Using restaurant reservation data compiled from its platform as well as an online survey conducted in March, OpenTable has revealed that 39 percent of mothers have had to book their own celebratory meal, and 44 percent say that having someone else take the lead on decisions makes Mother’s Day the most special. The findings also show an interest in having their own time out, with nearly one-third of mothers (30 percent) considering dining out solo as part of their Mother’s Day celebrations, in line with a larger movement of embracing ‘me time.’

Additional Mother’s Day insights include:

  • 46 percent of mothers want to start celebrations early to maximize relaxation time throughout the day. While noon was the most popular time to dine on Mother’s Day 2024, 10 am saw the most growth, up 19 percent year-over-year.
  • The number one wish-list for mothers designing their perfect Mother’s Day meal out is a waterfront or scenic view (64 percent).
  • A chef’s tasting menu is a must-have for 51 percent of mothers, as OpenTable data from 2024 showed a 29 percent year-over-year increase in OpenTable Experience dining on Mother’s Day.
  • 73 percent of mothers surveyed want to celebrate Mother’s Day with a family brunch with their children. Additionally, 66 percent of US consumers will celebrate multiple times over the weekend, whether with family, friends or solo.

“Moms want to take a backseat on planning this year, but here’s the wake-up call for anyone looking to deliver that stress-free experience: 29 percent of families have had to panic-book within 24 hours of the holiday, and use of our ‘Notify Me’ alerts jumped 36 percent year-over-year  – so plan ahead,” says Cheryl Paniagua, vice president of restaurant sales & services at OpenTable.

To help families navigate the much-anticipated Mother’s Day celebration, OpenTable has released its annual list of Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America for 2025, compiled by analyzing more than 10 million diner reviews, along with diner ratings, reservation demand, percentage of five-star reviews among other factors.