On Mother’s Day, it’s only right to show appreciation for the women in our lives that have raised us and influenced us so much. What better way than by taking your mom out to a Raleigh restaurant that’s owned or headed by a local mom/chef? Make sure to show some love to the caring mothers in the kitchen, behind the bar, on the floor and at the front of house, too, who work hard every day for their own children and for their guests.
Bittersweet: Kim Hammer, Owner
No matter what time of day you visit, there’s something sweet to be had at this cocktail, dessert and coffee lounge. Get your caffeine fix with coffee drinks served alongside freshly baked pastries, or swing by after dinner for a craft cocktail and one of Hammer’s signature desserts. 16 E. Martin Street, (919) 977-3829, bittersweetraleigh.com
Centro: Angela Salamanca, Owner
For some of the best Mexican food in Raleigh, take your mom out to Centro, which boasts authentic Mexican favorites for lunch, dinner and brunch. Afterwards, take Mom upstairs to Gallo Pelón, also owned by Salamanca, for mezcal, tequila or a craft cocktail. 106 S. Wilmington Street, (919) 835-3593, centroraleigh.com
Hummingbird: Coleen Speaks, Owner
Coleen Speaks’ unique New Orleans-inspired restaurant serves a full day of distinctive breakfast, lunch and dinner items, as well as a superb weekend brunch, complete with original Hummingbird cocktails. 1053 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 111, (919) 301-8900, hummingbirdraleigh.com
NOFO @ the Pig: Jean Poe Martin, Owner
Known as one of the best brunch spots in Raleigh, NOFO is sure to please even the pickiest mother. Get her one of the award-winning Bloody Marys to start, then fill up on shrimp and grits, buttermilk fried chicken or fried green tomato benedict. 2014 Fairview Road, (919) 821-1240, nofo.com
Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar: Sharon May, Owner
At once traditional and contemporary, Relish delivers an upscale twist on classic Southern comfort dishes. Favorites include various mac and cheese skillets and grilled cheese sandwiches, served with one of their many notable whiskeys. 5625 Creedmoor Road, (919) 787-1855, relishraleigh.com
State Farmers’ Market Restaurant: Gypsy Gilliam, Owner
Show your mom true North Carolina cooking with a trip to the State Farmers’ Market Restaurant, where all meals are made-to-order and prepared with fresh, North Carolina-based products. The highlight is the Country Breakfast and homemade buttermilk “Real Biscuits,” along with bottomless iced tea. 1240 Farmers Market Drive, (919) 755-1550, realbiscuits.com
Vidrio: Amber Moshakos, President of LM Restaurants
Impress mom amidst Vidrio’s stunning decor and bright atmosphere and share small plates of Mediterranean-inspired dishes featuring seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. 500 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 100, (919) 803-6033, vidrioraleigh.com
Vivace: Stacy Jennings, Owner of Urban Food Group
Vivace features elegant lunch, dinner and brunch selections, with Italian-inspired dishes including pizza, pasta, paninis, salads and more. The outdoor patio is a lively spot to dine and share a bottle from the elaborate wine list. 4209 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite 115, (919) 787-7747, vivaceraleigh.com
