California Grill

[mbroadhead]

Just got back from Disney and everything was great, until we stopped for our last night's dinner (7/1), that was the focal point of the whole trip.
Called 90 days ahead, at 7 AM and let Disney reservations know it was a special occasion (birthday and asked for a nice seating).
What was given, a four top with a chair shoved on the end for the 5th person. When we asked for something a little nicer and told them we don't mind waiting longer for a table to clear, a round table, with absolutely no view of anything, except the dessert chef was given. At this point, we gave up and just sat down for dinner.
A call was made ahead of time, asking for the birthday cake and assurances were given that this would be done.
The cake never appeared, wasn't mentioned, nor was any confirmation that there was a special event taking place with the dinner party, by the manager, wait staff or greeter. The birthday person had their birthday pin on, given to them by the people at Animal Kingdom, earlier that day. That didn't even warrent a response. (the first place any cast member didn't acknowledge the birthday, when seeing the pin)
The lights weren't dimmed for the fireworks, everyone was hearded outside.
The food was ok, but when you're looking for that one special evening, and you get the attitude of the management (Gary) that they just want you in and out, it makes you say, we won't bother next time.
Save your money, go to dinner somewhere else and go stand on the beach to watch the fireworks, because the Grill is not what it used to be.

 

[jjfjr]

Sorry to hear about your experience. My wife and I ate at CG this past May and we couldn't of had a more different experience. We were seated at 7:00 at a table with a great view of the MK. We didn't leave until after the fireworks at 9:00. The waiter was excellent at explaining the dishes and we in no way felt hurried. We thought the food was the best on Disney property and can't wait to go back. Maybe they were having an "off night"....

 

[Aimeedyan]

I am so sorry your party was disappointed, esp since you made prior arrangements for things that didn't happen. What was their explanation about the cake that didn't show?

I hate that you ended your vacation with that kind of experience. =(

 

[msuspartan]

I'm so sorry to hear about your bad experience! My husband and I ate at California Grill last time we were at WDW and it was by far one of the best meals we've ever had. We're from Chicago and love to eat at all of the great restaurants here, and we both remarked that CG rates up there with the best of them. Did you mention anything to management about your disappointment?

 

[WDW LOVR]

I agree with JJFjr. My wife and I ate at CG in May for the first time. It was the most romantic dinner we've ever had. Enjoyed Wishes from the observation deck and at no time were we ever hurried along by our waiter and we were there for over 2 hours.

Just waiting to make PS for our trip in Oct. Can't wait for the kids reaction as it will be their first time at CG.