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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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Vanilla slice to desert racing: 8 must-see Mildura events

Sun-drenched Mildura is set to host a spirited array of events for guaranteed good times.

Nestled on the banks of the Murray River, the rural town of Mildura punches well above its weight for cultural events throughout the year. And it’s the perfect escape for those who like to find award-winning food and wine, ancient outback landscapes and a relaxed river lifestyle all in one place.

Whether you’re an oenophile on the hunt for your next favourite bottle of wine or a motor enthusiast looking for high-octane action, these events are equal parts unique and unforgettable, and offer the best ways to experience the Mildura region.

1. Mildura Fringe Festival

Mildura Fringe Festival mildura events
Enjoy a stellar line-up of arts and entertainment.

Mildura Fringe Festival is gearing up for another huge year of feel-good fun in 2026. From 29 October – 15 November, attendees will find a stellar line-up of arts and entertainment acts, spanning burlesque, comedy, theatre, live music and circus shows. Standouts include the Shake It! burlesque act, hosted by Minnie Andrews, and the first annual Mildura Pride Day. You’ll also find beer gardens, multiple bars and family-friendly venues to get the party started, as well as a tasty curation of food trucks.

2. Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show

Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show mildura events
Taste a selection of the over 800 wines entered into the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show.

Oenophiles and occasional imbibers alike are almost guaranteed to find their next favourite drop at the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show. More than 800 wines from nearly 70 regions across Australia are entered into the competition, which has celebrated lesser-known innovative wines and emerging grape varieties for more than 20 years. There are a host of events from 4–7 November, from the Show Tasting – where you can sample as many entries as you like – to a delicious three-course dinner with matching wines curated by renowned Italian-Australian chef and festival co-founder Stefano de Pieri.

3. Cullulleraine Music Festival

Cullulleraine Music Festival mildura events
Listen to local, national and international artists. (Credit: David Sickerdick)

Adored for its ‘salt of the earth’ reputation that fosters welcoming regional vibes, the Cullulleraine Music Festival is a community-driven, not-for-profit music festival that hits all the right notes. Taking place from 9–11 April 2027, the lineup showcases a diverse range of local, national and international artists, including Harry Manx, Cat & Clint and Deep South Brass 8.  Festivalgoers can get down to folk, blues and roots music, and can join immersive experiences such as drumming circles and Celtic jam sessions – all in front of golden sunset views across Lake Cullulleraine.

4. Balloons Over Mildura

Balloons Over Mildura events
Watch the skies light up with colourful hot air balloons.

Mildura is set for a glow-up when this illuminating winter event comes to town. Around June to July each year, the Balloons Over Mildura takes over the skies. Be sure to catch the festival’s popular Night Glow event, where illuminated balloons light up the evening sky in a choreographed display. Order some fairy floss and a kebab and lay down a picnic rug to admire the colourful designs as they soar above. Little ones are also well looked after with children’s games.

5. The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph

The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph mildura
Taste the best vanilla slice in Australia.

The title of ‘best vanilla slice in Australia’ is fiercely contested. With its velvety custard sandwiched between flaky pastry, the iconic Aussie treat – affectionately known as a “snot block” – is a beloved bakery staple for good reason. Since 1998, bakers from all across the country have converged on Commercial Street in Merbein every year to compete in the Great Vanilla Slice Triumph. On 15 August, taste the creamy dessert at numerous stalls, then watch the winner be crowned by six professional baking judges. You’ll also find live music, children’s activities, market finds and vintage cars. May the sweetest treat win!

​6. Hattah Desert Race

Hattah Desert Race
Feel the excitement of Hattah Desert Race, whether you ride or not.

Whether you’re a motorhead or new to the world of racing, experiencing the thrill of off-road motorcycling at Australia’s largest desert race is worth writing home about. In July, the Hattah Desert Race sees nearly 900 junior and senior motorcyclists dash across 300 kilometres of red dirt and sand. Established in 1998, the high-speed enduro race is widely considered the most demanding motorsport race in the country, promising spectators an electrifying weekend up close to the action.

7. Goanna Run

goanna run mildura fashion show
See the best dressed at Goanna Run’s fashion show.

Every year, rev heads from around Australia bring their unique vehicles together for the Goanna Run, a buzzing hot rod and custom car festival. Held from 23–25 October and hosted by the Desert City Rodders, the weekend is a celebration of hot rods, rock ‘n’ roll and food trucks. Marvel at the hundreds of classic and vintage vehicles at Langtree Mall for The Show ‘n’ Shine event, and get some serious fashion inspiration from the ’50s-style fashion show. The events take place next to the picturesque Murray River, so a paddlesteamer cruise is also worth adding to the itinerary.

8. Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend

Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend
Become a rev head at Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend.

Go full throttle over the Easter long weekend with the ultimate horsepower party. The Mildura Power Sports Weekend is a multiday racing series held at Timmis Speedway, Sunset Strip and the Murray River, guaranteeing plenty of action and adrenaline. Fuel your obsession for all things motorsports with ski racing, arena motocross, speedway and drag racing events, and up your motor knowledge with organised fan meet-and-greets and talks. The weekend also features live music and family-friendly entertainment.

Start planning your eventful trip to Mildura at mildura.com.