By Rosemary Parkinson, Freelance WriterTHIS WEEK I want to extend pure unadulterated love to all mothers in Jamaica, and indeed the world. For me, you need not have given birth to be a mother. There are many women out there who have been mothers of invention, mothers of history, even mothers to dogs, cats, birds (animals in general), mothers to other mothers' offspring, mothers to plants, mothers to the environment, even.
Mothers to, and of, and for the world, I salute you on this well deserved celebration. Hello in case there are any mothers who are members of the animal kingdom and who read my column, I salute you as well -- after all animals are mothers too. He! He!
Are you lost as to where to take Mom this coming Sunday? Well, here some bits of advice from my wanderings. Do call and make reservations early though.
KINGSTON
I will be at Cassons on Braemar Road, New Kingston, for my English breakfast, and if there is any room at Everglades, Lane Plaza in Liguanea, for a touch of Jamaican. I am, after all, a little piggy. And since we're talking pork, Rib Kage on Constant Spring Road is a good choice for its incredible ribs. While on the subject of meat, the doors of Bullseye Steak House (Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston) will be open for those glorious steaks.
I also like Sugardaddies on Hillcrest Avenue, Kingston 6, and brunch with the Pullen family at Freshly Delicious on South Avenue, just above Half-Way Tree, for a treat of love and friendship.
Mother's Brunch at Norma's On the Terrace, Devon House, is going to be magnificent with chef Norma at the helm. The special menu is impressive with my favourite, Roast Leg of Lamb roped in Rosemary (is that sadistically delicious or what?), salmon, pork stuffed with apricots, Chocolate Gateau, and more.
Then there is the Terra Nova Hotel on Waterloo Road with that old colonial feeling in plush surroundings and cute little Liguanea Club, New Kingston, for that sporty atmosphere.
My two favourite Chinese restaurants -- Bamboo Village in Lane Plaza, Liguanea, and Gwon Wo on Trinidad Terrace, New Kingston, are also good bets. Then there's Kebab House on Trafalgar Road and Habibi Latino on Knutsford Boulevard if Mom desires Middle Eastern food.
Alhambra Inn is a cute spot, hidden away on Tucker Avenue near the National Stadium, with good home cooking. There's Akbar for Indian and Thai Gardens (for soup and appetisers), both on Holborn Road, New Kingston.
Last, but not least, let me make special mention of Guilt Trip. Colin Hylton is sorting out a delightful brunch for mothers. His desserts alone will make Mom swoon. Morgan's Harbour, Port Royal, is bringing back that old time spice to the hotel with brunch and music by Harold Davis.
And, my favourite of all favourites, brunch among The Arts at Dianne Watson's Gallery on Old Hope Road -- her hominy is to die for.
TAKE HER UP IN THE MOUNTAINS
I just love the Blues (Mountain, that is) and what better place for serenity and gentle cooling breezes than up at The Gap, New Castle, St. Andrew? Small and cosy with a view to die for -- this is my first choice but remember I said small. Do not go all the way up those winding roads without reservations unless you take a picnic basket as your back up.
THE SOUTHCOAST --
AWAY FROM THE MADDING CROWD
Jakes in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, for a weekend away from the madding crowd;
Culloden Café in Whitehouse, Westmoreland, serves up delicious desserts with tea and a great Sunday brunch.
NEGRIL AND MONTEGO BAY
Norma's at Seasplash and Swept Away for fine dining.
There's Hungry Lion and Rock House.
In the West End and if you're planning a weekend for Mom, try Tensing Penn or Negril Cabins (both favourites) or Angela's at BarBBarn.
If Mom is young and groovy, a Jungle Night at the Disco might be just di t'ing.
If it's groove she grooving, Montego Bay has Groovy Grouper Restaurant & Bar on Doctor's Beach, with casino, entertainment and restaurant at Coral Cliff.
For imbibing her day away all Margaritavilles hit the spot but, for a joy of a weekend try Sunset Beach Resort with its choice of in-house restaurants.
For a hilarious evening try the English Pub at Half Moon and for romance, The Town House in the city.
ON THE NORTHCOAST
Moneague, St. Ann, brings to mind the amazing Café Aubergine -- talk about being immersed in history and it's not a far drive from Kingston, it's not that far a drive.
Ochi gives us Passage to India with its delightful owners and their exotic curries.
If we are talking Port Antonio, a weekend at Trident, lunch at Mockingbird Hill Hotel and a delightful dinner under the moon and stars at Norma's at The Marina would be perfection.
