CG without Wishes?

[itsmebabygi]

Is California Grill worth going to if I am not going during Wishes? It seems like that is the major draw for most people to go. This would definitely be the most expensive meal on the trip for me, so is it worth budgeting in? I have ADR for an early dinner when I am going to Epcot during the day and MK at night for EMH. I really like seeing the fireworks in the park, so I didn't want to trade that. It seems like I would enjoy the food, but is it mostly that experience that makes it a good place to eat?

 

[AnnetteF]

This is a favorite restaurant of ours, largely because we think the food is amazing. We did happen to catch the fireworks once, but most of the times we've been, it was not for the fireworks. I'd also have to say, and I'm sure most people would disagree with me, but I don't think the restaurant gives you the best perspective of the fireworks. From CG they look to me like they are to the back and right of the castle. It's just not the same, and I think you're right to see them from the park.
We just love the restaurant. It is expensive, and the atmosphere can be very loud, but it is a great dining experience. If you feel you would like a quieter table, ask to be seated in the wine room. This small room is at the back side of the restaurant, and looks out over the Bay Lake view from the hotel. We usually request this and have never had a problem getting it, because most people want the MK view.

 

[BCV23]

We go for the food!!! It's great.

We like to go at 5:30 or 6pm and are usually gone before Wishes begins. The food, service and view are all wonderful. Sunset is very cool up there even if facing away from it. Watching the birds soar around before settling in, watching the lights come on around Seven Seas Lagoon or Bay Lake, the boats plying the waters. Ahhh, it's great.

 

[OKW Lover]

We weren't impressed with the food there. Of all the signature restaurants at WDW, this would be the bottom of our list.

 

[Pakey]

We go often and it's not important to see Wishes, been there and done it often enough. The sushi here is very good and it's got a beautiful view, even without the fireworks. And they have an outstanding wine selection with wait staff knowledgable about the products. However, it's awfully noisy, they run behind their ADR times frequently, and I haven't been as impressed with the non-sushi dishes I've had here. Sometimes the meals are great and other times they are not as spectacular.

I like it better than several of the other signatures but it's not the top of the list for me either.

 

[IHEARTNY]

I'd also have to say, and I'm sure most people would disagree with me, but I don't think the restaurant gives you the best perspective of the fireworks. From CG they look to me like they are to the back and right of the castle. It's just not the same, and I think you're right to see them from the park.

I agree! I also think that Narcoossee's has a more interesting view and is less crowded during Wishes.

Anyway. The food, like every other PPs have said, is worth it in itself.

 

[tinkandpan]

We always go for an early ADR so I've yet to actually see wishes from here. The draw for us is the sushi, flatbreads and cheese and wine. I could actually skip the main course. We like watching the view of the MK and because we usually stay at the CR we like not having to switch resorts. In addition- it is the most kid friendly of the sig restauarants (imo) so we can take ours without worrying too much. It's very very noisy so if you are looking for a quiet upscale intimate dining experience- this might not be the place for you.

 

[ciera321]

As much as I LOVE Wishes, I'd still go just for the food and the view. This has become our favorite restaurant!!!

 

[SauceBoss]

Is California Grill worth going to if I am not going during Wishes? It seems like that is the major draw for most people to go. This would definitely be the most expensive meal on the trip for me, so is it worth budgeting in? I have ADR for an early dinner when I am going to Epcot during the day and MK at night for EMH. I really like seeing the fireworks in the park, so I didn't want to trade that. It seems like I would enjoy the food, but is it mostly that experience that makes it a good place to eat?

This should not be a deciding factor in anyone's decision to eat at CG. If you are not there for the food, wine and service ther isn't any reason to go. If you want to see Wishes, you should see it from Main Street where it is meant to be seen, heard and experienced in it's fullest. CG has phenomenal cuisine, an award winning wine list and an incredible chef.

 

[itsmebabygi]

Thanks for all your help. The menu is really what sparked my interest in CG; I just didn't notice any posts that said anything without bringing up wishes. It seemed like a critical factor in the enjoyment of the restaurant, and I am glad to hear that what I am looking for is good as well.