California Grill - Fireworks before reservation

[Lullo&Stitch]

If you have a 9:30 dinner reservation at the California Grill, would it be possible for them to let you watch the fireworks outside before you eat?

 

[vfj242]

I was also wondering about this. I have an earlier 5:35 rsvp in November but I'm still not quite sold on the timing.

 

[marjorieeeee]

I just read that you can show up early to watch the fireworks before you eat, or you can return to the restaurant, show the elevator people your receipt from earlier in the evening, and go up to watch the fireworks. So anyone with a ressie for that night can watch fireworks!

From the official Disney restaurant page:

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Spectacular
California Grill offers one of the best fireworks dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

Lights dim as the music is piped into the restaurant—immersing Guests in the magic of the night.

Dining before the fireworks? Bring your receipt to the check-in desk on the 2nd floor for reentry to California Grill. Then, enjoy the show either from California Grill Lounge or the outside observation deck.

Guests with a dining reservation after the fireworks are also invited to watch the show from the lounge or observation deck. Please note that fireworks may be cancelled due to inclement weather and are subject to change.

 

[Selket]

I am bumping this as I have a similar question - I have a 9:15pm reservation and the fireworks are at 9:30. Do we just stop ordering/eating and go watch fireworks or what happens?

 

[maxiesmom]

I am bumping this as I have a similar question - I have a 9:15pm reservation and the fireworks are at 9:30. Do we just stop ordering/eating and go watch fireworks or what happens?

Yes. The waitstaff is great at pacing your meal. You get up and go outside if you wish, no problem. Last trip I sat at my table, ate my dessert and drank my coffee while watching the fireworks.

 

[TiggerTrigger]

I am bumping this as I have a similar question - I have a 9:15pm reservation and the fireworks are at 9:30. Do we just stop ordering/eating and go watch fireworks or what happens?

Just a heads up...Cali Grill is notorious for running behind and people are more likely to stay put as fireworks time draws near. With a 9:15, it may be closer to 9:45 by the time you're seated. Ultimately, if they do seat you promptly, they are a well oiled machine when it comes to people wanting to stop and see the fireworks. People without well situated tables often start heading out to the view decks 15 minutes before show time. I know we've gotten up in between entree and cake to go watch outside.

 

[goin' again!]

What are the chances that with a 6:50 ressie we'll still be at the table for the 9:00 fireworks?

 

[maxiesmom]

What are the chances that with a 6:50 ressie we'll still be at the table for the 9:00 fireworks?

Slim. Unless you order apps, main, and dessert and pace it out slowly.

 

[NickEslick]

You can usually ask your waiter or waitress and they can do anything you need. My family usually sits down 9-9:15 and then we like to have our appetizer before the fireworks, dinner is usually ready within 10 minutes after and then dessert. Now of course you do not need 3 courses, but we do a dining plan so we take advantage of it.

 

[goin' again!]

That's what I thought...I'll have to keep checking for a later ADR

Slim. Unless you order apps, main, and dessert and pace it out slowly.

 

[Kaytie]

You dint need to stretch out your meal. You can bring your receipt back to the check-in desk and they'll let/escort you back up.

 

[Uncleromulus]

Well--we always get drinks, then an app, then our meal, then dessert--always takes at least 2 hours for the meal.

And as to the original Q--we've done exactly that many times and never a problem.

 

[gharter]

I am bumping this as I have a similar question - I have a 9:15pm reservation and the fireworks are at 9:30. Do we just stop ordering/eating and go watch fireworks or what happens?

As said above, the waitstaff are great about this. Last time our reservations were at 9 and fireworks were 9:30. We ordered our food, had our appetizer. Our waiter held the entrée until after fireworks were done and we were seated to have them prepare the entrée so we had time to talk and relax after the fireworks. This is how they have done it each time we have eaten there around the time of fireworks.
yu should have a great time. the only issue may be whether your table will be ready at 9:15. If it isn't, you can still go up and watch the fireworks and then be seated.

 

[Eastern]

What are the chances that with a 6:50 ressie we'll still be at the table for the 9:00 fireworks?

You'll more likely be done by 8:30ish, but that gives you time to pay the bill, run to the restroom, and get a drink to bring outside. Or just go out on the walkway and wait. We do it this way nearly every trip; better than being at your table.

 

[lockedoutlogic]

What are the chances that with a 6:50 ressie we'll still be at the table for the 9:00 fireworks?

That's a stretch...and you'd kill your whole night doing it.

Two things to remember: 1. the view is directly over service areas...so it's a bit overrated.

2. The firework launch point is behind the park...so you'll see em...but it is off to stage right.

If it works out on your schedule, great...but I wouldn't go out of your way for this...just my take.

 

[JZCubed]

What are the chances that with a 6:50 ressie we'll still be at the table for the 9:00 fireworks?

arrive late

 

[goin' again!]

arrive late

 

[Thing 1]

We were there 2 1/2 hours last trip. Slow but perfectly paced dinner with drinks, apps, dinner and dessert and fireworks worked it. It's my favorite place to dine.