Mother's Day in Astoria

This newcomer Greek seafood restaurant specializes in fresh fish and small plates. The atmosphere is social and fun but also nice and trendy, which will feel like a treat for Mom. The waterfall window in front transports you far away to a Greek village on the Aegean. The waitstaff is hospitable and will encourage you to try their Greek hometown specialties.

Akti's menu is mostly small plates or mezedes - both hot and cold. I recommend the tyrokafteri ($7), a spread of roasted peppers and feta cheese. It brings your taste buds to attention. The kolokithokeftedes ($9) -- zucchini croquettes with tzatziki -- are also a must and go nicely with a grilled white fish like the porgy (market price).

• Akti, 34-19 30th Ave, Astoria, NY, 718-721-3530

Want to impress Mom with a gourmet-style eatery? 718 is worth checking out for its inventive cuisine and disarming vibe. If Mother's Day is warm, try sitting in the lovely sidewalk area, right in the middle of all the action on Ditmars.

718 serves up innovative French fare with a Spanish and Latin influence: think shrimp ceviche ($12) alongside foie gras terrine ($16). My favorite dish happens to be one of the most inexpensive: the tarte flambee ($10-$13). It looks like a flat-bread pizza without the sauce and comes with toppings such as onions and bacon (my favorite), chicken, veggies, or cheeses. For dessert the trio of cream brulee ($7), vanilla, coffee and chocolate, must not be missed.

• 718, 35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY, 718-204-5553

Want to reveal Astoria's best-kept secret to Mom? Take her to the intimate Bistro 33 for a memorable brunch. This simple, yet classy, space offers plenty of outdoor seating on nice days and it's just minutes from Astoria Park, offering a perfect opportunity for a post-brunch stroll.

The cuisine of Bistro 33 fuses French and Japanese styles. Brunch showcases these two philosophies with some of the most original selections I've seen, such as the sushi brunch (a BLT roll and a spicy tuna roll), truffled eggs and salmon, and miso Scramble with tofu, wakame, miso, and scallions. All brunch options are $14, including coffee and a morning cocktail.

• Bistro 33, 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY, 718-721-1933

Make no mistake about it, Kafene is a no-frills, Greek snack counter with limited outdoor seating. What's the attraction then? It's directly across the street from Astoria Park, the ideal place to get delicious provisions for your outdoor picnic with Mom.

For an early morning outing, get a Greek or a Western omelette ($4 -$4.50) or the classic two eggs on a roll with coffee ($3). If your picnic is a lunch affair, Kafene offers five types of burgers including a Greek, Italian and even a Western ($5.75). If you're in the mood for fresh seafood, try Kafene's wild catch options such as crab cakes ($5.75) or shrimp ($6.75).

• Kafene, 23-08 Hoyt Ave South, Astoria, NY, 718-274-6525

Looking for a nice Mother's Day brunch without the hoopla? Lounge 47, a cozy, 70s-inspired restaurant and lounge offers just that. Located on trendy Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City, you'll find this place to have a chill atmosphere and a splendid outdoor garden. Want something to do after brunch? Try the nearby boutiques, coffee house, PS 1, and art galleries -- and do make sure you check out the famous Pepsi sign.

Brunch is a fun way to mix things up simply because it offers a bit of everything: you'll find huevos rancheros next to granola french toast. Coffee, a morning cocktail, and a side of fresh mini-muffins are included ($13).

• Lounge 47, 47-10 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY, 718-937-2044