Ariel's Grotto in Disney's California Adventure
By: Sarah McClureJune 29, 2017
Let’s go under the sea and dine with our favorite princesses! Located in California Adventure Park’s Paradise Pier, Ariel’s Grotto is the perfect option for a delightful character meal. Ariel and her Princess friends are available to meet your family, sign autographs, share stories and take photos during the breakfast and lunch celebration.
It is important to know that Princesses will not be at the Dinner Celebration or the World of Color dinner package.Ariel’s Grotto is a very popular restaurant and it is best to make Advanced Dining Reservations 60 days prior to your visit.
Once you have checked in at the front desk, you will be escorted downstairs to meet Ariel. Along the way, be sure to notice the fun bubbly décor and the view of Paradise Pier. Ariel always looks so beautiful in her celebration gown! Enjoy a few moments with her before your host takes you to your table.Indoor and outdoor seating is available. We have enjoyed exploring the décor while inside and we have loved the views of the water while dining outside on beautiful Disney days.
Let’s go under the sea and dine with our favorite princesses! Located in California Adventure Park’s Paradise Pier, Ariel’s Grotto is the perfect option for a delightful character meal. Ariel and her Princess friends are available to meet your family, sign autographs, share stories and take photos during the breakfast and lunch celebration.It is important to know that Princesses will not be at the Dinner Celebration or the World of Color dinner package.Ariel’s Grotto is a very popular restaurant and it is best to make Advanced Dining Reservations 60 days prior to your visit.Once you have checked in at the front desk, you will be escorted downstairs to meet Ariel. Along the way, be sure to notice the fun bubbly décor and the view of Paradise Pier. Ariel always looks so beautiful in her celebration gown! Enjoy a few moments with her before your host takes you to your table.Indoor and outdoor seating is available. We have enjoyed exploring the décor while inside and we have loved the views of the water while dining outside on beautiful Disney days.
Your meal begins with a beautiful, warm loaf of sour dough bread in the shape of a “star fish”. This is followed by your choice of soup or salad. We found both of these options to be enjoyable. The pear salad had a light vinaigrette dressing, candied walnuts and dried cranberries. This is the perfect choice for a warm park day. My husband ordered the soup, which was a clam chowder and his favorite. The kid’s meal even comes with a starter basket of fresh veggies and ranch dressing for dipping.
Since we are under the sea, you should expect the menu to include some delightful seafood dishes. My favorite is the Sautéed Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta. Although, the portion is piled high and loaded with vegetables, I still find that I make quite a dent in this yummy dish!
My two oldest daughters ordered the Pan-roasted Chicken Breast. This came with couscous and vegetables. They loved the couscous and found the chicken to be very moist with a very mild flavor.
My husband opted for the Tri Tip and was disappointed because the meat was a bit over done and dry. The flavor with the seasonings was nice, but we were all underwhelmed with this dish.
My youngest daughter had been waiting months to order Ursula’s Octo-dog! The presentation is great for kids and she was thrilled when our server delivered her plate. The mac and cheese was creamy and yummy.During your dining experience, the Royal Footman will announce the arrival of each Disney Princess. She will then make her way around the restaurant greeting families. Ariel’s Grotto is one of the best ways to meet so many characters and have quality one on one time!
Of course, you will want to save room for a little sweet treat before making your way back into California Adventure Park. The adults’ dessert platter was a combination of Crème Brule, a chocolate s’more cake and a chocolate dipped strawberry. The children’s dessert plate had cupcake, cookie and chocolate dipped strawberry. These were all lovely treats!Ariel’s Grotto is the perfect way to “go under the sea” as you combine a wonderful meal with relaxed character interaction. There is truly something for everyone in your family!I would love to help you create a magical Disney vacation! Contact sarahmc@wishesfamilytravel.com to get started today. You can also follow my Facebook page for great travel news and tips at www.facebook.com/smcclure-wft.