Napa Rose or Blue Bayou

[DizMe]

Well, my response is rather superfluous since it's obvious the direction you're taking, but I'll put it down anyway for others who may be more like me.

I've been to both. I've done the Chef's Counter at NR with wine pairing. I am NOT a foodie, and to me, THAT was a lot of money for something I don't really care about that much. I mean, I love to eat good food, but I don't need it to be super gourmet to enjoy it. I also don't eat fast food, just so you know the type of person I am. I spent ~$200 for just myself at NR, and it was WAY, WAY too much food for me. I'm not a big eater, by the way. The atmosphere at NR was awkward. My sister and I were the only ones seated at the counter and the chefs, contrary to what I'd heard, had very little to say to us. Our server was nice but we didn't really click much with her, either. We felt that we were rushed near the end, as it was getting close to closing time. It was absolutely fabulous food, but I did not find the experience at all worth the cost, except to say I'd done it and cross it off my mental list.

OTOH, I've been to BB numerous times. I do enjoy the food very much and know what to order to get what I like. I prefer to share a steak and lobster dinner because that's the type of portion I want. I don't spend $12 for a split plate fee because I'm perfectly capable of putting the food on the extra plate myself and don't need or want more sides. I don't do that, btw, because of the cost but because I can't eat more than that and I want dessert . I love to end the meal with a creme brulee (NOT shared) and coffee. At lunch I love the Monte Cristo but again, I could never eat a whole one myself. One MC will feed me and all 3 of my girls! My kids think BB is awesome. We have discovered that we rarely spend much, if any, more at BB than at the counter-service burger places, and the fact that you're in a sit-down restaurant with attentive waitpeople and a view of Pirates makes it an easy choice (plus we get a 10% AP discount).

In general, I find the food in DLR to be pretty bad no matter where you go. NR is excellent as far as food goes but the atmosphere is very much more adult, I would say, and the cost is extremely high. I love Steakhouse 55 but it isn't a place I go unless I'm staying at DLH. I think BB has good food if you order the right thing. Beyond that, the dining choices IMO are just not very good, but you're at a resort and high prices are just a thing that goes with the territory. I personally would rather eat in DL in a ride-type atmosphere with a nice filet mignon than go over to GCH and spend a fortune to eat in a restaurant that could be any fine dining establishment. Foodies would adamantly disagree, I suspect, as NR has very select choices and gourmet presentation along with it, things that aren't as important to me.

 

[disneyguy1818]

The food is certainly better at Napa Rose;however, I voted Blue Bayou because the last and only time I went to NR, the service was terrible. My DFi and I were treated very rudely by our waiter. When the waiter asked for our drink order, he reacted very rudely when we declined his suggestion that we order wine. We had already had a couple drinks at the resort pool that day and we didn't want to overdo it. It really seemed like the waiter treated us as second class patrons because we didn't order wine and I ordered water ( because I hate soft drinks and after a long day at the park I really wanted water). It frustrated me that he gave us a rude, condescending look and asked me multiple times if I was just going to drink water with my meal. Later on, the waiter further questioned our decision to not order dessert or an appetizer. It was clear he only cared about his tip and assumed we were just being cheap- when in reality, the idea of eating that much food seems extremely gluttonous to me. We eat very healthy and don't understand the idea that our waiter assumed we were cheap because we didn't feel like stuffing our face. I have been to many top restaurants in LA and never have I received such condescending remarks and treatment as we did at NR. The service was the antithesis of the entire Disney brand. Just my experience, but I will never go back- even if the food is better than BB.

 

[rentayenta]

Well, my response is rather superfluous since it's obvious the direction you're taking, but I'll put it down anyway for others who may be more like me.

I've been to both. I've done the Chef's Counter at NR with wine pairing. I am NOT a foodie, and to me, THAT was a lot of money for something I don't really care about that much. I mean, I love to eat good food, but I don't need it to be super gourmet to enjoy it. I also don't eat fast food, just so you know the type of person I am. I spent ~$200 for just myself at NR, and it was WAY, WAY too much food for me. I'm not a big eater, by the way. The atmosphere at NR was awkward. My sister and I were the only ones seated at the counter and the chefs, contrary to what I'd heard, had very little to say to us. Our server was nice but we didn't really click much with her, either. We felt that we were rushed near the end, as it was getting close to closing time. It was absolutely fabulous food, but I did not find the experience at all worth the cost, except to say I'd done it and cross it off my mental list.

OTOH, I've been to BB numerous times. I do enjoy the food very much and know what to order to get what I like. I prefer to share a steak and lobster dinner because that's the type of portion I want. I don't spend $12 for a split plate fee because I'm perfectly capable of putting the food on the extra plate myself and don't need or want more sides. I don't do that, btw, because of the cost but because I can't eat more than that and I want dessert . I love to end the meal with a creme brulee (NOT shared) and coffee. At lunch I love the Monte Cristo but again, I could never eat a whole one myself. One MC will feed me and all 3 of my girls! My kids think BB is awesome. We have discovered that we rarely spend much, if any, more at BB than at the counter-service burger places, and the fact that you're in a sit-down restaurant with attentive waitpeople and a view of Pirates makes it an easy choice (plus we get a 10% AP discount).

In general, I find the food in DLR to be pretty bad no matter where you go. NR is excellent as far as food goes but the atmosphere is very much more adult, I would say, and the cost is extremely high. I love Steakhouse 55 but it isn't a place I go unless I'm staying at DLH. I think BB has good food if you order the right thing. Beyond that, the dining choices IMO are just not very good, but you're at a resort and high prices are just a thing that goes with the territory. I personally would rather eat in DL in a ride-type atmosphere with a nice filet mignon than go over to GCH and spend a fortune to eat in a restaurant that could be any fine dining establishment. Foodies would adamantly disagree, I suspect, as NR has very select choices and gourmet presentation along with it, things that aren't as important to me.

I didn't even think of Steakhouse 55. So when you share with your DD's at the BB, they don't care if you order one entree between 2 people? As long as you don't ask them to split it, then there is no charge? I am also a light eater and share often whether at Disneyland or not. DS and I usually share meals when we go out as he likes the offerings on the adult menu but is only 10 and the full portion would surely go to waste.

I appreciate your insights and I am sure others will find them helpful.

DH is the foodie for sure. I am a Kraft Mac n Cheese girl at heart but don't tell him although I suspect he knows. I could eat at the Corn Dog cart every meal and be in heaven. I am just shocked at what the BB gets away with charging but toally understand it's the atmosphere as well as the food we are paying for.

The food is certainly better at Napa Rose;however, I voted Blue Bayou because the last and only time I went to NR, the service was terrible. My DFi and I were treated very rudely by our waiter. When the waiter asked for our drink order, he reacted very rudely when we declined his suggestion that we order wine. We had already had a couple drinks at the resort pool that day and we didn't want to overdo it. It really seemed like the waiter treated us as second class patrons because we didn't order wine and I ordered water ( because I hate soft drinks and after a long day at the park I really wanted water). It frustrated me that he gave us a rude, condescending look and asked me multiple times if I was just going to drink water with my meal. Later on, the waiter further questioned our decision to not order dessert or an appetizer. It was clear he only cared about his tip and assumed we were just being cheap- when in reality, the idea of eating that much food seems extremely gluttonous to me. We eat very healthy and don't understand the idea that our waiter assumed we were cheap because we didn't feel like stuffing our face. I have been to many top restaurants in LA and never have I received such condescending remarks and treatment as we did at NR. The service was the antithesis of the entire Disney brand. Just my experience, but I will never go back- even if the food is better than BB.

That stinks. I am also a huge water drinker and know that look well. I totally agree with not having the need to feel stuffed. We are touring the parks too and can't imagine touring when full to the gills.




Lots of food for thought everyone. I have not completed decided and may end up doing both: NR for DH and I and BB for the 5 of us especially if we can share sans that ridiculous $12 spilt plate charge. I hate to throw food away, the waste astounds me. Yes we are staying at the GCV but don't see me hauling any leftovers back to the fridge for reheating.

 

[DizMe]

I didn't even think of Steakhouse 55. So when you share with your DD's at the BB, they don't care if you order one entree between 2 people? As long as you don't ask them to split it, then there is no charge? I am also a light eater and share often whether at Disneyland or not. DS and I usually share meals when we go out as he likes the offerings on the adult menu but is only 10 and the full portion would surely go to waste.

I appreciate your insights and I am sure others will find them helpful.

DH is the foodie for sure. I am a Kraft Mac n Cheese girl at heart but don't tell him although I suspect he knows. I could eat at the Corn Dog cart every meal and be in heaven. I am just shocked at what the BB gets away with charging but toally understand it's the atmosphere as well as the food we are paying for.

No, they really don't care at all when we share meals. Usually, I split the steak dinner with my oldest dd (who is an adult) or my second oldest, age 11. They've never minded anything we've split at BB and I think they're kind of used to it! I would rather have my girls (11 and 8-yr-old twins) order off the adult menu and split than get some of the offerings on the kids' menu, but I believe BB has better options in that regard than most restaurants at DLR. We like that you get unlimited rolls, a salad, potatoes, and veggies as well as your meal. If you pay the $12 they will divide it in the kitchen and each person gets a full portion of sides, but if you don't mind sharing the sides and putting it on the extra plate yourself, there is no charge.







Lots of food for thought everyone. I have not completed decided and may end up doing both: NR for DH and I and BB for the 5 of us especially if we can share sans that ridiculous $12 spilt plate charge. I hate to throw food away, the waste astounds me. Yes we are staying at the GCV but don't see me hauling any leftovers back to the fridge for reheating.

That is a perfect solution. I almost edited my post to say that if it were just dh and me, we would be more inclined to go to NR or Steakhouse 55, but the girls love BB so much! When I go with oldest dd or my sister, we usually opt for BB as well. My youngest really like Steakhouse 55 too, as the waiters are super nice to them. They've never been to NR but I suspect...I don't know, just suspect... that they would be somewhat less welcome there. I have to admit that I am sometimes disappointed to go out for a nice dinner with dh and have to sit next to kids, though well behaved ones are a pleasure to be around. Mine are *usually* well behaved but have their moments, so I think I might be just a little more stressed at a place like NR.

 

[ArchOwl]

The food is certainly better at Napa Rose;however, I voted Blue Bayou because the last and only time I went to NR, the service was terrible. My DFi and I were treated very rudely by our waiter. When the waiter asked for our drink order, he reacted very rudely when we declined his suggestion that we order wine. We had already had a couple drinks at the resort pool that day and we didn't want to overdo it. It really seemed like the waiter treated us as second class patrons because we didn't order wine and I ordered water ( because I hate soft drinks and after a long day at the park I really wanted water). It frustrated me that he gave us a rude, condescending look and asked me multiple times if I was just going to drink water with my meal. Later on, the waiter further questioned our decision to not order dessert or an appetizer. It was clear he only cared about his tip and assumed we were just being cheap- when in reality, the idea of eating that much food seems extremely gluttonous to me. We eat very healthy and don't understand the idea that our waiter assumed we were cheap because we didn't feel like stuffing our face. I have been to many top restaurants in LA and never have I received such condescending remarks and treatment as we did at NR. The service was the antithesis of the entire Disney brand. Just my experience, but I will never go back- even if the food is better than BB.

Wow, I am sorry that happened to you. That kind of behavior is not acceptable. I have been there many times without ordering alcohol at all and have never had that problem. I hope you complained!

 

[BeccaG]

...

Anyone ever do BB just for dessert or is that a no-no? I'd love for the kids to experience the atmosphere. I guess I could smuggle in a churro while riding POTC and tell them to look across the water and pretend.

A bit off topic, but If I was going to eat somewhere for dessert, I'd consider the carnation cafe on Mainstreet and one of their very large banana splits! But again, it depends what you are going for and when, because unless the inside construction is done when you are headed to DL, Carnation Cafe is outside seating...

 

[BeccaG]

I don't spend $12 for a split plate fee because I'm perfectly capable of putting the food on the extra plate myself and don't need or want more sides. ...

OK, dumb question here, but I thought at some, if not most restaurants, they charge you a split plate fee just for asking for the extra plate???? And according to my quick internet search, that is the case, include a thread I found on the blue bayou.....I guess if they give you extra sides with it that makes some more sense but I never thought that was the case..... Anyone want to clarify?

 

[Rhonna]

Wow, the vomit in the mouth comment was pretty over the top.

Anyhow, obviously there are pros and cons to both places. I don't really see how you can compare the two - it's like apples and oranges. Which do you prefer?

You told your kids you'd take them to BB one day. I hope you do, even if not on this trip.

NR IS spendy, especially when you start adding the alcohol and it IS know for it's wine. I would guess the majority of people who dine there get wine with their dinner. It also has won several awards. If it's an adult dinner and you want wine, top food, don't feel the need to have the park atmosphere and are okay spending the money, pick NR.

BB can be done in a much less expensive way AND you can get good food there.

1) Don't ask to split the order and pay for the extra plate - just share.

2) If you lean toward being a foodie DON'T order the Monte Cristo (Crisco).

3) Get a nice meal like the fish or crab cakes. Get a nice dessert like the creme brulee. DEFINITELY get the Mint Julep.

4) Go at LUNCH!

5) Get the first seating of the day, be there EARLY, ask nicely and be willing to wait for a waterside table.

6) Take your time and enjoy the experience rather than rushing to get out to the next ride.

 

[Rhonna]

OK, dumb question here, but I thought at some, if not most restaurants, they charge you a split plate fee just for asking for the extra plate???? And according to my quick internet search, that is the case, include a thread I found on the blue bayou.....I guess if they give you extra sides with it that makes some more sense but I never thought that was the case..... Anyone want to clarify?

You can't ask for an extra plate or they will charge if that's the policy. I don't go with children so I don't know how others work this out, maybe they use the little bread plates? Or have the kids sit next to each other? I go with my sister and we both get a meal - or one gets a meal and the other an appetizer, then we just divide a little and put it on the other person's plate before we start eating. So, technically we aren't sharing in the sense that the restaurant is charging for.

 

[Malcon10t]

We have never been charged when we have just asked for an extra plate. However, if we ask to split the meal, there is a charge. In the majority of restaurants, when there is a split plate fee, you receive 2 salads or soups, and extra sides.

 

[sonnyjane]

OK, dumb question here, but I thought at some, if not most restaurants, they charge you a split plate fee just for asking for the extra plate???? And according to my quick internet search, that is the case, include a thread I found on the blue bayou.....I guess if they give you extra sides with it that makes some more sense but I never thought that was the case..... Anyone want to clarify?

You can't ask for an extra plate or they will charge if that's the policy. I don't go with children so I don't know how others work this out, maybe they use the little bread plates? Or have the kids sit next to each other? I go with my sister and we both get a meal - or one gets a meal and the other an appetizer, then we just divide a little and put it on the other person's plate before we start eating. So, technically we aren't sharing in the sense that the restaurant is charging for.

Rhonna, what you have described is not how it works at Blue Bayou. If you legitimately just want to split your meal in half, then you just ask for an empty plate and they will bring it to you for free. If you want to "split an entree", then you will be charged $12. When requesting the latter, they will bring BOTH diners their choice of gumbo or salad, they will split the entree, and then BOTH diners will get full servings of potatoes and vegetables. That is why they charge extra. If you don't care about having full servings of sides and each having a salad or gumbo, then you can just ask for the empty plate.

As far as just going for dessert - I probably wouldn't. They no longer offer their famous desserts that were around a couple years ago (The cookie boat, primarily) and now just offer generic desserts - chocolate cake, creme brulee, pecan pie... (the desserts change occasionally). You can get better desserts for much cheaper anywhere else in the park, plus if you take up a table just for dessert I would at least make sure to tip very heavily for the server's time.

 

[rentayenta]

That is a perfect solution. I almost edited my post to say that if it were just dh and me, we would be more inclined to go to NR or Steakhouse 55, but the girls love BB so much! When I go with oldest dd or my sister, we usually opt for BB as well. My youngest really like Steakhouse 55 too, as the waiters are super nice to them. They've never been to NR but I suspect...I don't know, just suspect... that they would be somewhat less welcome there. I have to admit that I am sometimes disappointed to go out for a nice dinner with dh and have to sit next to kids, though well behaved ones are a pleasure to be around. Mine are *usually* well behaved but have their moments, so I think I might be just a little more stressed at a place like NR.

Mine are well behaved in restaurants too but they wouldn't appreciate the meal, I'm sure, especially at Disneyland. There is just so much for them to do and see and eat that I'm sure they'd prefer to run around DCA with a Corn Dog and call it good.

Wow, I am sorry that happened to you. That kind of behavior is not acceptable. I have been there many times without ordering alcohol at all and have never had that problem. I hope you complained!

I agree. I hope they told someone and followed up.

A bit off topic, but If I was going to eat somewhere for dessert, I'd consider the carnation cafe on Mainstreet and one of their very large banana splits! But again, it depends what you are going for and when, because unless the inside construction is done when you are headed to DL, Carnation Cafe is outside seating...

Mmm.....love a good banana split. I have a Carnation Cafe dinner PS. In fact, I have more PS than days and at this point, I'm going to be eating all day/night. I love a good Gibson Girl sundae too.

Wow, the vomit in the mouth comment was pretty over the top.

Anyhow, obviously there are pros and cons to both places. I don't really see how you can compare the two - it's like apples and oranges. Which do you prefer?

You told your kids you'd take them to BB one day. I hope you do, even if not on this trip.

NR IS spendy, especially when you start adding the alcohol and it IS know for it's wine. I would guess the majority of people who dine there get wine with their dinner. It also has won several awards. If it's an adult dinner and you want wine, top food, don't feel the need to have the park atmosphere and are okay spending the money, pick NR.

BB can be done in a much less expensive way AND you can get good food there.

1) Don't ask to split the order and pay for the extra plate - just share.

2) If you lean toward being a foodie DON'T order the Monte Cristo (Crisco).

3) Get a nice meal like the fish or crab cakes. Get a nice dessert like the creme brulee. DEFINITELY get the Mint Julep.

4) Go at LUNCH!

5) Get the first seating of the day, be there EARLY, ask nicely and be willing to wait for a waterside table.

6) Take your time and enjoy the experience rather than rushing to get out to the next ride.

Crisco. Totally. It sounds sickening. I know people love them but the combination makes me full and bloated just thinking about it. Your tips are great I made our PS for the first seating and for sure we'll ask and wait for waterside. I've noticed that away from the water or near that bus area, it's very noisy and loses some of it's appeal.

We have never been charged when we have just asked for an extra plate. However, if we ask to split the meal, there is a charge. In the majority of restaurants, when there is a split plate fee, you receive 2 salads or soups, and extra sides.

Thank you. We would just ask for an extra plate...especially at lunchtime.

As far as just going for dessert - I probably wouldn't. They no longer offer their famous desserts that were around a couple years ago (The cookie boat, primarily) and now just offer generic desserts - chocolate cake, creme brulee, pecan pie... (the desserts change occasionally). You can get better desserts for much cheaper anywhere else in the park, plus if you take up a table just for dessert I would at least make sure to tip very heavily for the server's time.

Thanks for letting me know what they serve. Dessert only doesn't sound like a great idea. Plus waiting for a waterside table for dessert only seems like a big waste of park time now that I think about it more.




Excellent insights.

 

[Rhonna]

Rhonna, what you have described is not how it works at Blue Bayou. If you legitimately just want to split your meal in half, then you just ask for an empty plate and they will bring it to you for free. If you want to "split an entree", then you will be charged $12. When requesting the latter, they will bring BOTH diners their choice of gumbo or salad, they will split the entree, and then BOTH diners will get full servings of potatoes and vegetables. That is why they charge extra. If you don't care about having full servings of sides and each having a salad or gumbo, then you can just ask for the empty plate.

Thanks for the info. I should have let someone else answer. I guess we've never "split the entree" and paid the extra.

 

[DizMe]

Our waiter actually told us about sharing vs splitting. I've never been charged for an extra plate unless we split and get the extra sides. They are very used to doing this and almost every server has mentioned how to avoid the charge when I said we were going to be sharing a dinner.

Monte Cristo is yummy but you can feel your arteries harden as you eat it. It's a very decadent lunch, but it's cut into 4 triangles and you get all the sides so it's an easy thing to split, which doesn't leave you feeling like you just ate all of your allotted calories for the year in one fell swoop; probably just the next 4 month's worth

 

[rentayenta]

Our waiter actually told us about sharing vs splitting. I've never been charged for an extra plate unless we split and get the extra sides. They are very used to doing this and almost every server has mentioned how to avoid the charge when I said we were going to be sharing a dinner.

The server benefits when they share those hints with us. I'd truly rather tip the server more than pay the man for food I don't want!

Monte Cristo is yummy but you can feel your arteries harden as you eat it. It's a very decadent lunch, but it's cut into 4 triangles and you get all the sides so it's an easy thing to split, which doesn't leave you feeling like you just ate all of your allotted calories for the year in one fell swoop; probably just the next 4 month's worth

DH makes a grilled cheese with gruyere and bechamel sauce. OMG, it's insanely delicious and heart stint worthy for sure. I can only imagine how fatty Disney's sandwich is. My middle DD would like the Monte Cristo minus the jam. I don't think the others would enjoy it. Too bad they can't make a kid's size.

 

[marcemc]

Napa Rose for food & BB for atmosphere

I'm not a big fan of BB's food anymore but as an experience I still recommend it, my boys love going there.

A pp recommended Steakhouse 55 & I would recommend it as well, really good food, good service, we love having breakfast there.

 

[Rhonna]

DH makes a grilled cheese with gruyere and bechamel sauce. OMG, it's insanely delicious and heart stint worthy for sure.

There would be no comparison between what you are describing (sounds VERY nice) and the Monte Cristo. We tolerated it once YEARS ago but a few years back tried it again and it was literally dripping grease like a sponge. I can't believe we didn't send it back. Our tummies were NOT happy for about 24 hours. Seriously, you have to be young or used to a LOT of fried food to handle it.

 

[DizMe]

There would be no comparison between what you are describing (sounds VERY nice) and the Monte Cristo. We tolerated it once YEARS ago but a few years back tried it again and it was literally dripping grease like a sponge. I can't believe we didn't send it back. Our tummies were NOT happy for about 24 hours. Seriously, you have to be young or used to a LOT of fried food to handle it.

Ew, that sounds nasty. Fortunately, that has not been my experience with the MC at BB. Rich, yes, and loaded with bad things, no doubt, but never dripping with grease. Mine has always been ham and cheese in battered bread which is then fried in butter, sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with jam-- so definitely not for tender tummies, but something along the lines of French toast rather than a greasy sponge

 

[rentayenta]

Napa Rose for food & BB for atmosphere

I'm not a big fan of BB's food anymore but as an experience I still recommend it, my boys love going there.

A pp recommended Steakhouse 55 & I would recommend it as well, really good food, good service, we love having breakfast there.

The menu looks really good.

There would be no comparison between what you are describing (sounds VERY nice) and the Monte Cristo. We tolerated it once YEARS ago but a few years back tried it again and it was literally dripping grease like a sponge. I can't believe we didn't send it back. Our tummies were NOT happy for about 24 hours. Seriously, you have to be young or used to a LOT of fried food to handle it.

I am neither young or used to a ton of fast food. At 42, my body pays when I eat stuff like that. For sure not worth it especially when trying to tour Disneyland.

Ew, that sounds nasty. Fortunately, that has not been my experience with the MC at BB. Rich, yes, and loaded with bad things, no doubt, but never dripping with grease. Mine has always been ham and cheese in battered bread which is then fried in butter, sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with jam-- so definitely not for tender tummies, but something along the lines of French toast rather than a greasy sponge

My middle DD would love this for sure then. We are Jewish and technically don't eat pork but due to poor growth issues for her, she gets to eat whatever she wants. The outside sounds good, like friend French Toast; it's the inside that sounds ew.