resort fees. Brunch bites include assorted mini pastries, fresh fruit, egg and omelet station, buttermilk pancake station and more. After brunch, enjoy live music and lawn games on the Lakeside Lawn to end a great Mother’s Day.
Tip: Make a day of it and book a paddle boat or pontoon boat at Lake San Marcos Marina for before or after brunch!
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San Diego Moms is published every Saturday. Do you have a story idea? E-mail [email protected] and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.
