Disney Toasts to California Grill

15 years ago a restaurant opened up high atop the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  The resort itself is distinctive enough with the monorail gliding right through the middle allowing passengers bound for the Magic Kingdom (map), a brief glimpse inside.  Yet, the opening of California Grill was the icing on the cake, or perhaps, the wasabi on the sushi.

Guests of the award winning  California Grill are treated to not only breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and the Magic Kingdom from the rooftop vantage, but also views of the on-stage kitchen.  From the kitchen come the creations of Chef Brian Piasecki using fresh, seasonal ingredients to prepare a taste of the American Pacific Coast through California Fusion cooking.

Using the freshest ingredients, and recently leaning toward the popular trend of local ingredients, the menu changes quite frequently.  Some items that always remain on the menu are the sushi, oven-baked flat breads, oak-fired meats, house-made Sonoma goat cheese ravioli and incredible desserts.

The wine list offers the best of California estate wineries and like the menu is updated almost daily.  Great pride is taken to match the wine offerings with the daily menu selections.  Special attention is given to the cocktails served at California Grill as well, including a celebratory drink created just for the 15th anniversary celebration, the Golden Gate Cocktail.

In keeping the vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere, a dress code is enforced at the California Grill.  It is suggested that men wear khakis, slacks, dress shorts or jeans with collared shirts, sport coats are optional.  Women are encouraged to wear capris, skirts, dresses, slacks or dress shorts.  No one wearing tank tops, offensively written t-shirts, torn or ripped clothing including cut-offs,  swimwear, or men wearing hats will be allowed in the restaurant.

While families are welcome at this restaurant, it is known to be one of the most romantic dining spots at Walt Disney World.  As such our family has opted to keep this a grown-ups only meal destination.

Did I mention the romance? With its grand view of  Cinderella’s Castle, the dining room boasts a spectacular view of the nightly fireworks shot over the castle.  As it approaches fireworks time, the lighting in the room is dimmed and the music accompanying the show is piped in.  It is not hard to believe that the California Grill is one of the “top spots” for engagements to take place.

If you can’t make it to California Grill to help them celebrate in person, the bartenders have been kind enough to share their recipe for the signature Golden Gate Cocktail for you to celebrate at home.

Golden Gate Cocktail

1 1/4 oz Remy Martin VSOP Cognac

3/4  oz Amaretto Disaronno

1/2 oz Cranberry Juice

slice of orange for garnish

Shake with ice in a shaker and strain into a martini glass.  Squeeze orange and float in glass.

Here is to another 15 award winning years, California Grill.

Photo Selections: WDW News, Kent Phillips, photographer