Hi Helen!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. I'm happy to hear you'll be participating in the Disney Dining Plan on your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
I can understand your dilemma, choosing between the two fabulous dining experiences you've mentioned. Both California Grill and Tiffin's are Signature Dining restaurants, and offer amazing menus and excellent service! Like you mentioned, Signature Dining restaurant meals require two Table Service entitlements per person, so you want to make sure you're getting the best use of your meal credits.
A typical meal from a Signature Dining restaurant includes:
• One (1) Entrée
• One (1) Nonalcoholic Beverage
• One (1) Dessert
The Rivers of Light Dining Package (available for lunch and dinner at Tiffin's in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park) offers a bit more than a typical Signature Dining meal. With the dining package, you'll be able to choose an appetizer, entree, non-alcoholic beverage, and a dessert. The dining package also includes reserved seating at Animal Kingdom's newest nighttime show - Rivers of Light. The reserved section has a great view of the show - right in the center of the amphitheater!
In my opinion, by comparison, you do get a bit more for your credits with the Rivers of Light Dining Package. That being said, it all depends on the dining experience you're looking for. Also, keep in mind that dining at Tiffin's requires theme park admission, where dining at California Grill (located in Disney's Contemporary Resort) does not.
I hope this is helpful in answering your question! Both choices are awesome - you really can't go wrong when choosing between the two. Have a magical day! - Diane W.