With the return of so many beloved yearly events, it feels like San Antonio has been born again. For some, the newfound freedom means being able to see family again; for others, it means finally getting out of the house. Whether this year is about your triumphant return to quality time with Mom, or a reminder that you’ll never be too far away, the important part is that someone takes that initiative for her.
These local businesses offer something for every mom, from the most lavish hotel parties, to take-home gifts, to more low-key opportunities to celebrate with kids or on a budget. Each gives their own take on a Mother’s Day special, so even if it’s a restaurant she knows well, there will be new surprises.
Make your reservations ASAP, and if you’re checking last-minute, don’t panic; flowers, a card, and some homemade special treats go a long way.
Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille
On this special Sunday, Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille is opening early at 11 am with a limited edition menu option. Perry’s Filet Stuffed Roast includes a filet mignon stuffed with tons of good stuff, including spinach, wild mushrooms, garlic, onion and fresh herbs, and three cheeses ($49). If the family would rather celebrate at home, the roast comes to-go ($179 for four, $49 for individuals). The family size can be bundled with a pear salad, mashed potatoes, and an orange cheesecake ($25 total). Preorder or make reservations at perryssteakhouse.com.
Tributary
This farm-to-table restaurant is making brunch from locally sourced ingredients, including lots of baked goods. Three Southern cocktails (a bloody Mary, a michelada, and a lager with bacon) join charcuterie boards including beer garden favorites and classic local spreads. Baked goods showcase beignets, buttermilk biscuits, and market quiche with local honey and farmers market finds. The menu goes on and on, with Southern highlights like andouille benedict and concha french toast. Reserve (and look forward to complimentary parking) at tributarysa.com.
Bakery Lorraine
Flowers are a classy touch, but flowers with macarons are swoon-worthy. The Flower Box comes in two sizes that always includes raspberry, pistachio, and triple vanilla ($35 for 6), and adds blueberry violet ($60). A large quiche ($40, serves eight) is an excellent choice to bring to family events, with options for meat-eaters (bacon, gruyere and caramelized onions) or those cutting back (leeks, Swiss chard and gruyere). While you’re browsing, look for special desserts with floral scents or heart-shaped designs. Preorder at bakerylorraine.com.
Fish City Grill
For moms who like to keep it a little more casual, Fish City Grill is offering a special dish and drink discount. The dish features Kalamata-crusted Alaskan halibut over lemon rice, with heirloom tomatoes and goat cheese, a refreshing warm-weather dish that doesn’t feel as inland as San Antonio. The discounted cocktail is a similarly summery watermelon margarita. Also on the regular menu are non-fish options like shrimp and grits, and a Nashville hot chicken sandwich. The special offer is available at all Fish City Grill and Half Shell locations.
Hotel Contessa
Hotel Contessa has a newly renovated spa on the rooftop level, and a few packages from the accessible to the extravagant (and all with a glass of champagne). The Always on the Go Mom Package ($90) includes 30 minutes of reflexology and a scalp massage. The Pamper Mom Package ($200) includes a 50-minute custom facial or massage, a lavender scalp massage, and an aromatic steam towel treatment. The Super Mom Package ($500) pulls out all the stops with a facial and massage at 50 minutes each, an enhancement, and a cheese board. Book before May 8 by calling 210-298-8038.
Ivy Hall Events
An event venue may not be the first in anyone’s mind for must-try restaurants, but this special brunch brings a buffet ($40 for adults, $15 for children) and jazz (the buffet of the music world) to a gorgeous outdoor garden space. Food choices cover a broad spectrum from Quiche Lorraine to Honey Sesame Salmon, and desserts like raspberry tartlettes. Setting the scene with relaxing live music is the After Hours Jazz Assembly. This is a great opportunity to get dressed up and take those elusive family photos in the garden. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
la Madeleine
This French bakery makes charming Mom easy, without buying a plane ticket. Its heart-shaped cheesecakes in raspberry and chocolate ganache are show-stoppers that can follow up any meal out or in — but if you’re eating in, she’d better not lift a finger. To help with that, la Madeleine is offering two take-home options: a Spring Brunch bundle with quiches and lemon tarts ($28.99), and a Family Dinner Package of chicken, potatoes, veggies and a baguette ($42.99). Order for pickup and delivery at lamadeleine.com.
Heart-shaped cheesescakes by la Madeleine are an easy and stylish buy-ahead option.
