Dinner was one that I was really looking forward to --- California Grille! DS and I had an awesome meal in 2008 but this would be DH's first trip. While waiting for a table we could see several empty tables in the room with the view of the MK but no such luck for us ... we were seated on the other side near the open kitchen. I was a bit disappointed but quickly got over it. Our server, Walter, was just fantastic and it was fun watching the action in the kitchen.
We knew we would be going outside to view Wishes anyway.
This was one place that DH and I decided to share a bottle of wine. While looking at the wine list, Walter asked what we were considering and then brought 3 bottles for us to sample before making a decision. I thought that was a nice bit of service. We chose the Jade Mountain blend
Excellent wine. Not too dry, not sweet. We enjoyed it very much.
First up, the bread with sea salted butter...
Bread was crunchy and really nice with the salted butter.
For appetizer, DS had the Triple Cheese - Pecorino, Asiago, and Provolone with Sun-dried Tomato and Arugula Pesto* $12
He loved this. Crispy yet chewy crust, nice blend of cheese. Pestos were really nice.
After asking Walter his opinion, I had the Fried Zucchini with Blossoms - ricotta and almond filling, sweet corn puree, cilantro vinaigrette * $15
This was simply amazing. Light, crunchy batter, very creamy, cheesy filling. I wish there was more. I could have eaten several plates of this and been happy.
DH had the Beefsteak and Heirloom Tomato Soup - summer vegetable relish, avocado, fried Florida rock shrimp $11
DH declared this the best thing he had the whole trip. I had a taste and agree with was a delicious soup. Thick, well flavored. Very tasty.
DS took this pic from the table ... the clouds look like a wolf howling at the moon (which is a light inside the restaurant). I thought came out really cool
For entrees, I had the Oak-fired Filet of Beef - Mascarpone Potatoes, Blue Lake Beans, Arugula Oil, and Teriyaki Barbecue $44
Yum, yum, yum! Perfectly cooked medium, very tender. I loved the teriyaki BBQ sauce. Potatoes were rich and creamy. My only complaint would be that I wished there were more of the beans. I think they were stated to be "Long Beans" when we were there. This was truly delicious.
DS the Handmade Fettuccine - sauteed bluefoots, summer mushrooms, buttermilk ricotta, tiny basil * $28
Walter asked DS if he really likes mushrooms when he ordered this. Then asked him again when DS said yes. I could see why. Very mushroom-y flavor. Perfectly cooked, obviously homemade pasta. His only complaint was that there wasn't more. He is a growing 15 year old boy after all! I have him a chunk of my filet to go along with his meal.
And DH theCast Iron-seared Veal Tenderloin - eggplant caviar, summer vegetables, lemon veal jus $44
Neither DS or I eat veal so DH orders it out quite a bit here at home. I didn't try this but he really enjoyed it. Again, I apologize but I don't have any specific comments about it. He did all but lick the plate clean.
We had to have dessert here ... I started with Earl Grey tea
Very good, cute little teapot. DH and DS had coffee but sorry, no pic.
DS had the Valrhona Chocolate Cake - Warm chocolate cake w/molten center, Grand Marnier macerated California Strawberries and strawberry ice cream $13. DS had it with vanilla ice cream and without the stawberries. I was a bit bummed because I sure wanted to try those macerated berries!
I had the Bananas and Caramel - Crispy baked phyllo squares layered w/banana, caramel, mascarpone mousse, and caramelized banana $12
DH, the Citrus Cheesecake - with goat cheese, grapefruit, yogurt panna cotta, raspberry tuile and grapefruit sauce $12
We were all very happy! I didn't try anyones but mine and it was just heavenly. Crispy phyllo, very creamy mousse. Just delicious. All of the flavors were just perfect together.
Once finished, DS and I went outside to get a spot to watch Wishes while DH settled up the bill. Something happened and the receipt does not reflect the total, only the wine ($45) and tip. Adding up the prices above, it comes to $191.00 plus the tea and coffees so I will use $210 in my estimates at the end.
It was raining a bit while watching Wishes but we didn't care. We could see the Water Pagent on the lake just before the fireworks started. Truly beautiful. A very magical evening. This ended up being our 2nd favorite signature meal this trip and is a definite on our list for next year.
I think DH and I will order what you and your son had and share it, looks amazing!
Already warned DH that I will be in bed early! DS has plans so he will be fending for himself tonight!I've had this cold for almost two weeks now. I'm hoping that this thing will go away before we start our trip next week.
Your reviews are awesome and the pictures, mouthwatering. You did so many restaurants that we want to try for our next trip, so it's nice to see and read about them. 
And I'm VERY excited!! 
