With spring in full bloom and the city buzzing with life, Montreal stands out as the perfect destination for Mother’s Day.
Whether your mom loves art, gourmet dining, or simply soaking in beautiful surroundings, Montreal offers an abundance of ways to make her feel cherished. From elegant brunches and afternoon teas to strolls through the lush Montreal Botanical Garden or the scenic paths of Mount Royal Park, the city is brimming with experiences that blend culture, cuisine, and relaxation. Special Mother’s Day menus at renowned restaurants, vibrant local markets, and unique workshops ensure that every mom—whether she’s a foodie, an art lover, or an adventurer—can be celebrated in style, making memories that will last long after the day is done.
For a brand-new experience, enjoy a quiet and intimate neighbourhood boutique hotel located on rue Notre-Dame in Old Montreal, called Le Petit Hotel Notre Dame. The just-opened establishment is the perfect base from which to discover the city’s most iconic attractions, including the Notre-Dame Basilica, the beautiful Old Port and the historic Place Jacques-Cartier. Located in a 19th-century heritage building, the hotel blends historic appeal and modern elegance, such as exposed brick, with modern, sleek furnishings and amenities. It was a delight to come back after a full day of touring to fall on a bed that my spine was happy to relax on. They’ve upped the luxe factor by investing in duvets and pillows from Marie L’Oie, which made my neck and head feel as massaged as much as embraced. Spare some of your time to simply stay in the bed and decompress! As well, take advantage of the premium Le Labo body products available in every room.
The complimentary breakfast is a dream buffet, including cold cuts, fresh Montreal bagels, yogurt, pastries, freshly squeezed orange juice and other delights. Enjoy unlimited specialty coffee prepared by their barista, and a wine bar with rare vintages. It’s the small but important touches, that make Le Petit Hotel Notre Dame memorable.
Now, Montreal continues to have an age-old reputation for its fine culinary scene, that could easily rank amongst the world’s best. Two spots that top the list, in our view, for a beautiful Mother’s Day meal are Jacopo and Vieux-Port Steakhouse, both in the heart of Old Montreal.
Jacopo offers a warm, stylish setting inspired by Roman trattorias, featuring fresh, house-made pasta, specialty charcuterie, and Italian classics. The terrace and veranda add charm, making it a go-to for authentic Italian dining. Swagger tried various items from the evening menu, that hit all of the right notes of visual aesthetic, and flavor profiles.
Swagger’s meal began with the Tuna Tataki: delicate slices of albacore, paired with crisp cucumber, sweet mango, orange, and a pop of tobiko, all brightened by basil. The dish was a vibrant, refreshing start—each element in harmony, with the fruit and basil elevating the clean flavor of the tuna.
The Gnocchi alla Norma followed, and it was a standout. The gnocchi were pillowy and tender, bathed in a rich tomato sauce, with roasted eggplant lending a smoky depth. Creamy ricotta and fresh basil rounded out the dish, offering a comforting, authentically Italian taste that showcased Jacopo’s commitment to homemade pasta.
For the main, the Costine di Manzo con Polenta impressed with its meltingly tender braised short ribs atop creamy polenta. The red wine sauce was robust, balanced by peppery arugula, tangy pickled onions, and a drizzle of buttermilk vinaigrette, adding brightness to the dish’s hearty richness.
Jacopo’s elegant ambiance and focus on quality ingredients make it a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine in Montreal.
From the dinner menu at Vieux-Port Steakhouse, Swagger tried the arugula salad with beets and goat cheese, and the steak & frites. Our dinner began with the arugula salad, a vibrant starter featuring peppery greens, earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, sweet grapes, and the crunch of roasted nuts, all brought together by a tangy raspberry vinaigrette. The balance of flavors and textures made for a refreshing and well-composed opening to the meal.
The main event, steak & frites, showcased what Vieux-Port Steakhouse does best. The AAA Canadian beef was cooked to medium rare, boasting a flavorful sear and juicy, tender interior. The steak was simply seasoned, allowing the quality of the meat to shine, and was complemented by a pat of bacon butter for added richness. The accompanying fries were crisp and golden, classic and satisfying.
Vieux-Port Steakhouse delivers on its reputation, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a quintessential steakhouse meal in Old Montreal.
While you’re on your walking tours, you don’t want to worry about pulling away from the scenery for a bite to eat. Something light and easy to carry in your jacket pocket that’s as filling as tasty is Freddie’s beef jerky. Swagger had a chance to review this new made-in-Montreal product, that in our view, is different from all other beef jerkies. It’s sourced from the finest cuts of lean 100% kosher Canadian beef. Most products like this are overly salty, tough, oily, and crumbles to bits, but not this one. The smoky, light peppery flavor is not overpowering, and doesn’t leave that “gamey smell” on your breath. It’s four-star addictive.
If you’re staying a while, consider a durable, sturdy and spacious travel bag with quality craftsmanship that can be your dependable companion, trip after trip. Swagger was given the privilege to try out the brand new Lojel luggage brand. Glide effortlessly through terminals with a dual-wheel system engineered for total control—each wheel spins a full 360°, delivering a smooth, stable ride every step of your journey. Inside, smart organization awaits: two spacious chambers and three zippered pockets keep shoes, garments, and laundry perfectly separated for stress-free packing. A simple press folds the retractable handle seamlessly into the suitcase body, streamlining your packing and maximizing space. The Voja’s proprietary polypropylene shell stands up to the bumps and jolts of travel, resisting cracks and dents that sideline ordinary luggage. Security is built in, not zipped on: a TSA-approved combination lock and three-point latch system protect your belongings with ease—no more worrying about ripped bags or busted zippers.
A city’s spirit often reveals itself in the smallest gestures—a shared laugh over coffee, the hush of early morning light on cobblestone streets, or the warmth of a welcome at a boutique hotel’s door. In Montreal, these moments linger, weaving themselves into the fabric of memory. Here, Mother’s Day is not just marked on a calendar, but felt in the gentle unfolding of spring and in the joy of discovery, together. For those who visit, the city offers a celebration.
