food ideas

[daisyx3]

Our 60 day mark is coming up. We are going on a Wednesday afternoon, staying Wednesday and Thursday nights at CCI, leaving late Friday (we will be staying with my DD in San Diego).
DD wants to eat at the ranch (can't remember the full name; it's at home). She ate there with her DH last year. He is in Kuwait and she misses him so I'll let her pick that one.
I would like to pick another place to eat lunch on the other day. I have read the CS places are better than WDW (thank goodness) and there are decent, close offsite options, but I'd like to eat another sit-down in one of the parks (we will have hoppers). It will be me, DH, DD (23), and DS (17).
Is Carthay Circle a good option? Blue Bayou? I haven't been at DL for 30 years and odds are will never be back, so I'd like it to be memorable.
Daisyx3

 

[Aladora]

For food, I much prefer Carthay Circle but really, the atmosphere in Blue Bayou cannot be topped. If it were me, I would make a lunch reservation for BB as early as possible, check in early and let them know you want to wait for a waterside table.

 

[figment_jii]

You DD is thinking of Big Thunder Ranch BBQ. It's really good and quite filling. There is a difference between lunch and dinner (dinner includes a few additional items, such as corn wheels and sausages).

Between Carthay and BB, it really depends on what kind of meal you want. Both are pricey, so that's not really a big factor between them. Carthay has outstanding food and a pretty nice atmosphere. It's definitely the most upscale location in DCA (but you don't have to dress up). Blue Bayou is the most iconic restaurant in DLR. I do like the food a lot. If you go to BB, I strongly second Aladora's advice. Make a reservation for the first lunch time seating (usually 11:30 am) and request a waterside table when you check-in.

 

[elaine amj]

We are going for the 60th anniversary (july 17) and it just hit me that my 60-day is coming up in a few weeks. i need to make some decisions too!! I particularly want reservations for July 17th.

Debating where we want to eat as it is our first trip. I'll likely book a BB lunch. I was going to do a BB Fantasmic - but the cost is killing me. $60/adult - OUCH! i think we will get a regular FP and watch off-centre. Should save us $100 or more depending where we eat instead.

 

[ADLFAN]

I loved Carthay Circle in California Adventure! The food was great, the restaurant is beautiful, and we plan on booking the World Of Color dinner package again on our next trip. We did the earliest dinner option at about 4 and used it as a late lunch - early dinner combination. The menu appealed to me more than Blue Bayou. The other classy option is Napa Rose in the Grand Californian, and I'm afraid my tastebuds aren't that mature yet! But check out the menu and see what you think. Also, I noticed that some of the bar menus at Napa Rose, Carthay, The Cove at Ariel's Grotto, and Steakhouse 55 had awesome sounding items!

 

[gerilyne]

I would agree, I loved the food at Carthay Circle but the Blue Bayou just can't be matched for the iconic atmosphere. I would check out the menus and see which appeals to you more. Some people may not like one or the others offerings.

 

[daisyx3]

Thanks! I'll check out the menus and consult my daughter. Can't wait to revisit DL!
Daisyx3

 

[theluckyrabbit]

Just to clarify with the OP, there is on off property restaurant called The Ranch (on Ball Rd. and East), which is a high end steakhouse. It is highly recommended and pricey. On the other hand, BTRBBQ is a whole different experience -- just as fun, but very different.