California Dreaming’s menu prices reflect the balance between coastal flavors and hearty portions. You want to know what you’ll pay before you sit down, and we’ve got the details. This guide breaks down the full cost of dining at this popular chain.
From appetizers to desserts, we cover every category. You’ll find exact prices, portion sizes, and tips for saving money. Let’s get straight to the numbers.
California Dreaming Menu Prices: A Complete Breakdown
California Dreaming offers a wide range of dishes inspired by West Coast cuisine. Their menu changes slightly by location, but the core items remain consistent. Below, we list the most common items and their current prices.
Appetizers And Starters
Start your meal with something light or shareable. These are the most popular options.
- Spinach and Artichoke Dip – $9.99
- Buffalo Chicken Wings (6 pieces) – $11.49
- Fried Calamari – $10.99
- Loaded Nachos – $12.49
- House Salad (small) – $5.99
- French Onion Soup – $7.49
Appetizers are meant for sharing, but you can order them as a light meal. The nachos are big enough for two people.
Salads And Bowls
Salads are fresh and come with house-made dressings. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra charge.
- California Cobb Salad – $13.49
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad – $12.99
- Asian Sesame Chicken Salad – $13.29
- Southwest Black Bean Bowl – $11.99
- Add Grilled Chicken – $4.00
- Add Grilled Shrimp – $6.00
The Cobb salad is a customer favorite. It has bacon, avocado, and blue cheese crumbles.
Burgers And Sandwiches
Burgers are cooked to order. They come with a side of fries or coleslaw.
- Classic Cheeseburger – $12.99
- Bacon Avocado Burger – $14.49
- Mushroom Swiss Burger – $13.49
- California Dreaming Burger (double patty) – $16.99
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich – $12.49
- Fish Tacos (3 pieces) – $13.99
The California Dreaming Burger is the signature item. It comes with two beef patties, cheddar, and special sauce.
Main Entrees
These are the heartier dishes. They include protein and two sides.
- Grilled Salmon – $18.99
- Blackened Mahi Mahi – $19.49
- New York Strip Steak (10 oz) – $24.99
- Grilled Chicken Breast – $15.49
- Baby Back Ribs (half rack) – $17.99
- Pasta Primavera – $14.49
Steak prices vary by location. The New York Strip is the most expensive regular entree.
Sides And Add-Ons
You can order extra sides separately. Most are small portions.
- French Fries – $4.49
- Sweet Potato Fries – $5.29
- Steamed Broccoli – $4.99
- Coleslaw – $3.99
- Mac and Cheese – $5.49
Mac and cheese is a popular side for kids and adults. It’s creamy and baked.
Desserts
Desserts are made in-house. They are large enough to share.
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $8.49
- Key Lime Pie – $7.99
- New York Cheesecake – $8.29
- Brownie Sundae – $8.99
The lava cake is served warm with vanilla ice cream. It’s a top seller.
Kids Menu
Kids meals come with a drink and a side. Prices are lower than adult portions.
- Grilled Cheese – $6.99
- Chicken Tenders (3 pieces) – $7.49
- Cheeseburger Slider – $7.29
- Mac and Cheese – $6.49
Kids meals are for children under 12. You can substitute fries for a healthier side.
Beverages
Drinks include soft drinks, tea, and lemonade. Alcoholic beverages are also available.
- Soft Drinks (refillable) – $2.99
- Iced Tea – $2.99
- Lemonade – $3.49
- House Wine (glass) – $7.99
- Draft Beer (pint) – $6.49
- Cocktails – $9.99 – $12.99
Soft drinks come with free refills. Cocktails are seasonal and vary by location.
How To Save Money On California Dreaming Menu Prices
You don’t have to pay full price every time. Here are some practical ways to save.
Use The Happy Hour Menu
Happy hour runs from 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays. Discounts apply to appetizers and drinks.
- Half-price appetizers
- $5 house wines
- $4 draft beers
- $6 specialty cocktails
Happy hour is a great time to try the nachos or wings for less.
Join The Loyalty Program
Sign up for the California Dreaming rewards club. You earn points on every dollar spent.
- Visit the website or ask a server for a sign-up form.
- Provide your email and phone number.
- Start earning points immediately.
- Redeem points for free appetizers or entrees.
You also get a free birthday meal after joining. It’s worth the few minutes to register.
Look For Daily Specials
Each day has a different special. Check the board when you walk in.
- Monday: Burger and fries for $10.99
- Tuesday: Taco Tuesday – $3 tacos
- Wednesday: Wing Wednesday – $0.75 per wing
- Thursday: Steak night – $18.99 for a 10 oz steak
- Friday: Fish fry – $14.99
Specials change by location, so call ahead to confirm.
Share A Meal
Portions are large. You can split an entree with a friend.
Many entrees come with two sides. Order one main dish and an extra side for under $5. This cuts your bill in half.
Skip The Drinks
Alcoholic beverages add up fast. A single cocktail can cost $12.
Stick with water or iced tea. You save $5 to $10 per person.
What Influences California Dreaming Menu Prices
Prices are not random. Several factors determine what you pay.
Location And Rent
Restaurants in high-rent areas charge more. A burger in downtown Los Angeles costs more than one in a suburb.
California Dreaming has locations in multiple states. Prices vary by state and city.
Ingredient Costs
Fresh seafood and produce are expensive. Salmon and avocados cost more than chicken and lettuce.
When ingredient prices rise, menu prices follow. This is why steak is more expensive than pasta.
Labor And Overhead
Staff wages, utilities, and insurance all factor into prices. A sit-down restaurant has higher overhead than fast food.
California Dreaming employs servers, cooks, and bussers. These costs are passed to you.
Seasonal Changes
Some items are only available during certain months. Seasonal dishes may cost more due to limited supply.
For example, fresh berries in winter are pricier. The menu adjusts accordingly.
Comparing California Dreaming Menu Prices To Competitors
How does this chain stack up against similar restaurants? We compared prices for common items.
Cheesecake Factory
Cheesecake Factory has a similar menu style. Their burgers start at $15.95, which is higher than California Dreaming’s $12.99.
Salads at Cheesecake Factory average $14.50. California Dreaming salads are around $13.00.
BJ’s Restaurant And Brewhouse
BJ’s offers comparable prices. Their burgers are $13.49 on average.
BJ’s appetizers are slightly cheaper, with wings at $10.99 versus $11.49.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback focuses on steak. Their 10 oz sirloin is $21.99, while California Dreaming’s New York Strip is $24.99.
Outback’s chicken dishes are around $16.99, which is higher than California Dreaming’s $15.49.
Local Independent Restaurants
Smaller local spots vary widely. Some are cheaper, some are more expensive.
You might find a local burger for $10, but the quality may differ. California Dreaming offers consistency across locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Dreaming Menu Prices
Does California Dreaming Have A Senior Discount?
Yes, many locations offer a 10% discount for seniors aged 55 and older. Ask your server before ordering.
Are There Any Hidden Fees On The Bill?
No hidden fees. You pay for food, drinks, tax, and optional tip. Some locations add a service charge for large parties.
Can I Get A Refund If I Don’t Like My Meal?
California Dreaming has a satisfaction guarantee. If you don’t like your meal, tell your server. They will replace it or remove it from the bill.
Do Prices Include Tax?
No, menu prices do not include tax. Sales tax varies by state and city. Expect an additional 6% to 10% on your total.
Is There A Kids Eat Free Night?
Some locations offer kids eat free on Tuesdays. Check with your local restaurant for specific days and restrictions.
Tips For Ordering At California Dreaming
Make the most of your visit with these simple tips.
Arrive Early For Dinner
Peak hours are 6 PM to 8 PM. Arrive before 5:30 PM to avoid waits.
Early diners also get the happy hour menu if it’s still active.
Ask About Substitutions
You can swap sides for free in most cases. Replace fries with steamed broccoli or coleslaw.
Some substitutions cost extra, like swapping a side salad for fries. Ask before you order.
Check The Online Menu Before You Go
Prices change occasionally. Visit the official website to see the most current menu.
Online menus also show daily specials that may not be listed in the restaurant.
Order Family Style For Groups
If you’re dining with 4 or more people, order a few appetizers and share entrees.
This reduces the per-person cost and lets everyone try different dishes.
Use A Credit Card With Rewards
Pay with a card that gives cash back on dining. You earn 2% to 5% back on restaurant purchases.
This is an easy way to save without changing your order.
Seasonal Menu Items And Their Prices
California Dreaming rotates seasonal dishes throughout the year. Here are some examples.
Summer Specials
- Grilled Peach Salad – $14.99
- Lobster Roll – $19.99
- Watermelon Mint Lemonade – $4.99
Fall Specials
- Pumpkin Soup – $6.99
- Apple Crisp Dessert – $8.99
- Butternut Squash Ravioli – $16.49
Winter Specials
- Beef Stew – $15.99
- Hot Chocolate – $3.99
- Prime Rib (weekends only) – $27.99
Spring Specials
- Spring Vegetable Pasta – $14.99
- Strawberry Spinach Salad – $13.49
- Lemon Berry Tart – $8.49
Seasonal items are available for a limited time. If you see something you like, order it before it’s gone.
How To Find The Best Deals On California Dreaming Menu Prices
Deals are not always advertised. Here is how to find them.
Follow Social Media
California Dreaming posts exclusive offers on Facebook and Instagram. Follow your local location for flash sales.
Some posts include coupon codes for 10% off your next meal.
Sign Up For Email Alerts
Join the email list on the website. You get a welcome discount code for 15% off.
Emails also announce new menu items and limited-time promotions.
Check Third-Party Apps
Apps like Yelp and Groupon sometimes have deals. Search “California Dreaming” before you visit.
You might find a buy-one-get-one-free appetizer offer.
Ask Your Server
Servers know about unadvertised specials. Ask if there are any discounts available that day.
Sometimes they can apply a military or teacher discount if you qualify.
Final Thoughts On California Dreaming Menu Prices
California Dreaming offers fair prices for the quality and portion size. You can enjoy a full meal for under $20 per person if you choose wisely.
Use the tips in this guide to save money. Take advantage of happy hour, daily specials, and the loyalty program.
Remember that prices vary by location. Always check the menu at your specific restaurant before ordering.
With a little planning, you can enjoy the coastal flavors of California Dreaming without overspending. Go ahead and treat yourself—you know the costs now.