Easter has been dubbed "brunchapalooza" but Mother's Day is brunchapalooza plus a side of filial guilt if you mess this up.

If you don't have a confirmed reservation at many of Houston's favorite brunch spots, the only way you're getting in this Sunday is on a wing and a prayer. Mom deserves better than that.

  Don't worry, we've got a few ideas to save your Mother's Day. If you open with flowers and keep the mimosas flowing, she might even find your deviation from the expected downright charming.

One option is to head somewhere that doesn't take reservations, but is still known for a great brunch scene. The includes The Breakfast Klub for classic Southern comfort food, Baba Yega for an over-the-top buffet and great people watching, the only-in-the-Heights bungalow charm of Zelko Bistro and Tiny Boxwood's/Tiny's No. 5 for a more refined vibe and gorgeous patio seating.

Lines are guaranteed to be intense, so spare mom and send someone early so that you can escort her directly to the front or to a good table.

If the logistics of a reservation-less morning sound overwhelming, you've got other options. Mom's favorite restaurant might be out of reach, but depending on her style you can find an enjoyable alternative.

If mom likes the modern cuteness and fresh fare of Canopy, take her to Roots Bistro. Not quite as cute, but the menu has lots of fresh, modern American flavors. It's also a no-brainer for those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan menu — executive chef German Mosquera knows how to work with both. On Sunday all Moms also get a free chocolate mousse for dessert.

If mom likes Hugo's or Backstreet Cafe, try Concepción. The food is more in the mold of Hugo's, with chef Jonathan Jones promising modern Latin flavors, but the patio is one of the few in town that can rival Backstreet's.

If mom likes Benjy's, head to Union Kitchen. Neither the Bellaire nor the Memorial locations have quite the same design-friendly charm as either of Benjy's restaurants, but they are offering special a la carte menus with a quartet of eggs benedict options, special omelets and other brunch faves.

If mom likes Brennan's, take her to Restaurant Cinq at La Colombe d'Or. Both locations have sophisticated charm in a historic building, but while Brennan's is known for a mix of Texas and creole flavors, Cinq starts from a classic French perspective, which was enriched with notes of Southern and Gulf flavors under departed executive chef Jeramie Robison.

If mom likes Azuma, head to Rattan Pan-Asian Bistro. Both offer refined Asian flavors in a very pretty space, but while Azuma is all about sushi and robata from Japan, Rattan offers South Asian, Chinese and Japanese entrees, including a lengthy sushi menu.