I Am Not A Conspiracy Theorist.
I just wanted to get that out of the way, before I get accused of such. To that point, I do not think that Disney intentionally manipulates the ebb and flow of a restaurant's reputation and quality. However, I wonder if sometimes they let things run their course when they see a general consensus voicing their concerns with on-site dining options. They certainly don't hit the panic button. There is no urgency to "right the ship" when guest experience starts to suffer, but from a Corporate standpoint, that is understandable. They want to see if the new standards of food quality and service become acceptable in the majority's eyes. There are enough first time guests at WDW that don't have the old standard in which to compare it, and will either accept it for what it is NOW or not. If they do, great! No further action is needed. The frequent fliers (yearly returnees or annual pass holders) will either continue to complain, adapt, or find somewhere new to dine.
Here is where I believe the guest experience can actually benefit from the peaks and valleys. Those guests who have their absolute favorite restaurants that they go to every time are now inclined to try something new. When one of my favorite restaurants here at home starts to slip, I find somewhere new to audition. I have discovered some hidden gems in my own hometown by turning down an old favorite because of a menu change. As a few and far between WDW guest, I am excited to try out some new places that have made my ADR list because some of the ones I used to enjoy didn't live up to my expectations (or memories).
Now I am certainly not saying that Disney purposely lets restaurants go into a decline to broaden the guest experience, but do I think that they will let it run its course? You betcha'. They are still making their money. (San Angel Inn and Tony's have yet to ever turn in a profitless day, and Expedition Everest still requires a fast pass, "Disco Yetti" and all... ) Until they see a drop in profits, Disney will continue to let things coast (If it ain't broke, yada, yada...). Any successful company that has built the kind of reputation that WDW has will not tamper with profits until it proves necessary.
First time guests will ensure that places like Whispering Canyon, Ohana, CRT, BOG, and Le Cellier are remaining on the "hard to score ADRs" list. (by the by, I enjoyed each of these, but I am seeing these particular restaurants showing up in this thread multiple times) But for we repeat offenders, maybe trying some new places will bring a little more magic to our next visit.
just a thought...