| There's nothing quite like a mother's home-cooked meal to cure what ails you. Too bad you can't return the favor. Remember last year, when you served Ma burnt toast and soggy eggs on Mother's Day? Why not surprise her with a bountiful brunch and creative cocktails at one of these restaurants instead. Just remember to eat your vegetables, chew with your mouth closed and, most important, make reservations!
Bowl mom over at 10pin Bowling Lounge
Seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; $36 per person
10pin's Brunch and Bowl comes with two hours of bowling, shoe rental and a brunch buffet. The family-friendly foods include vanilla ice cream-battered French toast (stuffed with Bailey's cream cheese!), mac and cheese and mini cheeseburgers. After dessert, let mom kick back with one of 10pin's Mom-tinis. Hah! Get it?
Make it a Mexican-style brunch at Adobo Grill locations
11 a.m.- 3 p.m.; $21.95 for adults and $10.99 for children 10 and under at Adobo Grill (Wicker Park) and Adobo Grill (Old Town); $17.99 for adults and $10.99 for children 10 and under at Adobo Grill (Lombard)
The brunch buffets at each Adobo locale feature items that add a zesty twist to traditional breakfast eats. In Wicker Park, sample items like smoked salmon with panela cheese, blue corn cakes with eggs over-easy, shrimp ceviche and chicken tamales; in Old Town, brunch eats include tostados topped with chicken and habanero salsa, and masa pastries topped with homemade chorizo or plantain and mole. Lombard will offer similar breakfast fare, and all three locales will dish out special entrees in honor of Mom. Regular dinner hours apply.
Nab free chocolate at Ai Sushi Lounge
5-11:30 p.m.; menu prices
With a purchase of at least $10 per table—which is easy to do here, as the specialty maki clocks in at just under $15—moms will get a free box of French-Asian chocolates. The River North sushi spot's regular menu and the all-you-care-to-eat menu ($31.95 per person) will be available all day.
Get a bottle of wine at an unbelievable price at Amphora
Noon-9 p.m.; specials start at $9.99
Where else can you score a bottle of Chardonnay for $9.99? That's just about as cheap as cooking dinner for Ma at home and serving a bottle of Yellow Tail. On top of the deal on wine, this Middle Eastern restaurant will offer a slew of $9.99 dinner specials, $4 bloody marys and $6 Bella Donna martinis.
Celebrate in style at aria
Lunch from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., dinner from 5:30-10 p.m.; regular menu with three special dishes from $12-$29
In addition to its usual menu, this globally-inspired restaurant will be offering three new dishes to honor Mom. There's the salad of port wine-braised pears with mixed greens, shaved prosciutto and balsamic drizzle ($14); grilled escolar with sauteed spring asparagus, baby morels and currant tomatoes ($29); and a distinctive spin on strawberry cheesecake that pairs strawberry sorbet with cream cheese and graham cracker ice creams ($12).
Indulge in bloody mary and mimosa flights at Bin 36
10 a.m.-3 p.m., $40 for adults, $19 for kids under 12
Bin 36's brunch buffet will stock seasonal items like blueberry ricotta pancakes, sliced prosciutto with melon, eggs benedict with Canadian bacon or peekey toe crab meat, and more. The restaurant also slings bloody mary and mimosa flights for an additional $12. Kids can play along with juice and milk flights for $3.50. And to make Mama feel just a little more special, she'll be sent home with a complimentary box of homemade chocolate truffles. Reservations are required.
More bloody flights at Bin Wine Cafe
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; prices vary
Just like its sister restaurant Bin 36, Wicker Park's Bin Wine Cafe will have a special Mother's Day brunch, drink flights for the adults and kids, and a complimentary box of chocolates for the most important lady in your life.
Score some seafood at Birch River Grill
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $32.95 for adults, $14.95 for kids 12 and under (free for 5 and under)
If Mom likes her eggs with a side of oysters and mussels (and why wouldn't she?!) take her to this suburban contemporary American spot. Its buffet includes seafood, omelet, waffle and dessert stations, as well as items like pesto salmon and chicken piccata. For an additional $8.95, adults can indulge in a bloody mary bar stocked with fresh asparagus, peppers and more.
Keep it classy at Blue Water Grill
11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; prices vary for special brunch and dinner menu items
Treat Mom to some fancy fare at this trendy River North restaurant. Choose from dishes like lobster frittata, with baby artichokes and prosciutto; and a tea-smoked salmon omelet, with American caviar and creme fraiche. Dinner patrons have their pick of items like grilled diver scallops with morels, potato gnocchi and asparagus; and roasted prime Midwestern rib eye, with crispy potato galette, spring pea and pearl onion ragout.
Bonne journee with Mom at Brasserie Jo
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; prices vary
This Francophile-friendly restaurant will serve traditional French brunch fare on its special a la carte menu, with options like baked brie ($7.95), escargot ($8.95) and steak with bordelaise butter and pomme frites ($19.95). It will also have a kids' menu, with all items costing $7. Desserts abound, with creme brulee, chocolate mousse and homemade ice creams and sorbets for the taking.
Tapas for mamas at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; brunch items from $4-$7
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba will again host its annual Tapas for Mamas brunch celebration. And it's not just a fun name. Moms will score some delish tapa-sized treats, like waffles, baked eggs with chorizo hash and scrambled eggs with dry-aged goat cheese ($4.25). Top it off with a tipple from the build-your-own bloody mary bar or choose from a variety of bubbly cava cocktails.
Give Mom four courses at Cafe Matou
1 p.m.-close; $43 per person
Sit back and let Chef Charlie Socher do the cooking. He'll be whipping up a four-course prix-fixe menu, with seasonal spring dishes like mussels and linguine with a fresh-herb cream sauce and roast prime rib with grilled mushrooms. Appropriately, the meal will end with something very sweet—just like your mom. Diners can choose between the pineapple sorbet with fresh berries and the flourless chocolate cake roll with toasted almonds. The regular menu will also available.
Bon appetit at Carlos'
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:30-8 p.m.; $42.50 per person for lunch, $100 for dinner
If your mom lives on the North Shore, take her to this highly regarded (we're talking four stars, kudos from Zagats and the like), contemporary French restaurant in Highland Park. Chef Ramiro Velasquez will be preparing a special degustation menu to celebrate Mother's Day.
Mama mia! Have an Italian brunch at Carlucci (Downers Grove)
11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; brunch menu items from $10-$17
If Mom has a taste for Italian, make her happy with a trip to west suburban Carlucci's. Instead of the traditional brunch offerings, this Downers Grove establishment's special brunch menu includes Italian favorites, like spaghetti alla carbonara ($11) and spinach lasagna ($10). Carlucci's is also serving a variety of egg tortas in a pastry crust, and heartier options like tilapia and roasted leg of lamb. Whatever your choice, pair it with one of the restaurant's many Italian wines. The regular dinner menu will also be available.
Be entertained while you eat at Carnivale
Noon-9 p.m.; regular menu with special dishes ($7-$24)
From 5:30-8 p.m., jazz vocalist Margaret Murphy will provide live entertainment to Mother's Day diners at Carnivale. In addition to the regular menu, the Latino-flavored restaurant will have the following specials: organic egg baked with chorizo, potatoes and cheese ($12), flank steak braised with garlic, onions and tomatoes with rice and plantains ($24), strawberry colada ($9) and chocolate tres leches ($7).
Play a round post-meal at Chandler's Chophouse & Grille
Noon-9 p.m.; menu prices (all items cost less than $23.99)
Let mom work on her handicap before or after lunch by taking her to this steakhouse at the Schaumburg Golf Club. The restaurant will start serving its full dinner menu at noon, along with specials like sirloin steak served with a five-ounce lobster tail, 12-ounce prime rib and a sole fillet stuffed with crab. Bring the little ones along; they'll get their pick of mozz sticks, mac and cheese and mini cheeseburgers, costing $3.99 each.
Make it a breezy brunch at Chaise Lounge
11 a.m.-close; $25
If Mom always wanted to spend retirement in Miami, take her to Chaise, where she can get a taste of the beach life for an afternoon. The restaurant's new chef, Cary Taylor, will whip up a three-course seasonal prix-fixe, which includes a soup or salad, entree and dessert. Main course options include a roasted lamb loin with apricot compote, salmon with purple cauliflower, roasted chicken with patty pan squash and asparagus, and quiche. The staff will hand out roses to all moms.
Moms eat and drink cheap at Citizen Bar
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $20 per person, $10 for moms
On Mother's Day, mamas can enjoy Citizen's weekly mimosa brunch for half the price. It comes with an entree from the brunch menu, fruit, potatoes and bottomless mimosas (well, technically only up to three—but that's got to get a nice buzz going for Ma). Entree choices include steak and eggs, amaretto French toast and a frittata station.
Show her how much you care and dim sum at David Burke's Primehouse
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $35 for adults, $16 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids 5 and under
This brunch features Chinese dim sum with an American twist. Diners will be treated to a rolling cart buffet of more than 25 dishes, like oatmeal creme brulee, sesame crab balls and steak au poivre. For the kids, there'll be mac and cheese, fried chicken drumsticks and mini sundaes. Every mom will be treated to a fortune doughnut with a chance to win prizes, including a massage from The Spa, a one-night stay at The James Hotel and a $100 gift certificate to Bloomingdale's.
Park for free at Dine
9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-close (for regular dinner menu); $39, $14.95 for kids 12 and under
If Ma's mad for maki, take her to this unlikely sushi fan-friendly spot. Sure, Dine is known for its dressed-up comfort food, but it'll also stock a fall raw bar for Mother's Day, along with offering an omelet station, standard breakfast fare, homemade desserts and entrees like meatloaf, chicken Wellington and roasted veggie pasta salad. Come later for dinner if Mom's not into eggs, but whenever you stop in, feel free to bring the kids and the car: Dine has a parking lot and will serve some tot-friendly fare.
Do it right at Deleece
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; menu prices
Show Mom you really know the city's hidden gems by taking her to one of the best brunch bets around. On top of its usual breakfast menu, Deleece will dish out special entrees like a lobster, bacon and spinach quiche; asparagus and parmesan frittata; and chocolate marble waffles. Prices range from $10 to $16, and every mom will get an edible flower garnish on her plate.
Have some cheesy eggs at Entourage on American Lane
9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $36.95, $15.95 for children 6-12; free for kids five and under
We've heard of few tastier-sounding breakfast items than Entourage's mascarpone-whipped scrambled eggs with chives. It's just one of the special items offered at the buffet, which also includes pastries, eggs Benedict, pasta Bolognese, peel-and-eat-shrimp, oysters and Kobe beef. For a sweeter start to the day, go for the cinnamon apple and spice pecan French toast.
Treat mom to fine dining in the 'burbs at Gabriel's
Starting at 4 p.m.; a la carte menu
Typically closed on Sunday, Gabriel's will open its doors May 11 to help families celebrate Mother's Day. The renowned French and Italian cuisine at this Highwood restaurant will be available as a special a la carte menu. Reservations are required.
Gaze into the Chicago River at Great Street Restaurant
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; $54 for adults, $20 for children 7-13
Take Mom to the Renaissance Chicago hotel, where she gets to pick from seven different brunch stations. The casual American eatery overlooks the Chicago River, giving Ma something to gaze at while she noshes on everything from truffle hash browns, dim sum and sushi to eggs "her way" and 25 desserts.
Pamper mom at the Ritz Carlton Chicago's Greenhouse
Seatings at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.; $90 for adults, $25 for kids 5-12
Enjoy a relaxing brunch in the atrium-like setting of the Greenhouse. The Alison Ruble Jazz Trio will provide entertainment, as guests feast on items like the fresh stone crab claws, garlic- and herb-crusted rib eye, and pepper-glazed chicken. The meal will include fresh fruit, omelet and artisan cheese stations. Every mom will be eligible to win a Ritz Carlton "Girls Will Be Girls" package, which includes deluxe accommodations, chick flicks and makeovers.
So fresh and so green at Green Zebra
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; prices vary
This vegetarian-focused restaurant allows families to meet up without the meat this Mother's Day. The brunch menu sports dishes like baked cheese fondue with Granny Smith apples and sourdough bread, and caramelized banana crepes with ricotta and Wisconsin honey. To wash it all down, choose from special non-alcoholic beverages, like pink-peppercorn thyme soda ($5), or a good morning cocktail, like Buck's Fizz with blood orange and cava ($12).
Swing for the fences at Harry Caray's
4-10 p.m.; $69.95 with wine pairings ($49.95 without wine pairings)
Celebrate Mother's Day with a four-course prix-fixe meal at Harry Caray's. After starting off with tomato basil bisque and smoked salmon bruschetta, guests will have to choose between the roasted duck over sweet potato puree and the potato-crusted Pacific king salmon. All mothers score a complimentary chocolate-covered strawberry, but if that's not enough to sate her sweet tooth, order the special pine nut torta with prune-apricot compote.
Hit a home run with champagne brunches at suburban Harry Caray's
10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 35.95 for adults, $18.95 for kids 6-12 at Harry Caray's (Rosemont)
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $39.95 for adults, $18.95 for kids 6-12 at Harry Caray's (Lombard)
Both outposts of Harry Caray's will be putting on special champagne brunches. Guests can visit breakfast stations for fresh omelets and Belgian waffles and carving stations for a variety of meats. There will also be lots of entrees, soups and salads, as well as kids' favorites and desserts.
Spice it up at Heaven on Seven (Magnificent Mile) and Heaven on Seven (Naperville)
10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Mag Mile); 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (Naperville); menu prices
Heaven on Seven's Cajun cooking sets this Mother's Day brunch apart from the pack. Signature dishes, like bananas foster French toast and Creole eggs benedict, will be among the a la carte choices. Have Mama knock back a few of the zesty New Orleans-inspired bloody marys while she relaxes to the live music.
Do a good deed by taking her to Karma
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $26.95 for adults; free for kids 5 and under
If Mom likes to indulge in a bit of bubbly, take her to this brunch buffet where she'll get a glass for free. Other highlights include cheese blintzes, assorted seafood and an omelet station, as well as Asian-accented eats like pot stickers, Thai ginger salmon and orange tempura chicken.
Don't be a drag. Take mom to Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29.95 per person
If your mom's got an open mind and a penchant for campy entertainment, Kit Kat's your spot. Diva Madame X will provide live entertainment while diners enjoy free-flowing mimosas and a four-course prix-fixe meal. Entree choices include huevos rancheros, steak and eggs, peaches and cream French toast, and crab cake benedict.
Indulge in an Asian lunch at Le Lan
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; $45 per person
Le Lan will offer a three-course French-Asian prix-fixe lunch, kicked off with Thai coconut soup, asparagus and frisee salad, or wild mushroom and chicken dumplings. Main course options include Asian bouillabaisse, Korean short ribs and seared diver scallops. For dessert, Mom can suck down tapioca bubble tea or opt for the super-sweet chocolate mousse.
Mull over your options at Le Titi de Paris
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 3-9 p.m.; $40-$46 per person
Do you want an appetizer, sorbet or salad with your three-course lunch? Or, how about four-courses with an appetizer and salad? For just a slight difference in cost, Le Titi de Paris in Arlington Heights is making both lunch and dinner available as either three- or four-course meals. Choices include Maine lobster bisque, Michael's Mother's Day salad (greens, carrots, green beans, hearts of palm), seared New Zealand venison and grilled tenderloin of beef.
Play favorites at Lockwood
11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; $65 for adults, $25 for kids under 12, free for kids under 5
Take a trip to Palmer House Hilton's newest addition for a decadent Mother's Day brunch. After sipping your complimentary glass of champagne, bloody mary or mimosa, hit the buffet-style spread for an assortment of fruits, cheeses, breads and hearty dishes, like chilled shrimp and crab claw cocktail, truffled chicken fricassee and carved prime rib.
Try your luck at Lux Bar
9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $24.50 for adults, $14.95 for kids under 10
Luxbar is putting on a traditional brunch at a reasonable price. The spread will include egg and omelet stations, a carving station with turkey and ham, and plenty of breakfast and pastry delights. It will also dish out grilled cheese and chicken fingers for the little ones.
Try Indian brunch eats at Marigold
Noon-8 p.m.; price of special platter yet to be determined
Mom has got to be sick of the same old pancakes and eggs for breakfast, right? Why not let her sample some traditional Indian brunch fare at this elegant spot. The special Thali platter will feature an array of eats, though Marigold's regular menu will also be available. Moms will also get a gratis mango mimosa to wash it all down.
Treat her to a seafood-inspired brunch at McCormick & Schmick's (Gold Coast) and McCormick & Schmick's (Loop)
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $41 for adults
If Mom's a seafood lover, then McCormick and Schmick's will really win her love. The brunch buffet incorporates seafood into the mix with bay shrimp as one of the ingredient options at the made-to-order omelet station. Other dishes include smoked salmon with mixed greens, and more traditional brunch fare like buttermilk waffles with seasonal fruit.
Have a mighty good time at Mity Nice Grill
10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $13.95 a la carte brunch items
Shoot! Forgot to get Mom a gift this year? No worries; stop by one of the shops at Water Tower before hitting up Mity Nice in the upscale food court. Its a la carte brunch lets diners choose from options like wild blueberry pancakes, artichoke eggs benedict, smoked salmon and steak and eggs ($13.95 each). Round out the meal with trips to the fresh juice and pastry bars, which will offer sweet treats like the blueberry-pomegranate smoothies, raspberry scones and chocolate chip coffee cake.
Make your own bloody marys at Mon Ami Gabi
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; brunch items from $10-$13
Let Mom start her day of right by visiting Mon Ami Gabi's bloody mary bar, which will feature seven top-shelf vodkas, 10 different hot sauces and jalapeno-stuffed olives. Both the Chicago and Oak Brook locations will sling special dishes, like vanilla French toast ($11), smoked salmon quiche ($12) and shrimp and scallop crepes ($12). The restaurant's regular menu will also be available.
Find a special that suits you at Morretti's
11 a.m.-close; $9.99-$13.99 and up for specials
Moretti's in Edison Park and Schaumburg will celebrate Mother's Day by offering distinctively different specials, in addition to its standard family-friendly fare. In Edison Park, Mom can choose the special crab cake for an app and then head onto the crab-stuffed shrimp or chicken topped with Italian sausage and peppers. Schaumburg's offerings include cod stuffed with crab and a surf-and-turf dish of filet and shrimp scampi.
Please a red meat-lovin' mama at Morton's of Chicago (Naperville)
1-9 p.m.; $59
Provided your mom’s not a vegetarian, Morton's may be the perfect locale for her special meal. The three-course prix-fixe menu includes two options for a salad, six entree choices (from filet to salmon to chicken) and either cheesecake of chocolate cake for dessert.
Treat mom to Irish eats at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $19.95 for adults, $9.95 for kids
If you can't afford to fly Mom to the Emerald Isle, go Irish by heading to this traditional breakfast, with items like bangers, beans and black pudding. The buffet will also include an omelet station, a meat carving station and a chocolate fountain. Say "Slainte!" to mom when you toast with a variety of champagne-based drinks (not included in price).
Make a beeline for the buffet at O'Donovan's
10 a.m.-3 p.m. (with seatings at 10 or 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.); $15.95 for adults, $7.95 children under 11
O'Donovan's legendary brunch buffet is packed on any-old Sunday, so it's no surprise that its Mother's Day all-you-can-eat spread requires a reservation. On top of its usual quality breakfast fare and sloppy joes (we're not kidding), the casual bar and eatery will serve up a handful of specials, like grilled tilapia, mini quiche, lox and bagels and a carving station. Have Mom wash it all down with a $5 m-m-Mimosa, $7 double mimosa, $6.50 Effen Fat Marys (with a beer chaser and skewer of snacks) or a super-size screwdriver. Bottles of champagne or buckets of Korbel splits will also be available.
Put Mom up for a night at Pheasant Run Resort and Spa
9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; $37.95 for adults, $12.95 for children 5-12
If your mom's the kind of lady who likes to make decisions, take her to this brunch with more than 100 items. While you're trying to choose between eggs or pancakes, a jazz trio will set the ambiance. Keep an eye out for a professional photographer, who will snap a photo of your fam to purchase ($15 to $40). If Mom seems like she needs a getaway, why not book her a room at the resort? Packages start at $159 and include tickets to the brunch, access to an indoor and outdoor pool and a gift and rose.
Toast mom with some bubbly at Pops for Champagne
3 p.m.-2 a.m. on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11; Special glasses of champagne from $18-$20
This River North establishment will celebrate Mother's Day weekend by offering the Mothers of Champagne special, which offers few premium bubblies at a discount. Glasses include Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin ($20), Louise Pommery ($20) and Camille Olry-Roederer ($18). The champagne should pair perfectly with executive chef Andrew Brochu's progressive American cuisine.
Celebrate a day early with a Japanese tea ceremony at Ra Sushi (Gold Coast) and Ra Sushi (Glenview)
1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 10; $25 package (serves two people)
This posh sushi restaurant is celebrating Mother's Day a day early with a non-traditional Japanese tea ceremony at both locales. A $25 package for two includes Ra's signature Zen Mojito with Zen Green Tea Liquor and a two-tier serving platter with pineapple-cheese wontons, spinach gyozas, Viva Las Vegas rolls and California spicy tuna rolls.
Try a seasonal cocktail at Room 21
Noon-6 p.m.; brunch items from $9-$15
Mother's Day kicks off the Sunday brunch season at Room 21. If weather permits, diners can take advantage of the garden seating area. The menu will feature nine items, including scrambled eggs and toast, grilled chicken Caesar salad and a crab cake sandwich. Try a seasonal cocktail off the new spring-summer menu, with drinks like the white-peach mint julep ($12) and pomegranate mojito ($13).
Take a dip in chocolate at Sam Houston's Charhouse
9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $27.99, $11.99 children ages 3-10
If you sometimes wonder if Mom's love for chocolate runs deeper than her affection for you (can't be true!), take her to this Bartlett steakhouse. It'll cap off its brunch with a chocolate fountain, complete with fresh fruit, marshmallows and other goodies for dunking, and a table stocked with sweets. The all-you-can-eat noshes include eggs benedict, prime rib, lox and bagels, and peel-and-eat shrimp.
Give her a gift and some grub at Shaw's Crab House and Shaw's Crab House (Schaumburg)
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $49.99 for adults, $19.99 for kids
All moms attending this seafood-heavy brunch will get a flower and a $25 gift certificate to the restaurant. Meal highlights include traditional breakfast fare and seafood favorites like fried shrimp, Alaskan king crab legs and lobster-brie pasta. To keep the freebies coming, mom will also be treated to a gratis mimosa.
Moms eat free at Silver Cloud
10 a.m.-midnight; regular brunch prices, but moms eat free
If you're a looking for a cheap date this Mother's Day, try Silver Cloud. Whether you go for brunch, lunch or dinner, moms eat free all day long. Silver Cloud's regular menu, with choices like blueberry pancakes ($5.95), stuffed turkey sandwich ($7.95) and grandma's meatloaf ($9.95), will be available. Don't forget to pair your meal with a delicious bloody mary or a decadent S'more-tini.
Compare her beauty to the skyline at Sixteen
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $110 for adults, $25 for kids 10 and under, free for kids under 4
Impress your ma with a trip to Sixteen, a swank spot on the 16th-floor of Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago. The upscale affair will feature a buffet of soups, salads, raw bar items, breakfast foods, carving stations and desserts. And don't forget, you'll be dining amidst breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River and the Wrigley Clock Tower. Reservations are required.
Make her the center of attention at Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $95 for adults, $35 for kids
A champagne toast and a flower for every mom will start things off on the right note in Sofitel's grand ballroom, where a pianist will set the mood. From seafood and sushi stations to omelet and crepe offerings, this brunch has it all...including a balloon artist. Ask nicely, and maybe he'll make Mom a balloon-rose.
Get Mom fired up at Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue (Elk Grove Village)
11 a.m. and 1 p.m. seatings; $26.95 for adults; $14.95 for kids 8-12, $6.95 for kids 4-7
Don't want to hassle with firing up some coals at home? If Mom's got a hankering for 'cue, take her to this buffet brunch, with traditional breakfast items (think French toast and eggs Benedict), as well as BBQ ribs and a carving station with brisket, smoked pork and turkey. Take a trip to the bloody mary bar for $7.99 more.
Liven it up with a trip to SushiSamba Rio
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $35 for adults, $15 for kids
A Brazilian jazz band while provide some toe-tapping background music, as visitors dig in to a special family-style brunch that incorporates Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavors. Guests can chooses up to three dishes from the sweet and savory menu, which includes shrimp frittata, snow crab benedict, fire-roasted petite filet mignon and doughnut pancakes.
Take advantage of a freebie at Tsuki Japanese Restaurant & Lounge
5-11 p.m.; moms eat free
Tsuki will pick up Mom's tab this Mother's Day. The Japanese restaurant and lounge is giving all mothers a serving of signature maki and dessert, along with some sparkling sake, for nada. Its regular menu will be available.
Go for brunch or dinner at Va Pensiero
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-close; $40 for adults, $15 for kids
Evanston's Va Pensiero is catering to both early- and late-risers with a special brunch and supper. The restaurant's three-course prix-fixe brunch promises to be a little bit of breakfast, a little bit of lunch and a whole lot of Italian. For those who can't climb out of bed before 2:30 (geez, people!), a dinner menu will be available starting at 5 p.m.
Make it fancy fare at Viand
11 a.m.-7 p.m.; $24 for adults, $10 for kids 12 and under
Mom will enjoy spending her special day at Viand, with its whimsical American cuisine and Art Deco-inspired dining room. The three-course meal will come with choices like an antipasto buffet, stuffed pork loin with wild mushrooms and aged Wisconsin cheese, as well as a family pie sampler with six different kinds of pie! Just be sure you tell mom her pie is better.
Get it shaken, not stirred, at Viet Bistro and Lounge
Noon-3 p.m. or 5-10:30 p.m.; $39
If Mom likes a dirty martini with dinner, she'll appreciate you taking her to this contemporary Vietnamese spot. All moms get a free martini and dessert, and a free appetizer if your spring for a bottle of wine, too. (Come on, she deserves it!) The deals go on to include half-off select wine bottles and $5 select martinis. The four-course special tasting menu allows patron to pick from an appetizer, soup or salad, entree and dessert.
Make it a day to remember at Zest
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $49.50 for adults, $20 for kids 12 and younger
Located in the Intercontinental Chicago, Zest is putting on an impressive Mother's Day brunch with an array of breakfast eats, savory dishes and sweets. There'll be stations for omelets and waffles and a carving station for prime rib and leg of lamb. Cap the meal off with a variety of pastries and fresh fruit.
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