While Ariel’s Grotto at Disney California Adventure park is a frenzy of satin, chiffon and glitter as a favorite spot for breakfast and lunch with the Disney princesses, at dinnertime the dining room takes on a decidedly different ambiance.

With no Disney characters, it’s an ideal spot for an evening cocktail with a view of Paradise Pier through the windows. Best of all, a preferred viewing FASTPASS for “World of Color“ is part of the deal.


Ariel’s Grotto recently got a nod from the Southern California Restaurant Writers with a “Gold” award (Four Stars), judged on food, service, ambiance and beverages and achieving between 95 and 100 points by a vote of the members.

Relax with a superfruit martini (blueberry vodka, pomegranate liqueur, cranberry juice, agave nectar and fresh lemon juice) or an agave nectar margarita (tequila, agave nectar and fresh lime juice). Dinner is fixed price, else we’d make a meal of the Antipasti Tower – one is grilled veggies and cheeses, the other adds clams, shrimp, prosciutto and chorizo.

Move on to a favorite entrée: sustainable fish with wild rice and sweet pineapple chutney; pasta with Italian sausage; herb-crusted chicken breast with cheddar mashed potatoes; tender tri-tip slow roasted over rock salt, cioppino with lobster, fish, scallops, mussels, shrimp and chorizo; or spinach and ricotta agnolotti (ravioli) in a light mushroom broth.

Dessert is to be shared, but we find that the warm chocolate cake goes first. Nibble green apple mousse in a cone, tiramisù chocolate cups, French macaroons, passion fruit quenelles, chocolate ganache crunch triangles and white chocolate with fresh berries. You won’t leave hungry.

You can make reservations up to 60 days in advance.

Cost is $39.99 for adults, $20.99 ages 3 to 9.
Passholder discounts apply! Call 714-781-3463