Universal Grill
The good folks at this retro-yet-upscale diner have whipped up a special menu just for Mother’s Day. Veggie lovers will enjoy the oyster mushroom and asparagus quiche, stuffed with rich gruyère cheese and served with a side of organic greens. Hearty eaters might opt for the house-cured salmon, topped with a dollop of leek-asparagus cream and accompanied by a potato pancake and poached eggs. Carb cravers can choose the raspberry French toast, served with lemon crème fraîche sauce. A pomegranate mimosa will appeal to both little angels and devils. Reservations required for groups of six or more.
Where: 1071 Shaw St., 416-588-5928.
How much: mains $7–$12.

Mitzi’s Sister
A favourite haunt for young, Bugaboo-bearing moms on most weekends, this Parkdale institution turns it up a notch on Mother’s Day. Minted blueberries and Meyer lemon curd adorn fluffy oatmeal buttermilk pancakes, while French toast boasts a dollop of vanilla custard along with fresh strawberries. Yogurt with fresh fruit and homemade granola will keep the body nimble for the afternoon’s yoga session. A variety of egg dishes—poached, scrambled, as well as a smoked trout omelette—round out the menu. No reservations.
Where: 1554 Queen St. W., 416-532-2570.
How much: mains $11.75–$12.50.

Bonjour Brioche
This east-end stalwart never deviates from its winning formula, not even for this special day. But how much would Mom enjoy one of the city’s best brunches in the comfort of her own bed? Bonjour Brioche’s entire menu—including brownie points–winning nutmeg-dusted quiche, baked French toast, and yogurt with fresh fruit and house-made granola—is available for takeout. No reservations.
Where: 812 Queen St. E., 416-406-1250.
How much: mains $6.50–$9.

Truffles at Four Seasons Hotel
Truffles opens its doors on Sunday (when the restaurant is typically closed) for a special Mother’s Day brunch buffet. With three seatings to choose from—10 a.m., noon or 2 p.m.—both early birds and late risers can treat themselves to rib-eye spiked with horseradish, Pommery mustard and red wine sauce; the restaurant’s signature spaghettini with truffle foam; and plump seared ahi tuna served with pickled Asian vegetables. Desserts include cupcakes decorated with floral icing specifically made for the occasion. Reservations a must.
Where: Four Seasons, 21 Avenue Rd., 416-928-7331.
How much: $85 per person, ages five to 12 $42.50; valet parking included.

Studio Café at Four Seasons Hotel
Truffles’ more casual sister restaurant offers a seafood-heavy two-course à la carte brunch on Mother’s Day. Eggs Queen Charlotte tops poached eggs with a lobster-infused hollandaise. A crab omelette is stuffed with scallions and Boursin cheese, while applewood-smoked salmon is served with fresh spring asparagus. Little tykes are more than welcome. Reservations are a must.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, 21 Avenue Rd., 416-928-7330.
How much: $50 per person, ages five to 12 $25.

The Gallery Grill
Treat your mom like the princess she is at this elegant room, complete with vaulted ceilings and stained glass. The eclectic menu features wild mushroom galette topped with a soft-poached egg and pecorino cheese; the carnivore-pleasing cassoulet Gallery Grill; and a unique frittata, plump with roasted chestnuts, caramelized onions and cheddar. Mom a seafood fan? The grilled octopus—drizzled with a roasted heirloom tomato-and-arugula-lemon vinaigrette—is a brunch item that’s as delectable as it is unusual. Reservations are a must.
Where: 7 Hart House Cir., 416-978-2445.
How much: mains $14–$16.