A magical skyline, decadent desserts and an award-winning wine selection can all be found atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Ever since the restaurant was “re-imagined,” I’ve been dying to snag a taste of my own. After patiently waiting since September we finally landed a table over Valentine’s weekend, yep that’s right, I made a reservation in September for a table in February. Nuts. Needless to say my expectations were sky-high as we sat down for our meal.
I instantly fell in love with the gorgeous expansive views; regardless of your level of “Disney love” it’s undeniable that California Grill has one of the best restaurant views in Orlando, especially at sunset. After oohing and aaahing over the view, we were seated and promptly served with fluffy lavender bread and whole wheat sourdough rolls. I’m always impressed with a restaurant has a Sancerre by the glass, it’s hands down one of my favorite blends, so bonus points for California Grill.
We picked the Spicy Kazan Roll to start filled with crab, shrimp, scallops, tuna and fireball sauce. It was incredibly fresh and devoured in a matter of minutes. At $24 a roll though, my expectations were set a little high, the roll was undoubtedly tasty, but probably not worth 25 washingtons. Alas, our meal carried on.
For mains we split the Pork Two Ways and the Bell and Evans Chicken. A signature dish with grilled tenderloin, goat cheese polenta, mushrooms, lacquered belly and a crispy apple topped with a demi glaze sauce. The grilled tenderloin was juicy and enjoyable, but I could have done without the lacquered belly. The chicken came with both dark and white meats, while it was flavorful, the dish could have been outstanding with a reduction sauce and a little less salt. The truffle whipped potatoes though? Divine!
We rounded out the night with their famous Chocolate Pudding Cake, a luscious chocolate cake with nutella filling, meringue kisses, mint cream and flakes of sea salt. And yes, it was every bit of amazing as it sounds. The decedent, dense chocolate mixed with flavors of mint and a hint of saltiness was a superb combination. Easily the best thing we ordered all night. I’d go back just for this confection and a glass of their Sancerre, both were that good.
The atmosphere was lively and the plates were served promptly, but just remember the “Disney factor” which always equates in inflated prices. Overall, our evening was enjoyable and the service was prompt and attentive. I wasn’t overly impressed with our mains, but would recommend California Grill for a special occasion or celebration with your family.
So, tell us, what are your thoughts about Disney’s California Grill?
Photo Credits: All photos taken by Spork except the sunset image which is from Yelp
