Disneyland ADRs/Dining

[scarlet_ibis]

We have a trip coming up in December where we'll have 3 days in the parks and one half day at the resort/DTD before flying out. We have 3 kids (8, 6, and 2) and have been to WDW many times, but never DL.

*How do I make ADRs for DL? I didn't see a link to do it online -- is it telephone only?

*I have heard Blue Bayou is a must see, but do you have any other recommendations for TS restaurants not to miss?

Character dining is not a must. Honestly, we go to WDW on the DDP at least once a year and have met just about everyone to the point where the table visits are a bit of a distraction for the older kids.

* What about CS restaurants? I know we have a pretty good list for WDW of restaurants that serve great CS food outside of the standard burger/hot dog/pizza fare (Sunshine Seasons, Raintree Barbecue, Cosmic Ray's). Are there comparable places at DL/CA?
* This is our first trip with a food allergy and one person in our party is eating gluten free. I know I can get a guide at the town hall, but might anyone point me to an online source for planning ahead?

Thanks in advance!

 

[kipperoo]

Hey There! I'm getting married at Disneyland this December, and my maid of honor is GF, as is her mom. The Grand Californian Hotel is making them special plated meals for the reception, and I found this list for them for in the parks-
http://www.disneymouselinks.com/Gluten-Free-at-Disneyland.aspx

Basically, every place there is food in Disneyland seems to offer at least 1 GF option.

As far TS restaurants go, Blue Bayou is certainly a must. I honestly can't think of any other places in Disneyland that have outstanding TS, but for CS try the Plaza Inn's fried chicken.

As far as I know, Disneyland ADR's are only over the phone. The number is (714)781-3463. You can call and make all of the reservations for your trip at once, including preferred viewing dinners for WOC at DCA. I'm pretty sure you can make these 60 days out (I've already made all of ours for December.)

Have fun!

 

[GenGen22]

I want to suggest CS at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante. This place has good food and an outdoor patio that has heating lamps. We ate here for New Years as we couldn't leave the park because the park was at max capacity and didn't wanna be locked out. They also have GF options as per kipperoo's menu she provided.

 

[MinnieMom13]

I'm glad I tried the BB--wonderful theming--but I can get the same meal (monte cristo and beignets) for less at Cafe Orleans. I recommend ADR no matter which of the two you choose. In CA, we always go to Wine Country Trattoria--we've always gotten in without an ADR, but we travel during value season. Love their chicken pannini! For counter service, my favorite is the Pacific Wharf Cafe. Their chowder in a bread bowl in fantastic. It's located in an area with multiple retaurants, so everyone in my family can find something they want.

 

[Huff]

Dining is not anywheres near the experience it is at WDW mostly because there is no Epcot with all its restaurants and theres only 3 Disney resort hotels at DLR. What DLR lacks in dining it makes up for significantly in other areas! ADR's are by phone only, not online yet. ADR's are only needed if going on very busy days. Rarely do you need to book months in advance as is required at WDW.

Blue Bayou is certainly unique being inside Pirates. The atmosphere is hard to find anywhere else. A water side table is often hard to get but is worth it if the additional wait isn't long. The food is very good but not incredible considering the very high prices.

Napa Rose at Grand California is excellent. Steakhouse 55 at Disneyland Hotel is quite good.

For counter service we love Rancho del Zocolo in Disneyland for Mexican food. Jazz Kitchen Express is Downtown Disney is a great value for counter service with excellent food. Many love White Water Snacks for counter service at Grand Californian.

Look at Allears.net for Disneyland restaurants, menus, reviews etc.