Your mom would love a membership to the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum to enjoy its koi ponds, windy pathways and tranquil spots all year long. There’s always something special going on with an Introduction to Japanese Tea at 10 a.m. (register here) and a musical Onyoku Session at 1 p.m.
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Seaport Village has crafted a short guide of where to shop for the special mother figure in your life this year! Find sweaters, blouses, dresses, jewelry, antiques, and more at the following Seaport shops:
• Seaport Island Fashion
• Influencer Boutique
• Beachcity
• Windsong
• Ocean Avenue
• Mosaic Handcraft
Also pick up novelty gifts and SoCal souvenirs, explore fashion-forward boutiques, a nostalgic toy shop, a coastal-inspired shell and coral specialty store, and more! Find a favorite flag at Alamo Flags; mementos at Destination City Gifts; or try on eco-friendly clothing at Cariloha Bamboo. Comb the aisles of heat-packed salsas and seasonings at Hot Licks; then head over to Kite Flite and “fly before you buy” with a free lesson at its bayside testing ground. Seaport Village’s meandering cobblestone pathways are surrounded by flowing fountains, duck ponds, an urban beach and even a historic, hand-carved carousel. Enjoy an afternoon exploring the shops, strolling the promenade and taking in the gorgeous scenery.
Del Mar Plaza is delighted to welcome back Dreamers Market. Join them on Saturday, May 11, as they host the Mom’s Day Out Pop-Up Market! Meet local vendors, check out permanent jewelry, free gifts, live music, face painting, a photo booth, and more! The multi-story open-air plaza offers upscale shopping and dining as well as a bakery, a gelateria, beauty salons and a fitness studio. Perched on a corner in the seaside village of Del Mar, the complex features a collection of men’s and women’s boutiques carrying everything from distinct apparel and footwear to fine jewelry and designer sunglasses. Its restaurants cover a broad selection from gourmet seafood and steaks to Italian, Japanese, and Mexican cuisine. A bistro-style cafe further draws guests to its sun-filled patio for breakfast and lunch. A new brunch spot, a specialty gourmet market, and yoga studio are set to open at the plaza in 2024. Stop by for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and breathe in the fresh salt air on the expansive third-floor Ocean View Deck, where live music is enjoyed 5-7 p.m. Thursdays to Sundays from March to November. The venue also hosts pop-up markets and fun family and dog-friendly experiences.
Celebrate Mom at Casa Guadalajara in Old Town, San Diego! Mom’s love is like the restaurant’s food: spicy, warm, and wrapped in a tortilla. Treat her this Mother’s Day to the best Mexican cuisine, where every dish is made with the freshest ingredients, including homemade salsas and hot-off-the-grill flour tortillas. Diane Powers’ popular Old Town restaurant known for festive décor, breezy outdoor dining and famous birdbath margaritas. Beautiful dining rooms and a patio reminiscent of a gracious Mexican hacienda await you. Old wooden gates, sparkling fountains, colorful Talavera tiles, and al fresco dining under a grand centuries-old California pepper tree create a truly memorable experience.
Order a sweet treat fro Mom from Seaport Fudge at Seaport Village, the vibrant dining and shopping destination at the edge of San Diego Bay. Choose from a variety of delectable treats like chocolate-dipped strawberries, candy apples, and more. Seaport Village features many new restaurants and eateries, all perfect for Mother’s Day. Topping the menu is farm-to-table restaurant collective Malibu Farm, offering daily brunch and dinner options, plus an ice cream and espre. so bar, and a curated home goods boutique. Further indulge in homegrown favorites like Crack Taco Shop, home of tri-tip tacos and burritos; Spill the Beans, a specialty coffee and bagel shop; and Mr. Moto Pizza, serving up authentic New York-style pies. Grab a craft brew from either of Mike Hess’ two Seaport Village locations; or sip on award-winning wines at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Coming in 2024: Shorebird, a coastal eatery offering a modern take on classic Americana flavors; and Zytoun, featuring authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, including globally-inspired salads and savory shish kabobs.
Casa de Bandini In Carlsbad is the place to celebrate in May! On Sunday, May 12, take your mom to a mouthwatering Mother’s Day Brunch buffet from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The bountiful buffet includes:
• Mouth-watering Chilaquiles and succulent birria
• An array of fresh fruits and delectable Mexican “pan dulce”
• A custom omelet station to cater to every taste
• Sweet sensations like cinnamon pancakes, churros, flan, and Danishes
Casa de Bandini