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Where to take your mum out on Mother’s Day in 2026

Credit: Saké Restaurant

Show gratitude to the best woman in your life with a heartfelt meal.

Mothers are superwomen in our lives, and they deserve appreciation all year round, but Mother’s Day is the perfect annual excuse to go the extra mile. And what better way to do that than with a memorable, delicious meal (that you can enjoy too)? Without further ado, our top picks to consider for your reservation plans around Australia.

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in NSW

Ananas, The Rocks, Sydney

Cost per person: $115
Open for: lunch and dinner
Where: 18a Argyle St, The Rocks, NSW

steak frites
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a mouthwatering plate of steak frites au poivre. (Credit: Steven Woodburn)

You can book a trip to France, or you can also treat the woman of the hour to a decadent meal in The Rocks – it comes close. Say merci with a meal at Ananas, a newcomer boasting the experience of the art of French dining in true brasserie style.

A relaxed yet sophisticated waterfront precinct provides the perfect backdrop for a long, indulgent lunch featuring a specially crafted four-course set menu. Toast with a glass of Champagne, linger over decadent desserts and soak up a setting that’s simply perfect.

Vitelli’s Upstairs, Redfern, Sydney

Cost per person: $129
Open for: lunch
Where: Corner of Cleveland &, Baptist St, Redfern, NSW

spaghetti at Vitellis
The spaghetti with pork and fennel meatballs is unmissable. (Credit: Steven Woodburn)

If mum’s love language translates to phenomenal carbs, a lively atmosphere and a chic New York-Italian vibe, it’s time to book Vitelli’s Upstairs in Redfern. This Mother’s Day, they’re pulling out all the stops for a fun, deeply delicious long lunch that promises to spoil her.

Dive into an epic eight-dish feast that hits all the right comfort notes. We’re talking crispy fried lasagne bites, fluffy garlic focaccia plunged into parmesan dip and glorious bowls of pipe rigate all’vodka. With hearty mains like chicken parm and barramundi piccata hitting the table, you’ll definitely want to pace yourself for the grand finale: a classic New York cheesecake, no less.

Saké, The Rocks/Double Bay, Sydney

Cost per person: $155
Open for: lunch and dinner
Where: 12 Argyle St, The Rocks, NSW; 33 Cross St, Double Bay, NSW

Japanese spread at Sake restaurant
The eight-course contemporary Japanese menu is a star. (Credit: Supplied)

Reminisce on some memories or simply manifest a family trip to Japan with an elegant display of contemporary Japanese dining. Available at both The Rocks and Double Bay outposts, Saké’s menu brings together seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques for a truly memorable meal.

While the full à la carte menu is on offer, the $155 eight-course set menu is the real star. Diners will enjoy Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bug tempura, followed by an impressive MB6-7+ hanger steak. Just be sure to save room for the rich chocolate mousse to finish!

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in Victoria

Beverly, Melbourne

Cost per person: $120
Open for: lunch
Where: Level 24/627 Chapel St, South Yarra, Vic

Beverly Rooftop
Highlights of the feast include the Old Bay rotisserie chicken, made more flavourful with blue cheese sauce, ranch dressing and dill pickles. (Credit: Supplied)

With unmatched panoramic views over Melbourne, head over to Beverly Rooftop for a stunning setting to show your appreciation.

Head chef David Ball has crafted a generous four-course menu where seasonal produce takes centre stage. Diners will be treated to bluefin tuna crudo, lobster and wild-caught prawn casarecce pasta and an Old Bay rotisserie half chicken, all finished with a poached mango pavlova. Going all out? Elevate the afternoon with Champagne on arrival, an oyster tasting flight or a few caviar bumps. The little ones are completely sorted too, with a dedicated two-course menu just for them.

The Lodge, Melbourne

Cost per person: $125
Open for: lunch
Where: Level 1/280 Little Collins St, Melbourne, Vic

cocktails at The Lodge Group
Elevate Mother’s Day with exclusive cocktail flavours. (Credit: Daniel Sortino)

For a refined twist on tradition, The Lodge Dining Room is reimagining high tea with a seasonal, elevated menu designed to celebrate mum.

Expect a thoughtful progression of savoury and sweet – from tuna tartare with Oscietra caviar to warm truffle rarebit – before a polished dessert spread featuring banoffee choux, raspberry rose Ispahan and house-made scones with blackberry and thyme jam. The experience can be elevated further with curated cocktails or a bottomless option, with inclusive menu variations ensuring everyone is catered for.

Taxi Kitchen, Melbourne

Cost per person: $95
Open for: lunch
Where: Transport Hotel, Level 1 Federation Square, Melbourne, Vic

Taxi Kitchen views
The perfect backdrop for a celebration at the heart of Melbourne. (Credit: Supplied)

Perched above Federation Square, Taxi Kitchen offers sweeping views across the Yarra River and the city skyline. It’s a spectacular backdrop for a sophisticated celebration right in the heart of Melbourne.

Known for its bold Australian-Asian fusion, the restaurant is offering an optional three-course set menu alongside its regular à la carte offering, making it ideal for those who prefer a flexible long lunch. Expect standout dishes like kingfish sashimi with umeboshi, Szechuan-spiced duck with a five-spice caramel, and a decadent double chocolate soufflé to finish.

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in Queensland

Medley Kangaroo Point, Brisbane

Cost per person: $90
Open for: breakfast and lunch
Where: 62 Wharf St, Kangaroo Point, Qld

Medley Restaurant riverside views
Medley makes a case for a relaxed Mother’s Day meal. (Credit: Supplied)

If you wanna keep things relaxed, Medley, situated along the river point at Kangaroo Point, has the perfect spot. This Mother’s Day, they’re keeping the celebrations cosy and warm with sweeping water views, live music and of course, a lineup of specials made with TLC.

Their three-course menu is certainly packed with fresh, seasonal crowd-pleasers. Start with zesty kingfish ceviche or artisan charcuterie, before moving on to mains like Mooloolaba scallop risotto or a hearty lamb yiros. To finish, the whole table can dig into a shared dessert platter loaded with carrot cake and double chocolate brownies.

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Wild Canary, Brookfield, Brisbane

Cost per person: $95
Open for: breakfast and lunch
Where: 2371 Moggill Rd, Brookfield, Qld

If your mum loves a lush, produce-driven feast, Wild Canary is serving up a stunning three-course lunch that hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect excuse to gather the family for a relaxed afternoon of spectacular food and great company.

The feast kicks off with a generous shared starter packed with cured meats, Australian cheeses and house-baked garlic focaccia. For the main event, diners can take their pick from comforting dishes like a farmhouse chicken ballotine or slow-cooked veal. Make sure to save room for dessert, you wouldn’t want to miss the decadent dark chocolate brownie or lemongrass rice pudding crème brûlée!

Southside Restaurant, South Brisbane

Cost per person: $75-$99
Open for: lunch
Where: 63 Melbourne St, South Brisbane, Qld

Southside dumplings
Exclusive dumplings are crafted for the special day. (Credit: Markus Ravik)

Tucked beneath a canopy of emerald leaves and soaring greenery, this stunning urban oasis is the ultimate spot to toast to your dearest mother.

Whether you opt for the signature à la carte menu, dive into a celebrated banquet, or indulge in Southside’s classic Sunday yum cha, the food is guaranteed to impress. Executive chef Benny Lam has even crafted two exclusive specials just for the occasion: a pork and truffle pumpkin dumpling and a sweet baked ‘snow mountain bun’ filled with Nutella custard. Wash it all down with a $20 glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne, pouring all day long to keep the celebrations bubbling!

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in Tasmania

The Point Revolving Restaurant, Hobart

Cost per person: $175
Open for: lunch
Where: 410 Sandy Bay Rd, Sandy Bay, Tas

Set high above the city with ever-changing views over Hobart’s harbour, The Point Revolving Restaurant is the place to be for a refined Mother’s Day lunch centred on seasonal Tasmanian produce.

The experience includes a three-course menu with an amuse-bouche on arrival, followed by a choice of elegant, produce-led dishes that showcase the region’s best. With its slow-turning panoramic backdrop and polished dining experience, it’s a considered way to make mum feel properly celebrated.

Mudbar Restaurant, Launceston

Cost per person: à la carte
Open for: lunch and dinner
Where: 28 Seaport Blvd, Launceston, Tas

Treat Mum to a laidback yet polished long lunch at Mudbar Restaurant, where the celebrations kick off with a complimentary glass of Delamere sparkling rosé just for her. With gorgeous views over the Tamar River, it’s a beautiful spot to settle in and make her feel completely spoiled.

Alongside their beloved signature dishes, the kitchen is rolling out a handful of fresh new menu additions especially for the occasion. It’s the perfect excuse to order up a feast, clink glasses and linger by the water’s edge all afternoon long.

Telegraph Hotel, Hobart

Cost per person: $33
Open for: lunch
Where: 19 Morrison St, Hobart, Tas

Beautifully restored to its former glory, the Telegraph Hotel – affectionately known as the Tele – is the perfect spot for a relaxed, no-fuss Mother’s Day. If the influential lady in your life prefers a laidback pub vibe over a stiff fine-dining room, this community-focused favourite has you covered.

Kick off the celebrations by soaking up the atmosphere with cocktails on the brand-new rooftop bar. Afterwards, head down to the dining room to treat mum to the pub’s signature $33 Sunday roast. It’s a hearty, comforting classic made for sharing good times around the table.

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in WA

Gibney, Cottesloe, Perth

Cost per person: à la carte
Open for: lunch and dinner
Where: 40 Marine Parade, Cottesloe, WA

Treat the leading lady in your life to a touch of seaside glamour this Mother’s Day at Gibney. Perfectly positioned right by the water at South Cottesloe Beach, this polished dining room pairs impeccable service with uninterrupted ocean views that are guaranteed to impress.

Rather than locking diners into a set menu, the venue is offering its full à la carte experience throughout the day. It gives families the ultimate freedom to settle in, order a round of Champagne, and graze through a luxurious long lunch – or leisurely evening meal – while watching the waves roll in along the coast.

Intuition Wine and Kitchen, Subiaco, Perth

Cost per person: $130
Open for: lunch
Where: 279 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco, WA

If a Mediterranean-inspired feast sounds like the ideal way to celebrate this Mother’s Day, Intuition Wine & Kitchen is here for you. This stylish spot has crafted a beautifully curated dining experience designed to make the occasion truly memorable.

Guests will be treated to a generous four-course set menu packed with vibrant flavours – promising a day of raising a glass, sharing great food and making new memories around the table.

Petition, Perth

Cost per person: à la carte
Open for: lunch and dinner
Where: State Buildings, St Georges Tce and Barrack St, Perth, WA

Steeped in cultural history, Petition offers a truly beautiful Mother’s Day date. Tucked inside the city’s iconic state buildings, this contemporary Australian eatery is all about celebrating local, seasonal produce in a space where crowds have gathered for over a century.

With a menu that stretches from the early morning right through to the evening hours, it gives families the ultimate flexibility to celebrate. Pair a beautifully curated meal with a drop from the neighbouring Wine Merchant, and settle in for a memorable day out.

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Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in SA

Monarto Safari Resort, Monarto

Cost per person: $89 per adult; $39 per child
Open for: lunch
Where: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto, SA

champagne at Monarto
Monarto offers a unique and “wild" Mother’s Day treat. (Credit: Supplied)

For a Mother’s Day she’ll be talking about for years, Monarto Safari Park’s Wild Tea is unlike anything else on this list. Overlooking the sweeping plains of Wild Africa, this elevated high tea leans into native ingredients and South Australian produce with serious flair.

Graze through savoury bites like grilled haloumi skewers with lemon myrtle glaze and pulled lamb sliders with bush tomato relish, before moving on to wattleseed brownies, macaroons and a very good cream cheese and bacon scone. Adults are welcomed with a glass of sparkling – and if you’re lucky, a giraffe will photobomb the moment entirely.

Wined Bar, National Wine Centre of Australia, Adelaide

Cost per person: $89
Open for: lunch
Where: Cnr of Botanic and Hackney Rd, Hackney, SA

Wined Bar
Mum deserves a chef-curated treat showcasing the best of local cuisine. (Credit: Duy Huynh)

Right on the doorstep of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Wined Bar is making Mother’s Day effortlessly elegant. Kick things off with a glass of sparkling rosé before working through a chef-curated multi-course spread of prawns in creamy garlic and chilli, grilled halloumi with roast pumpkin, sous vide beef rump and Mediterranean herb-baked salmon. A Basque cheesecake seals the deal.

For the wine lovers, add on the sommelier-curated pairing for an extra $35 – three wines matched to each course. Mum deserves it!

Harry’s Deli, McLaren Vale

Cost per person: $90
Open for: lunch
Where: 255 Strout Rd, McLaren Vale, SA

McLaren Vale locals, this one’s for you. Head chef Taiaha Ngawiki of Harry’s Deli has put together a generous three-course shared menu built around seasonal produce – the kind of unhurried, delicious lunch Mum actually deserves. Every lady is welcomed with a glass of Wirra Wirra dry grenache rosé, which honestly sets the tone perfectly. 

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in the NT

Saltwater @ Bundilla, The Gardens, Darwin

Cost per person: à la carte
Open for: breakfast, brunch, and lunch
Where: 19 Conacher St, The Gardens, NT

No set Mother’s Day menu here – but honestly, who needs one? Perched inside the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory with sweeping ocean views, Saltwater is an iconic NT dining destination worth knowing about. Proudly local and produce-driven, the menu gives mum a genuine taste of the Top End – a pretty special setting to celebrate her in.

Lasseters Hotel, Alice Springs

Cost per person: $95
Open for: lunch
Where: 93 Barrett Dr, Alice Springs, NT

Alice Springs doesn’t do things by halves. Lasseters Hotel is marking Mother’s Day with a glamorous live music-backed banquet inside the Alice Springs Convention Centre – think prawn tacos, chicken karaage, grilled salmon and a mini chocolate board to finish. Lively, indulgent, and right in the heart of the Red Centre.

Ella by Minoli, Darwin

Cost per person: $110 (chef’s selection menu)
Open for: lunch
Where: 20 West Ln, Darwin City, NT

For a Mother’s Day lunch that’s genuinely unlike anything else, Ella by Minoli is a must-try. Founded by MasterChef alumna Minoli De Silva, this Darwin gem offers a contemporary take on Sri Lankan cuisine – personal, story-driven and absolutely delicious. Let the chef’s selection menu do the work and take mum on a flavour journey she won’t forget.

Where to celebrate Mother’s Day in the ACT

The Marion, Canberra

Cost per person: $85
Open for: lunch
Where: Act Parks Depot, Barrine Dr, Parkes, ACT

Canberra’s The Marion is quietly one of the most impressive lunch spots in the country, and Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to finally book. The French-leaning menu is seriously considered – think scorched mackerel with buttermilk dressing, herb-crusted white Pyrenees lamb backstrap with pickled muntries and juniper-crusted venison loin with sauce grand Veneur. Each dish comes with an optional wine pairing, making it easy to turn lunch into a proper occasion. Finish with the lavender and orange crème brûlée, and mum will be absolutely glowing.

The Boat House, Canberra

Cost per person: $120
Open for: lunch
Where: Grevillea Park, Menindee Dr, Barton, ACT

The Boathouse views
The views at The Boathouse will surely charm your mum. (Credit: James Souter)

Lakeside views, a three-course set menu, and a dedicated kids’ option – The Boathouse has Mother’s Day well and truly covered.

Kick off with Abrolhos scallop and braised pork cheek, before choosing between white Pyrenees lamb with smoked eggplant and kefir or Humpty Doo barramundi with mussels and prawn bisque. A pumpkin honeycomb cheesecake with cardamom caramel ice cream finishes things off beautifully. The little ones are sorted too, with chicken tenders or spaghetti followed by ice cream with iced magic – a menu they’ll be just as excited about. 

Louis Dining, Canberra

Cost per person: $110
Open for: lunch
Where: 18 National Circuit, Barton, ACT

Mum arrives to a complimentary glass of sparkling – already a great start. Louis is serving up a beautifully considered three-course menu with plenty of choice at every turn. Tuna crudo or beef tartare to start, blue eye cod or flat iron steak for mains and a strawberry elderflower coupe or chocolate mousse to finish. Elegant without being fussy – exactly what Mother’s Day lunch should be. 

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Cass Lazaro
Cass Lazaro is Australian Traveller's Content Producer, helping develop compelling travel and lifestyle features that resonate with readers. She is a Manila-based creative, armed with a Bachelor of Development Communication from the University of the Philippines. Her love for storytelling led her to pursue a career in content writing, landing her roles in tech start-ups and lifestyle and fashion publications. Cass was previously an Editor for Cosmopolitan Philippines and a Social Media Strategist for Sydney-based agency If and When. Outside of work, she likes to try out new cafes, watch F1 and get lost in a good book. On her travel bucket list is to catch the picture-perfect sunsets of Santorini in Greece.
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Red earth, light shows and ancient culture: discover the ultimate NT road trip

(Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
    The Northern Territory is made for road trips, and this one hits all the highlights.

    Craggy mountain ranges, inviting waterholes, ochre soil: the landscape of the Northern Territory is asking to be explored by road and foot. There are many iconic road trips to choose from here, but none so all-encompassing than the roughly 3000 kilometres of sealed road that make up Explorer’s Way.

    Spend 14 days (or more, to really make the most of it) driving this route from Adelaide, hitting the NT near the small settlement of Kulgera before later finishing in Darwin. Along the way, you’ll find nearly all the territory’s most iconic sights.

    Discover some of the top highlights that make Explorer’s Way one of Australia’s most incredible road trips.

    1. Alice Springs

    echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park
    See the locals at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

    Recently hitting the big screen again with the story of The Kanagroo Sanctuary, there’s a lot to surprise you in Alice Springs.

    Three distinct desert habitats – desert rivers, sand country and woodland – are recreated over 1300 hectares at Alice Springs Desert Park. Time your visit for a presentation or a free bird show.

    Later, turn your attention to the skies above, taking a dive into local astronomy at Earth Sanctuary. You’ll find a range of experiences, from a 90-minute toe-dip into the stars through to an overnight adventure.

    Alice Springs packs a surprising punch with its tasty dining options, including pub grub and unique brews at Alice Springs Brewing Co, tapas and pizza at Epilogue Lounge and tasty cafe fare at the quirky Page 27.

    2. Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park

    woman standing at Ormiston Gorge
    Dive into Ormiston Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom and Jesso)

    Beginning 15 minutes from Alice Springs and stretching across 161 kilometres, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is packed with striking ancient landscapes and inviting water holes.

    Visit Standley Chasm – traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’ – to take in its bold red and orange hues, and to observe the diverse bird species, lizards and wallabies that call it home.

    Cool off in one of several picturesque natural swimming holes, like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.

    3. Uluru & Kata Tjuta

    three women looking at Kata Tjuta at sunset
    Explore Kata Tjuta. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

    Visiting the Cultural Heart of Australia is something everybody should experience. There are so many side trips in the Red Centre you could easily spend a week here, but to get the most out of a short time, park the car then get out on foot.

    Take the 10-kilometre Base Walk around the entirety of Uluru or join a free, ranger-guided Mala Walk along part of the base, learning about Tjukurpa (creation stories) and geology as you go.

    For a change of pace, wait until nightfall and wander through the iconic Field of Light display by celebrated artist Bruce Munro, or see the Wintjiri Wiru lightshow that shares the ancient Mala story using drones, lasers and projections.

    4. Tennant Creek

    pson looking at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) northern territory
    See the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Tennant Creek was Australia’s third-largest gold mining town in the 1930s, and visitors can discover that history at Battery Hill Mining Centre – and even try their own hand at gold fossicking.

    For a completely different side of history, pop into Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre, which preserves and shares Warumungu culture through art, performance, a museum and more.

    Just outside town, find the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A site integral to important stories held by the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Warlpiri and Alyawarra peoples, the boulders appear to almost have dropped out of the sky and seemingly continue to defy gravity.

    5. Mataranka

    aerial of people swimming in bitter springs northern territory
    Dive into Bitter Springs. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

    A town made famous by the novel We of the Never Never by Jeannie Gunn (and a movie of the same name), Mataranka is also known for its sandy-bottomed thermal pool, Bitter Springs, within Elsey National Park. Follow a 500-metre loop track around these spring-fed pools that stay a toasty 34°C year-round, before choosing your favourite spot to dive into. Enjoy the local birdlife while you relax.

    Elsewhere in the park, find historical sites, several scenic walks and Roper River, which is perfect for boating and fishing.

    6. Nitmiluk National Park

    Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise
    Join a sunset cruise with Nabilil Dreaming. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Lachlan Gardiner)

    Nitmiluk National Park is sandstone country, with 13 stunning gorges and plenty of waterfalls waiting to be explored.

    One of the most beautiful spots can be found along the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, a five-to-six day bushwalk that follows an ancient Jawoyn songline from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Numbers are restricted and book out quickly, so be sure to plan well ahead. Not up for the hike? Drive right up to the falls and enjoy a dip without the challenge.

    Elsewhere, explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Paddle a kayak through the river running through the canyon, or save your energy on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise, discovering the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people while enjoying a candlelit dinner as the cliffs around you shift colour and glow with the changing daylight.

    Continue your cultural journey at local art centres like Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art & Culture Centre or Mimi Aboriginal Art & Craft.

    7. Litchfield National Park

    cathedral termite mounds in Litchfield national park
    Be awed by giant cathedral termite mounds. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin lies the beautiful Litchfield National Park. It’s famous for stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Tjaynera Falls.

    Here you’ll also find hundreds of giant – and magnetic – cathedral termite mounds that are truly a sight to see. Ageing up to 100 years old, you won’t find mounds like these outside the northern parts of Australia. Stroll along the accessible boardwalk to see them up close.

    8. Darwin

    darwin street art
    Darwin art is streets ahead. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Mark Fitzpatrick)

    This list wouldn’t be complete without the territory’s capital city: Darwin. Situate yourself upon arrival with a stroll through the main streets, admiring the many art murals by local, interstate and international artists. They’re all remnants of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival, one of Australia’s longest running street art festivals.

    Stop to recharge along Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct, an area of delectable restaurants, public swimming pools and free events. And, of course, it would be wrong to leave the city without enjoying a bowl of laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market as the sun goes down.

    Learn more and start planning your Explorer’s Way road trip at northernterritory.com/drive.