California Grill, located on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort and just steps away from Bay Lake Tower, is marking its 30th anniversary with a special menu that pays homage to its history. The rooftop restaurant is inviting guests to enjoy select returning dishes and cocktails for a limited time, offering a nod to its culinary evolution.
Let’s explore the highlights of the commemorative menu, share practical details for planning your visit, and give you some insights into what makes California Grill a unique dining experience.
Highlights of the 30th Anniversary Menu
Limited-Time Offerings
The 30th anniversary celebration features a selection of dishes and drinks marked with a special symbol (㉚) on the menu. These items, available through May 2026, reflect the restaurant’s rich culinary history. Below are the returning favorites included in this offering:
- Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli: A dish featuring organic mixed mushroom ragout, tomato-fennel brodo, and California extra virgin olive oil.
- Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Served with creamy goat cheese polenta, roasted pork belly, aged balsamic organic mushrooms, and a zinfandel glaze.
- Blueberry-Goat Cheese Cheesecake: A dessert combining blueberry meringue, vanilla chantilly, raspberry coulis, and goat cheese mousse.
- The Monterey Cocktail: A mix of Licor 43, Pyrat XO Reserve Rum, DOLE® pineapple juice, and house-made sour mix.
These menu items provide a taste of the restaurant’s past while showcasing the artistry of current Chef de Cuisine Matthew Birch and his culinary team.
Chef’s Vision
Chef Birch describes the menu as a celebration of both the restaurant’s history and its commitment to innovation. He explains that each dish is carefully crafted to reflect the ingredients and techniques that have been part of California Grill’s identity for decades. Beyond the food, the team aims to create meaningful connections with guests, making each dining experience memorable.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit to California Grill, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience during the 30th anniversary celebration.
- Arrive Early: If you have a dinner reservation, consider arriving 30 minutes early to enjoy the restaurant’s lounge area or observe the sunset from the observation deck.
- Pair Your Meal with Fireworks: Schedule your reservation to coincide with the evening fireworks for an unmatched view of the nighttime spectacular.
- Explore the Drinks Menu: In addition to “The Monterey” cocktail, the restaurant offers a curated list of wines and specialty beverages that pair perfectly with your meal.
- Request a Window Seat: While not guaranteed, making a request for a table near the windows can enhance your dining experience, providing unobstructed views.
Final Thoughts
California Grill’s 30th anniversary menu offers Disney Vacation Club resort guests a unique opportunity to experience the culinary evolution of this iconic restaurant. With its rooftop views, fresh seasonal offerings, and a thoughtful nod to its history, California Grill continues to be a distinctive element of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
If you’re planning a visit between now and May 2026, consider exploring the limited-time menu items to celebrate this milestone in California Grill’s legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time guest, the experience is sure to add a memorable chapter to your Disney dining adventures.
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Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
