California Grill

[missouridisney]

My DD and I are going to WDW APril 2. We try to do something different every visit, this year we plan to eat at the California Grill so we can see the fireworks, We have 5:45 reservations, the latest I could get, will we be able to stick around for the fireworks? My main question is: As Missouri Farmers we are not the most fond of fancy food. Can we just go for a dessert and still stay or would there be another option at the Contemporary that might suit us better? Thanks for the info.

[MississippiDisneyFreak]

I wouldn't worry about them being too fancy, it is Disney and with the exception of Victoria and Albert's you can expect to see people with kids and in park attire. It is business casual but nice khaki shorts and shirts are even acceptable. As far as the food, I've never eaten there but I see some simple options on the menu like Rotisserie chicken flatbread, roasted tomato flatbreads, ribeye, filet of beef and chicken. The presentation may be fancy but I'm betting you would enjoy it anyway. If not, as far as I know you can just get dessert.

Chef Mickey's is a lot more casual but if you want to watch the fireworks I would stick with California Grill. What time are fireworks that night because that ADR seems a little early you may want to push it back a bit.

[PirateLover]

If you are nervous about what to order, I would suggest the Oak Fired Filet of Beef or Slow-braised Boneless Beef Short Rib. They are both incredibly delicious and not overwhelming/foreign flavors.
Or, split some apps and desserts if you don't want a full dinner- the flatbreads are amazing. It doesn't matter what time your dinner is, you are still able to come up to the viewing platform for fireworks time. You could always hang at the bar/lounge area, or explore other parts of the resort while you are waiting and then go back and view fireworks later! I think it's an amazing experience and highly recommend everyone try it once!

[faline]

I think you will be able to find something you like to eat at California Grill. My sister-in-law is not a very adventurous diner but she really likes California Grill. I was totally surprised when she ordered the goat cheese ravioli (which is outside her comfort zone) and totally loved it!!

[faline]

I forgot to mention that anyone who has dining reservations at California Grill (even if they are early reservations) is welcome to return for the fireworks when they are shown.

[Hammer]

I forgot to mention that anyone who has dining reservations at California Grill (even if they are early reservations) is welcome to return for the fireworks when they are shown.

I would do what Linda recommends. You can explore the other hotels on the monorail and then go back to California Grill 10-15 minutes before the fireworks are scheduled.

As for what to order, I would recommend the Oak fired filet as well. If you can order the filet minus any sauce if it doesn't appeal to you.. The desserts can be fancier than the entrees!

[Dulcee]

As others have said hop back over before the fireworks, we LOVE to view them from the contemporary.

As far as the food I'd encourage you to give things a shot! There are always less adventurous flatbreads (don't be afraid to ask your server what a word means or an ingredient is!) and while many have suggested the filet they generally have a pork chop or pork tenderloin option as well that makes for a more familiar choice!

[cer]

You won't regret being there at 5:45. The daylight view is spectacular!