While many customers praised the food as exceptional, there were several complaints about specific dishes being underwhelming or overpriced.
Service Experience
Service received mixed reviews; some guests highlighted outstanding service, while others reported inattentive or poor service from specific staff members.
Atmosphere and Views
The restaurant's atmosphere and views, especially of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, were consistently described as breathtaking and a major highlight of the dining experience.
Pricing Concerns
Many customers noted that the restaurant is quite pricey, with some feeling that the quality of food did not justify the cost.
Overall Experience
Overall, the dining experience was memorable for many, but there were significant concerns regarding consistency in food quality and service.
JW
James Wilson
5 days ago
4.0
The food was good but we miss the a la carte menu. We simply don't eat a prefix volume, thus food is wasted.
MR
Mateja Ryan
Nov 13, 2025
5.0
My mother and I went here tonight for the first time in four years. My wedding is on Saturday, and every single person that visited our table to check on us congratulated me and was just above and beyond sweet and efficient. The ambience, service, atmosphere, and food are as delicious as I remembered! They now serve only a prix fixe three-course meal for $100 per person. I loved the surf and turf sushi, filet, blueberry cheesecake dessert; and blueberry lemon drop martini. It was quite a great way for me to treat my mom after all her help with the wedding, and it really helped us relax and de-stress. Thank you! It was so nice.
GB
Gizmo Balam
Nov 9, 2025
5.0
It was a great experience all around. Booked it easily through the Disney experience app, checked in via app, got to the restaurant by the designated elevator on the 2nd floor promptly and was greeted with hostess and got seated. Appetizers were good. Main course was amazing. Kids loved their fish main course and chicken noodle soup appetizers. And absolutely loved their ice cream sandwiches. I had one of the best steaks ever. Presentation of the foods were amazing. 5/5, highly recommend it. It’s worth the money.
TC
Tracey Cox
Nov 3, 2025
5.0
Food out of this world, the service five star. We had the pairing menu lovely wines and port . Seen the magic kingdom fire works . Our waiter was reggie great with the kids and great chats . Would recommend to family or couple for a lovely night.
KS
Kate Schutz
Oct 26, 2025
3.0
I used to love going to the California Grill. Food is great. As well as the fireworks. However the service isn’t up to par. Bartender’s will ignore you and immediately serve another guest talk to them conversation and give immediately give the people their drinks. Meanwhile I had to wait quite a while for the bartender to ask me for a drink order and if I would like bread service. The Proprietor is excellent however the bartenders need to not ignore anyone .
California Grill offers fine dining with market-inspired American cuisine.
Where is California Grill located?
California Grill is located at 4600 North World Drive, Disney's Contemporary Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA.
What are the hours of operation for California Grill?
California Grill is open daily for dinner from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Does California Grill serve alcohol and cocktails?
Yes, California Grill serves wine, beer, cocktails, and other alcoholic beverages and has a bar onsite.
Is California Grill suitable for families and does it have a children's menu?
Yes, California Grill welcomes families and offers a children's menu.
What is the dress code for dining at California Grill?
The dress code at California Grill is dressy attire.
What payment options are accepted at California Grill?
California Grill accepts American Express, Cash, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
Are reservations required to dine at California Grill?
Reservations are accepted at California Grill but not required.
What nearby transportation options can help me get to California Grill?
The Contemporary Monorail Station and Monorail Station At Contemporary Resort are nearby train stations that provide convenient transportation to California Grill.
What nearby attractions can I visit before or after dining at California Grill?
You can visit nearby attractions such as Disney's Contemporary Resort, the 4th Floor Observation Deck, and Steakhouse 71 for a complete and enjoyable experience around California Grill.
Are there nearby lounges or bars near California Grill for after-dinner drinks?
Yes, nearby lounges include the Lounge in the California Grill atop the Contemporary Resort, Outer Rim, and Top of the World Lounge for after-dinner drinks.