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DiningDining at Disney Resorts

7 Things to Know about California Grill

California Grill is one of the nicest restaurants on property, with some of the most amazing culinary experiences. This is definitely a Disney bucket list experience that you have to try out at least once during your Disney vacations.  Here are seven things that you must know about California Grill before you go:





 

7 – There is a dress code.

The restaurant is considered one of Disney’s Signature Dining restaurants.  This means that the restaurant is on the more expensive side.  If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, it would require two entitlements for a meal at the location.  As with all Signature Dining restaurants, a dress code is enforced.  The dress code isn’t super formal but encourages men to wear a polo or button-up shirt and for women to wear a business casual outfit.  It adds to the amazing atmosphere of the restaurant and makes it feel more upscale.

Inside California Grill. Photo Credit: Disney

6 – There are amazing views of Magic Kingdom fireworks.

The restaurant is at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, right next to the Magic Kingdom.  From the resort, you get an up-close view overlooking the entire park, meaning you have one of the best views of Happily Ever After fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. Also, the music is piped into the restaurant and the restaurant’s balcony so that you can enjoy the show with the music, too.

5 – The restaurant is a perfect location to celebrate special events.

The restaurant has a more upscale atmosphere with fine wines and fantastic culinary experiences.  With all of that, it makes it a perfect location to celebrate any of the special events that you have planned.  It is amazing for birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, honeymoons, reunions, etc.  Anything you want to celebrate would be extra special at this venue.  There are even special events you can purchase tickets to on certain holidays, like New Year’s Eve.  The tickets are pricey, but they are well worth it.





 

4 – The food is absolutely delicious.

It is seriously some of the best food on property with an amazing menu.  You have a wide selection of sushi, soups, and appetizers and a selection of entrees that include a Florida Black Grouper, Pumpkin Ravioli, Oak-fired Filet of Beef, and so much more. The selections are amazing, and it will be difficult to make a selection once you start reading the menu.  Be sure to save room for dessert since the Valrhona Chocolate Ganache Torte is insanely delicious.  I can’t wait to book my next reservation!

3 – Three Course Selection Menu

The restaurant offers a three-course tasting experience with a set price of $89 per adult and $39 per child. Guests can choose one appetizer, one entree, and one dessert. A wine pairing option is also available.

Photo Credit: Disney

2 – The service is impeccable.

Just as you would expect at a high-end restaurant, the service is outstanding.  The wait staff is knowledgeable about the menu and wine list.  They do everything they can to make the meal an amazing experience and make pairing recommendations.  We have always had an amazing experience and always look forward to our next visit.

1 – There is a lounge area to enjoy, too.

Editor’s Note: there have been some conflicting reports online that the lounge is no longer available to guests. We recently called to confirm with Walt Disney World and were told that the lounge is indeed available and open for guests.

The restaurant has a lounge area that accepts guests on a first-come, first-serve basis.  You get to experience many of the delicious foods and drinks that the restaurant offers, along with the amazing views of the Magic Kingdom and fireworks.  If you are shorter on time or can’t get a reservation, this is a great place to hang out and enjoy a more casual meal rather than a full table service meal.





 

Kristin

Hi! I’m Kristin, and I am a wife and mother of 2 young boys (ages 5 and 2). I first fell in love with Disney when my mom took me when I was a child. After that I proceeded to go to WDW for my senior trip with my friends, and I completed a year in the Disney College Program (working in merchandise at Mickey’s of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios). I shared my love of Disney with my now husband and sucked him in. We vacationed at Walt Disney World 2-3 times per year. We decided that what maked more sense was just moving to Orlando so that we could live the Disney life and be here for all of our favorite events and seasons every year. That is exactly what we did! Now we are at the parks a couple times a week and go for most events and major holidays. We can’t get enough and get to experience Disney in a whole different way.
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