On Mother’s Day, there’s nothing quite so special as dining out, or — if you prefer to bring glorious goodies home and set your own table — ordering a takeout meal to truly treat your loved ones. Here are four destinations to turn to for Mother’s Day meals in Berks County, with a range of prices and culinary styles.
The Bridge Inn Pleasantville
Drive into the fertile countryside between Oley and Boyertown to find this gem of a fine-dining establishment, which also has a renowned Martini Bar! It’s got modern cuisine in a historical setting for a nostalgic, comfortable atmosphere. Owner Dan Sickafus offers both dine-in and takeout this Mother’s Day, and answers what everyone wants to know: “Will you be making your famous crab cakes?” The answer: Yes! Of course! Chef Brian will not only offer those succulent, award-winning patties, but much more. “The best way to see what we feature is to check out the website or to call us,” says Sickafus. One favorite he recommends is Bridge Inn’s scallops served with wild mushroom risotto and white truffle oil — richly satisfying. “We also offer a lot of steak dishes and we always have prime rib.” And what could be more Berks County than Apple-Barrel Pork over Filling? Even the starters and small plates are off-the-chart wonderful: try the genteel Baked Brie in Puff Pastry with cherry-walnut glaze, French bread and fruit.
Rte. 73 and Covered Bridge Road, Pleasantville
Reservations: 610.689.5818
G.N.A. Ristorante
Tina Grande invites Berks Countians to consider mouth-watering, authentic Southern-Italian hospitality at her G.N.A. Ristorante for small or family gatherings this Mother’s Day. “We’re an extremely family-friendly destination,” this owner-manager says, “whether for dine-in or takeout.” The sheer variety of entrees and fresh salads is one of this West Reading restaurant’s strengths, including many dishes made right from their kitchen. “I love any type of pasta,” Grande confesses, “and with homemade pasta, you can literally taste the freshness.” In addition to beloved Italian fare from Bruschetta and Antipasto Rustico to Pollo Classico Parmigiana (Chicken Parmigiana) served with a rich marinara sauce, G.N.A. has a deep menu of steak, veal, lamb and vegetarian options. Seafood specialties abound, including Linguine Pescatore or crab cakes stuffed with shrimp and served with an oh-so-light capellini pasta. The Bronzini (also called branzini, European seabass) is sublime. Grande explains, “Our Bronzino alla Griglia is popular as it’s a very light and mild fish.” It’s marinated in fresh herbs and lemon, then grilled. “Also popular is our Salmon Ripieno, which is a salmon filet with crabmeat and spinach.” That’s served on a bed of homemade tagliatelle in garlic and olive oil, embellished with a side of homemade bell-pepper cream sauce. But save room for dessert! “Our baker makes small, individual cakes such as Peanut Butter Explosions and Chocolate Bombs.” According to Grande, the best way to check out specials is on Instagram and Facebook.
421 Penn Avenue, West Reading
Reservations: 610.376.1155
Mikura Restaurant Asian Bistro & Sushi
Chinese, Japanese, Thai or Hibachi — it’s completely up to you at Jack Li’s Mikura Restaurant. From the Melon Sake Cocktail to homemade Ginger Ice Cream, easy takeout to comfy dine-in, Mikura delivers the breadth of Asian cuisines to satisfy any Asian food yearnings. This Mother’s Day, Li happily serves up some of his most-asked-for dishes like Mango Chicken and Four Seasons — sauteed shrimp, scallops, chicken and pork with vegetables. From the sushi bar, the colorful Incredible Roll has everything: spicy and fresh tuna, avocado, salmon and red snapper on the top lightly torched with wasabi seasoning in a spicy sauce.
840 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing
Reservations: 610.373.5851
Dans at Green Hills
“In addition to our fantastic menu, we’re adding three specials for Mother’s Day,” says a smiling Bill Woolworth of the elegant, well-loved establishment Dans at Green Hills. He and Monir are consummate hosts, thoroughly committed to providing an unparalled dining experience where you leave all your daily worries behind and simply enjoy being pampered. This May, patrons can look forward to a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Shrimp and Lobster Bisque topped with crostini and shrimp. “There will also be a Traditional French Salad with goat cheese and mixed greens,” says Woolworth. Best of all, he adds, “We will be featuring Petite Filet Mignon with a Lump Crab cake — our own version of surf and turf.” Of course, Dans is also noted for such luscious offerings as duck and lobster, specializing in American cuisine with a French influence. The best thing to do is call ahead and reserve a table in their socially distanced, white-linen settings, or consider phoning in for takeout. “Definitely call us with any last-minute questions you might have,” offers Woolworth. Dans at Green Hills’ dedication to service, culinary perfection and quality from martinis to desserts is legendary. Indeed, their tender gourmet attention delivers tastes on the palate that linger long in memory.
2444 Morgantown Rd., Reading
Reservations: 610.777.9611
