There are differences between the Dining Plans and cash.
On the
DDP, you lose the choice of having an appetizer instead of dessert, it is dessert only. If you fall ill, or simply don't want to eat a table service meal that includes entree, dessert and beverage, there are no refunds..it is prepaid.
Hwever, depending upon your dining habits, the DDP
can save you some $$, especially if you are traveling with children aged 9 and under. If your group is all adult age, the DDP may be more of a convenience package than a $ saver.
It really depends upon how you use the plan, your dining habits, and the overall ages of your trsveling party.
As we generally prefer soups and salads rather than sugary desserts, and have our table service meal for lunch instead of dinner, we save $ by paying with cash over the DDP.