Friday’s Oreo Chocolate Cake

Mother’s Day, by most accounts, is the busiest day of the year in the restaurant business, and while many establishments offer limited or prix fixe menus and often higher prices, there are deals to be had, if you search them out.

T.G.I. Friday’s, for example, will offer free dessert to Mom on Mother’s Day at participating restaurants nationwide, with purchase of any entree. “Mothers are always special guests at Friday’s,” said Mike Archer, president and chief operating officer of T.G.I. Friday’s USA. “This day is about Mom. We invite mom and her family to have fun, experience great food and drink and at the end, mom receives a special treat from Friday’s—a free dessert.”

According to Archer, moms may choose one of the following Mini Dessert Shots: Orange Cream, Rocky Road or Chocolate Chip Mint; or Oreo Chocolate Cake.

Here’s a sampling of other special promotions being offered to dear old Mum on her day:

• The 6ix Park Grill in Irvine, Calif., will offer a special brunch that includes free flowing champagne and Bloody Mary’s.

• In the Detroit area, the Michigan Star Clipper in Walled Lake offers a special dinner experience that includes a two-hour train ride, three-course dinner and a choice of two live shows.

• The Venus Greek-Cypriot Cuisine in Chicago’s Greektown will greet each mom at the door with a free red rose.

• In Phoenix, baseball fan moms can enjoy a Picnic on the Field at Chase Field, with lunch provided by City Bakery. They’ll receive a gift and a portrait while they watch the Arizona Diamondbacks away game on the ballpark’s big screen.

Speaking of deals, if you’d rather NOT deal with the restaurant crowds on Mother’s Day, and are looking for other ways to celebrate her day, click here.