It’s no wonder that brunch has become the traditional Mother’s Day meal: There’s plenty of time afterward to recover with a cocktail. Hedge your bets on having an enjoyable time by booking reservations at one of the following eateries.
If Mom is a Francophile, this is your best option, short of a flight to Paris. Amid simple but refined décor, this Third Ward eatery serves traditional French bistro fare. The onion soup with gruyere cheese is one of the best versions of the classic dish to be found in the area. A vast selection of patés and wines rounds out the experience. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (316 N. Milwaukee, 414-291-2655, coquettecafe.com)
Old World glamor abounds in the 1920s-era Ambassador Hotel. Envoy is known for its unlimited small-plate menu, but Mother’s Day features a traditional brunch with the requisite stations – meat carving, waffles and omelets. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $25.95 adults, $14.95 for kids 12 and younger. (At the Ambassador Hotel, 2308 W. Wisconsin, 414-345-5015, ambassadormilwaukee.com)
You won’t find a better steak than at Fleming’s. Treat Mom to a three-course brunch and Fleming’s will throw in a $25 dining card for a future visit. This special is available at both the Madison and Brookfield locations. (Brookfield: 15665 W. Bluemound Rd., 262-782-9463, flemingssteakhouse.com/Milwaukee; Madison: 750 N. Midvale Blvd., 608-233-9550)
Il Mito has perfected its blend of breakfast and lunch dishes, plating up heaping helpings of eggs and waffles, breakfast pizzas and gluten-free options for its entrée menu. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6917 W. North, 414-443-1414, ilmito.com)
If Mother is a gardener, brunch by Bartolotta’s at the Boerner Botanical Garden is certain to be a hit. A buffet of epicurean delights is served amid nature’s finest. 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (9400 Boerner, 414-525.5635, boernerbotanicalgardens.org)
If Mom was a wild child or wants to get in touch with her inner biker chick, lead her down the orange carpet to enjoy a buffet brunch. If you’re going with the entire family, there are special kids’ brunch tables. Each guest receives “Mom” temporary tattoos. Depending on the weather, patio dining will be available. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $24.95 per adult, $9.95 children. (At the Harley-Davidson Museum, 400 Canal, 414-287.2778, harley-davidson.com)
This sustainable and organic bi-level spot serves its plated brunch menu for Mother’s Day. All mothers will receive a free plant (tomato, peppers and flowers), tied up with a bow. The great view of the city is an extra treat. Brunch service is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (1818 N. Hubbard, 414-374-8480, rootsmilwaukee.com)
The folks at the Pfister brag that the brunch in the grand ballroom will make your mother “feel like a queen.” If you’re willing to share your throne by treating Mom to the $49 buffet brunch, she’ll get a $25 gift certificate for the Well Spa + Janice Salon. With prices at the Pfister, that might be enough to manicure one hand. But it’s the thought that counts. (424 E. Wisconsin Ave., 414-273-8222, thepfisterhotel.com)
Be a “proud Mary” and take your mother “rollin’ on the river” with a scenic tour of the city. Edelweiss Champagne brunch tours leave at noon from 205 W. Highland and last for two hours. $42 per adult. (1110 N. Old World Third, 414-276.7447, edelweissboats.com)