Is California Grill's popularity more about the food or the view?

[tarheelmjfan]

We've never tried CG. I'm acrophobic & wouldn't go out on the fireworks viewing deck for a free meal. We consider dining there every trip, then I change "our" mind & go somewhere else. It seems that people like the food, but it's the entire experience that makes it stand out. Then they warn that it can be loud & chaotic. We wouldn't consider that a good atmosphere. So, if CG wasn't on the 15th floor of the Contemporary & didn't have that view, would you still choose it over the other Signature Restaurants? If the food alone is that much better than the other Signature Restaurants we've been to, I want to at least try it. I'll just have to not look down.

 

[Stinky_Pete]

I don't choose it "over" other signature dining experiences, I like to go to a couple on each trip. But I still find myself going back to CA Grill. It's a combination of the food, service and the view. If the food and service weren't excellent every time I've gone I certainly wouldn't return, and pay that kind of money, just for the fireworks.

I personally like timing my dinner to coincide with the fireworks. I've heard that's when it's "loud and chaotic." If you don't want that atmosphere try after the fireworks. Or, I've heard there is a separate room that you could ask to be seated in.

 

[Pakey]

This is one of my favorite TS. Maybe it's because I'm from California, who knows!!!! The view means nothing to me; I've seen those fireworks a ton of times and also couldn't imagine standing on that ledge out there. But the food, I like. I like sushi and they have a great selection so that is always an appetizer. I like the variety on the main courses that they offer. I haven't found the noise here to be any worse than many other places--it's hard to get that intimate feeling at the world.

If you have never been, I think it's worth it to at least try it.

 

[global_mom]

I could barely step out to the viewing deck b/c of my fear of heights but I could see the fireworks just fine from the doorway. DH and the kids enjoyed the deck.

The food was super great and we would go back even if you could not see the fireworks. It was a bit loud but we were dining during fireworks time which seems to have more kids.

Give it a try, you will love it!

 

[northriver]

We had a bad experience last time in that they "lost us" although we were at the bar - and waited almost 1.5 hrs beyond our ADR time, with small children.

The food however, was superb. I had pork, it was fabulous. I used to raise organic berkshire hogs, so when I say it was fabulous pork, I really mean it, I know pork. And the coffee was the best coffee I've every had out of a thermal pot ever. I'd go back for the coffee. Serioulsy, it is details that really make a meal stand out. I'm still mad about the delayed seating, the hostesses were extremely disorganized and not in the least appologetic about making us wait. But whoever is back in the kitchen has both talent and a great staff. Even though we had a problem, I think we'll go back next time.

 

[MissionMouse]

... I'm acrophobic ... I'll just have to not look down.

California Grill does have a 180 degree view, so I am not sure you will be able to escape the view when you enter or leave. During the meal you could ask for a table away from the window and select the chair facing away from the windows. Most people want window seatings, so this may be a easy request. The grill is good, sometimes great, but this year we are electing to try some other restaurants. You might try Artist Pointe in WL to avoid the height factor, since it rates very high...sort of like a hidden gem in dining.

 

[yitbos96bb]

We've never tried CG. I'm acrophobic & wouldn't go out on the fireworks viewing deck for a free meal. We consider dining there every trip, then I change "our" mind & go somewhere else. It seems that people like the food, but it's the entire experience that makes it stand out. Then they warn that it can be loud & chaotic. We wouldn't consider that a good atmosphere. So, if CG wasn't on the 15th floor of the Contemporary & didn't have that view, would you still choose it over the other Signature Restaurants? If the food alone is that much better than the other Signature Restaurants we've been to, I want to at least try it. I'll just have to not look down.

We go to Cali Grill on every trip. It has become our favorite signature. Food wise, I think it is outstanding. Its NOT Victoria and Alberts which is far and away the BEST food at Disney, but I know it is a favorite of many many locals I know. Compared to the other Sig restaurants, based solely on food, I would place it tied for 2nd with Jiko and Citricos (1st being V and A). The Sushi is wonderful, the flatbreads are great, the entrees are very tasty.

So that is based solely on food. As far as ambiance... I would not call it hectic. Its a great environment for a meal with a spectacular view. If you are afraid of heights, I would avoid sitting by the window, but you can sit middle of restaurant and get a fantastic view still even during fireworks. Or for a really big treat... sit on the bar stools (I can't remember what they call them) watching the Show kitchen and many times the cooks will talk to you and give you samples to try. Its a blast.

As I said, WE go EVERYTIME we are at Disney. It is the ONLY restaurant I will make that claim for currently.

 

[yitbos96bb]

California Grill does have a 180 degree view, so I am not sure you will be able to escape the view when you enter or leave. During the meal you could ask for a table away from the window and select the chair facing away from the windows. Most people want window seatings, so this may be a easy request. The grill is good, sometimes great, but this year we are electing to try some other restaurants. You might try Artist Pointe in WL to avoid the height factor, since it rates very high...sort of like a hidden gem in dining.

I still say CG is better than AP food wise. I always thought AP was a smidge underwhelming compared to other choices.

 

[MissionMouse]

CG offers eclectic...where Artist Pointe is staight forward, simple, Rocky Mountain associated frontier foods.

The real truth why we are not visiting CG this year, once a family tradition dining experiece for us, is we have felt the overall experience is not what it once was..still good but not great.

 

[yitbos96bb]

CG offers eclectic...where Artist Pointe is staight forward, simple, Rocky Mountain associated frontier foods.

The real truth why we are not visiting CG this year, once a family tradition dining experiece for us, is we have felt the overall experience is not what it once was..still good but not great.

I think you are nuts. The food at AP has been underwhelming everytime I went. CG has surpassed it everytime, as has Jiko and Citricos and of course V and A. I'd go as far to put Blue Zoo and Flying Fish above Artist Point, or to be generous on the same tier. Are there better restaurants... of course! CG is no Tru or Charlie Trotters. But especially food wise, it is much better and more creative and more flavorful than AP.

To the OP, if you have NOT been to Jiko, I would recommend that one as well or as an alternative before AP. Fantastic service, Fantastic food, and Fantastic wine list (largest South African wine collection in the country I believe), it is fast becoming one of the Jewels at Disney.

 

[tarheelmjfan]

Thanks for the input. Sounds like it is about the food. I've always been curious whether that was the case or not. I know Tripadvisor ranks Artist Point, which we love, as the #2 Orlando restaurant. California Grill is ranked #327. I know reviews are personal opinion & I don't always agree with their ratings. (I find that many times value is ranked over quality on TA.) That said, #2 to #327 is a wide margin.

By what you've said, I think we would be better off trying for a late ADR after the fireworks crowd has gone. Another good thing about eating late..... It will be dark & I won't be able to see the ground. Now I just have to hope that Wishes is before 10pm.

PS: We like sushi, but wouldn't choose a restaurant based on that. We'd rather have sushi for lunch at Tokyo Dining. Also, I don't like coffee. My hubby says it's about time I grew up & started drinking it, but "yuck" is all I can say. He's not particular about his coffee. Just thought I'd add that tidbit of info.

 

[yitbos96bb]

Thanks for the input. Sounds like it is about the food. I've always been curious whether that was the case or not. I know Tripadvisor ranks Artist Point, which we love, as the #2 Orlando restaurant. California Grill is ranked #327. I know reviews are personal opinion & I don't always agree with their ratings. (I find that many times value is ranked over quality on TA.) That said, #2 to #327 is a wide margin.

By what you've said, I think we would be better off trying for a late ADR after the fireworks crowd has gone. Another good thing about eating late..... It will be dark & I won't be able to see the ground. Now I just have to hope that Wishes is before 10pm.

PS: We like sushi, but wouldn't choose a restaurant based on that. We'd rather have sushi for lunch at Tokyo Dining. Also, I don't like coffee. My hubby says it's about time I grew up & started drinking it, but "yuck" is all I can say. He's not particular about his coffee. Just thought I'd add that tidbit of info.

Trip Advisor ratings are done by regular people and not professional reviewers so really it means nothing... As someone said above, the AP food is a little more straight forward and uncreative which appeals to the non-foodies.

As far as the #327 thing... that is dead wrong... and 100% right. TA has TWO entries for Cali Grill (which says a lot about TA);

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUser...469-The_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html
Here is a review showing it is #12 on the list.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...isney_s_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html
Here is one showing it #327

In reality, it is probably higher than #12 if both are combined.

 

[MissionMouse]

I think you are nuts. The food at AP has been underwhelming everytime I went. CG has surpassed it everytime, as has Jiko and Citricos and of course V and A. I'd go as far to put Blue Zoo and Flying Fish above Artist Point, or to be generous on the same tier. Are there better restaurants... of course! CG is no Tru or Charlie Trotters. But especially food wise, it is much better and more creative and more flavorful than AP.

To the OP, if you have NOT been to Jiko, I would recommend that one as well or as an alternative before AP. Fantastic service, Fantastic food, and Fantastic wine list (largest South African wine collection in the country I believe), it is fast becoming one of the Jewels at Disney.

Sounds like you enjoy name calling, but food-service opinions will always vary since there is no common index to reference one opinion from the other. I also think many of Disney restaurants have trouble maintaining standards thoughtout every day of the year, shaping different opinions by guest depending on the day you dine.

Many Disney restaurants are continuing to hold reputations earned in the past and not reflecting of their current performance. Restaurants should be viewed based on the food style their presenting. AP offers simple, basic, rustic foods...that is it. If you don't care for this style you should select another restaurant. CG is good, but sadly spotty service is not absent from the CG. Definately worth trying but does not belong on a pedestal of honor.

There is clearly a change that has occurred at various Disney restaurants which normally trace back to the chef or floor manager. Definately enjoyed Jiko and Citrico's better than CG during our last stay.

 

[ZoZo]

Went to CG for the first time last week and really enjoyed it.

Timed it so that we could see the fireworks, but that was really secondary for us. We did go out and watch them from the viewing deck, and it was nice, but not a huge deal for us. (Plus there were bugs everywhere that kept flying in our faces! Sort of off-putting.)

The food was great - we all enjoyed it immensely. Had one of the best filets I have ever had; I nearly licked my plate, it was so good. Others in our group got the cheese plate (which she loved), and the heirloom tomato salad (which was outstanding). Plus, we had great customer service. I'd highly recommend it.

We didn't find it too loud (and I'm sensitive to that sort of thing). The atmosphere was very pleasant, and it was fun being able to see so much of MK from that viewpoint.

 

[yitbos96bb]

Sounds like you enjoy name calling, but food-service opinions will always vary since there is no common index to reference one opinion from the other. I also think many of Disney restaurants have trouble maintaining standards thoughtout every day of the year, shaping different opinions by guest depending on the day you dine.

Many Disney restaurants are continuing to hold reputations earned in the past and not reflecting of their current performance. Restaurants should be viewed based on the food style their presenting. AP offers simple, basic, rustic foods...that is it. If you don't care for this style you should select another restaurant. CG is good, but sadly spotty service is not absent from the CG. Definately worth trying but does not belong on a pedestal of honor.

There is clearly a change that has occurred at various Disney restaurants which normally trace back to the chef or floor manager. Definately enjoyed Jiko and Citrico's better than CG during our last stay.

How is saying I think your nuts name calling? If I was name calling, I'd call you an idiot or a moron. (Not calling you such giving you an example of what Name Calling actually is). Seriously why make a comment that I enjoy name calling... its pretty much doing what you incorrectly accused me of.

Ignoring your insulting and underdeserved comment, I like simple rustic food... I feel AP does an average job of showcasing the style. I also don't know if Simple is the word I'd use... rustic and straight forward sure, but always felt there were too many flavors in many of the dishes and on the Plates to call it simple, but frankly that is the case at much of Disney outside of V and A. Of course that is just opinion. As far as service, yes all restaurants at Disney have service issues at times. The main issues I have had at CG are with time to get seated, but I expect that during busy times. When actually seated, the service has been outstanding. AP, I have had very good service and very poor service, depending on the visit. We are at a theme park though and NOT in Manhattan or Chicago or LA, so I am a bit more tolerant of the situation, especially since nearly all Disney Sig restaurants have a Tourist "Business" Casual dress code (and one that is not always readily enforced as I observed last time I was at Citricos and Artist Point a few months ago).

And No CG's rep is earned year after year, not just on past reputation. AP is not bad by any stretch... the food is just underwhelming when compared to reputation and price.

 

[tarheelmjfan]

Trip Advisor ratings are done by regular people and not professional reviewers so really it means nothing... As someone said above, the AP food is a little more straight forward and uncreative which appeals to the non-foodies.

As far as the #327 thing... that is dead wrong... and 100% right. TA has TWO entries for Cali Grill (which says a lot about TA);

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUser...469-The_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html
Here is a review showing it is #12 on the list.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...isney_s_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html
Here is one showing it #327

In reality, it is probably higher than #12 if both are combined.

That's odd. I typed in the restaurant name in the search function & got this: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...isney_s_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html

 

[yitbos96bb]

That's odd. I typed in the restaurant name in the search function & got this: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...isney_s_California_Grill-Orlando_Florida.html

Did you type California Grill or Disney's California Grill? Hence the oddity... one is listed as just The California Grill while the other is Disney's California Grill. I wrote them about the error. Adding and averaging the reviews (which isn't the sole way TA does the popularity index but a good idea of it), I would say Cali would jump to 4th or 5th since there combined average is higher than all but the top 3 in personal reviews. Given the food and the higher cost, THAT doesn't surprise me at all.

 

[tarheelmjfan]

We are at a theme park though and NOT in Manhattan or Chicago or LA, so I am a bit more tolerant of the situation, especially since nearly all Disney Sig restaurants have a Tourist "Business" Casual dress code (and one that is not always readily enforced as I observed last time I was at Citricos and Artist Point a few months ago).

That's a good point! We do enjoy the food at AP, but that's just part of it. We've always been fortunate to dine with a quieter crowd, which isn't exactly the norm at WDW. We always make our ADRs for 8 - 8:30pm. Maybe, that makes a difference. Good food is much better when combined with a good atmosphere.

 

[tarheelmjfan]

Did you type California Grill or Disney's California Grill? Hence the oddity... one is listed as just The California Grill while the other is Disney's California Grill. I wrote them about the error. Adding and averaging the reviews (which isn't the sole way TA does the popularity index but a good idea of it), I would say Cali would jump to 4th or 5th since there combined average is higher than all but the top 3 in personal reviews. Given the food and the higher cost, THAT doesn't surprise me at all.

I typed California Grill.

 

[Ron from Michigan]

CG is all about the great food & service. it's because of this that we keep going back. The view is just an added bonus.