Mother’s Day was a little extra special this year since my mom is staying in Huntington Beach for a while. After failing to make reservations at several of my favorite restaurants because everything was booked, I decided to give her a real (and diverse) taste of Huntington Beach (not to be confused with the actual Taste of Huntington Beach I last wrote about). At first, I was nervous about my decision to just “wing it,” but the day couldn’t have worked out better even with our 7 month old puppy in tow! Sometimes not having any plans is the best plan of all.
Quick disclaimer: I did not take a lot of photos as being present with mom was more important than pictures. Although, we had some great photos taken of my mom, fur brother and I at Top Dog Barkery by the talented L’arte Photography in support of the OC Animal Care.
Longboard Restaurant & Pub
No real, locals Huntington Beach experience would be complete without a visit to Longboards. In true Sunday and holiday fashion, every patio on Main Street was full except one perfect table out front of Longboards. Brunch included a complimentary Mimosa for moms. Perfect. Mom ordered the breakfast Corned Beef Hash and loved it. We didn’t stay long because the one reservation I was able to make that day was for manicures and pedicures…
Holly & Hudson
A brand new, beautiful nail salon in Pacific City across from Blue Gold. I loved the modern, clean design of this salon. I stuck to the basic mani and pedi and mom got a gel manicure. The staff and all technicians were very friendly, the salon was very clean and the large massage chairs were fantastic! They even let my dad and fur brother hang inside until we were done. A little pricey, but I always say, you get what you pay for and it was worth it.
Tanner’s Huntington Beach
Our next unplanned stop was to Tanner’s restaurant in Pasea Hotel & Spa. They had a great table for us on the patio where we could bring our puppy. We were still a little full from brunch so we opted for champagne and dessert in the form of some delicious French Toast and their gigantic Cinnamon Bun. They were probably the best of both I’ve ever had. Looking forward to enjoying a full meal there soon.
Basket of Love
I am not necessarily a “flowers and chocolate” kind of girl… either for myself or others and holidays are no exception. (Don’t get me wrong, I love flowers, but the marked up holiday version is not my style). So I wanted to get a little more creative and who doesn’t love honey! I have become obsessed with this real, raw and delicious honey from Register Family Farm. And their Mother’s Day basket was perfect! It was packed full of our favorite Wildflower and Tupelo Honey, chapsticks, soaps and candles made from Beeswax. Mom (and I) loved it!
That’s Amore
As if we hadn’t eaten enough that day, we walked over to a place that has become one of our new favorites, That’s Amore in Surfside-Huntington Beach. We actually went to this restaurant three times in one week, it’s that good. Their Italian food is so authentic and we are slowly making our way through the entire menu. We also managed to ask for and order items not on the menu, and the chef is always happy to make it for us! We will be back and very soon.
I must say for an almost completely unplanned day, it was quite perfect. The best part is that this day will be duplicated in the very near future. The day may not contain the exact same restaurants or gifts, but you don’t need a holiday (whether it’s a recognized national holiday or made up one by Hallmark), to celebrate and show appreciation to those you love. Nor do you need a holiday to “wing it” in Huntington Beach and have a great time!
Happy Mother’s Day! I love you Mom! XOXO