Dining timing

[wvjules]

I have a Cali Grill ADR at 745. Do you think that's a good time for being able to view the 9:20 fireworks? Based on my reading, it seems like but wanted to check with those here that have done it to see their experience. Same for Tony's Town Square at 2:30 to hope to catch the 3pm parade from the porch/window seat. Not sure if that one is worth it since the food is meh. Does the parade view outweigh the food?

 

[NYCgrrl]

The last time I went to CG it was for one of those firework viewing appetizer buffets. I think it was called “Sparkle, Savor, Sip”. We had 90 minutes there so extrapolation says you’ll be fine.
Have fun.
ETA: I don’t eat in MK so no idea about Tony’s.

 

[wvjules]

The last time I went to CG it was for one of those firework viewing appetizer buffets. I think it was called “Sparkle, Savor, Sip”. We had 90 minutes there so extrapolation says you’ll be fine.
Have fun.
ETA: I don’t eat in MK so no idea about Tony’s.

I want Celebration at the Top, but it has not yet been released for the date I want.

 

[HopperFan]

I have a Cali Grill ADR at 745. Do you think that's a good time for being able to view the 9:20 fireworks? Based on my reading, it seems like but wanted to check with those here that have done it to see their experience.

We usually set aside 1.5 hours minimum for a normal dinner at CG so that puts you at 9:15 IF you get seated promptly. I personally would want to be out on the observation deck by 9 for a best view .. so I would pace myself that way. We also ask for check sooner than later to be sure to not running behind at the end.

Same for Tony's Town Square at 2:30 to hope to catch the 3pm parade from the porch/window seat. Not sure if that one is worth it since the food is meh. Does the parade view outweigh the food?

I think your odds here are "not in your favor" for a porch or conservatory window seat. My guess is that folks with 1:30 on who get those seats will slow down their meal and by 2:30 there would be minimal turnover (and they often seat you after your ADR). MOST the seats in the restaurant have no view, and really the best view is on the outdoor porch. So my question is ... is that your only chance at seeing the parade, if so, I would find a spot on parade route.

 

[erinch]

I have a Cali Grill ADR at 745. Do you think that's a good time for being able to view the 9:20 fireworks? Based on my reading, it seems like but wanted to check with those here that have done it to see their experience. Same for Tony's Town Square at 2:30 to hope to catch the 3pm parade from the porch/window seat. Not sure if that one is worth it since the food is meh. Does the parade view outweigh the food?

I would get there at the start of your check-in period (about 7:15) so that you are at the front end if that wave of reservations. That will then give you time for beverage/appetizer/main . Then optimal would be to go out, see the fireworks, and then come back in for dessert, if you can be leisurely. We ate there a year ago, and found that there were a bunch of people being seated at the same time, and our server had a lot of tables. so it took a long time to get our drink, and then put our order in. There was then a long delay between app and entree. I would guess that was not typical, because I don't see a lot of complaints about service being really draggy. When you check in, there is a long line on the ground floor to check in, and then a line to get seated in the restaurant itself.