Rate California Grill

[DisneyBean]

I was at the CG in January and thought it was excellent. We (my fiance and I) had reservations for 9:45, but we went up at 8:45 so we could catch Wishes at 9. When we checked in, the hostess directed us straight to the balcony to watch (we didn't know if we'd be able to go up so early, but the whole staff was very welcoming and seemed to understand that everyone just wanted to see the fireworks). We then waited at the bar for about 20 minutes (we were early, after all) before we were seated.

Our meal was great. For sushi, I recommend the Spicy Sensation (if it's still on the menu). We live in New York and have tried some well-known sushi restaurants like Morimoto, and I would say that the CG sushi is just as good.

Finally, our service was fantastic. Our server (Walter) was incredibly engaged and helfpul. We ordered a "molten" chocolate cake for dessert. Once we started eating, it was clear that the center wasn't exactly "molten." When Walter noticed it (he checked--we didn't point it out!), he immediately asked the kitchen to prepare another dessert for us. If he hadn't done that, we still would've enjoyed the dessert and had a great night. But when someone goes above and beyond for you, it makes for a truly memorable experience.

I agree that the restaurant is expensive (my fiance and I are law students, so this was our one "splurge" meal of our trip), but if you are looking for a special night and don't mind spending the extra money, California Grill is definitely worth it, based on my experience.

 

[Kristi Kay]

thanks disneybean! i e-mailed my family your review....it was very helpful...

kristi:sohappy:

 

[mousermerf]

I went to Cali Grill for one of their last seatings for the night once.

It was shortly after a fairly late fireworks showing at MK. I went up the elevator and was disgusted by how people with their families were acting in the restaurant.

It was messy in the lobby/lounge seating area thanks to piggish folks and there were loud children making messes left and right.

Thankfully, they were gone in about 20 mins. By the end of the night, it was just me and my date by one of the big windows, a newly married couple snuggling by the bar, and a few other groups of adults scattered about. Lots of empty tables and the staff working to clean the place up after the neaderthals that had recently cleared out since the fireworks were over.

I was really dismayed by the fireworks crowd mess. It was flat out ugly looking up there, but the staff quickly got it back in order once they were gone. I had a great meal and evening and a wonderful server who recommended great wines and even gave us a bit of a wine-school with various vintages and types to see what we liked, since neither of us were really wine drinkers prior to this experience.

It was later and they had time to really take care of us, and seemed relieved/grateful we weren't destroying the place

Ever since that experience I've only recommended the Cali Grill for either a late night dinner (hopefully with enough time for fireworks people to leave) or possibly one of the first seatings - as i've had great experiences as other such restaurants before they're packed. To me, the Cali Grill is best during a lull. Don't fight the fireworks crowd, there's no use.

 

[DisneyBean]

thanks disneybean! i e-mailed my family your review....it was very helpful...

kristi:sohappy:

Thanks! I am going to CG again on May 15 for a late (9:30pm) reservation. I'm not sure when your trip is, but if my experience is any different (better or worse), I'll let you know. I hope you and your family have a great time, no matter what restaurants you pick!

 

[KnK]

This is our favorite resturants. We usually end up eating there at least twice during our vacation. (one year 3 times) We've been lucky enough to get to WDW the last 10 years in a row during September.

Funny, we usually get seated in the same table from year to year. One of the serves remembers us from year to year and always takes the time to come visit with us when we are there.

I agree, at times it can get noisy, but we still love the food. We also like Jiko and Artist Point.

 

[rockydek]

Califprnia Grille

This is the best! 10+
The Fireworks view is awesome. Ask for a window seat facing the castle. Make your ADR at least an hour or more before the fireworks.
Anyone who does not like to wait will not enjoy it here, as they take time to cook this fine meal. Plan to be here for about two hours. You will love it.!
:drevil: