If You Skip This Iconic Disneyland Restaurant, We Can’t Be Friends

I grew up visiting Disneyland and now working at AllEars, let’s say I have some strong opinions when it comes to Disney food.

Some of my favorite restaurants and foods, I must admit, were family favorites due to the nostalgia (okay, so maybe Mickey pretzels aren’t quite as good as I remember). Still, some restaurants are so ingrained in my memory that I can’t picture a day at Disneyland without them. If you’re skipping this iconic Disneyland restaurant, why are you going?

If you haven’t been introduced, let me show you the Blue Bayou, a spot at Disneyland where a ride goes through the restaurant.

You heard that right — part of an attraction floats right by while you’re dining.

If you’ve ever been on Pirates of the Caribbean (the superior version in Disneyland), in the beginning, once you board your boat and you’re going through the Louisiana bayou, you might have noticed lights glowing in the distance. Yep, that’s guests dining at the Blue Bayou!

While it might sound chaotic to eat at a restaurant where an attraction rolls through, Disney thought about this and brought in relaxing music, calming overhead lighting, and details that make you feel like you’re right on the bayou. Even though the boats are rolling through, the lighting is dark, and there’s still a bit of a distance, so you’re not making eye contact with guests about to get splashed on Pirates.

It might not be the easiest reservation to snag (thank you, Mom and Dad, for being the original dining reservation makers), but it is easier than its next-door neighbor, Club 33. If this restaurant is on your must-do list, which it should be, by the way, then you’ll need to be prepared to book or constantly check for cancellations.

Okay, okay, I know what you’re thinking, “Surely this restaurant is only popular because Pirates of the Caribbean goes through it. The food definitely won’t be that good.” Wrong! And if you don’t believe me and childhood nostalgia, take it from other guests.

Blue Bayou is Creole-inspired, hence it is located in New Orleans Square, and offers classic dishes like gumbo and crab cakes, as well as other options such as roasted chicken, prime rib, and filet mignon.

Last time the crew at AllEars visited, we dove into Pistachio Lemon-Basil Pasta, which was bright and citrusy in a hefty portion, and the Crème Brûlée Tart, where we’re still thinking, with its perfect creamy texture and fresh sweetness from the berries.

Between the great food and the charming atmosphere, Blue Bayou will always remain number one in my book. I can’t picture a Disneyland trip without stopping by, and while I don’t have another trip currently planned, I’m questioning if I should buy plane tickets right now.

Have you eaten at the Blue Bayou? Tell us about your experience in the comments and make sure you keep following AllEars for all the Disney details you need.

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