Hello Tarin,
Welcome to planDisney and thanks so much for bringing your question our way! A meal at California Grill is on my wish list so I don't blame you for wanting to indulge there during your upcoming visit.
Dinner at
California Grill is currently a 3-course pre-fixed menu that includes an appetizer, entree, and dessert. Based on the current menu I'd probably opt for the Barbecue American Eel Roll (but strongly considering the Sonoma Goat Cheese Raviolo, as well), the AAA Ahi Tuna, and the Lemon Mousse and Olive Oil-Poppy Seed Cake for dessert. Wagyu Strip Loin is also available as an upgrade entree selection for an additional fee.
As you've seen, this restaurant features a full bar, an impressive Signature Cocktail menu, and an extensive wine list. Guests have the option to add a 3-course wine pairing to their meal for a fee, which would likely be my plan.
Advance dining reservations can be hard to come by here, especially reservations that overlap the evening fireworks at Magic Kingdom Park. However, I was able to secure a 7:45 p.m. reservation for my November visit by reserving as soon as my booking window opened at 6 a.m. EST. This time should overlap well with
Happily Ever After which is currently scheduled for 8:30 p.m. that evening.
Celebration at the Top - Sip, Savor, Sparkle is another fantastic way to experience some of the signature California Grill cuisine and enjoy the fireworks from a private viewing area. This Enchanting Extra is only offered on select days but I was not able to locate any availability on the schedule through November at this time. It seems this was also the case earlier in the year, as
my pal Lauren shared details with another guest. I encourage you to keep checking for availability as your trip approaches but I can't guarantee the experience during your visit.
The event's page mentions that a selection of California wines, beer, and cordials are included for guests aged 21+, but I'm not certain that the restaurant's Signature Cocktails would be available. I reached out to a Cast Member who advised that offerings are subject to change and that menu specifics were not available beyond what is listed in the event details. I did a little bit of extra research and found a social post from a guest who attended last year. They mentioned that their bartender was happy to make margaritas and martinis throughout the event. Again, I can't guarantee that this is still in practice but it never hurts to ask nicely if you have a particular drink preference. I'd venture to guess that cocktails like the California Grill Signature Cocktail and the Big 3 Flight to Napa would not be included as part of the event as these come with quite the price tag. If you have your heart set on one of the adult beverages on California Grill's menu, you'd have the best chance of experiencing it as an add-on to your dinner reservation.
I do want to mention that guests can often view the fireworks with accompanying audio on the Skyway Bridge between Disney's Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower. My family enjoyed this on our June visit and it would be a great way to experience Happily Ever After even if you aren't able to snag a perfectly timed dinner reservation.
I hope this helped, Tarin. Please come see us again with more questions!
Magic and memories,
Amy