Hello Mary, and welcome back to planDisney!
I totally understand your frustration with
dining reservations, I have been there myself many times! You are correct that dining reservations usually do open at 6:00 AM PT, but I have noticed in the past that certain restaurants do not always follow that pattern.
I would keep checking up until your trip if dining at
Blue Bayou Restaurant is a huge priority for your family, since reservations do become available as plans change for guests. I have had luck closer to my trip with a coveted reservation at Blue Bayou Restaurant becoming available, and I get it, you truly cannot beat the atmosphere of the Pirates of the Caribbean boats floating by!
A great alternative to Blue Bayou Restaurant is
Café Orleans, also located in
New Orleans Square. You can still get your hands on some great Louisiana-inspired cuisine such as the famous
Monte Cristo sandwich as well as the delicious Chicken Gumbo!
If you still are not able to get your dining reservation prior to your trip, you can also see if the
mobile dine walk-up list is available the day of your visit using the
Disneyland app. You can check availability via the app, or by scanning a QR code near the restaurant entrance, where you'll be able to add your party to the walk-up list if there is availability. Availability can fluctuate throughout the day, so you can always keep checking throughout the day of your visit.
I hope this information was helpful for you Mary, I know there may be squalls ahead, but I'm sending you all of the good vibes and pixie dust that you'll secure your reservation at Blue Bayou Restaurant!
Have a magical trip!
Melissa