Just for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World, there is something special happening over at the California Grill in the Contemporary Resort.
In 1971, Top of the World opened on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, offering two dinner/dancing shows nightly featuring top-name entertainment. In 1981, “Broadway at the Top” dinner show was introduced with popular catchy show tunes sung by talented performers. In 1995, the space transformed into what we now call California Grill. The change brought fresh, seasonal dishes prepared in the stunning on-stage kitchen. The impressive wine list showcasing the finest wines from highly allocated California vineyards further elevated the dining experience. California Grill was considered a cutting-edge concept (especially for a theme park), becoming a sought-after dining destination for our guests as well as catching the culinary world’s attention. And it continues to dazzle and impress all these years later!
Through the years, the menu has evolved but continues the focus on seasonal dining with a creative blending of flavors, textures, and techniques. The stellar award-winning wine list is still as impressive but has made room for craft cocktails and beers. What has remained constant is the stunning views of Magic Kingdom Park and Seven Seas Lagoon.
As part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” California Grill will offer a limited-time three-course menu with dishes inspired by past favorites as well as new market-fresh creations.
50th Anniversary Dinner Menu
As part of your meal, you each will get a commemorative menu that you can take home with you.
Why the big show of a special menu for the 50th anniversary of Disney World? California Grill opened with the resort 50 years ago! It was opened under a different name, Top of the World. It offered a unique dining experience with magical views of Magic Kingdom, just as it still does today. In honor of this major milestone, the chefs of California Grill are delighted to offer a three-course menu all with dishes inspired by the past favorites as well as new creations. The 50th medallion on the menu marks the special anniversary-inspired selections.
Note that this new offering is a fixed-price menu. The meal includes a three-course meal, an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert for $89 per adult and $39 per child. At this time there is no alternative option where you can order off a different menu for less.
The Atmosphere of Calfornia Grill
When you come up to the top floor be sure to take in the show-stopping wine display that is right outside the elevators. The impressive display holds 1,600 bottles of wine in climate-controlled coolers.
The views are definitely the icing on the cake here at California Grill. Above is a look at their back room. It’s small and quieter than being sat in the main room.
This is a look at the inside of the main room at California Grill. Can you just see the appeal with the sunset happening in the background? Florida sunsets are often impressive but from up here, it’s extra magical.
Okay sorry I couldn’t help myself I had to throw in one more picture of the killer sunset views you get from California Grill.
Dress Code for California Grill
Note there is a business casual dress code for this restaurant. This means khakis, dress slacks, jeans, or dress shorts with a collared shirt for men. For women, the dress code requirements are capris, skirts, dresses, jeans, or dress shorts.
Fireworks at California Grill
California Grill has one of the most unique viewing spots for the Magic Kingdom fireworks. You can watch Enchantment from their view decks outside or right from your table if you get a prime window seat. Don't worry about missing out on the iconic firework music. When it's time for the show to start they darken the lights in the room and will play the music to the show.
California Grill Food
Let's take a look at a few of the dishes we got to try off this special California Grill 50th menu.
Starter Bread and Dip
Every meal gets a breadbasket. They have switched up the bread offering now having a classic focaccia bread with their signature dipping oil. The dipping oil is the best flavor and has chunks of tomato to just elevate your bread an extra step. We love this combo and have to watch out because we could easily fill up on the dip and bread alone.
California Grill Sushi Classics Trio
