Can You Eat At Costco's Food Court Without A Membership?

Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, August 12th 2025 at 10:40 GMT by Food Republic
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In the past, anyone could eat at Costco even without a membership. However, have things changed? Can you still walk up without one and order food?

Unlocking Costco's Food Court Delights: How to Enjoy the Eats Without a Membership

Costco's food court has long been a beacon for budget-conscious eaters, offering an array of affordable, hearty meals that have cult-like followings. From the legendary $1.50 hot dog and soda combo to oversized slices of pizza, chicken bakes, and seasonal treats like the turkey wrap or acai bowls, it's no wonder people flock to these no-frills eateries. But here's the catch: Costco is a members-only warehouse club, requiring an annual fee starting at $60 for a basic membership or $120 for the executive level. This paywall keeps the deals exclusive, but it also leaves non-members wondering if they can snag a bite without committing to the club. The good news? There are clever, legitimate ways to access the food court without flashing a membership card. In this deep dive, we'll explore these strategies, backed by shopper experiences, Costco policies, and practical tips to help you indulge in those irresistible bargains.

First, let's understand the allure. Costco's food court prices have remained remarkably stable for decades, defying inflation. The hot dog combo, for instance, has been $1.50 since the 1980s, a point of pride for the company. Founder Jim Sinegal once famously told executives that raising the price would happen "over my dead body." This commitment to value extends to other items: a whole 18-inch pizza for $9.95, a chicken bake for $2.99, or a massive sundae for around $1.79. These deals aren't just cheap; they're substantial, often serving as full meals. For families, students, or anyone pinching pennies, it's a game-changer compared to fast-food chains where similar items could cost double or triple. However, with over 800 warehouses worldwide, access varies by location, and recent policy shifts have made things trickier. In 2023, Costco began enforcing membership checks more stringently at some food courts, especially indoor ones, amid rising operational costs and crowd control. But savvy shoppers have found workarounds.

One of the most straightforward methods is targeting warehouses with outdoor or externally accessible food courts. Not all Costco locations integrate their food courts inside the main store; some have them positioned outside the entrance or in a separate pavilion. In these setups, you can often walk right up, order, and pay without ever stepping foot in the warehouse proper. For example, many California and Florida locations feature open-air food courts where non-members can queue up freely. To find these, a quick online search or call to your local store can confirm. Shoppers report success at places like the Costco in Hawthorne, California, or certain spots in Arizona, where the food court operates almost like a standalone eatery. This approach is particularly effective in warmer climates where outdoor seating makes sense year-round. Just note that during peak hours, lines can be long, and seating might be limited—bring patience and perhaps a picnic blanket.

If the food court is indoors, things get more nuanced, but non-members aren't entirely out of luck. Enter the Costco Shop Card, essentially a gift card that anyone can purchase and use. Here's how it works: A friend or family member with a membership can buy a Shop Card for you (available in denominations from $25 to $2,000). Non-members can then use this card to shop inside the warehouse, including at the food court. While Costco's official policy states that non-members can't enter without a member, the Shop Card acts as a loophole, allowing entry for purchases. Many users on forums like Reddit's r/Costco share stories of walking in, heading straight to the food court, and paying with the card—no questions asked. It's like a temporary pass. Pro tip: Load the card with just enough for your meal to avoid leftovers, and combine it with a member's escort for smoother entry. However, be aware that some locations are tightening rules; in 2024, reports emerged of staff scanning memberships at food court registers, so this isn't foolproof everywhere.

Another angle leverages Costco's non-membership services. Federal laws and store policies allow access to certain areas without a card, such as the pharmacy for prescriptions or the optical department for eye exams. In some warehouses, these services are near the food court, providing a pathway. For instance, if you enter for a pharmacy pickup (which doesn't require membership in many states), you might detour to the food court en route. Similarly, alcohol sales in about a dozen U.S. states don't mandate membership due to local liquor laws—think California, Texas, or New York. Warehouses in these areas often allow non-members to buy booze, and if the food court is adjacent, you could theoretically grab a slice while there. Shoppers have recounted entering for a bottle of Kirkland Signature wine and "accidentally" wandering to the pizza counter. Of course, this requires finesse and adherence to store etiquette; don't abuse it, as staff may redirect you.

Going with a member is perhaps the simplest hack. Costco allows each member to bring up to two guests (including children) per visit. If you have a friend or relative who's a cardholder, tag along—they can buy your food, or you can reimburse them. This is ideal for group outings, like a family lunch or post-shopping snack. Many people use apps like Splitwise to handle the finances seamlessly. For those without connections, community boards or social media groups sometimes organize "Costco buddy" meetups, though this carries risks—always prioritize safety.

Beyond these tactics, consider the broader context. Costco's food court isn't just about savings; it's a cultural phenomenon. Items like the Polish dog (discontinued in 2018 but fondly remembered) or the current churro have sparked online debates and petitions. The menu evolves—recent additions include plant-based options like the al pastor salad—to cater to diverse tastes. Compared to competitors like Sam's Club or BJ's, Costco's offerings stand out for quality and portion size. Sam's Club, for example, requires membership for its cafe but offers similar deals, while non-club options like IKEA's cafeteria are open to all but lack the same value.

That said, these methods aren't without caveats. Costco is increasingly vigilant, with digital membership apps and self-checkout systems making evasion harder. Attempting to sneak in could lead to being asked to leave, and repeated tries might result in bans. Ethically, supporting the membership model sustains the low prices, so consider joining if you're a frequent visitor—the perks extend to gas, travel, and bulk goods. For occasional treats, though, these strategies keep the dream alive.

In summary, while Costco guards its treasures, non-members can still partake in food court bliss through outdoor access, Shop Cards, service loopholes, or member accompaniment. Next time you're craving that unbeatable hot dog, scout your local warehouse and plan accordingly. With a bit of research and creativity, those savings are within reach—no membership required. (Word count: 1,048)

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Can You Eat At Costco's Food Court Without A Membership?

Unlocking Costco's Food Court Delights: How to Enjoy the Eats Without a Membership