To be able to consider ANYTHING on the menu (included in the plan of course) and not feel like I need to restrict myself is such a big thing for a lot of people.
So, yes, I can eat at Disney cheaper than what I’m paying for the plan even at the same restaurants, but the plan helps me lose self-imposed restrictions.
Some people see the plan as limiting. Other see it as freeing.
I hope your friend feels absolutely spoiled.
Yes, I definitely want it to feel like a luxurious vacation, even staying at a Value.
Yes, going through this exercise, choosing "What would we order?", reinforced that for me, that paying OOP, for me, is mentally restrictive. For one thing, I had literally NEVER had an alcoholic drink at any Disney resort or restaurant of any kind, because of prices (plus tax and tip!). Until the
DDP added alcohol. And I *loved* it. I also had Catch of the Day fish and steak, both things I would never choose and among the best things I ate on my trip.
The sticker shock was so bad (and reaching into your wallet to pay is a different shock than merely looking over menus while still at home) on our first trip, DLR in 2012, that I just didn't order anything at CS places. I just ate the kids' leftovers, which is as appetizing and satisfying as it sounds. I would pull something similar if I tried the "I'll just bring Disney gift cards loaded with the money I know I'll spend." Because that gift card is fungible enough that I would forgo food, or at least alcohol, knowing that I could get a Rey vest or those cute Mouse ears or a
Loungefly bag or that gorgeous droid dress for my DD that isn't available outside the parks!
I can't wait to take a couple different special ladies, and snack and drink like queens!