Mother’s Day shouldn’t be the only day we express our love to mom (Okay, Valentine’s and birthdays will do). Restaurants go all-out for this particular May day. Then again, she did give you life. We find the goods to get you through next weekend. Reserve now!
Monarch Beach Resort – Dana Point
Presenting a duo of activities for Mom, the first combines afternoon tea and fashion! Shopping opportunities, displays and other activities await as pinkies go up and swag bags are handed out. Treat her to a swell Saturday next weekend and book this by calling (949) 234-3423. If she prefers being pampered, learn more about their Mother’s Day Retreat package. We hear it includes lunch, a blowout and mani/pedi! 1 Monarch Beach Resort, (800) 722-1543; www.monarchbeachresort.com.
Valenza Chocolatier – Costa Mesa
If you’re wondering why we didn’t include a physical address to Valenza, it’s because they’re not having a pop up shop this holiday. Go online to their Cioccolato Shop to place orders by tomorrow. Shipped requests will be mailed on the 8th; local pickup arrangements will be ready the 11th. We’re always down for a caramel and dark chocolate pecan treat known as the Tartaruga! (949) 891-1206; www.valenzachocolatier.com.
Del Frisco’s Grille – Irvine
Classic Crab Cake Benedicts and playful Red Velvet Belgian Waffles are fine and dandy. Yet it’s Nonna’s Cinnamon Roll made with candied walnuts and house-made bourbon espresso caramel that draws us in. 772 Spectrum Center Dr., (949) 341-0376; www.delfriscosgrille.com.
Portillo’s Hot Dogs – Buena Park
Portillo’s? Yes! There’s something about their seasonal treats that work. Indulge your sweet tooth and order the $15.99 treat for yourself (or ship one to mom). Heart-shaped chocolate cakes make everything better. 8390 La Palma Ave., (714) 220-6400; www.portillos.com.
Coastal Kitchen – Dana Point
Head to this South County dining room for a hearty meal. Confident in their comfort cuisine, Coastal Kitchen relishes in serving dishes such as Fried Brie Salad and Sauteed Clams with Fried Bread. 34901 Pacific Coast Hwy., (949) 449-2822; www.coastalkitchendanapoint.com.
Fashion Island Hotel – Newport Beach
Two different indulgent brunches are going down, so be sure to choose wisely! Oak Grill’s al fresco dining includes Dim Sum, Chimney Cakes and charcuterie. You’ll find us at the Farm-to-Table Margarita Bar. Over in the Ballroom, family-friendly activities, a donut wall, and shrimp & crab claws await. 690 Newport Center Dr., (877) 591-9145; www.fashionislandhotel.com.
Hyatt Regency – Huntington Beach
Blueberry French Toast Casserole and Grilled Vegetable Wellington are a couple of the meatless marvels in this year’s brunch spread. Don’t worry, you’ll also find local honey and Dijon brined pork loin (among many other proteins). This definitely merits a beach stroll afterwards. 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., (714) 698-1234; www.huntingtonbeach.regency.hyatt.com.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.