The Wave vs. California Grill

[ForEver2016]

We are staying at the Contemporary in early July. For dinner one night, I currently have California Grill booked. However, I am second guessing my ADR and thinking of switching to The Wave for several reasons:

1. We will have a toddler with us, who is often unpredictable when it comes to long sit down meals
2. The menu at The Wave appeals to me more at the moment (though this is the winter menu and I know the summer menu will be different for both). I’m not a big sushi person at all, and only one person in our party is.
3. We are (hopefully) doing the Fireworks Dessert Party that night so I’m not sure if we really need a big, fancy meal before that.
4. It is a short trip, and I’m thinking that dinner at The Wave would be a much quicker experience than CG, so we could get back to the parks quicker. And we probably wouldn’t have to spend much time facing up beforehand like we would at CG.

However - I have always wanted to try the California Grill due to its reputation as one of the best restaurants on property. The Wave has never really been on my radar, and certainly doesn’t have the clout that CG does. The only reason why I would try the Wave is because we are staying there.

What would you do?

 

[Surgie2]

We (2 adults) have eaten dinner at CG and had drinks and appetizers at the Wave. Most any restaurant at WDW is kid-friendly and you will see kids at CG. Our server was very efficient and it didn't have to be a long meal unless we wanted it to. Also, no sign of sushi at our table...many other menu options at CG - I think my husband had a steak and I had some kind of fish entree.

One of the benefits of the CG is that you can stay put for fireworks...obviously not the same view as in the park. That said, our adult kids are going to the CG for dinner in May, followed by the HEA dessert party so there are reasons to do both in one evening. And depending on the time of your reservation, "staying put" with a toddler could be a long evening, unless you leave after dinner and return for fireworks which I believe you can do.

I think with a toddler and with your evening plans to return to the park for fireworks, I would be efficient and do the Wave. Will you be there on a Sunday when you could try the CG brunch? Then you'd have the best of both.

 

[Jennasis]

The Wave is one of our favorites. I'd choose it.

 

[RyMickey]

The Wave is decent. I don’t think it lands on many peoples’ Top Restaurants in WDW, but it’s not really trying to do that. California Grill is good, but we had a disappointing experience there on our last trip and we were slightly soured to it. Considering the price point, we’ve had better meals at other signature restaurants since then. We wouldn’t rule out a return, but if you’re not even going to stay for the fireworks since you have a party booked that night, I’d skip it.

 

[NYCgrrl]

I think for your current wants the Wave is the answer to your question.

 

[Lisa F]

I keep making the mistake of having a real dinner before a dessert party and I basically end up eating 1 chocolate covered strawberry at the dessert parties. I would not do either same night if you care about that (I do it mostly for the fireworks viewing and don't care about the food as much). Both start their dinner service too late for you to be able to adequately space things. I'd do a restaurant where you could have like a 2:30pm late lunch/early dinner.

 

[North of Mouse]

The Wave for breakfast is one of our favorites. The Wave for dinner was a bust for us. Our steaks were not tasty at all and we will not go again for dinner. Wish they still had the lunch buffet - it had the 'classy' look/taste of breakfast!

 

[shocker]

Personally, I've done the dessert party & I wouldn't eat anything at all near that (What Lisa F said above, you can't eat both, so just choose one). I'd eat a late lunch & no dinner. But, the toddler will need more sustenance, so I'd sit them down for something, either sooner or bring a small packed dinner for them to dessert party.

 

[goofyintoronto]

The Wave is awesome! Its one of my fave restaurants on property! Ive always had consistently delicious food each time I dine there. I cant say the same for CG thou. I've been there a few times since the refurb, and each time i've had disappointing meals. Each time. So no, i wont be going back ever again. I'd like to note that CG is REALLY LOUD. And i dont normally complain about noise level in a restaurant! So if your child screams their head off, dont worry! Nobody will notice.

All kidding aside, i'd definitely go with The Wave.

 

[WDW_Ding]

The California Grill is very good, but also very expensive. If you have doubts that your child will be able to sit through an hour+ meal, then the Wave is a much better choice. I wouldn't want to spend Cali Grill type money on a meal that you may have to rush through.

 

[ForEver2016]

Thanks everyone. I think we are leaning towards The Wave that evening! I think if it was just us, we’d skip dinner altogether but with the toddler, we like to plan sit down dinners because that is really the only meal of the day where he is absolutely ravenous!

 

[ForEver2016]

Actually, now I’m thinking in-park dining would be even more efficient. What are your thoughts on The Wave vs Skipper Canteen vs The Plaza?

 

[goofyintoronto]

Actually, now I’m thinking in-park dining would be even more efficient. What are your thoughts on The Wave vs Skipper Canteen vs The Plaza?

In park dining would be more convenient. I'd of course pick the wave, but for convenience with a toddler, maybe in park is the way to go? Skipper Canteen i heard is a lot of fun, the wait staff are very funny with customers. Personally i've never eaten there thou. I'd look at the menu and see if it appeals to you. The Plaza has simple yet very tasty food at a great price. I highly recommend it!

 

[WDW_Ding]

Skipper Canteen

I was disappointed with the Skipper Canteen. The theming is fun, but I didn't like what I ordered (ramen, IIRC. I don't think it is even on the menu anymore).

The Plaza is a basic burgers, fries, sandwiches, salads, ice cream sort of place. I don't know that the food there is much better than some counter services places, but take a look at the menu and decide.

 

[leebee]

I'd do an early dinner at The Plaza. Your son will eat, the adults can share an appetizer, then everyone will be ready to enjoy the amazing desserts at the Fireworks Party! We like both The Wave and CG, but I wouldn't do CG if I couldn't stay for the fireworks!

 

[DaisyDuck001]

The Wave and Skipper Canteen are among my favorite restaurants on property. I think either one is a great choice.