Phil Vettel recommends

Mother's Day is one of the biggest dining-out days of the year, which to me makes it one of the worst days to actually dine out, because it's a crazy-busy day for restaurants. But if mom wants to dine out, and this is the one day of the year when you absolutely have to let mom do what she wants, then put on a happy face and get with the program. At least some restaurants make a genuine effort to make the day's experience special. Here are some places worth your attention. And if I was somehow unclear before: Mother's Day is popular. Make reservations now. According to an OpenTable survey, 65 percent of moms plan to book their own reservations, which does not reflect well on the rest of us.

Phil Vettel

May 3, 2012