Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Blue Bayou Restaurant

Anyone who has ever been to Disneyland in southern California, and ridden Pirates of the Caribbean, has at least seen the Blue Bayou Restaurant, if not eaten there.

Situated within the ride itself, the Blue Bayou is all atmosphere. The restaurant is designed to look like a large outdoor patio, nestled on the banks of a Louisiana swamp. Japanese lanterns hang above diners, as the boats for Pirates of the Caribbean float silently past. Firefly's twinkle over the water and Spanish moss hangs from the nearby trees.
Just sitting in the restaurant is an experience in and of itself!Because it was our first time dining at the Blue Bayou, we made sure to request a table right on the water (which only added about 5 minutes to our wait time) and was definitely worth the extra effort! It was an awesome, unobstructed view of the swamp and it's floating passengers.

The menu is only about a page long, and featured a small variety of seafood, steaks and southern dishes. Most of the food was priced between $25-$35, so be prepared to spend a little money at the Blue Bayou. My mom ordered the salmon, and my sisters the short ribs and crab cakes, respectively. (I also ordered the crab cakes).

Each entree comes with soup or salad and crusty rolls. We all ordered the salad, which was delicious, and the rolls were unlimited (you just had to ask for more). I tried a bite of everyone's food and it was all wonderful. My crab cakes were particularly awesome - probably the best I have ever had, and served with a spicy tomato sauce.

Another item on the menu that is a must-try is the Mint Julep (lemonade with a combination of mint and cherry flavoring) which was very refreshing, especially after a long day in the park. We also ordered the creme brulee for dessert, which was served with an edible treasure chest.

Between the entrees, drinks, dessert and tip, we spent around $40 + per person, and although I saw children in the restaurant, this is not a place I would take my kids. The Blue Bayou is a romantic, delicious, and absolutely must-do experience (at least once) for anyone planning a trip to Disneyland. Happy eating!


P.S. I should also mention that the Blue Bayou only takes reservations, so make sure to book yours before you go to the park: 714-781-DINE.

8 comments:

Lindsey said...

That sounds amazing. Now I am craving crabcakes...thanks. ;)

Susan said...

That sounds really cool. One of these days we'll make it back to Disneyland. Someday...

Me said...

I saw this when I was there last time. We didn't eat there because we had our kids and the price was a little too much for us. Also, I was/am a bit miffed that they took out part of the ride to put the resturant in.

Based on your review though, I just might have to try it sometime. Thanks!

Heidi Reads... said...

Love Pirates of the Caribbean! Emily was pretty freaked out by the drops, though! :) We've never eaten at the Blue Bayou, but I love how it's perpetually evening there, and am always surprised to exit into a bright sunny day.

Ann Marie said...

You have made my mouth water!!
I seriously want to be there so bad!! We are going to go there for sure when we go next! :)

I'm so glad you had such a fun time together with your sisters and Mom! YAY!

Cristy said...

I haven't been to Disneyland forever, but I totally remember seeing this restaurant because it looked so cool! So glad to know that the food is as good as the place looks. If I ever get the chance to visit again I will have to make a reservation!

Suzanne said...

I will definately have to try it next time I am there! Thanks for the information!-Suzanne

Unknown said...

I love Disneyland and I love eating at the Blue Bayou. Disneyland always reminds me of my youth. I just found yesterland.com, which is a must visit for all you Disney lovers. Creme brulee, yum...