Hi Heather,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! It sounds like you have a delicious visit planned to the Walt Disney World Resort! My family loves the Deluxe
Dining Plan.
It seems that you are quite wise my friend! If a restaurant requires one Table-Service meal per person, then each person in your party could order differently priced entrées and they would only require one meal credit. My husband often orders what would technically be a more expensive entrée if we were paying out of pocket. If an entrée is listed on the menu at a restaurant that accepts the Deluxe Dining Plan, you should be able to order it, regardless of price.
To know how many dining plan credits are required for a restaurant, check the
Dining List. If you click on a specific restaurant, you can then click on the link that says "Some Dining Plans Accepted" and a pop-up chart will appear that tells you how many meal credits are required on each dining plan at that restaurant. Signature Restaurants like California Grill and Tiffins for example, typically require two Table-Service credits per person age 3-years old and over on the dining plan.
We especially love the Deluxe Dining Plan because it includes an appetizer along with the entrée and dessert for lunch and dinner. For my family, the flexibility the plan offers is well worth the price.
I will add, however, do not forget to estimate the cost of tips. When we first upgraded to the Deluxe Dining Plan, I did not factor in the cost of additional tips. It added about $300 for our family of four to our total cost.
Be sure to make advanced dining reservations. Restaurants fill quickly.
Have a magical time with your husband!
-Donyell