Sunday Brunch with Mom

Sunday Brunch at a good restaurant is one of my favorite experiences. The atmosphere is relaxing and nobody is in a hurry. You can just sit and chat with your friends or family. At a really good establishment, you have an assortment of dishes to please the varying tastes of all your dining companions. Everything is at the proper temperature. You may have a carving station with a chef cutting ham or prime rib. You may have an omelet station or something similar with another chef making your dish to order. Also, you often see more creativity and dishes you won't get with the regular menu.

An example of a true gourmet brunch experience happens every Sunday at the Peacock Alley Restaurant inside the recently reopened Waldorf=Astoria in New York City. The Mother's Day Brunch (May 14th) menu is especially grand with an American caviar display with trout, salmon eggs and traditional garnish; an oyster bar; a made-to-order eggs Benedict and omelet station; a prosciutto selection featuring seven types of ham; a carving station featuring dishes such as wild pepper crusted pork loin; and a wide selection of cold appetizers, including crab and edamame salad. And, of course, an array of delicious desserts to complete the meal. Call (212) 872-1275 for more information.

Look around for a great Sunday Brunch in your town and make plans to take Mom for Mother's Day. If the restaurant takes reservations, make them! Mother's Day is one of the busiest times of year for restaurants and you may find yourself waiting in the lobby for a considerable time. But hey, it's Mother's Day, consider it quality time with Mom.