California [Grill], Here We Come!
The California Grill. located at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, is one of those wow dining experiences in Walt Disney World. The first time Allison and I went there, we were going because we heard the sushi was good, and when rounded the corner and saw. that. view, I think our jaws audibly hit the floor. The wine selection is incredible, and if you time your dinner right, you can even watch the fireworks over the Magic Kingdom. It’s also definitely a treat-yourself dining experience in Walt Disney World. When my husband and I were planning to be in Disney World for our anniversary, I knew exactly where I wanted us to have our anniversary dinner: the California Grill.
Currently they are offering a special 50th Anniversary Celebration Menu Prix Fixe menu, and at $89 per adult, it’s certainly one of the pricier meals on property. Something I should also share about the day we had dinner at the California Grill is that not only was this our second three-course meal of the day – we’d had the prix fixe lunch at Be Our Guest – but we’d also had a full breakfast AND unlimited bubbles and desserts at the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party. Even for someone who mainly comes to Disney to eat, all of this might have been slightly too much food.
Market Creations: First Course
For our first course, my husband Taylor chose the California Grill Sushi Classics Trio, and I chose the lobster bisque, which they were able to make gluten free, to my delight! I loved the creaminess of the soup and just getting to have something I don’t normally get to enjoy. The flavor was fresh and delightful! Taylor, who is a big sushi guy, thought the trio was just okay! He wanted something a little more exciting than a California Roll, but given the name of the dish, I think you kinda have to!
Chef’s Journey: Second Course
The pasta Taylor chose is no longer on the menu, seemingly replaced with a plant-based cacio e pepe dish, but I chose the Florida Black Grouper still featured on the menu. Sadly, we were both a little disappointed with our main courses. Taylor’s pasta was a touch undercooked, and in my dish, though the flavors were incredible, the fish was a bit overcooked. Hoping this was a fluke at one of the last reservation times of the night!
Sweet Creations: Third Course
As if we hadn’t had enough dessert for the evening, our final course was here! I went with an allergen-friendly sorbet, and Taylor chose the Chef's Selections of California Cheeses. When I tell you we were full, I was so full that I couldn’t even drink the complimentary champagne they brought us to toast our anniversary. THAT is how you know I am full.
Overall, the California Grill is a gorgeous experience no matter how you slice it and no matter how full you are. It feels like luxurious, fine dining, and it is – one of the few places in Disney World with a dress code. Though I’ll probably wait until their full dinner menu returns, you can bet I’ll be back!