California Grill before After Hours?

[KendallR]

I was able to snag a 7:10 reservation at California Grill before a 9 pm start to the Magic Kingdom after hours event. There is only 3 of us and we are typically pretty fast eaters; will we have a problem making it there before the event? We have not eaten at a signature before and are not sure how long it may take.

 

[Robo]

I was able to snag a 7:10 reservation at California Grill before a 9 pm start to the Magic Kingdom after hours event. There is only 3 of us and we are typically pretty fast eaters; will we have a problem making it there before the event? We have not eaten at a signature before and are not sure how long it may take.

You should be OK.
Arrive by 6:45-ish and check in at the podium early.
Ask for your bill during the meal and settle up before you are finished dining.

Be sure to walk to MK.
That will beat taking the monorail all the way around the loop to get to the park.

 

[Lisa F]

You might have a problem. We had 3:30 ADRs for 'Ohana, which is not even a signature restaurant and showed up early, seated right away, food came out right away... we made it to our FP+ at Peter Pan at 5:45. Signatures take longer because they prepare your food to order. A 2 hour meal is not out of the question. That said it might all work out just fine... but it could also take longer. If you're a half hour late to the thing will it ruin your evening?

 

[caliope]

I was able to snag a 7:10 reservation at California Grill before a 9 pm start to the Magic Kingdom after hours event. There is only 3 of us and we are typically pretty fast eaters; will we have a problem making it there before the event? We have not eaten at a signature before and are not sure how long it may take.

I think you could make it if you follow the advice to check in early and get your bill/pay before you're done eating. Both of our meals at CG have taken about 90 minutes and they included drinks, appetizers, and entrees, along with a super slow 3-4 year old. It would be unfortunate to rush a meal there, because it's a good experience, but nothing says it can't be enjoyable within a reasonable amount of time. Walking from the Contemporary, you can be at MK in 10 minutes or less.