Disney’s California Grill at the Contemporary Resort

Of all the places we’ve dined at Disney, California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort remains firmly at the top of my list. The food is phenomenal, the service exceptional, and the views simply unforgettable. This is Disney dining at its absolute pinnacle.

Perched high atop the Contemporary, California Grill celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with a menu rooted in the international, melting-pot flavors of the Golden State. At the same time, the ambiance nods to its 1971 opening with subtle retro touches, perfectly blending past and future in one elegant experience.

The current prix fixe menu is a three-course tasting adventure that begins with a bread service and then allows you to explore a range of expertly crafted starters, entrées, and desserts. I highly recommend pairing your meal with a California wine or handcrafted cocktail. My personal favorite, the Blueberry Lemondrop Martini, is honestly my favorite cocktail on earth. (I’ve been trying to recreate it for ages. If anyone cracks the code, please let me know… a gift card may or may not be in your future! 😂)

I got close to the recipe here:

Happy Hour {Disney’s California Grill Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini}

• Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli: Organic Mixed Mushroom Ragout, Tomato-Fennel Brodo, California Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Barbecue American Eel Roll: Unagi, Avocado, Cucumber, Dragon Sauce, Toasted Sesame Seeds, Crispy Garlic

• Oak-grilled Filet of Beef: Roasted Garlic Potato Purée, Charred Broccolini, Fig-Onion Marmalade, Truffle-Cognac Demi
• Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Creamy Goat Cheese Polenta, Roasted Pork Belly, Aged Balsamic Organic Mushrooms, Zinfandel Glaze

• Pistachio-Chocolate Mousse: White Chocolate Crunch, Pistachio Croutons, Cacao Nib Tuile
• Blueberry-Goat Cheese Cheesecake: Blueberry Meringue, Vanilla Chantilly, Raspberry Coulis, Goat Cheese Mousse

Timing your dinner with Magic Kingdom fireworks takes the experience to another level. Even if your reservation doesn’t line up perfectly, guests are welcome to return before or after their meal to the exclusive viewing areas. When the fireworks begin, the lights inside are dimmed, service pauses, and the music is piped in, creating an atmosphere nothing short of magical. Stepping out onto the private balcony as the sky lights up over Cinderella Castle is one of those Disney moments you’ll never forget.

For us, California Grill has become a tradition – a go-to for family celebrations and the grand finale to a Disney vacation. Between the spectacular food, unmatched views, and warm service, it’s everything a signature Disney dining experience should be.

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