Best Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando

*This post has been updated for 2021 based on the current information available. Please CONFIRM all information with the establishment prior to making plans and reservations as everything is subject to change. Especially in these trying times. Bookmark the “Best Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day” post for reference as it will be updated as restaurants and hotels release new information.

Celebrate Mother’s Day all week with these fun events

Mother’s Day is the second Sunday in May, however, mom deserves to be celebrated more than one day a year. There are a plethora of fun ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando, you can make it a week-long celebration of the woman that makes it all happen 365 days a year. It’s your turn to give mom what she really loves: fun times, great food, and lasting memories.

Top 9 Best Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando

1. An Amazing Brunch

Based on the vast number of special Mother’s Day brunches available, brunch must be mom’s favorite meal and the most popular way to celebrate Mother’s Day. Not surprising, as it is a great experience for the whole family. Several Orlando resorts and restaurants know how to do brunch best. Check out my Best Easter Brunch in Orlando list as these popular spots often offer brunch for Mother’s Day.

How about making it an extra special day by combining an amazing brunch with a day of pampering and relaxation? See #4 below for more details of beautiful resorts around town which offer world-class spas for the perfect celebration mom deserves. Make it a full weekend of relaxation and fun. Mom deserves it!

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando’s only Five Diamond resort offers two fantastic brunch celebrations for Mother’s Day. At Ravello, the Resort’s modern Italian restaurant, from 11:00 am-2:30 pm for $120 per adult and $45 per child (ages 2-12) and Plancha, the Resort’s Cuban-American restaurant located at the Tranquilo Golf Clubhouse, from 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Start off the celebration by raising a toast to Mom with endless Bloody Marys and Mimosas. You can read more about the fantastic brunch at Plancha in my review (the menu has changed but the delight is still there!) For Mother’s Day dining reservations at Ravello or Plancha, call 407-313-6161. For more information, visit their website.

In addition, Capa will be offering its regular a la carte menu plus a ‘Surf and Turf’ special and complimentary glass of Cava for all Mothers. The ‘Surf and Turf’ special includes a grilled 6oz. Creekstone Farms prime beef tenderloin, butter-poached Maine lobster, jumbo green asparagus, paprika, and hollandaise. Dinner is available from 5:00-10:00pm. For the entire month of May, every Monday at Ravello is “Mamma Mia! Monday” featuring a special dish that was a childhood favorite of either Chef Fabrizio or Chef Riccardo, that their mother used to prepare for them.

*Please note, the Ravello brunch is currently available to reserve by registered hotel guests only. All other dining options are available to the public for reservations. Be sure to also stop by Lickety Split for delicious Mother’s Day treats, including floral cupcakes, ‘MOM’ letter cookies, themed macarons, and more! These special treats are available from April 29-May 9.

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek

Orlando’s newest luxury resort is preparing a brunch feast full of nostalgia and delicious treats! The lavish brunch buffet at Unreserved Food Bazaar features live music and a collection of signature recipes from their talented culinary team. Inspired by their childhood memories, each of the JW Marriott Chefs has prepared dishes from their very own family recipe books as a tribute to their own Mothers. From Chef Justin’s Sage & Rosemary Biscuits & Gravy to Chef Alex’s Salmon Cakes to Chef Jonathan’s Texas Sheet Cake, discover the story behind each cherished childhood dish while enjoying brunch with your family. Reservations are required: 407.919.6300. $65 per person
*$35 per child (4 – 12 years of age) Complimentary (3 and under). Extend the celebration with spa, pool cabanas, and room upgrades for the pampering finishing touches. For more information, click here.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando

Enjoy a sumptuous brunch buffet in Trattoria del Porto, where in addition to their extensive menu you can enjoy live jazz. Then head over to their Mandara Spa for one of their exclusive treatments. Loews Portofino Bay is located at 5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando FL 32819, 407-503-1244. For more information click here.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Take mom on paradise vacation! Mother’s Day Brunch at Euphoria is served from 11:30 am – 3 pm. $45 for adults and $15 for children under 12 years old (+tax). To make a reservation, call 407-479-0950. The menu includes an assortment of artisan breads, farm-fresh omelets, a carving station with roast rib of beef, salmon, and chicken, and a dessert station, in addition to a special station for kids offering favorites like chicken tenders, mac n’ cheese, and cheeseburger sliders. Visit website for more information.

Rosen Plaza Hotel

For an extensive brunch buffet selection, Rosen Plaza never disappoints. Menu includes shrimp and oysters on the half shell, made-to-order omelets, elegant carving stations, special selections for children, and an extensive dessert bar, plus complimentary wine or champagne for Mom. $41.95 adults, $18.95 children 4-12 (free under 4). Available from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Special overnight package also available. Click here for more info.

Rosen Shingle Creek Resort

Treat Mom to a tantalizing Mother’s Day Brunch at this resort’s Cafe Osceola. Starting with unlimited champagne and mimosas for adults 21 and up, the spread will include extravagant dishes like Sous Vide Duck Confit, savory classics like Pepper Herb Crusted Prime Rib, fresh seafood, market salads, made-to-order omelets and pastas, decadent desserts, and more. Complimentary self-parking is included. Pricing: $64.95 adults, $25.95 children 4-11 (free under 4); 25% discount for Florida residents. From 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Click here for more info.

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

Mother’s Day Brunch at Tesoro Cove includes gourmet omelet and hot buffet stations, made-to-order Belgium waffles, springtime favorites, tableside bakery baskets, sweet and savory crepes, and desserts. A seasonal cocktail menu is also available. $27 adults, $14 children under 13. Click here for more info.

2. An Unforgettable Dinner Experience

Wow mom with an out-of-this-world dining experience at these award-winning restaurants and celebrate Mother’s Day like a foodie. It will be a meal she will not soon forget.

Bull & Bear

Classic, elevated, elegant! Dinner at the famed Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria Orlando is always a memorable experience. Named one of the Top 100 Restaurants in the United States by Open Table, known for their table-side service, expert wine pairing, and superb service. Don’t miss the fried chicken (buttermilk brined for 72 hours), Pasta Explosion, and signature 32-Day Dry-Aged Tomahawk Rib Eye. Reservations highly suggested. For more info: website.

Chef’s Table at The Edgewater

Voted “Best Place to Celebrate”, “Best Chef’s Table”, “Best Chef” and “Best Restaurant” by Orlando Magazine, you can bet mom will be impressed. The Chef’s Table at The Edgewater 3-course dinner menu with optional wine pairings is always superb. Reservations are required. Located at 99 W. Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 407-230-4837. Click here for more info.

Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster

Formerly known as Del Frisco’s, this local, family owned restaurant has been wowing customers for over 20 years. Although they are closed on Sundays, I am including them in this list because dinner there on Friday or Saturday evening would surely make mom feel special. The cuisine is everything you would expect from a top-notch steakhouse with prime-aged steaks and fresh seafood, but the people who work there are what truly elevates the experience. Their warm hospitality will make you feel as if you are dining in their own home. Carole, David and Alice Christner have a true gem of a restaurant that is perfect for any special celebration (no surprise they received this award from Orlando Magazine). Inquire about their special private rooms. Reservations are recommended. Located at 729 Lee Road, Orlando FL, 407-645-4443. click here for more info.

deep blu Seafood Grille

The acclaimed finer dining restaurant at Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek offers their regular menu of delightful steaks and seafood with local flair by Executive Chef Jonathan McCaan, plus a Mother’s Day special of Ora King Salmon served with sweet pea risotto, heirloom tomatoes, Meyer lemon beurre blanc and herb oil. $38 per person. Click here for more info

Knife & Spoon

Named one of the top new restaurants in the country, Knife & Spoon at Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Resort is a must for inventive cuisine. Celeb chef John Tesar together with Chef de Cuisine Gerald Sommbright serve the finest aged steaks in town (some up to 240 days!). Indulge in seafood specialties such as smoked sturgeon and live diver scallop. Save room for dessert. For more info: website.

La Luce

For an Italian feast, Hilton Bonnet Creek’s La Luce is the perfect spot for house made pastas, pizzas, and decadent desserts. This modern Italian country kitchen serves dinner nightly, featuring thin crust pizzas, homemade family-style pastas, and Italian dishes inspired by traditional family recipes handed down through the generations. The cuisine is complimented by Mediterranean-inspired cocktails and a Trattoria-style wine program. For more info: website.

Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

** Temporarily unavailable in 2021

The awards of this local culinary superstar are too many to mention. They have received the AAA Five-Diamond award for over 20 years in a row, the only restaurant in Central Florida and one of only 15 restaurants in North America to have this distinction. It’s no surprise it was voted the restaurant “Most are Dying to Visit” according to Orlando Magazine. It is my pick for the best place to splurge in Orlando as it is the most luxurious and over-the-top dining experience you will find in Central Florida. Doesn’t Mom deserve that kind of attention? James Beard nominee, Executive Chef Scott Hunnel provides a 6 or 10-course menu of fresh seasonal ingredients with optional wine pairings, which is a culinary masterpiece. Reservations are required. Located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Walt Disney World Resort 407-939-3862. Click here for more info.

3. Brunch, Lunch or Dinner with Global Flair

Tapa Toro

Enjoy a fabulous Mother’s Day Brunch or Dinner at this International Drive favorite and treat mom to a night in Spain! Brunch Buffet served 10 am – 3 pm, $42 per adult or $15 per child under 10 (plus tax & gratuity). The menu features Assorted Bread & Pastries, Pork Mojo, Prime with au jus & horseradish, Truffle Mash, Garlic Shrimp & Grits, Salmon, Seafood Paella, Eggs your Way, Waffles, Seasonal Desserts, Kids Mac & Cheese, Kids Chicken Tenders & Fries. Mother’s Day Dinner served 4 – 10 p.m., Full, a la carte menu available. Flamenco dancing entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. Reservations recommended. Available on our website and on OpenTable.com!

Taverna Opa

Orlando’s favorite Greek restaurant is known for their fun celebrations. Order from one of their family-style menus for 4 or more people, and Mom eats for free! Open 12-10 p.m. Full menu available. Belly dancing entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Reserve your table on the website or OpenTable.com. Celebrating at home? Schedule an order for pickup up to one week in advance via ChowNow

4. Relaxing Spa Retreat

Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Pamper Mom with one of The Spa’s exclusive treatments. Mom will enjoy the Sticks and Stones Massage, La Floridian Body Wrap with whipped shea butter and pink grapefruit crème, or the Signature Radiance Facial, combining a variety of botanical extracts and natural fruit acids to improve tone and texture. After her treatment, she can spend time relaxing by the lakeside outdoor relaxation lounge featuring zero-gravity wave loungers, or take advantage of the spacious facilities including a steam room, whirlpool and experience shower. For Mother’s Day dining reservations at Ravello or Plancha, or for Spa appointments, call 407 313 6868. For more information, visit their website.

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek

Give the gift of a pampering spa experience that is luxurious, purposeful, and all about Mom. Indulge Mom in a variety of treatments sure to relax mind, body, and spirit. From the Boost & Bloom Facial to the Immune Support Massage to Hydrothermal Experiences, a luxurious spa day awaits. Bloom and Boost Treatments start at $160 and include a special gift with purchase. Appointments are required: 407.919.6318

Margaritaville Resort Orlando

A visit to St. Somewhere Spa is just like a relaxing island escape for the mind, body, and soul. Spa menu features massages, body therapies, skin treatments, facials, and salon services inspired by the tropics. Day packages are available, and you can upgrade any of our offerings with a private poolside cabana experience. Call 407-479-0990.

Ritz Carlton Orlando Resort at Grande Lakes

Spanning more than 40,000 square feet, our hotel spa promotes rest and restoration with upscale, holistic treatments such as facials, pedicures, and massages. Take advantage of our special offers and spa packages, including daily resort credits, discounted upgrades, and complimentary nights. Grande Lake’s JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton offer exceptional romantic escapes, family vacations, and weekend getaways. For more info: website.

Rosen Shingle Creek Resort

The luxurious Rosen Shingle Creek Resort celebrates mom with the perfect weekend getaway. Their Mother’s Day packages include special discounts and amenities in beautiful accommodations. Enjoy their extensive holiday brunch and world-class spa to pamper mom with a variety of relaxing services and treatments. Check out the special packages at The Spa at Shingle Creek.  Rosen Shingle Creek located at 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando FL 32819, 407-996-9939.

5. Enjoy The Outdoors! From Art Walks, Markets, Gardens, to Entertainment and Picnics in the Park

If mom loves art and outdoor markets, celebrate Mother’s Day early by spending a lovely evening strolling the streets of these picturesque neighborhoods, enjoying local artists, and sipping a fine libation. Afterward, you can enjoy dinner at one of the local eateries.

Thornton Park Thursday Night Market

Every Thursday from 6 pm, enjoy shopping at this weekly outdoor market. Located by World of Beer in the Osceola Circle. Featuring unique local vendors, food trucks, outdoor seating, and adult libations. Click here for more info. Afterward, why not have dinner at local favorite SoCo with award-winning Chef Greg Richie or Maxine’s on Shine.

Sanford’s Alive After 5 Street Party

On the second Thursday of the month, from 5pm, celebrate at Central Florida’s largest street party with live music, local artists, food and beverage samplings. Located at 230 E. First St, Sanford. For more info, click here. Dinner at The Tennessee Truffle, The District, or Old Jailhouse afterward is highly recommended. View the Sanford Dining Guide here.

How about a relaxing celebration outdoors enjoying a picnic, live concert or movie in one of our beautiful parks? It’s a great way to celebrate Mother’s Day and spend quality time with the family.

A La Cart:

The funky outdoor food cart park in The Milk District has a fun, casual setup to enjoy a chill Mother’s Day. Enjoy a lineup of the best beers in the cooler all day, local craft on tap, great street food from a variety of food trucks from poke at Poke Kai to Brazilian at Steak It Easy, Swedish fare at Swede Dish to phenomenal BBQ from Smoke & Donuts. Save room for dessert with gourmet donuts from Smoke & Donuts and Dulce de Pecado ice cream. Rock out to John Holly from 3-6 pm and gift that special lady flowers from Cloudless Sulphur. Flowers, food, and beer! More info here.

Winter Park’s Popcorn Flicks in the Park

On the second Thursday of the month, bring a picnic or pick up a delicious dinner at one of the many eateries along Park Avenue and catch a family film under the stars. This free event is produced by Enzian Theater weather permitting. Located at Central Park, 251 S.Park Avenue, Winter Park. For more info, click here.

Bok Tower Mother’s Day Concert

Enjoy a delightful Carillon concert, purchase beautiful plants at their special mother’s day plant sale. Free admission for mothers. Brunch in a bag available for purchase. Located at 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales. For more info, click here.

Celebrate Moms at Leu Gardens

On Sunday, 9 am-5 pm, enjoy a stroll through this beautiful 50 acres of gardens and Florida’s largest rose garden, butterfly garden, and historic Leu House Museum. Picnics are allowed in the garden. Stop by nearby La Femme du Fromage in East End Market for provisions including their fabulous cheese and charcuterie boxes. Free admission for mothers. Located at 1920 N. Forest Ave, Orlando. For more info, click here.

Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival

Disney’s EPCOT knows how to wow with its beautiful gardens and character topiaries. Enjoy Outdoor Kitchen food pavilions with various food and beverage tastings, live entertainment, exhibits, and a day at the park. Located at Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort. For more info, click here.

6.Afternoon Tea

Celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando with a quiet afternoon enjoying a nice cup of tea, finger sandwiches and sweet treats in one of these lovely places. I’m certain it would make mom very happy, and you can show her that you were paying attention when she tried to teach you etiquette. Is it pinkies up or down?

Infusion Tea

This little hidden gem of a tea room is a local favorite in College Park. Voted Best Vegetarian Food in Orlando It’s not fancy but their tea selection, savory finger sandwiches, scones, sweet treats and gelato are enough to make mom happy. Located at 1600 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL. For more info, click here.

Disney Grand Floridian Resort Afternoon Tea at Garden View Tea Room

** Temporarily unavailable for 2021.

This traditional English tea is a delectable treat with the Disney touch, includes a selection of international teas, sandwiches, cakes and dessert specialties. A variety of tea menus available. Service between 2pm-5pm, reservations are recommended. Starting at 3pm, enjoy piano entertainment from the lobby. For more info, click here.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

**Grand Royal Tea is temporarily on hold for 2021 but is expected to return. Keep an eye out for it, as it is spectacular.

The team of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando located in Bonnet Creek truly dazzles with their Afternoon Royal Tea experience in Peacock Alley. Savor premium teas from gorgeous peacock feather-styled teacups while noshing on delicate tea sandwiches, scones, tarts, and tea cookies all while listening to live piano music.  A glass of champagne is a must for a “Grand Royal Tea.” Sundays from 2pm – 4pm. Advance reservations required. Call 407-597-5450. For more information click here.

7. A Brunch & Film Experience

Enzian Theater

On Sunday, starting at 10 am, celebrate Mother’s Day at the local independent movie theater, Enzian Theater as they host their special Mother’s Day Brunch and screening of a classic film. Enjoy one complimentary mimosa, live music, and a delicious brunch buffet. You may also reserve a VIP Table for Two or a Table for Four including admission, brunch buffet, reserved table, unlimited champagne, and mimosas. Click here for more info.

8. It’s Time for Dinner & A Show

Take mom out for dinner and a world-class show to celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando, whether she likes lively musicals or classical music, one of these shows will truly delight.

Dr. Phillip’s Center for the Performing Arts

This gorgeous, multi-million dollar performing arts center, located in Downtown Orlando, hosts world-class Broadway shows and concerts, perfect to treat mom. While performances indoors have been put on hold due to th pandemic, they have created the Front Yard Festival. A wonderful way to enjoy fine shows outdoors. You’re seated in socially distanced boxes for up to 5 guests in your party. Check here for the schedule of events. Pair it with dinner at nearby The Boheme at Grand Bohemian Hotel and mom will truly be impressed. Or have your meal delivered to your box from some of our favorite local restaurants while you watch your show.

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

The Orlando Philharmonic is Central Florida’s resident professional orchestra, composed of accomplished musicians recruited from around the world. Whether you’re moved by the drama of opera, the colossal sound of a Romantic symphony, or the high energy of a rock & roll tribute, the Philharmonic has something for you. Check their calendar of events for more info. Combine a show with dinner at a nearby restaurant such as DoveCote or Artisans Table.

Garden Theatre

** The Garden Theater performances are currently on hold due to the pandemic. Please do keep them in mind for future outings.

If mom loves live theater and musicals, the Garden Theatre is a wonderful choice. Located at 160 W Plant St, Winter Garden. Click here for schedule. Combine this show with an amazing dinner at Chef’s Table at The Edgewater located just down the street and you will treat mom to the most fun outing ever.

9. Fun Runs & Cycles

If mom is the active type, a fun 5K run/walk is a great way for the entire family to celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando and spend quality time with mom. Afterward, you can go out and enjoy a truly decadent meal without any guilt. Click here to see a list of current races in the area.

If you and mom prefer to cycle, book a Limo Cycle tour in historic downtown Sanford. You get to pedal around the charming town on a 12 passenger bike, visit various restaurants and bars and have a great time. For those who prefer to simply go for a nice walk, book the Sanford Food Tour instead. It’s equally fun to learn about the history of the town and eat and drink as you go along.

Mother’s Day To-Go

If you prefer to stay in and celebrate mom, here are some favorites that are offering Mother’s Day meals to go.

Chef Bob Aungst:

Enjoy selections from a special Mother’s Day Weekend menu featuring mom’s favorites. Chef Bob’s Heat ‘N Eat meal packages are delivered to doorsteps in Central Florida, free of charge. Each dish is expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and delivered ready to “heat and eat”. Build your own meal pack with proteins, hot & cold sides, and extras! Smaller portion sizes available. What’s On the Menu: Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, Sous Vide Turkey Breast, Roasted NZ Lamb Lollipops & Prime 10oz. Filets Chateaubriand, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Buttered Spring Peas & Pearls, Roasted Brussels, Candied Heirloom Carrots, & Roasted Heirloom Gem Potatoes
Loaded Baked Potato Salad, Southern Pasta Salad, Caprese, & Spring Greens. Orders accepted through Wednesday, May 5, 2021. Order by 7 pm Sunday, May 2 and enjoy 10% OFF your order total! For more info click here.

Eddy V’s

Order an exquisite four-course dinner to serve Mom at home, featuring Herb-Roasted Tenderloin or Chilean Sea Bass along with irresistible sides and our signature Bananas Foster with Butter Pecan Ice Cream. We’ll prepare, you’ll finish cooking. There’s a happy Mother’s Day in the works and all you need to do is call. Order here.

Ocean Prime

In addition to Mother’s Day Brunch in the restaurant at Ocean Prime, they will also offer a “Mother’s Day Elegance At Home Package” which serves 4-6 people. Includes Ocean Prime House Salad, main course choice of Pine Crusted Rack of Lamb ($249) or Roasted Salmon ($189) with Roasted Garlic Fingerling Potatoes & Lemon Asparagus. For dessert add Ten Layer Carrot Cake ($75 additional). Order must be placed 48 hours in advance of pick up. Orders can be placed here. Pick-up slots are first come, first served, based on availability. We strongly recommend Mother’s Day orders are picked up Saturday, May 8.  Meals come with heating and preparation instructions. All Ocean Prime cocktails and wines are available to order for takeout.

Ravenous Pig

Winter Park favorite, Ravenous Pig offers a great menu to treat mom on Sunday! Dig into Pimento Cheese Spread to start, Smoked Prime Rib au jus with horseradish crema, potato gratin with goat cheese and green garlic, charred spring onion, and snap pea salad. For dessert, strawberry rhubarb crisp. $150 for a meal for 4ppl. Pick-up for orders is on Saturday, May 8th between 10 am-2 pm. Order here.

Smoke & Donuts

If mom loves BBQ, Chef Ian Russell at Smoke & Donuts is sure to impress her. Smoked brisket, pulled pork, turkey breast, house-made sausages, St. Louis ribs, pulled chicken and salmon pair with scratch-made sides including smoked & smashed potatoes, topped with lemon garlic gremolata, mac & cheese, cucumber & cabbage slaw, and more. Order “Mom’s Day” Catering Bundle which feeds 4 – 6 guests generously. Choose from 3 smoked meats, 3 sides, and 2 sauces. Pick-up is available through 6 PM Saturday, 5/8 at Smoke & Donuts® Catering located at 2545 Coolidge Avenue in College Park. Don’t forget to add donuts and craft beer! Order here.

Tapa Toro

• Pre-order now for pick up on Saturday, May 8 from 4-7 p.m. or Sunday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Waffle Board (Serves 4-6) | $69 plus tax: waffles, Nutella, chocolate chips, walnuts, peanut butter, maple syrup, strawberry jam, vanilla yogurt, granola, fresh fruit
• Bagel Board (Serves 4-6) | $69 plus tax: assorted bagels, bacon, boiled eggs, smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers & spices, strawberry jam, peanut butter, Nutella, fresh fruit
• DIY Mimosas (Makes 4-6 Drinks) | $15 plus tax: champagne & OJ. Pre-order online here

Please share in the comments below where you plan to celebrate Mother’s Day in Orlando or wherever you are. I wish you a memorable and delicious day with mom!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

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