A Good Mother's Day Hunch is Always Brunch; Where to Book

Mother's Day is that one cherished day when we all celebrate maternal spirit. We remember our own Mother's; we cherish their sacrifices, we forgive their misgivings, we appreciate their guidance, and accept their love. As a parent, we hope our kiddies will one day reflect on us in the same way.

There are so many amazing ways to celebrate Mom. Flowers, while a very traditional gift are always, always welcome. Hand-made gifts, personalized gestures, spa appointments (check out Casbah Day Spa, Aru Spa, or the Float House for great gift options in the South Surrey / White Rock area), cherished accessories like a scarf or necklace are all thoughtful gifts that will have the 'Mother' in your life swooning.

For me, a sure bet is brunch. A moment in time when the family gets dressed in their picture perfect best which automatically signals the children to act their kindest, mimosas are offered and often a coveted view is in full display.

If you haven't booked your spot yet, I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that some of the best options within the South Surrey, White Rock, and Crescent Beach area are already fully booked. Uli's, Jan's on the Beach, The Wooden Spoon, Morgan's at Morgan Creek Golf and Country Club and Milestones are all fully booked for brunch on Mother's Day, May 14th. Don't lose heart. My search did find a few divine dining establishments that will ensure your Mom believes you booked her in for brunch months in advance.

Giraffe Restaurant - The ocean view from this restaurant is framed perfectly by lush green vines that are interwoven around its pergola. Its menu; well refined and thoughtfully created. For brunch Giraffe offers at least four Champagne cocktails which makes this a perfect spot to let Mom know just how much you love and need her.

Tap Restaurant - Tap's Mother's Day brunch sells out annually, and there is no doubt why. Executive Chef Alistair Veen as Chef and Sommelier (voted 2016 Sommelier of the Year by the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers - BC Chapter) always offers an exquisite menu. The perfection of each sumptuous ingredient paired perfectly with a well chosen wine will surely carry your Mom to another world. As of this post, a few spots remained, book NOW.

"Chef Alistair Veen makes his beef tenderloin, a staple on the menu at Tap Restaurant in South Surrey." ARLEN REDEKOP / VANCOUVER SUN

Washington Avenue Grill - While the WAG opens later than brunch is typically served (they open at noon), it's a beautiful view option and remains 'a local favourite' because of the great service, ambiance and flair, as well as great west coast food and cocktail offerings.

Photo of the beautiful dining room within the Washington Avenue Grill courtesy of 604now . — Photo of the beautiful dining room within the Washington Avenue Grill courtesy of 604now .

The Boathouse - In my opinion the Boathouse offers one of the best views. If you book early AND are a Landry's Select Club Member (as we are) they will almost always be able to accommodate a fabulous full frontal ocean view table. A perfect bird's eye view of this incredible vista that we call home. While the food offerings are not professionally curated or as well refined as those masterfully designed at Tap and Giraffe, the Boathouse offers a huge buffet which will entice even the pickiest of little fingers. Plus because of its popularity, its ambiance becomes more boisterous than some of the fine-dining options, which allows our kids a chance to blend in. A win / win / win in my book and why our family, to date, has celebrated Mother's Day here.

The Boathouse White Rock's roof top deck. A similar view can be had from within the restaurant's 2nd floor dining room, where Mother's Day brunch is held. Photo: The Boathouse Restaurants

FIVE - Offering yet another iconic water view, FIVE, perched upon a high point on Marine Drive in White Rock will not disappoint any lover of the sea. Their brunch menu offers all of the classics as well as some delicious benny's that focus their attention on the best local sea-faring creatures; salmon, crab, and lobster.

If you can't find a spot to brunch, two fun alternatives that ensure Mom never questions why you're not brunching on Mother's Day are:

The Bennett is presenting, the one, the only, Nearly Neil on Mother's Day at 7 pm. Tickets are $10. Just to be clear, it's Nearly Neil Diamond, not Young. Still, I think it would be a lot of fun!! What provides a clearer indication that you have definitively made it to the ranks of "Motherdom" than Neil Diamond? My own mother would be proud.

Secondly, and perhaps a little less sparkly but no less spiritual, the Wooden Spoon is hosting a Mother's Day ('ish) Paint Party on Tuesday, May 9th. Tickets are $42.50/pp and anyone in your family over 16 is invited to participate in a guided but stunning African Sunset painting. Tickets include three appetizers, a beverage, as well as all paint and instruction. Register at www.apaletteoffunpaintparties.com.

Wishing you a blissful brunch or an evening full of ruckus while you celebrate Mom.

xo