Hello! My husband and I are also WDW regulars and we just returned from a quick trip to DL. We were also very disappointed that Blue Bayou - and Pirates! - were closed! We ate at:
Yamabuki at Paradise Pier - great food but totally boring atmosphere
Hook's Pointe at DL Hotel - great food, better atmosphere, but totally overpriced
Hungry Bear Cafe - DL - great location, decent food
Pacific Wharf Cafe - DCA - delicious, but the line was LONG
River Bell Terrace - DL - Good food, good atmosphere, quick service
Storyteller's Cafe (character breakfast) - a highlight of the trip! Great character interaction, delicious food, and terrific atmosphere
On a previous trip we ate at Catal, the Uva Bar, and Napoli's in Downtown Disney and they were all delicious, but lack the Disney magic.
Have fun and be sure to let us know where you eat!
K