Perhaps it’s fitting that Mother’s Day is squeezed into the busiest time of the year. The honorees juggled soccer practices, graduations, and birthday parties. They spent years being confidants, personal assistants, and boo-boo medics. A jam-packed schedule is just part of the job.

If only the rest of us learned from them how to be such assured multi-taskers. The holiday tends to sneak up quicker than it takes to dial 1-800-Flowers. And the smart set (probably mothers themselves) tend to snag brunch reservations months in advance. Still, there’s no excuse. Surprise Mom with a table on May 12 or drop into a casual eatery. San Antonio is filled with spots that are sure to impress.

Blush
Outfitted with floral wallpaper, rattan chairs, and vintage brass, this darling spot in Southtown has one of the most eclectic brunch menus in town. Although there are a few lighter dishes scattered on the menu, it’s best when its fully indulgent. Opt for a French omelet pearled with caviar or a creme anglaise-stuffed brioche. A quartet of mimosas will keep the childhood stories flowing.

Box Street All-Day-Day
Now with two locations, this all-day café is perfect for the mom who loves to show off their #OOTD. But it’s not all gloss. The hearty brunch offerings range from stuffed breakfast sandwiches to chilaquiles and smash burgers. The cocktails are just as punchy, especially the extra peppy carajillo.

Full Belly Cafe & Bar
This contemporary diner is no greasy spoon, although the chorizo poblano hash is a down-home triumph. Both locations are equally appealing for more soigné guests. The lobster benny is lavished in butter and the fire-roasted chicken Waldo salad would dazzle any of Truman Capote’s swans.

The Hayden
Another contemporary riff on midcentury diners, the two locations of this restaurant jam with the comfort classics of Jewish-American cuisine. Fried chicken is served on a latke waffle, bagels and lox are transformed into a scramble, and rye is the bread of choice. All are served in an adorable plant-lined dining room decked out with trendy tile and pops of pastels.

Jardín
It’s hard to trump the atmosphere of Chef Jason Dady’s Mediterranean eatery. Nuzzled in the historic Sullivan Carriage House with views of the San Antonio Botanical Garden, it’s a cottagecore Pinterest board come to life. The menu, however, avoids twee trappings. The mezze table is large enough to feed a spritz soaked crowd, but don’t skip out on the seared salmon. Although the Mother’s Day prix fixe is fully booked, the May 12 brunch service still has some reservation slots available at press time.

Julia’s Bistro & Bar
Classic to its core, this Blanco Road mainstay focuses on tried-and-true treats like steak and eggs, shrimp and grits, and a luscious croque monsieur. The interior echos the casual elegance with industrial fittings and vibrant art. No trip here is complete without a stroll through the surrounding shops, especially for those who need an impromptu gift.

Wild Barley Kitchen & Brewery
This one-time food truck traded up to a proper brick-and-mortar but hasn’t lost sight of what it does best. The bagel sandwiches are available in a dozen variations, ranging from classics like lox to a sweet-savory mix of thinly slice prosciutto and juicy pears. The big addition is an assortment of brews. Riparian Rubus, a tart raspberry ale, is particularly suited for the early hours.