Thinking worst case scenario...

[hookemhoney]

So I have my heart set on California Grill for my birthday dinner, but in case I can't get it, what do you recommend as plans B and C? I was thinking perhaps Citrico's and Bistro de Paris? I really want something elegant, as it's just going to be my boyfriend and me. Any and all suggestions are welcome!

Thank you!

 

[swift]

Have you considered Jiko?

 

[WDmommyof4]

You may also want to take a look at Narcoossee's at the Grand Floridian. They have pretty good reviews, a similar atmosphere and they are also supposed to have a wonderful view of Wishes if you are looking for that as well.

You may not have a problem getting California Grill though. I just made an ADR today for early in our trip right at the time Wishes will be starting, so you should be able to get what you want on your 90 day mark. Good luck, and a Happy Early Birthday!

 

[auntfrannie]

My vote goes to Citrico's. Definitely a more elegant feel and a lot quieter than CG would be. The food is top notch and service was excellent.

 

[madalex]

With the noise level that is generally the case at CG, "elegant" is not a word I would use to describe CG.

Alternatives would be Jiko, Citricos, Artist Point, Yachtsman Steakhouse, bluezoo and Il Mulino.

 

[TiggerCL]

I am eating at Citrico's with my husband for my birthday (in 2 weeks!). I love the atmosphere of the Grand Floridian. Can't wait to be in WDW!

 

[PoohsFan1]

We always book CG for 5:30pm (that is the earliest seating you can get) and have never had a problem getting it. We like going early because it is really neat to watch MK while you eat...you can see the logs fly down the big hill on Splash, you can watch Astro Orbitor, watch the monorail go around the loop, and to see Mk at dusk is just so pretty. The best part is, you can return to CG to watch Wishes as long as you have your dining receipt...plus they have a really great bar that you can sit at too.

 

[Ramsfan28]

I would strongly consider Blue Zoo. Great food and atmosphere - my 2nd favorite place to eat at WDW after California Grill.

 

[4EvrSoarin]

There are many options for an elegant evening. First to mind would be Victoria & Albert’s. Narcoossee's, Citricos and Yatchman’s are also up there. IMO although Jiko is an excellent restaurant I wouldn't consider it elegant. It’s more of a unique experience.

 

[phyllis1966]

Citricos! Citricos! CITRICOS!!

 

[hookemhoney]

What wonderful suggestions, thank you so much. Can't wait to book it!

 

[BriarRosie]

I think you're on the right track with either Citrico's and Bistro de Paris, but I have to say that in terms of food and ambiance put together, Todd English's bluezoo™ has them beat.

I thought it had a very adult-minded upscale feel to it, very good for a romantic meal. If you're on the dining plan, though, you'd have to skip it. The restaurants at the Swan and Dolphin don't participate in the dining plan. And for that matter, neither is Bistro de Paris.

 

[cbg1027]

Citricos! Citricos! CITRICOS!!

I think the PP said it best! I agree! Citricos is just as good as Cali Grill, but I think I sort of prefer it because it's so much quieter.

Citricos is also really easy to get an ADR for!

 

[Pakey]

I would go with either bluezoo or Bistro over CG or any of Disney's signatures.

 

[wezee]

Shulas is another option.