In Toronto, weekend brunch is practically a competitive sport. Its championship? Mother’s Day. Thankfully, all you need to win is reservations at a delicious restaurant.
Below are fifteen Toronto eateries that serve amazing food in a kid-friendly atmosphere. All of these restaurants also accept reservations, which you should place as soon as possible since many of these options will deservedly book up.
AGO Bistro
The AGO’s spin on Mother’s Day brunch starts off with a family-style serving of fruits and preserves, followed by a seafood course. Then it’s time to enjoy a delicious main dish like lobster Benny or goat cheese soufflé. Kids get their own special menu, with an ice cream sundae for dessert.
317 Dundas St. W., Toronto416-979-6688
Bombay Street Food
Eggs and pancakes are great, but how about celebrating Mother’s Day with samosas, curry, and chai? Bombay Street promises that its prix fixe, multi-course menu will feature “mouthwatering Indian delicacies” that are sure to wow your family.
828 Bay St., Toronto647-344-7862
Café Boulud
This beloved Yorkville restaurant is offering a special three-course meal that includes fresh juice, coffee or tea. A wide range of dishes, including yogurt parfait, hotcakes, and a cheese plate, are available to please both adults and kids.
60 Yorkville Ave., Toronto416-963-6000
Casa Loma
A special day deserves a special location, like Toronto’s only castle. This buffet-style brunch offers everything from kid-friendly mac and cheese and Belgian waffles to more adult-oriented dishes like coq au vin and crab ravioli. After you dine, spend the rest of your day exploring this historic building.
1 Austin Terrace, Toronto416-923-1171 ext. 1890
Kwan & Kwan Dim Sum
With two locations to choose from, one in Midtown and the other in York Mills, these well-regarded contemporary Chinese restaurants are perfect for big family get-togethers. Their extensive dim sum menus also have something for everyone.
1496 Yonge St., Toronto416-901-6618 808 York Mills Rd., North York
647-352-0108
Lula Lounge
Music-loving moms, this special Mother’s Day brunch is perfect for you. It features a live band performing Cuban music and a fun dance lesson that the whole family can join in on. Two seatings are available, at 10:30 am or 1:15 pm, and the buffet-style meal features a variety of breakfast and lunch items as well as a carving station.
1585 Dundas St. W., Toronto416-588-0307
Maple Leaf Tavern
One of the East End’s prettiest rooms is perfect for families who prefer à la carte options. Most of your brunch favourites are available as well as a few fresh takes, including one on the classic Salty Dog cocktail. And to take Mother’s Day extra special, all moms will receive a small gift.
955 Gerrard St W., Toronto416-465-0955
Mariposa Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise
Up for something a little different? How about a two-hour cruise on Lake Ontario? While aboard the Northern Spirit, you’ll dine on a delicious buffet, pose for a free family photo and if you’re a mom, sip on a complimentary mocktail.
207 Queen’s Quay W., Toronto416-203-0178
Old Mill
With seven seating times available, this buffet brunch is perfect for families who have a jammed pack Mother’s Day. It also has something for even the pickiest eater thanks to a diverse menu that features salads, seafoods and plenty of desserts. Can’t fit brunch into your schedule? The Old Mill also offers a special Mother’s Day dinner buffet.
21 Old Mill Rd., Toronto416-207-2020
Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill, Bayview Village
At the Bayview Village location of Oliver & Bonacini, classic brunch items including eggs Benedict and French toast can be found on the à la carte menu. Make your meal extra special with a $5 build-your-own-mimosas. Can’t make brunch work on Sunday, May 13? This restaurant also offers its Mother’s Day brunch on Saturday, May 12, too.
2901 Bayview Ave., North York416-590-1300
Ricarda’s
Yes the food is amazing, yes the atmosphere is bright and cheerful and yes, there’s a live jazz band. But the best part about brunch at Ricarda’s is the supervised children’s play area. Read more about Ricarda’s, from our friends at SavvyMom.ca.
134 Peter St., Toronto416-304-9134
TOCA
Inside the Ritz-Carleton, TOCA is considered to be one of Toronto’s top (and priciest) brunch options. A quick look at the menu reveals why. This elegant room’s Sunday buffet features a sustainable seafood bar, handmade pasta and a range of meat options.
181 Wellington St., Toronto416-572-8008
Uncle Betty’s
Are big buffets not the right fit for your family? Then stop by this cozy, family-run restaurant that’s famed for its grilled cheese and doughnuts. In addition to the kids’ menu, there are boozy milkshakes for the grown-ups.
2590 Yonge St., Toronto416-483-2590
Windsor Arms
The Courtyard Café is home to this hotel’s annual Mother’s Day buffet. Renowned for its elegance, this brunch offers four seatings: 10:30 am, 11 am, 1 pm and 1:30 pm. It also features a live pianist who will entertain you as you feast on a wide variety of hot dishes, a seafood bar, and a special cake inspired by Meghan and Harry’s wedding.
18 St. Thomas St., Toronto416-971-9666