You can trade a specific number of SPG points for an upgrade at the Dolphin. (Even if you're paying for the room and not using points for the room itself.) To find out the exact number of points, you can call Starwood. There's also a requirement that you request the upgrade a specific number of days out. It's probably worth it to call Starwood to get all the particulars.
Since it costs at least 1000 points to upgrade per night, you may not be interested in that. BUt, you can ask at check-in about the point exchange for meals. You may be able to swing something. I['ve never used the instant reward, but, have thought about it, and may try it in December.