Hi, Issy! Thanks for bringing your question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort is one of my family's absolute favorite restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort! We've had the pleasure of watching the sunset over the Seven Seas Lagoon while dining on absolutely delectable food and also watching the fireworks from the spectacular
Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom Park both from our table and from the outdoor observation deck.
When we've had dinner at California Grill we've requested a table next to the windows, and we have been fortunate to have this request honored each of the three times we've dined there. I would recommend making your request known to the Cast Member who will check in you and your party at the podium on the second floor of
Disney's Contemporary Resort. Of course, honoring your request will depend on a variety of factors including the number of diners in your party and the number of Guests already seated in the restaurant prior to your reservation.
As for using a camera or iPod to record the fireworks, this is acceptable (just make sure your flash/ iPod light is turned off), but you'll get the best pictures from the observation deck outside the restaurant. Please keep in mind that the observation deck may not be opened in the event of high winds or inclement weather. When we were there for my birthday dinner last year, we were unable to view the fireworks from outside. It was still a spectacular show from inside the restaurant, though!
I hope you enjoy your dinner at California Grill. Please let us know if we can answer any additional questions for you.
Amy