Walt Disney's original Pirates of the Caribbean attraction is heading into an indefinite refurbishment this May, but the restaurant that's been a part of it since day one isn't going down with the ship.
Closing Together, Reopening Separately
Pirates of the Caribbean and Blue Bayou Restaurant have shared the same footprint in New Orleans Square since both opened in 1967. This spring, they'll close in tandem on May 4, 2026. May 3 is the last day Disneyland Park guests can ride the attraction or dine at the Table-Service location before refurbishment begins.
Construction permits filed ahead of the closure indicate that Walt Disney Imagineers are performing routine maintenance on the nearly six-decade-old attraction. Disneyland Resort has not elaborated on the scope of work or shared any plans for changes that Disney Park guests might notice when the ride returns.
Blue Bayou Restaurant Comes Back First
While Pirates of the Caribbean still has no confirmed reopening date, Blue Bayou Restaurant is now “tentatively scheduled” to return on May 21. Unfortunately, guests dining there won't get the full experience. With the attraction still under construction, Disneyland Resort's website warns that the restaurant will offer a “modified dining experience” in the interim.
“Views will be obstructed and Guests may hear some refurbishment noise,” the site explains.
That's a big adjustment for a Table-Service restaurant whose appeal is almost entirely tied to its atmosphere: dim lighting, Spanish moss, and the sounds of the bayou drifting in from the nearby boat ride. Still, Blue Bayou is open most days for lunch and dinner from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and reservations are strongly advised given how quickly the beloved Cajun-Creole dining spot fills up. The menu staples, including Monte Cristo sandwiches, mint juleps, gumbo, and crème brûlée, will remain available.
What's your go-to order at Blue Bayou Restaurant? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments!
