This Mother’s Day, the most meaningful plans aren’t happening at home. Restaurants — and the people who run them — will be responsible for bringing loved ones together.
According to new OpenTable research, more moms say they would rather go out to eat with their family (42%) than receive breakfast in bed (4%), a preference shared with the majority of Americans: 62% say dining out is an important part of any Mother’s Day celebrations.
So, where does that leave moms at the helm of Charleston’s most popular restaurants this Mother’s Day? “I will be working a very busy brunch at Magnolias for Mother’s Day,” says Kelly Franz, culinary director for Hospitality Management Group and toddler mom. “But I love my staff and we all know what the job entails. My son will get to celebrate Mother’s Day with his Nana and maybe there will be a cute handmade card waiting for me when I get home — hint hint!”
It’s safe to say that just like a newborn baby, Charleston’s food and bev industry never sleeps. As restaurants like Magnolias, an upscale Southern cuisine staple for 30 years, fill up with reservations for Mother’s Day 2026, we caught up with moms at the heart of them to hear about their roles as both hospitality leaders and moms, plus their favorite restaurants to celebrate.
Meet the Moms Behind Your Favorite Mother’s Day Restaurants
Kara Graves, Senior Partner and Director of Marketing of Uptown Hospitality
Her role in restaurants: Kara Graves has spent years working mainly in senior operations and marketing director roles within the restaurant industry. At Uptown Hospitality, she’s responsible for shaping the guest experience. “A big part of my role is ensuring that everything, from service flow and staff morale to culture and brand voice, feels intentional and consistent,” Graves says.
Her role as a mom: Graves is mom to a 2-year-old boy and a 3-month-old girl. “It’s definitely my most important role, and it has taught me even more patience and grace for both myself and my role as a leader in our organization,” Graves says.
Best way to spend Mother’s Day in Charleston: Hosting a nice brunch at home, a trip to the pool or beach with family and friends, and always a snuggle and a book (or two) before bed.
Eva Suarez, Operating partner of Basic Kitchen
Her role in restaurants: Eva Suarez restaurant expertise lies in the intersection of food, health, and community. “I run operations for Basic Kitchen so I help make sure the ship runs smoothly and that our team has everything they need to succeed in a work environment that is engaging, fun, and ever-evolving,” Suarez says.
Her role as a mom: Suarez is mom to Pablo who’ll be 6 months old on Mother’s Day. “Everything is new to me in this experience and I’ve been so lucky to work with a team who is incredibly supportive, caring and considerate,” Suarez says. “Pablo’s had many’a nap in the restaurant and loves to give his opinion in team meetings.”
Best way to spend Mother’s Day in Charleston: A family walk through Hampton Park, a cappuccino from Sightsee, then a trip to The Pour House Sunday Brunch Farmers Market to grab blooms from Bear Swamp Flower Farm and veggies from Spade & Clover.
Alex Eaton, Culinary Director at La Cave and Félix Cocktails et Cuisine
Her role in restaurants: Alex Eaton oversees the culinary programs at both Félix Cocktails et Cuisine and La Cave ensuring each concept keeps a unique identity through distinct ingredients and vibes. “Day to day, I’m working the line, testing recipes, developing menus, building relationships with local farmers and purveyors, and working closely with our front of house team to deliver amazing experiences,” Eaton says.
Her role as a mom: Eaton is mom to two daughters, Adelaide, 4, and Emilia, 2. “I really just want to raise good humans,” Eaton says. “My favorite part is seeing their pure, unfiltered joy every day. They are just so happy. It gives me a real sense of purpose.”
Ideal way to spend Mother’s Day in Charleston: “Honestly, last Mother’s Day was kind of it for me,” Eaton says. “I spent the day with my husband and the girls, just playing and being together. Then at dinner time, my husband, Charlie, took the girls and I went out for a solo dinner at Kultura which felt like such a treat. It may just be my new Mother’s Day tradition.”
Kelly Franz, Culinary Director for Hospitality Management Group and Magnolias
Her role in restaurants: A seasoned executive chef at multiple prestigious Charleston restaurants, Franz now leads Magnolias’ culinary program. Additionally, Franz has appeared on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen and Bite Club with (Magnolias alum) Chef Tyler Florence.
Her role as a mom: “My son is three, and he is transitioning from a toddler to a kid that wants to know everything and be a part of everything,” Franz says. “It’s incredible. My favorite part of being a mom is watching him learn and master new skills every day, singing songs, good morning hugs — so many things!”
Ideal way to spend Mother’s Day in Charleston: A meal at Magnolias is it. “Things you have to try at Magnolias are the Fried Green Tomatoes, Boiled Peanut Hummus, Fried chicken with all the sides, and really anything at brunch,” Franz says. “We do brunch right.”
Best Restaurants in Charleston to Treat Mom Any Day of the Year
Whether you want to treat mom to a night out with her friends or a kid-friendly family brunch, here’s where to go, plus a few tips on what to order:
Best kid-friendly restaurant:
Edmund’s Oast Brewery. “We can sit on the patio, the kids can run around, and you can order from your phone so it’s easy,” Eaton says. “It actually feels kid-friendly in a real way. The food is really good too.”
Best restaurant for date night:
Vino Feo on Folly Beach. “I have a big love for beach wines, being outside and eating snacks for dinner so Vino Feo on Folly ticks all those boxes,” Suarez says. “Plus, it’s open from 1 to 6 p.m. so early bedtime is guaranteed.”
Best restaurant for a moms’ night out:
Felix. “The staff is incredible, the drinks are great and the atmosphere is top notch,” Graves says. “It’s been my favorite place to hang out for years and do not sleep on the 75th Aviation. One of the best drinks in Charleston.”
Best for a family brunch:
Baguette Magic. “I live on James Island, so it’s a staple for us,” Eaton says. “It’s really good and the staff is awesome. They have a lot of great savory brunch and lunch options, but I can’t go there and not get the coffee cake. I also love their bacon, egg, and cheese on a baguette.”
