Is California Grill worth the price?

[mikeuno]

Topolino's Terrace is our fav

 

[alltwelve]

Oddly enough, we eat at California Grill because we feel like when we eat there we're on a Disney Cruise. I know that may sound odd, but with the prix fixe menu and choosing the appetizer, entree and dessert that's all included, it gives that cruise vibe. Additionally, even though we've had dishes at California Grill that range from absolutely amazing to just okay, the servers there have always been exceptional, much like the servers on the Disney Cruise ships, and they're always willing to make it right if you order something that is just okay. This makes it a good place for picky eaters who may not initially like what they ordered. We've eaten there countless times (gosh we miss the brunch they used to have!) and its always a favorite!

Topolino's isn't as grand of a place as California Grill physically, but the food more than makes up for it. We've dined there 3 times and they've all been excellent! One time we ate there, our server was so amazing and after chatting with him, we learned that he was actually a server at Victoria and Alberts, but they were closed for remodeling at the time, so he was serving at Topolino's in the meantime. We've never done breakfast there (we're not character dining people), but the meals at dinnertime are constistently good.

Overall, both are solid options! California Grill has better physical atmosphere and views, but Topolino's gives picky eaters and those who maybe don't eat a lot the chance to order a smaller meal.

 

[maleficent55]

CG and Topolino's are always jockeying for first place in our family. We are from NYC so frankly the prices don't shock us...

Here's how we have been thinking recently about the 2:

I think *on average* CG has maybe better food (meaning you're less likely to get a dud dish) - but Topolino's has particular mains and starters that shine. The sole, for example, and anything with duck confit. And for a while they were the only place other than Le Cellier to have Albertan beef, which was definitely better than US beef. I am not sure if that is still the case, but worth asking.

On bread, I think I like Topolino's better.

Desserts - I love desserts as a category, but I'm sort of underwhelmed here, but CG edges out Topolino's in taste, but Topolino's desserts are prettier.

Service - CG is more consistent, but Topolino's when it's on (which is 85% of the time) is ON. We may have also had conversations at Topolino's where they've dissed the CG prix fixe, and I think their comments are valid.

The views - depends on what you want. the MK view is so classic. But the outside deck is really just, step outside, look around, go back in. But the Topolino's deck is peaceful and beautiful and even though we've eaten there a zillion times DH and I always take a picture there and want to hang out there.

Hmmm... after writing all this - I think Topolino's wins, but CG is classic. DH likes CG more, I think.

What’s the view you get at Topolinos?

 

[CoachBeard]

I’ve gone every trip I’ve been 08,11, 22, 24. The last time wasn’t as good as the rest but I think it’s great! I think the menu has some decent variety given how small it is and some unique dishes.

 

[CaliforniaGirl09]

In the old days (aka pre-COVID), California Grill was our favorite--especially for brunch, but dinner was also really good. I am not a prix fixe fan, and CG is a perfect example of why. I gave it a chance (twice) and it was so underwhelming both times we haven't been back. It felt very business conference food to me--as if the food had been pre-plated and reheated. I understand why Disney has gone in this direction--I'm sure it increases their profit and eliminates the people who used to go and order a dessert, etc. But it's disappointing all the same. The view is spectacular though so if you go with low expectations of the food you might be fine