Well, no CP is not discounted...it's actually pretty expensive! For instance it's $53.99 for a Tier 3 dinner.....using Le Cellier as an example since it's so popular.....if you assume that'll you'll order the most expensive entree, steak (either filet or NY) for $34.99, desserts are $6.99-7.99; included drinks are $2.09. So, assuming the most expensive dessert and entree, you would pay $45.07 per person.....but the CP package is $53.99. So that's $8.92 for your CP admission ticket.....and it's even more if you don't get steak, as the next most expensive entree item is $24.99.... which would make your CP admission ticket $18.92. (this doesn't include tip because you'll pay that no matter which way you order....though obviously your tip will be a couple dollars more on the CP plan).
The Tier one lunch is worse....regular price of the buffet is $20.99 at Garden Grill or $19.99 at Germany....but no matter which you go to you'll pay $27.99 for the CP package.
I was hoping that I could use the DDE to offset some of that upcharging, but apparently not.
Oh...and someone was asking about using the DDE and Dining Plan together. My understanding in reading the Disney FAQs about it, you CAN use the DDE to offset the cost of appetizers/non covered drinks (i.e. speciality and alcohol), though probably not on the CP package since I was told by two different CMs that the DDE is not accepted for the CP because it's a "special" dining package.
BUT>....one good thing....if you are NON dining plan, then your meal price INCLUDES an appetizer, but the dining plan folks get gyped out of the appetizer. Unfortunately for my family, there is only 1 restaurant where we like the appetizer choice.
I'm beginning to think I'll just go to these restaurants on my own, and we'll sit out at the American Pavillion and LISTEN to the CP, even if we can't see it. I tend to close my eyes at concerts anyway....my DH always accuses me of sleeping through the symphony (we have season tickets) but I like to concentrate and lose myself in the music, and watching them play doesn't interest me....I find myself distracted by the orchestra members who are fiddling with their pages, or just sitting there, or the guy in the aisle in front of me, etc. So maybe I don't need to see CP.