In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Costco Food Court menu, from the history of its fan-favorite items to the nutritional information and tips for making the most of your food court experience.
A Brief History of Costco Food Court
Before diving into the menu, it’s worth exploring the backstory of Costco’s Food Court. Costco introduced its food court in the early 1980s, and the main idea was simple: offer members affordable, quick-serve food that matched the store’s overall value-focused mission. Over time, certain items became so popular that they earned a legendary status among regular shoppers.
One of Costco’s most notable accomplishments is maintaining the price of its hot dog and soda combo at $1.50 for over three decades. In fact, the price is so integral to Costco’s identity that when someone suggested raising it, Costco’s co-founder reportedly quipped, “If you raise the price of the hot dog, I will kill you.”
Popular Costco Food Court Menu Items
Let’s take a deep dive into some of the most popular and beloved menu items available at Costco’s food court:
The Iconic Hot Dog and Soda Combo
No conversation about Costco’s food court is complete without mentioning the iconic hot dog and soda combo. Priced at just $1.50, this meal has become a hallmark of the Costco experience. The hot dog is a 1/4-pound beef frank served in a steamed bun, accompanied by unlimited soda refills.
Why It’s a Fan Favorite:
- Affordable: At $1.50, it’s hard to find a more cost-effective meal anywhere else.
- Tasty: Costco’s hot dogs are made from 100% beef, without any fillers, byproducts, or corn syrup.
- Generous Portion: The frank is larger than most regular hot dogs you’ll find elsewhere.
Costco Pizza
Another fan-favorite item is Costco’s pizza. Available by the slice or as a full 18-inch pie, Costco pizza is known for its thick, chewy crust, generous layers of mozzarella cheese, and flavorful toppings. You can choose between three classic options: cheese, pepperoni, and a combo that includes pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, and onions.
Why People Love Costco Pizza:
- Size and Value: The slices are huge, and an entire pizza costs around $9.95, making it an ideal choice for feeding a group.
- Deliciousness: Whether you prefer simple cheese or fully-loaded, Costco pizza is widely considered one of the best-tasting pizzas at a budget-friendly price.
- Customizable: Some locations allow you to mix and match slices, while others offer pre-made pies for easy grab-and-go.
Chicken Bake
The Chicken Bake is a savory, hand-held meal that packs chicken breast, bacon, mozzarella cheese, and Caesar dressing inside a golden-baked dough shell. It’s crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and rich with flavor.
Why It Stands Out:
- Filling: The Chicken Bake is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.
- Unique Flavor: The combination of melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser.
- Affordable: At around $3.99, it offers exceptional value for a hot and satisfying meal.
Costco Churro
If you’re craving something sweet, the Costco churro is a must-try. This oversized pastry is coated with cinnamon sugar and deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s crispy on the outside and warm, soft, and doughy on the inside.
What Makes the Churro Special:
- Size: Costco’s churros are much larger than the typical churros you’ll find at other establishments.
- Sweet and Crunchy: The cinnamon-sugar coating gives the churro a satisfying crunch with each bite.
- Low Cost: At only $1.49, it’s an affordable indulgence.
The BBQ Brisket Sandwich
Though not available at every location, the BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a relatively newer addition to the Costco Food Court menu. This sandwich features slow-cooked beef brisket, tangy BBQ sauce, and coleslaw, all served on a soft bun.
Why It’s Gaining Popularity:
- Quality Ingredients: The brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, offering tender meat with rich, smoky flavors.
- Flavor Contrast: The sweet and smoky brisket pairs beautifully with the tangy coleslaw, providing a satisfying balance.
- Great Value: At around $4.99, the BBQ Brisket Sandwich offers a premium meal at a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
Acai Bowl
Costco has been adding healthier options to its food court, and the Acai Bowl is one of the most popular items. This fruity, antioxidant-packed bowl features a base of acai puree topped with granola, blueberries, strawberries, and banana slices.
Why Health-Conscious Shoppers Love It:
- Nutrient-Rich: Acai berries are known for being rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
- Refreshing: This cold, fruity bowl is perfect for a light meal or snack on a hot day.
- Great Value: For about $5, you’re getting a healthy and filling option at a reasonable price.
Chicken Caesar Salad
Another healthier option at the Costco Food Court is the Chicken Caesar Salad. Made with fresh romaine lettuce, grilled chicken breast, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing, this salad is a filling yet lighter choice.
Why It’s Worth Ordering:
- Balanced Meal: With a good amount of protein from the chicken and a decent portion size, it’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Affordable: Priced around $3.99 to $4.99, it’s one of the best value salads you can find.
- Fresh Ingredients: Costco is known for its quality, and the salad is made fresh daily.
Also Read: Spiderman Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Nutritional Information: Indulge in Moderation
While Costco’s food court items are undeniably delicious, they’re often indulgent. Let’s take a quick look at some of the nutritional aspects of their menu:
- Hot Dog Combo: A Costco hot dog has around 570 calories, with 33 grams of fat and 1,700 mg of sodium. The calorie count rises if you add condiments like mustard and ketchup.
- Pizza (Cheese Slice): A single slice of Costco’s cheese pizza contains roughly 700 calories, 28 grams of fat, and 1,370 mg of sodium. The pepperoni and combo pizzas contain even more.
- Chicken Bake: The Chicken Bake has approximately 770 calories and 40 grams of fat.
- Churro: Costco’s churro has around 450 calories and 21 grams of fat.
If you’re concerned about calorie counts but still want to enjoy the Costco Food Court, it’s best to share items with friends or choose the lighter menu options like the Acai Bowl or Chicken Caesar Salad.
Pro Tips for a Great Costco Food Court Experience
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to the Costco Food Court:
Know the Payment Options
Unlike the main Costco store, the food court often accepts more payment methods. Some locations accept cash, debit cards, and even some credit cards, so be sure to check what’s accepted at your local Costco Food Court.
Don’t Forget to Customize
Feel free to ask for extra condiments like mustard, ketchup, onions, or pickles at the condiment bar. Some locations offer additional toppings like red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese for your pizza.
Check for Regional Specials
Certain Costco Food Courts offer menu items specific to their region. For example, some locations in Asia offer bulgogi bakes, while others in the U.S. might have additional dessert or sandwich options.
Skip the Line with the Costco App
At some Costco locations, you can now order food through the Costco app, cutting down on wait times and ensuring a quicker experience. Check if this service is available at your local Costco.
Take Your Food to Go
If you’re in a rush or don’t want to dine in, many Costco Food Courts offer convenient to-go packaging. Their pizza, for instance, is packed in a sturdy box, perfect for bringing home or sharing with friends.
The Costco Food Court is more than just a place to grab a quick bite after shopping—it’s a beloved institution. With a wide array of delicious options at unbeatable prices, it’s no wonder why it’s adored by Costco members worldwide. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick snack or feeding your entire family on a budget, the Costco Food Court menu delivers satisfaction in every bite.