For $158, I would certainly upgrade to Sapphire Falls. For me, the number one benefit is the water taxi. You’ll do the easy security check at the boat dock and arrive much much closer to the parks than using the bus/main hub. The more private feel of the boat is super.
The quality of the hotel is more upscale. And you’ll feel like you are on the main ‘campus’.
For the food, I would 100% take the 5 minute walk over to Aventura to the Urban Pantry. The breakfast is traditional and amazing. Sandwiches are great and the pizza is some of the best I’ve had. Another bonus is Aventura is a small hotel, so it doesn’t get crowded and service is fast. Here are some pics I took
Cabana Bay has a bigger food court, but is not that easy to walk to from SF.