Beyond the Mother’s Day Brunch

The typical Mother’s Day brunch is an elegant, time-honored tradition. But there is simply no such thing as a typical mom. These women are not only our mothers, but women with distinctive diversions and hobbies all their own.

When it comes time to plan the special day, consider the guest of honor. Whether your mom is a road warrior or a dancer, an equestrian or a fashionista, remember: Mother’s Day is set aside to celebrate her. When you look at your mom in the light of her passions, the opportunities for celebrating her expand to include all types of activities, rather than just the nearest generic banquet facility.

MSN City Guides talked to several hospitality professionals to get the inside scoop on celebrating with seven disparate types of mom: The art-lover, the gardener, the athlete, the outdoor enthusiast, the vegetarian, the dessert connoisseur and even the traditional brunch-lovin’ mom.

Even if you don’t live near one of these spots, the goal here is to help you brainstorm and bust out of that Mother’s Day rut.

Still life with brunch
The Mother’s Day celebration in the Garden Restaurant at the Art Institute of Chicago began in 2004 as a response to guest requests. It was an “instant hit” that has grown ever since, according to Juan Milian, the dining room’s general manager: “We know our guests can go anywhere in the city, but many of them come here to celebrate Mother’s Day and we are honored to have them.”

With a menu designed by Executive Chef Brian Williams that highlights the flavors of the season, the Garden Restaurant begins to seat guests at 11:30 a.m., 90 minutes after the museum opens its doors. Patrons then have the option to take in the galleries before or after brunch.

“Many of our Mother’s Day guests came here when their children were little,” says Milian. “One mother told me she used to bring her daughter years ago and now the daughter brought her back for Mother’s Day.” Whether your mom is an aficionado or amateur appreciator, a trip to a local museum is an artful way to spend the day.