Review: The Contemporary's California Grill

For me, a good vacation is full of interesting sites, good conversation, and good food, but a great vacation is a special anomaly, a phenomena where all of the above is true AND every action is met with ease and every moment is full of grace.

We were looking for a restaurant for the evening, Disney was busy and we were without reservations, but we had set our sights high, we hoped to get into the Contemporary Hotel's lovely penthouse- perched California Grill in time to have a five-star meal and Disney's best view of the fireworks! Of course, there were no reservations available, but undeterred we went to the California Grill, commandeered six seats in the very comfy lounge, ordered drinks and proceeded to enjoy a delightful evening with the BEST view in the house and an outstanding meal from their regular menu!  



Cocktails began with a Simply Nutty; Charbay Black Walnut Liqueur, Disaronno, and Frangelico with a splash of Half & Half. The black walnut liqueur is going on my wish list!!

Then we "noshed" our way through the evening, starting with the most amazing, fresh and delicious sushi and brick oven-fired flatbreads.

 "Dragon Roll" with Spicy and Tataki Tuna, Shrimp Tempura, Bell Pepper, Avocado, Chili-Soy Glaze

"Tuna Three Ways" Poke, Tartare, Tataki


We are landlocked here in New Mexico, so I eat fresh seafood whenever and wherever I can. This evening, mussels to die for!

Fresh mussels in a sumptuous broth of chorizo, garlic and butter. To the left gnocchi light as a cloud...
Accompanied by La Crema, Los Carneros '07

Dessert? Of course!!

Vanilla bean mousse, with fresh strawberry balsamic glaze and mascapone cream

Valrhona Chocolate Cake with vanilla ice cream and white chocolate w/cacao nibs

Michael and John thoroughly enjoying their sushi and our great dinning room coup d'etat! 
The fireworks were divine from the top of the world! A toast to ease and grace!