The iconic California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will mark its 30th anniversary this May with special menu offerings. Located on the 15th floor with breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom, this signature dining location continues to evolve while honoring its rich history.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
California Grill first opened its doors May 15, 1995, replacing the former Top of the World restaurant. For three decades, this rooftop venue has dazzled guests with its innovative cuisine and panoramic views.
The restaurant transformed Disney World’s dining scene by introducing a focus on seasonal ingredients and California fusion flavors. Its open kitchen concept and extensive wine selection quickly established it as a premier dining destination.
Originally, Top of the World opened in 1971 with the Contemporary Resort, featuring dinner shows and entertainment. After a major renovation, California Grill emerged as a cutting-edge culinary concept that continues to impress guests today.
Recent Menu Enhancements
In the past month, California Grill unveiled a menu overhaul, refreshing its prix fixe offerings. The current menu continues to be priced at $89 per adult and $39 per child, with discounts available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members.
Most notably, the restaurant introduced all-new dessert options. New options include a Pistachio-Chocolate Mousse, Caramel Cappuccino Cake, and Yuzu Meringue Tart.
On the savory side, the Sonoma Goat Cheese Raviolo evolved into Sonoma Goat Cheese Cappelletti. The ever-popular Oak-grilled Filet of Beef remains a menu staple.
Special 30th Anniversary Offerings
In addition to the updates to the prix fixe menu, California Grill will introduce new items next month to coincide with the restaurant’s May 15th anniversary. These will include celebratory cocktails, updates to the bar bites menu, and more. Guests can expect nods to past favorites and the restaurant’s long history, much in the same way the dining room menu has continually evolved over the years.
True to its California lineage, special wine selections and pairings are likely to be part of the enhancements.
Specific offering details will be announced soon, closer to the anniversary date.
Past Anniversary Celebrations
This isn’t the first time California Grill has played a central role in Disney celebrations. During Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary in 2021, the restaurant offered a special three-course menu.
That limited-time offering included dishes inspired by the original Top of the World menu, like the House-Made Artisanal-Style Duck à la Orange Pizza. The 50th Anniversary menu lead the restaurant to continue its prix fixe format afterward.
For the 30th celebration, culinary teams are drawing inspiration from three decades of California Grill favorites while adding fresh interpretations for today’s diners.
The Perfect Celebration Setting
Beyond exceptional food, California Grill offers one of Disney World’s most magical dining experiences. The two observation decks provide stunning views of Magic Kingdom fireworks with synchronized music.
The 30th anniversary celebration offers a perfect opportunity to experience this beloved restaurant. Whether you’re a longtime fan or first-time visitor, the limited-time offerings will showcase what has made California Grill special for three decades.
Advance dining reservations for the 30th anniversary are available now, but the special offerings will not be limited to the actual anniversary date. This milestone celebration promises to honor California Grill’s storied past while looking toward its future at Walt Disney World Resort.
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