Hi there, Danise!
The
California Grill Lounge is a great way to experience this popular restaurant (and the view) without a reservation. Come early in the evening, before 6:30 PM, to snag a spot. It will be more difficult as it gets later and the restaurant gets more crowded with Guests waiting for their dining reservations, in addition to Guests hoping for a spot before
Happily Ever After begins. Kids are welcome in both the restaurant and lounge, but keep in mind you won't see many young Mouseketeers sitting in the bar area. Luckily, this lounge includes a handful of tables, which is another reason you'll want to get there before the dinner rush. Just visit the podium located on the 2nd floor of
Disney's Contemporary Resort to see if there’s room in the lounge.
While the lounge is not on the
Disney Dining Plan, you'll have access to California Grill's full menu, so go ahead and order up a few Puffed Rice Sushi desserts for the table! I'd also recommend getting a few appetizers to nosh on with your drinks. My kids love the Flatbread Pizzas, and my husband and I always get the Tuna Three Way Sushi (to be honest, all of the sushi is excellent). The Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli is also a nice, light starter. On my last trip in February, I was seated next to two Guests who said the Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons were scrumptious. If you happen to have a membership to
Tables in Wonderland or are an Annual Passholder or Disney Vacation Club Member, make sure to bring your card to get a discount.
I hope you enjoy your time at California Grill, Danise! Please write back if we can be of any more assistance.
Eean