Interesting perspective from a previous diner at Le Cellier. Although I hear your disappointment about little items like spoons and straws, I take these in stride at WDW restaurants, especially during the rush of free dining. As to presentation and portion size, I suspect that those changes are also in keeping in line with profit margins and huge numbers of guests.
We were there for the first time the last week in September. Thanks to the DIS, I had heads up on the BBQ glaze and the petit creme brulee sampler.
DD(10) knew in advance to ask for the 7-oz filet w/o the sauce - no problem whatesoever. She finished almost all of her shrimp cocktail and I had the remaining few.
DS and I agreed this was a great meal - the best all week - though our TS selections had been limited for several reasons, so by comparision to buffets, we we delighted.Though busy, the server took time to chat when she had a moment, and we were actually the last ones out of LC and out of Epcot to POR with our 8:50 ressie.