Kona or California Grill

[PinkEars]

Trying to decide where to have a good meal and then watch fireworks? Me, husband, and 6 year old son. We didnt make it to either of these restaurants on our previous (first) trip last oct. Also didnt watch wishes

 

[Johnny_B]

Well they are really 2 different places. Cali Grill is signature, while Kona is not. They also serve 2 different types of food. Cali Grill is upscale "American" fare and Kona has "island inspired" food. What is your budget? Cali Grill can be VERY expensive, but I think the food quality and view make up for it. While Kona doesn't have a view, you can walk right out to the Poly dock and get a great view of Wishes.

With a 6 year old, and if you're on a budget, I'd say go with Kona. Great food for great price. If you want to splurge, then Cali Grill is way to go. Also, keep in mind that as a signature, Cali Grill has a "dress code" -- e.g, business casual.

 

[PinkEars]

I guess i should have said im wondering which one is best for viewing the fireworks.

Thanks for the info...Calif grill might not work if we dont want to make a trip back to resort to change so something ill have to think about

 

[mdsd8700]

Agree with everything pp said. The resturants are completely different. For me I would pick CA Grill. However it is very expensive, although you and hubby can split something no quesitons asked and that can cut down on the cost. I am not a big eater so I always split my meals with someone or just get an appetizer for myself. If you haven't already check out the menus on allears to see which one appeals to you most, that is probably the biggest factor.

Wishes is wonderful and you will enjoy it very much! Enjoy your trip!

 

[B-Ride]

IMHO, California Grill is better for Wishes. Also I wouldn't worry too much about changing for CG. From what I see others wearing they won't turn you away unless you are in your swim suits.

If it was up to me, I would eat dinner at Kona, jump on the monorail and go and watch Wishes in person. Nothing beats it.

 

[minnie mum]

I'm going to have to vote for Kona and a quick stroll out to the beach.(or Ohanas and ask for a window seat). The food is great and a good value, you don't have to worry about what you're wearing, and I think your son would really like it better.:

But I hope you will also have a chance to see Wishes inside the park near the Castle while you are there. It really is very special. While the views from the Poly and CR are very good, they don't convey the same feeling that you get from being up close.

 

[averill94]

I would go for Kona! I really love it there. We tried the California Grill once and didnt think the food was that great. Might've been an off night....

meanwhile I have had three amazing meals at Kona. After dinner you can go to the beach for fireworks.

Have a wonderful time wherever you choose to go!

 

[Eastern]

Dress code? The people at the table next to us (2A 2C) were in raggedy looking park-wear: shorts and tshirts.

Wishes was fun to watch in the outside viewing area. We (in April) had 7:30pm reservations and then we went out to the viewing area and waited about 20 min for Wishes to start.

You don't have to order an extravagant meal; Cali Grill can be very affordable if you order some flatbreads and sushi for your dinner, and it is plenty of food. Another couple next to us ordered double sushi platters, entree, and dessert. I honestly don't know how they ate it all!

 

[gardengirl628]

We're going to do both on our trip in July!

 

[aryfairy]

Fireworks from the beach at Poly are great and you might be able to catch the electric water pagaent at the same time.