Mother’s Day BRUNCH

Every year as Mother’s Day approaches, I feel the impending doom that I am not doing enough for my mom on her special day. Gifts often seem mediocre, no matter how extravagant they may be. The one thing I am sure of is that a good meal provides the perfect way to start (or end) the day. Whether your mom enjoys breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner – the day is likely to book up quickly, so make your reservations (or start planning your meal) before it’s too late!

  My mom is simple. She enjoys healthy, local food preferably with large quantities of vegetables. (Although I’d prefer a steak, it’s her day.) My mom is a runner and avid CrossFitter. She also works locally as a registered nurse. She enjoys her eggs every morning, and salads every evening. On the very rare occasion she goes out for a meal, she will usually pick Thai food. My recommendations for her are always Raan Thai in Smithtown and Sawadee Thai in East Northport. Although my mom may be the exception to the rule, I am sure there are plenty of moms out there who enjoy a healthy meal as well. My favorite, local healthier spots include, but are not limited to Lota Veco, The Purple Elephant, Tula Kitchen, Rustic Root, and Tiger Lily Café.

  If your mom is a foodie, and looking for a good ‘cheat meal’, I recommend brunch at Mercato Kitchen and Cocktails, Old Fields, Mill Pond House, and/or Besito. For something a bit more upscale, try Jonathan’s, Polo Restaurant, or Milleridge Inn. If you’re opting for lunch or dinner, I recommend Old Fields BBQ, Vauxhall, The Shed, Tullulah’s, Rincon Criollo, and/or Off The Block. Check your neighborhood favorites for Mother’s Day menus, and specials.

  If you’re opting to cook at home for mom, my go-to spread includes bagels, lox, homemade herbed cream cheese, red onion, tomatoes, and capers. Serve with mimosas or Bloody Mary’s for a kick. Presentation is equally important, so head over to Pinterest or check your favorite food blogs for a surplus of visual tips. If you’re in the mood to serve up something hot, I recommend a French toast bake, with a side of sausage or a homemade sweet potato and chorizo hash, with a side of eggs. Poached eggs are a bit more difficult to master, but they certainly dress up any entrée.

  Whether you’re dining out or in, make sure you put some thought into Mother’s Day this year. Make a reservation in advance (or aim to prepare/cook an unforgettable spread), and bring along a bouquet of flowers. After all, our moms have supported us, fed us, and showed up for us…

365 days a year.