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Mother's Day Restaurants
22 California Central Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

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22 California Central Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

by The OpenTable Team

Updated 10 April 2019

Whether you're taking mom out for a treat or enjoying a Sunday lunch with friends, these restaurants are perfect for Mother's Day. From kid-friendly favorites to brunch-worthy hotspots, we'll help you find the perfect place to celebrate.

A photo of Oyster Loft restaurant

4.8

4.8 (3636)

$31 to $50

Seafood

Pismo Beach

About the restaurant

More than a restaurant, Oyster Loft is an experience, where the excellent service is rivaled only by the flavor and beauty of our dishes, upscale cuisine and regional seafood dishes artfully prepared. Dine with sparkling views of Pismo Beach, and enjoy appetizers, seasonal main courses and indulgent sweets.

Oyster Loft boasts a menu rich with fresh fish. Our raw bar features a variety of oysters shucked on the half shell from both the east and west coasts. The menu also includes seafood dishes, shellfish preparations and a selection of meat to round out the offerings. The range of the menu offers you the opportunity to choose your dining experience.

Top review

L

LindaVIP

Dined 6 days ago

This restaurant never disappoints! One of our favorites.

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A photo of Fresh Oysters of a restaurant

A photo of Kurobuta Pork Chop of a restaurant

Kurobuta Pork Chop

A photo of Pan-Seared Scallops of a restaurant

Pan-Seared Scallops

A photo of Lucky's restaurant

4.8

4.8 (2881)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Montecito

About the restaurant

LUCKY'S is widely known for its exclusive selection of USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, farmer's market vegetables, no-nonsense cocktails and world class wine cellar.
For take-out, please call the restaurant.
We do not accept bar table reservations online, please call the restaurant.
For larger parties, please call or email the restaurant directly.

Top review

L

LorenVIP

Dined on 17 Dec 2024

The most phenomenal meal and filet we’ve ever had. 10/10 for special occasion dinner.

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A photo of Monday - Chicken Pot Pie with Morels of a restaurant

Monday - Chicken Pot Pie with Morels

A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant

Bouchon - Santa Barbara

4.8

4.8 (5437)

$31 to $50

Californian

Santa Barbara

About the restaurant

We are delighted to have added additional outdoor seating but Santa Barbara nights are chilly so bring a sweater or light jacket!

Fresh, local ingredients, prepared with care. Excellent wines that reflect the quality and character of our region and work in concert with the cuisine. Warm, inviting ambiance, service at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Santa Barbara ‘Wine Country Cuisine’ means we source our ingredients using an ‘as-fresh-and-as-local-as-possible’ approach, with fish from the Santa Barbara Channel and produce from the surrounding countryside. We then take into account how these flavors can be presented in concert with our local wines. We believe you’ll taste the difference. Bon Appètit!

Top review

V

VincentVIP

Dined 7 days ago

Outstanding experience! Cuisine, wine, wait staff, setting, ambiance, outdoor evening. All perfect

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A photo of Scallop Trio of a restaurant

A photo of Dungeness Crab Cakes of a restaurant

Dungeness Crab Cakes

A photo of Bouchon French 'French Onion' Soup of a restaurant

Bouchon French 'French Onion' Soup

A photo of Il Cortile Ristorante restaurant

Il Cortile Ristorante

4.8

4.8 (4171)

$50 and over

Italian

Paso Robles

About the restaurant

Welcome to Il Cortile Ristorante, Downtown Paso Robles' newest fine dining Italian restaurant. We invite you to join us to enjoy our seasonal menus created with the freshest ingredients available sourced by our surrounding local and regional landscapes by Executive Chef Santos MacDonal, providing a melody of exceptional homemade pastas, fresh seafood, top quality meats and antipasti. A top destination for exquisite wines, picturesque landscapes and beautiful weather, Paso Robles provides the perfect pairing for Il Cortile's rustic Italian fine dining.

Top review

C

cindy

Dined 1 day ago

Great experience as always. Food and service were exceptional. We’ll be back!

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A photo of Fettuccine Salsicia of a restaurant

Fettuccine Salsicia

A photo of Crostini con Burrata of a restaurant

Crostini con Burrata

A photo of Risotto del Giorno of a restaurant

Risotto del Giorno

A photo of The Sur House restaurant

4.3

4.3 (460)

$50 and over

Californian

Big Sur

About the restaurant

The Sur House, at Ventana Big Sur, serves cuisine in an awe-inspiring setting. The restaurant’s warm, rustic interior opens onto its legendary terrace where panoramic views of the ocean and rugged Big Sur coastline stretch for more than 50 miles. The cuisine makes use of the abundance of California’s Central Coast with local, simple, sustainable ingredients, including items from Ventana’s own organic garden.

Non-Resort Guests will enjoy a pre-fixed, 3-course menu for $110/per person. A la carte menu not available at this location for dinner service.
A 22% Service charge will be added to all checks.

Top review

S

Suzanne

Dined on 27 Nov 2024

I cannot say enough good things about The Sur House! You will not find a more gorgeous view, amazing food, and the most wonderful staff! We say the same thing every time we visit, and it’s what keeps us coming back! It’s the most special place in Big Sur!

A photo of Ventana Grill restaurant

4.6

4.6 (3212)

$30 and under

Latin American

Pismo Beach

About the restaurant

Discover the cool, coastal world of Ventana Grill.
With an atmosphere that channels the four elements, Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach immerses guests in the enchanting pleasures of the natural world. Dine surrounded by the rhythmic serenade of waves crashing on the beach below. The stylish dining room sits perched on a coastal bluff, treating guests to an endless view of azure blue and rich red sunsets.

Top review

M

Michael

Dined 2 days ago

Our family of four all ordered different entrees. They were all excellent! Our waiter was both professional and attentive. We’re locals and are happy to have Ventana close by.

A photo of Stella Mare's restaurant

4.8

4.8 (2313)

$31 to $50

French

Santa Barbara

About the restaurant

French country bistro...Between Montecito and Santa Barbara, Stella Mare's Bistro is located in a historic Victorian home overlooking the Bird Refuge. French country cuisine rules the menu, with dishes like coq au vin, cassoulet, and moules frites. Sip seasonal cocktails amid cozy décor -- all the right ingredients for a great dining experience. Bon appétit!

When requesting the greenhouse please note that is considered indoor dining.

Top review

D

Diana

Dined 6 days ago

Too bad Stella Mare’s is closing December 31st 2024. Lost their lease. No place to relocate. A new “unnamed” restaurant will be taking over.

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A photo of Stella Burger of a restaurant

A photo of Salmon of a restaurant

A photo of Saumon Amandine of a restaurant

Saumon Amandine

A photo of Fandango restaurant

4.7

4.7 (3853)

$31 to $50

European

Pacific Grove

About the restaurant

A favorite among Fandango regulars is the succulent Rack of Lamb; other menu items include Fresh Seafood, a variety of pastas, delicious and exotic Mediterranean dishes such as paella and Couscous, and a tempting selection of excellent steaks. Several daily specialties are also available.

Desserts we offer, Souffle, Profiteroles, Chocolate Mousse

Top review

V

Vicki

Dined on 18 Dec 2024

I chose Fandango for my birthday dinner because of its excellent and diverse menu, asking for a quiet corner. As it's popular and sometimes noisy, we went early to dodge the crowds. To my delight and gratitude, they seated us in a pleasant, small, quiet room by ourselves. Only by the time we reached dessert did a few other guests join us. It was perfect. The servers were thoughtful and attentive. I ordered sweetbreads, which are hardly served anywhere else, and while they weren't the best I've ever, they were very good. Our desserts were excellent. The whole experience met and exceeded my expectations and desires.

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A photo of Caesar Salad of a restaurant

A photo of Giant Sea Scallops of a restaurant

Giant Sea Scallops

A photo of Fresh Scallops of a restaurant

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Monterey restaurant

Chart House Restaurant - Monterey

4.5

4.5 (6870)

$30 and under

Seafood

Monterey

About the restaurant

Chart House is a fine dining restaurant serving seafood & steak and famous for their spectacular views. For more than 50 years, Chart House has redefined the ideal dining experience. With 27 waterfront and showcase locations ranging from the historic to the unforgettable, Chart House restaurants specialize in dazzling views, unique cuisine and exceptional service. From fresh fish specialties to slow-roasted prime rib, the renowned chefs of Chart House have tailored a menu that adds a unique touch to local flavors. And the Chart House happy hour is a guest favorite, where guest favor our signature cocktails and delicious bites you are sure to enjoy. Our original Hot Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect end to a memorable dining experience at Chart House. Chart House offers the ideal setting for your next event. We would be happy to assist you with all the details of your special occasion.

Top review

D

Debra

Dined 1 day ago

Always one of our favorite restaurants! Great service, food and ambiance, been our Christmas tradition every year for 11 years but we love going all year long. Great views also! Jimmy the general manager is the best, always coming around to make sure everything is great !

A photo of Sardine Factory restaurant

Sardine Factory

4.7

4.7 (4963)

$31 to $50

Seafood

Monterey

About the restaurant

Every city has that one can’t miss restaurant, where celebrities feel at home and every other guest feels like a celebrity. Since October 2, 1968, The Sardine Factory’s cachet has made dining in our historic Cannery Row setting a tradition for world leaders, sports heroes and entertainment icons. Our award-winning chefs prepare delectable creations of fresh, sustainable seafood and USDA Prime Aged Beef; winner of Restaurant Hospitality Magazine’s "Best Wine List in America" award. The Lounge’s live entertainment, Happy Hour and affordable menu are a casual alternative to our other dining rooms. Celebrating over 50 years under the same ownership and management! Voted "Best Restaurant in Monterey" by Monterey County Herald readers.

Top review

M

Mikayla

Dined 3 days ago

It was a great experience! Staff were so sweet due to our recent engagement and our waitress Lea made it so perfect. The food was so tasty and I loved my mushroom pasta, but the star of the show for sure is when we were treated to swan boat duo for dessert. Pic worthy and a lovely evening- will definitely be back again! (:

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A photo of Sardine Factory's "Sorbet on Ice Swan" of a restaurant

Sardine Factory's "Sorbet on Ice Swan"

A photo of USDA Prime Filet Mignon of a restaurant

USDA Prime Filet Mignon

A photo of Abalone Bisque of a restaurant

A photo of Sea Venture restaurant

4.6

4.6 (2402)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Pismo Beach

About the restaurant

The SeaVenture Restaurant located on the beach in California Central Coast wine country, the third floor Restaurant allows you to take in breathtaking sunsets and panoramic beach and ocean views from large picture windows and outdoor decks. Chef Eddie Ruiz contemporary coastal cuisine is inspired by the surrounding local wine country. Our seasonal menu is prepared with locally farmed vegetables, premium pork and beef and the highest quality fish and seafood. All desserts are made in house from scratch.

Top review

C

ChristopherVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Wonderful Xmas Eve celebration Ambiance from lobby employs greetings to host & of course our wauter Thomas was extremely professional attentive & very personalized service. He even took his time helping us take family photo!! A heater was provided without question as some restaurants do not have enough heaters; we were thrilled as we would have had to leave as it was too cold on balcony without it & therefore everything was perfect, as usual. Delicious nachos, fried chicken & “Craft cocktails” were superior! Thank you & merry Christmas!!

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A photo of Lobster Benedict of a restaurant

Lobster Benedict

A photo of Pan Seared Filet Mignon of a restaurant

Pan Seared Filet Mignon

A photo of Couples Filet Mignon & Lobster of a restaurant

Couples Filet Mignon & Lobster

A photo of Anton & Michel Restaurant restaurant

Anton & Michel Restaurant

4.7

4.7 (3270)

$31 to $50

Californian

Carmel

About the restaurant

Anton and Michel is now open INDOORS and OUTDOORS at the COURT of the FOUNTAINS.
LUNCH: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM / DINNER: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Reservations are highly recommended.
If you are having any difficulty making reservations online, please call the restaurant directly at 831-624-2406 or send us an email.
Since 1980, Anton and Michel has consistently maintained an award-winning reputation for true excellence in the art of fine dining. A complete interior remodel was recently completed features handset stonework throughout the restaurant. The floor to ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the Court of the Fountains. Zagat Survey calls it: Carmel’s long-standing paean to graciousness in dining out. Along with updated and contemporary changes to the menus, ultimate table side service flambé desserts remain. As quoted in the Wine Spectator, Anton and Michel is “probably the best dining experience in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea”.

Top review

J

John L.VIP

Dined 2 days ago

Our favorite Carmel restaurant. The food and service are superb.

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A photo of Classic French Onion Soup of a restaurant

Classic French Onion Soup

A photo of Cherries Jubilee (for two) of a restaurant

Cherries Jubilee (for two)

A photo of GF Black Angus Filet Mignon of a restaurant

GF Black Angus Filet Mignon

A photo of Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, at Madonna Inn restaurant

Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House, at Madonna Inn

4.8

4.8 (4529)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

San Luis Obispo

About the restaurant

Enjoy an award winning dining experience in our world-famous pink and gold Steak House - offering a comfortable and opulent dining atmosphere. Indulge in a delicious oak-pit-barbecued steak, fresh seafood, chicken, or vegetarian entrees. Featuring a superb wine list, decadent world-famous desserts and a whimsical, European atmosphere. Boutique shopping makes for a fun experience before or after you dine with us.

Top review

M

mary ann

Dined today

Great food, service, and ambience. Kitschy and cool. Loved every bit of it.

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A photo of French Filet Mignon of a restaurant

French Filet Mignon

A photo of Pink Champagne of a restaurant

A photo of Atlantic Salmon of a restaurant

Atlantic Salmon

A photo of Pacific's Edge restaurant

4.5

4.5 (3384)

$50 and over

American

Carmel

About the restaurant

Nestled on the craggy bluffs of Carmel Highlands and offering spectacular views of the California coastline, Pacific’s Edge lives up to a well-earned reputation as a destination restaurant. Using ingredients inspired by the local bounty from land and sea, a creative culinary team curates seasonal menus complemented by a storied wine list. Where California casual meets refined dining in a one-of-a-kind location, Pacific’s Edge will surely delight all the senses.

Top review

J

JenniferVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Incredible!!! Not to be missed. The views were amazing!!! Tony took great care of us. We had the crab eggs Benedict and the California eggs Benedict (with mushrooms) and both were outstanding. The fried potatoes were perfectly prepared and the coffee was delicious. We will be back.

A photo of Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn restaurant

Copper Café and Bakery, at Madonna Inn

4.4

4.4 (1973)

$31 to $50

American

San Luis Obispo

About the restaurant

The Copper Café is popular with tourists and locals alike for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in a warm and charming atmosphere. Copper counters, rich Bavarian woods, and lovely natural lighting will transport you to a quaint European village. Our Madonna Inn Bakery, featuring world-famous cakes, pies, cookies, along with French and Danish pastries remains open and available for walk-in and pre-ordered items.

Top review

J

Jeff

Dined 1 day ago

What a treat on Christmas Day! So festive, buzzing with activity. The menu is quite large. Our food was great and served -very- quickly. I loved being able to have breakfast in the mid-afternoon. We may make this a Christmas tradition. The staff were all so happy and helpful.

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A photo of Waffle of a restaurant

A photo of The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn restaurant

The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn

4.0

4 (968)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Paso Robles

About the restaurant

Known for our expansive menu of hearty steakhouse fare and as one of the most sought-after Paso Robles restaurants, The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn is proud to serve a variety of carefully-crafted plates that bring together the fresh ingredients of California’s Central Coast. Set amongst a beautiful backdrop and offering both indoor fireside dining and patio dining, The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn invites you to discover dishes that are abundantly flavorful and naturally tender. Brought to the table by generations of farmers, our Certified Angus Beef has passed through a rigorous process to evaluate for marbling, maturity, sizing, appearance and tenderness.

Top review

C

Charissa

Dined 1 day ago

We ate in the Grand Ballroom the the Christmas buffet special. The prime rib was one of the best I've ever had, there were several other choices to choose from as well as a plethora of delicious and healthy sides. The cheesecake was like heaven in every bite. The service was also amazing considering it was Christmas Day and more than likely they had less on hand then normal. We'll definitely eat here again for our annual Christmas dinner.

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A photo of Steak Bites of a restaurant

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