Welcome back, MarLeah! Thank you for coming back to ask me additional questions. I'm so sorry that the Blue Bayou was not available, however I do have some ideas for you.
First, I would recommend continually and frequently checking for Blue Bayou
dining reservation availability as Guests' plans often change and you may find that something will become available. I've definitely had luck with this method in the past. It does take some time and effort, although the reward is quite worth it. Another quick tip when searching for availability is to search using various exact times in the drop down menu (vs. "Dinner"). I find that more options will appear taking this approach.
Second, there is an option to join a walk-up list the day of. To do this, I recommend downloading the
Disneyland app, then tap on the location icon (second from the left) at the bottom, then at the top of the screen, change the selection from "Attractions" to "Dining," then tap "Show List" in the top right corner. Scroll to "Blue Bayou Restaurant" and then tap on "Join Walk-Up List" to be added to the list. You'll need to be near the Blue Bayou in order to have the ability to be added to the list and I recommend being there before 11:00 AM when the restaurant opens to increase your chances.
Lastly, if you and your friends will be staying at Disneyland Resort hotel, you'll have access to
Preferred Reservation Access for Hotel Guests. In order to be eligible, you'll need to link your hotel confirmation to your account in the Disneyland app or at the website. These reservations are first-come, first-served, only available to Guests of one of the Disneyland Resort hotels and available upon arrival for the dates of the hotel reservation. Please keep in mind preferred reservations are not guaranteed and subject to change or cancellation at any time.
MarLeah, I'm so glad you're thinking about ordering a
Mickey Mouse Celebration Cake. These are available at select participating restaurants at time of booking. A request for a same-day cake can be made, however it is strongly recommended to add the cake to your dining reservation at time of booking to ensure availability. Other great restaurant choices I recommend from this list are
Cafe Orleans (the Battered & Fried Monte Cristo is a top choice) or the
River Belle Terrace (The BBQ Tofu is one of my favorite dishes here). If you're not able to find a reservation for the Blue Bayou (and I'm wishing on an evening star that you do), please check for reservations for these wonderful places. I do recommend booking a back-up restaurant as you continue on your quest to secure a reservation at the Blue Bayou.
Dining reservations can be cancelled up to 2 hours before your reservation time.
MarLeah, I hope I was able to help provide you with some strategies and you're able to do everything that your heart desires. Regardless of what happens, I know it will be a magical birthday visit for you and your friends. Please
let me know if you have any other questions or would like any other suggestions or recommendations for your time at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Thank you and have a magical day!
Michelle