Mother’s Day is coming around the corner on Sunday, May 12, which means Chicagoans who haven’t already made plans to celebrate are officially behind the eight ball. A special meal is a straightforward way to make any maternal figure feel appreciated, and fortunately for the procrastination-inclined, it’s not too late to book a reservation. And for good measure, here’s a hot take — screw brunch. Do right by the woman of the hour and take her to dinner.
Eater Chicago rounded up some of the city’s top restaurants with remaining availability during prime hours on Mother’s Day.
Avli on the Park (6:15, 6:30, 6:45, 7:00)
A charming walk through Lakeshore East Park makes for a lovely prelude to a Mother’s Day meal at this airy downtown outpost of Chicago’s mini-empire of modern Greek restaurants from the team at Avli Taverna. Its breezy rooftop space comes with stunning views of the city and Navy Pier.
Bronzeville Winery (7:30, 7:45, 8:00)
Toast to the guest of honor on Mother’s Day with a glass or bottle from the fun and robust wine selection at this lively South Side spot helmed by veteran Chicago chef Lamar Moore. Families can count on warm, friendly service and a modern American menu with Southern influences.
Leña Brava (6:00, 6:15, 6:30, 6:45, 7:00)
For a sumptuous Mother’s Day meal, head to this wood grill-powered Mexican restaurant that’s had a resurgence of late thanks to new executive chef Brian Enyart, a veteran of Rick Bayless’ local hospitality empire and owner of Logan Square’s shuttered Dos Urban Cantina. Dishes like a smokey beef ribeye or whole sea bass will go a long way toward transporting mom to Baja, California.
Momotaro (7:45, 8:00)
Prime seafood, which arguably deserves a place among the love languages, is the star of the show at Boka Hospitality’s posh sushi palace in West Loop. From fatty bluefin tuna belly and unctuous uni to prized cuts of Japanese wagyu, the menu makes for an opulent spread.
The Oakville Grill & Cellar (7:15, 7:30)
If a Mother’s Day trip to Napa Valley isn’t in the budget, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ sprawling restaurant in Fulton Market is designed to offer a brief foray into West Coast wine country. Snap a shot of the special evening on its sweeping staircase before heading upstairs to dine on its year-round terrace and bar.
The Publican (6:30, 6:45, 7:00, 7:15, 7:30)
A celebrated farm-to-table destination for nearly two decades, One Off Hospitality’s game-changing Fulton Market restaurant remains a local favorite for its bustling atmosphere and penchant for pork.
Tama (6:30, 6:45, 7:00, 7:15, 7:30)
The wide-open kitchen at chef Avgeria Stapaki’s inventive Mediterranean restaurant in Bucktown provides both dinner and a show for Mother’s Day celebrants as the energetic team whips up unusual spins like avgolemono “ramen.” Tama debuted in early April, so a booking might also make for a good chance to impress family with Chicago hospitality know-how.
Tzuco (6:30, 6:45, 7:00, 7:15, 7:30)
An ode to decorated chef Carlos Gaytán’s hometown of Huitzuco, Mexico, this striking spot in River North offers an earthy departure from Chicago’s urban grit. Though the menu offers ample opportunity to fill up on favorites like Guerrero-style cochinita pibil and shrimp aguachile, wise diners will save room for dessert.
