Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in Dublin

Are you running out of ideas on what to do to make this year’s Mother’s Day different from the typical dinner? It’s the thought that counts but if your mind is set on coming up with something unique, consider taking your mum to Peadar Kearney’s Pub. It’s a traditional Irish venue with a chill atmosphere and lots of entertainment. The downstairs bit hosts comedy nights all week; share laughs with your mum and bond with her over a pint. You can’t go wrong with a bit of fun like that and you’re guaranteed to leave in a great mood. But do make sure you book as soon as you can as tickets sell out fast.

Let’s face it, being a parent isn’t an easy job and the least you can do is gift your mum a relaxing time on her special day. On that note, how about spoiling her with one of the greatest combinations in the culinary world: food and bubbles? Between 12.30pm and 3.30pm the bar at the Morgan Hotel invites you to treat yourself to a brunch that consists of one main course, a cocktail and a dessert (think quinoa and avocado patty, passionfruit cheesecake and many more). No better way to say “I appreciate you” than a top-quality dining experience. Just make sure you book as soon as possible because this place can get busy.

If a classy wine and dine is what you’re after, Sophie’s Rooftop is the place you’re looking for. Contemporary settings allow you to enjoy good food in style and admire the beautiful night view at the same time. While an evening toast with a starry sky might seem to be reserved for couples, you and your mum will appreciate a moment away from the city bustle and some quality time. Choose from a variety of international and Irish dishes such as beef fillet with carrot puree, truffle and almond cauliflower, and mushroom and pearl onion jus. Just don’t forget to raise a glass to show your mum some appreciation.

When it comes to Dockers, you visit for one reason only and it’s to have fun – or to savour the delicious cocktails, to be more specific. Your mum and you might be years of experience apart but it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a couple of drinks together. Some of the delicious cocktails you can have are a tribute to dock workers who were given cute nicknames: Very Berry, Spicy Mangorita or non-alcoholic Skinner Kelly. The venue also serves sharable nibbles, toasted sambos and sourdough flatbreads. A wholesome, fun time guaranteed.

A restaurant celebration is one that you can’t go wrong with, especially if you decide to dine at La Maison where the food looks as good as it tastes. This venue also ticks all the boxes for a great Mother’s Day (friendly service, pleasant atmosphere, locally sourced ingredients – you name it). Your mum is bound to be satisfied with the dinner menu that includes options such as lamb rump with sweetbreads, ratatouille, potato gratin and smoked aubergine, and other French dishes that many review as having Michelin Guide quality. Try to get a table booking on the second floor where you can look out at the bustling Castle Market Street. 

Can’t decide where to take your mum to celebrate this year? You can always invite her for afternoon tea; it’s a classy choice that allows you to catch up with nice food and hot drinks. The menu offers a selection of sweet and savoury treats (think chocolate brownies and smoked salmon) with plenty of different coffees and teas to choose from. If you prefer bubbles over caffeine, you can always upgrade the experience to include Hendricks Tremendous Teapot with one of the gin cocktails that’s perfect for two people. Make sure you book in advance as it’s going to be a very popular option this Mother’s Day.

Booking your mum a flight to Thailand might be out of your pocket but if she enjoys the culture that much, treating her to Thai street food is the second best idea. Nightmarket’s menu is a satisfying mix of rustic food from Chang Mai and spicy seafood dishes from Hua Hin. You can expect punchy and authentic flavours; for example, Tom Kha Gai soup is a tasty combination of coconut milk, chicken, wild mushroom, lemongrass, galangal, shallots, kaffir lime, lime juice and chilli oil. Even if your mum hasn’t sampled the cuisine yet, trying something new is a great idea to spend some time together.

This Mother’s Day, you’re invited to take part in a paint and sip event at The Jar bar. Whether your mum has an artistic side or not, painting is all about focusing on the present and self-expression. You’ll be guided through this two-hour event step-by-step by hosting artists so all you need to bring is a good mood and trust the process. Even if you don’t leave with a masterpiece, there are drinks to make it up for you. Then you can stay after the event and have some comfort food. Have a pizza, burgers and some more alcohol to keep the fun going.

How about a thrilling afternoon of board games and a caffeine rush? Board and Brewed is a cafe that aims to revive face-to-face interaction, and nothing can bring people closer together than a healthy competition or two. Do you prefer a classic board game or would you rather challenge yourself to a Cards Against Humanity duel for extra giggles? If you’re usually too busy to make plans with your mum, this gives you the opportunity to laugh together, celebrate each other’s victories and enjoy a delicious coffee. We are sure that your mum will appreciate the quality time. Book a table, put your phone away and be ready to make fun memories.

No one would say no to a spa day especially if they get to spend it with their loved one. At Bonnington Hotel you can visit a serenity room where relaxation is just around the corner; with the signature massage, you’re guaranteed to let go of your worries and tension. Other options to choose from include treatments such as face facials, foot massages, a full body scrub, and many more. After the treatment, you can take your mum to the dining area where you get to unwind with a glass of wine and enjoy dinner (think classic fish and chips and sirloin steak). You’ll both feel spoiled.