Is there any meal better than brunch? Forging the best of breakfast and lunch along with mimosas and Bloody Marys, we’d vote for brunch every day of the week! When you brunch at Walt Disney World Resort, the meal becomes truly magical. Beyond Imagination Vacations travel planner Vicky Narde recently enjoyed “Brunch at the Top” at California Grill and reports on her experience. Spoiler: it was over the top!
1. About California Grill
California Grill is a signature restaurant located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s renowned for a refined, modern take on quintessential Pacific Coast cuisine. Sitting atop of the Contemporary’s iconic tower, the restaurant is endowed with spectacular views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park. The quality of the food surpasses the incredible vistas, and the service is attentive, professional and personal. California Grill is open daily for dinner and for brunch on Sundays from 10 am - 1 pm. (We wish it was open for brunch every day of the week!)
Stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon during Brunch at the Top at California Grill - Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in the foreground
2. How Much Is Brunch at the Top?
Brunch at the Top at California Grill isn’t inexpensive which makes sense as the restaurant is located in a Deluxe resort, features a seasonal menu and offers panoramic views of Walt Disney World Resort’s signature park. The price isn’t ridiculously over the top though. The cost is $90 per adult and $54 for children three to 11 years of age.
Guests on the Disney Dining Plan and Disney Deluxe Dining Plan can redeem two table-service credits for brunch (or dinner for that matter). Those with a Tables in Wonderland membership - exclusive to Florida residents, Walt Disney World Resort Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members - receive a 20% discount.
3. What’s on the Menu?
You will not leave hungry after eating brunch at California Grill. Self-serve items range from heirloom tomato quiche to peach salad and from California rolls to scotch-cured salmon and smoked fish dip. The brunch menu is not limited to the diverse and decadent buffet spread. Custom-made entrees can also be ordered. Options include blackened Gulf shrimp with grits, pineapple-coconut stuffed French toast, and a bevy of made-to-order omelettes.
Charcuterie station at Brunch at the Top
Whiskey-marinated peach pancakes with oat crumble and chantilly cream
Steak with lime aioli, two eggs - any style - and house-made hash brown
Be sure to save room for dessert. Your server will bring you an irrestible plate of macarons and chocolate truffles. But wait, there’s more. Stop by the pastry station for the sinfully sweet Baba Cake which is warmed up just for you with a bit of panache from the cook. And in the theme of an epicurean brunch, don’t forgo the ice cream and bourbon.
What’s brunch without some bubbly? Bottomless mimosas are also on the menu. Wine and cocktails are an additional cost, as are Bloody Marys which are $10 and come with five accoutrements.
Although mimosas are included, Bloody Marys are $10 a piece and come with five add-ons, celery is included!
Disney also provides exceptional live music during brunch. The soundtrack marinates perfectly with the relaxing meal experience.
4. Brunching Benefits
On top of the fantastic food and unlimited mimosas, guests of Brunch at the Top are entitled to return in the evening for Magic Kingdom fireworks viewing. Simply remember to keep your receipt to show the California Grill staff at check-in on the second floor of the Contemporary. You’ll then be back on the elevator to the 15th floor with exclusive access to the viewing deck and be dazzled by the fireworks (music included) without the crowds at the park.
Enjoy brunch at California Grill, head back to your hotel for a nap or hit neighborhing Magic Kingdom Park, then return in time for an exclusive fireworks viewing location.
Guests who drive to brunch receive free valet car service. We don’t recommend driving if you’re indulging in the bottomless mimosas!
5. Is Brunch at the Top Worth It?
A resounding YES! Bottomless mimosas, live music, unlimited food, free valet and the opportunity to return for exclusive fireworks viewing for $90 - what a deal!!!!
Contact vicky@beyondimaginationvacations.com for vacation planning and for great recommendations like Brunch at the Top!