meal deal vs. 15% off in selected restaurants

[elorapet]

Newbie needs some help...
We are going to stay in Fairfield Inn by Marriot and I am now thinking is the meal deal worth it while we can use the partner hotel benefits "15% off* food and non-alcoholic beverages at select locations in Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure."

I think that we are going to spent two whole days at the parks, so we are definately eating there at least 2 times per day, but breakfast we will eat in our hotel for sure because it is included in the room rate. DH and I, we are not picky eaters, DD6 is picky, but burgers and fries will always do.

I have noticed that some people here think that meal deal is not that good deal because of limited selection and long lines, but has anybody any knowledge in which restaurants I can use the partner hotel benefit? is it even more limited selection of places?

btw, is it cheaper to buy MealDeal in advance or is it the same price if you buy it from the park?

we are coming on november, so is there long lines in MealDeal places through out the year?

I would really appreciate your help.

 

[kenban]

My complaint about the meal deal is that if your only eatting twice its cheaper to just pay full price then to get the meal deal. The meal deal starts at 11AM and does not include breakfast anyways.

 

[buzz2400]

We tried the meal deal last year and it turned out to be a waste of money. We only paid for the park meal deal at IOA and ended up doing a whole lot of walking back to IOA to get our dinner. Also because it was so hot out, we really didn't have an appetite. You also do spend a lot of time in the lines. This year we are just going to use our annual pass discount.