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Skip Breakfast in Bed, Book the Table Instead: OpenTable Reveals Moms' Dining Preferences for Mother's Day

As Mother's Day approaches, a recent study conducted by OpenTable highlights a significant shift in how mothers prefer to celebrate. According to the research, a substantial 42% of mothers and mother figures express a desire to dine out with their families instead of receiving breakfast in bed—a meager 4% view in-bed breakfasts as a desirable option. This preference aligns with broader sentiments from American families; about 62% believe that dining out is essential to their Mother's Day celebrations.

Why Breakfast in Bed Fails
One of the primary reasons mothers shy away from breakfast in bed is the hassle that accompanies it. Many cite the messiness of in-bed meals, noting they would rather avoid cleanup duties associated with such an offering. This insight sheds light on evolving dynamics in familial traditions, suggesting that communal dining experiences could foster a stronger sense of connection on special occasions.

Key Dining Trends for Mother's Day 2026

OpenTable's research not only indicates preferences but also unveils several dining trends shaped by changing family dynamics.
1. Larger Gatherings: Celebrations are becoming more inclusive, with 38% of Americans intending to celebrate Mother's Day across multiple generations. This growing trend is echoed in the 13% increase in parties of six or more during Mother's Day in 2025 compared to the previous year.
2. Gen Z Leading the Charge: The inclination toward dining out is particularly pronounced among younger generations, with 62% of Gen Z planning to eat out this Mother's Day—far surpassing the participation rates of Baby Boomers and Gen X, which are less than 20% respectively.
3. Reduced Self-Planning Among Moms: This year, only 18% of mothers report planning their own celebrations, a notable drop from 39% last year. This change suggests that family members are more willing to take on the responsibility of planning, allowing mothers to simply enjoy their day.
4. Shifts in Dining Times: Although midday remains the preferred time for dining on Mother's Day, with 12 PM being the most popular choice in 2025, there is a notable increase in early dinner bookings at 5 PM, hinting at the potential for dinners to play a larger role in celebrations this year.

Restaurant Reservations Are Key
Cheryl Paniagua, VP of Restaurant Sales and Services at OpenTable, emphasizes that dining out is the most desired gift among mothers this year. With many reservations being made over a week in advance, early planning is crucial. For last-minute planners, OpenTable’s ‘Notify Me’ alerts have proven invaluable, helping thousands of guests secure their Mother’s Day reservations as demand surges.

The Top 100 Brunch Restaurants for Mother's Day 2026

OpenTable has also announced its annual list of the Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America for 2026. This list is created from an extensive analysis of over 10 million diner reviews, highlighting eateries that cater to families and large parties. California leads the pack with 19 restaurants featured, followed by New York with 12.

For those looking for recommendations, here are a few highlights:

• - California: Cesarina (San Diego), Foreign Cinema (San Francisco), and Hilda and Jesse (San Francisco)
• - Florida: Dry Dock Waterfront Grill (Tampa)
• - Illinois: Mon Ami Gabi (Chicago)
• - Texas: Le Jardinier (Houston) and Cafe Pacific (Dallas)

For further inspiration, OpenTable’s Mother’s Day dining hub offers guides suitable for large groups, kid-friendly venues, and even suggestions for early diners.

Conclusion

The insights from OpenTable's research illuminate a shift in how families choose to celebrate Mother's Day in 2026. Many mothers prefer dining experiences that foster connection rather than the traditional breakfast in bed. As families embrace the value of shared moments, restaurants are poised to play a pivotal role in these celebrations, offering a space for togetherness and joy on this special day.