California Grill Questions

[cherokeemamma]

Hi everyone! I am so excited for our upcoming WDW vacation 9/9-9/14. It's the first alone vacation my DH and I have had since having kids, my oldest is now 24! I know, we are waaay, waaaay overdue! Anyway, we are arriving early in the day on Sunday and planned to go to MK for a few hours before our dining reserv at Calif Grill at 7:15pm; which I am super excited about.
My first question is regarding dress code. Just curious what others wear here. I was thinking something I might could throw in the back pack and change from our park clothes. (Tshirt dress or nice shorts and top??)Is that too casual? I just don't want to be look like what the cat drugged in.....

2nd question: With a 7:15 reserv I assumed that was perfect timing for HEA fireworks and then I realized that it was MNSSHP night and those fireworks start at 10 not 9! How long is a typical meal here?

3rd question: What is the best method to get a window view table?

Thanks in advance!
Darlene

 

[sammykster]

Hi everyone! I am so excited for our upcoming WDW vacation 9/9-9/14. It's the first alone vacation my DH and I have had since having kids, my oldest is now 24! I know, we are waaay, waaaay overdue! Anyway, we are arriving early in the day on Sunday and planned to go to MK for a few hours before our dining reserv at Calif Grill at 7:15pm; which I am super excited about.
My first question is regarding dress code. Just curious what others wear here. I was thinking something I might could throw in the back pack and change from our park clothes. (Tshirt dress or nice shorts and top??)Is that too casual? I just don't want to be look like what the cat drugged in.....

2nd question: With a 7:15 reserv I assumed that was perfect timing for HEA fireworks and then I realized that it was MNSSHP night and those fireworks start at 10 not 9! How long is a typical meal here?

3rd question: What is the best method to get a window view table?

Thanks in advance!
Darlene

With the dress code it is the standard signature dress code but you'll notice that it's not really enforced. I would say dress so that you feel appropriate and comfortable. You could wear nice shorts and a top and fit in just fine! You will find a lot of people come in full on park gear still but I like to feel a little nicer for the special occasion!

The meal can last as long as you take. I have never felt rushed there and like to take my time through the courses with a drink or two. Also, if you do happen to finish up early you could always hang out in the lounge for a bit. You are more than welcome to come back up if you dined earlier in the day to view fireworks if you choose to venture to a different lounge in the resort.

Just ask about the window! If you check in a little early or mention you're willing to wait a little bit after your reservation you'll have better luck.

Enjoy! We'll be there again on the 23rd and I can't wait

 

[sara_s]

Hi Darlene!

For dress code, I usually wear jeans and a nice blouse, but I’ve also gone in wearing park gear (which made me feel a bit out of place personally but probably just because it was so hot that day).

I’ve had meals that lasted 2 hours there. They pace it pretty well. The good thing is you can save your receipt and still go up to see fireworks, or maybe move to the lounge after your meal?

Finally, I would also love to know the window secret. We got lucky last time we were there for brunch, but have never gotten it for dinner.

Have a great time!

 

[sammykster]

I should add that I have seen them ask people to take hats off but that was the only time I saw a dress code issue. Just in case you or your spouse are planning to wear a hat all day, you might want some warning.

 

[need2travel]

For dress code I usually wear capris & a slightly "dressier" top w/ a bit of spruced up jewelry. I like your idea of a t shirt dress too, maybe add some dressier earrings or necklace to take it up a notch?

Our trick to make the meal last a bit longer (aka make the fireworks) is to order our appetizers & when it comes out then order our entrées-just keep the menu with you & tell your server you aren't quite sure what you want for your entrée. Ordering another drink in between dinner & dessert works just as well.

Good luck with getting a window table, they do have a decent number of two tops along the windows so you may luck out, if not there is a nice observation deck off the restaurant that has a good view of the fireworks.

Enjoy your trip!

 

[cherokeemamma]

Thanks so much for your responses!! We are really looking forward to dining there.

 

[Nancyg56]

I have no idea what the secret is for a window seat, but I do not think it is necessary. You can view the fireworks from outside if you do not manage to be given the pixie dust. My friends were, and they loved the view, but I htink it is just as nice outside.

If you find that you do not want to stretch your meal you can always enjoy strolling the CR or get a cocktail and then return for fireworks viewing.

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your meal! It is not the most romantic restaurant, but it sure is unique, with service and food that are excellent.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I just had dinner there on Thursday. There was a group with two guys (maybe late teens/early 20s) who were in tank tops and shorts. They had been given long-sleeve button-down oxford shirts to wear - which they did, unbuttoned over their tanks. I only noticed b/c the host "chased" them into the elevator to retrieve the shirts (they seemed to be leaving with them still on). Otherwise, I saw a wide variation in dress code... despite the sign saying "resort casual" a minority were decidedly in park attire. I think you'll be fine, barring any of the more "egregious" offenses like tank tops on men. Personally, I think tossing something in your backpack to change into is a great idea. After touring the parks, I'm a mess, especially this time of year, so I'd appreciate the opportunity to clean up a bit for dinner.

Our meal was ~2 hours -- with appetizer, entree, and dessert.

Enjoy your vacation!!! It sounds like it is very overdue and well deserved.

 

[beaprn]

Quick question , what is the price for the Brunch if you are lucky enough to get a reservation LOL !

 

[3 Hobbits 2 Disney]

Quick question , what is the price for the Brunch if you are lucky enough to get a reservation LOL !

About $85 pp with unlimited mimosas. They do take TIW, not sure about anything else.