I'm not sure how much the cost of the dining plans will change for 2014, but below is what I figure I need to spend when I use each credit.
Regular Dining Plan--$56 per day($35 per TS(1), $15 per QS(1), $4 per snack(1))
Deluxe Dining Plan--$100 per day($30 per TS(3), $4 per snack(2))
When I choose restaurants, I choose one's where I will spend more than this amount on a meal. If I spend the exact amount, I've broken even--over the amount, I've saved money--under the amount, I've lost money. I always make sure I save money when I use the dining plan by using the online menus to get an idea of what I would eat. The character buffets are a good way to maximize the plan because most of them are close to or more than $30 for an adult. Having done both plans, it is a lot easier to save money(with the price increase) using the deluxe plan because you get an appetizer, entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage with your meal. If you concentrate on eating in the signature restaurants and only eating two meals a day on the deluxe plan, it is very easy to come out ahead.