When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Costco Food Court
Why Costco Food Court is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Costco Food Court stands out as a popular spot for shoppers looking to enjoy quick, affordable, and generously portioned meals while on the go. Known for serving some of the best deals in fast food, the Food Court has cemented its reputation with signature items like the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo, a quarter-pound all-beef version that has held the same price since 1985, making it an unbeatable value. Beyond the hot dog, the menu features large slices of pizza priced at $1.99 each or nearly 18-inch whole pizzas for under $10, ideal for sharing with friends or family gatherings. Other offerings include a hearty chicken and bacon sandwich, churros, Caesar salads featuring rotisserie chicken, and indulgent bakery treats like double chocolate chunk cookies. The Food Court’s simplicity — limited menu options — emphasizes quality quantity and value, making it a favorite meeting spot for both casual shoppers and families. Its super-sized portions and reasonable prices invite groups to relax and refuel after shopping excursions, creating a community-friendly, budget-conscious dining experience within the warehouse environment.
Here's what people think of Costco Food Court
As of recent, Costco Food Court holds a 4.2-star rating based on 130 reviews.
Customer reviews of Costco Food Court reflect a blend of appreciation and critiques largely centered on price, portion size, and food quality. Many reviewers praise the Food Court for its incredible value, especially highlighting the iconic hot dog and soda combo as a nostalgic bargain that outshines competitors. Reviewers also appreciate the generous portion sizes of items like pizza and churros, calling the food indulgent and satisfying. Several customers note that the food tastes better than expected for its price, framing the Food Court as a welcome treat during or after shopping. Positive feedback often mentions the speedy service, affordability, and family-friendly options that make the Food Court a reliable spot for casual meals. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to certain menu items like the pizza being greasy, overly floppy, or lacking in robust flavor. A few customers feel some items are a bit too simple or greasy, expressing desires for more variety or quality improvements. Despite these minor drawbacks, most reviews conclude that the Food Court offers a valued combination of quantity, taste, and affordability. Overall, the strong positive consensus about taste and price outweighs criticism, reinforcing Costco Food Court’s role as a convenient and budget-friendly dining destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eduardo Ceja
I don’t know whose idea it was to do their food court the new way but it’s the worst. I can call in orders or even place an order and go shopping. I need to stand here in line and wait for the pizza. Can’t shop. Fire the person who made this up.
Manni
Bad customer service, cold pizza, the blonde tall guy that works there is super rude and shouldn't be working in customer service.
Paul Burgess
I ordered food and held on to my receipt but it was never honored. I was also accused of stealing by management and escorted out which was completely erroneous and false
H H
Really good food for a really low price. You don't need a membership for the food court. They take forever so make sure you have the time. I feel like they need one person on complicated orders and one person getting the super easy orders. There are times where we are waiting 15 minutes for 1 soda and 1 churro because someone ordered 2 of everything on the menu.
Pennie Clayson
Went to Sweetheart Donuts for breakfast sandwiches, and they were fantastic ham, egg and cheese croissant and bacon egg, and cheese croissant. The apple fritter is a must have, they are the best I have ever had. Don't change a thing.
How to reach Costco Food Court
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Why Costco Food Court may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?\ Costco Food Court is an exceptional venue for gathering with friends because it combines great value, tasty food, and a casual atmosphere that encourages relaxed socializing. For just a small budget, visitors can enjoy a variety of popular menu items like the famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo, fresh pizza, and hearty sandwiches, making it an economical way to feed a group without sacrificing quality or flavor. Unlike typical food courts, Costco’s food court is known for generous portions and consistent quality, which means you won’t find yourself wondering if everyone will be satisfied. The venue’s informal, friendly environment makes it easy to catch up, share meals, and bond over comforting, crowd-pleasing eats. Given the food court’s regular popularity and highly rated menu selections, it can energize any meetup with its combination of convenience, affordability, and delicious food options—all within the welcoming space of a well-known wholesale retailer. This makes it a practical and enjoyable destination that transforms casual meetups into memorable social occasions.
What activities can you do at Costco Food Court and why is it perfect for group meetups?\ Costco Food Court offers more than just food; it provides a unique setting for diverse group activities anchored around sharing meals. Primarily, the food court allows you and your friends to explore a menu full of classic favorites that cater well to different tastes and dietary preferences, from savory pizza slices and hot dogs to fresh sandwiches and ice cream treats. This variety means group members can pick options that suit their cravings without hassle. Many favor pre-ordering the large, shareable pizzas, which can turn a simple meal into a fun, communal dining experience. Beyond just eating, the food court’s layout and casual seating foster interaction, encouraging easy conversation in an informal setting. Because it’s located inside a warehouse store, it also offers the added activity of shopping together afterward, blending a culinary outing with a practical trip. Groups looking to meet somewhere lively but unpretentious find the blend of food and shopping an engaging way to spend time together.
How does Costco’s membership policy impact group visits?\ As of April 2024, Costco has tightened access to its food court, requiring customers to hold an active Costco membership card to purchase food and drinks at the food court. This policy enhances member exclusivity and protects the value offered to paying members. For groups planning a meetup, this means everyone attending should either be a Costco member or accompany a member who can use their card for food court purchases. This membership requirement, starting annually at $60 for a basic membership, adds a layer of exclusivity but also ensures that the food court maintains its high standards and affordability, funded by loyal shoppers committed to their memberships. Despite this mandate potentially requiring a bit of planning, the investment pays off by granting access to one of the most affordable and generously portioned food courts in retail. The policy also supports Costco’s broader business model, where membership fees contribute significantly to offering low prices and quality products in both the store and the dining area.
What food options make Costco Food Court a hit among groups?\ The menu at Costco Food Court is famous for its limited but highly popular selections that appeal widely to groups looking to share a satisfying meal. The iconic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo is a standout deal that alone draws large crowds, offering a classic American-style snack at unbeatable value. For larger groups, the oversized pizza—available by the slice or as a whole pie—is perfect for sharing and can easily serve several people, making it ideal for meetups or casual celebrations. The menu also includes fresh sandwiches packed with flavor and ingredients, providing a hearty alternative to pizza and hot dogs. Sweet options like soft-serve ice cream and sundaes cater to dessert lovers and add a delightful end to group meals without stretching the budget. These cost-effective, consistent food choices have built a loyal following, offering dependable quality that helps groups quickly decide on a shared order that pleases everyone.
What makes the environment at Costco Food Court suitable for friendly gatherings?\ The atmosphere at Costco Food Court is informal, spacious, and welcoming, making it a natural setting for casual meetups among friends and families. The seating arrangements often consist of large shared tables and open seating, which ease the challenge of finding group space and encourage interaction among diners. The bustling yet friendly environment is perfect for low-pressure social settings where conversation flows freely and food is the centerpiece. Since the food court is part of a larger wholesale store, there’s a lively, energetic vibe stemming from the combination of shoppers grabbing essentials and families taking breaks over their meals. It also means groups can extend their outings beyond the food court, wandering through the store together for impromptu shopping, further enhancing the collective experience. The overall setting supports a relaxed, inclusive vibe ideal for connecting without the formalities or expectations of a traditional restaurant.
How does affordability enhance meetups at Costco Food Court?\ One of the primary factors that make Costco Food Court a magnet for group gatherings is its impressive affordability without compromising quality. The price point of many menu items is extraordinarily low compared to standard food courts or restaurants, meaning groups can feast heartily on a relatively small budget. This affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of people, from college students to families looking for simple yet satisfying eats. Because of the large portion sizes and inexpensive pricing, groups benefit financially from ordering larger shareable dishes like the giant pizza, which spreads the cost among several people but feeds everyone generously. This cost-effectiveness reduces the stress often associated with dining out in groups, making spur-of-the-moment meetups or regular social lunches more feasible. The economic advantage of dining at Costco Food Court enables groups to focus on connection and enjoyment rather than financial concerns.
Can the location of Costco Food Court add value to your group event?\ The strategic placement of Costco Food Courts inside their wholesale stores provides a unique advantage for group outings. After enjoying an easy meal together, groups can seamlessly transition into shopping for bulk goods, groceries, or other household items, effectively combining social time with productive errands. This one-stop experience saves time and adds convenience, especially for groups that might be meeting as part of broader shopping plans. The warehouse ambiance caters well to families and groups who appreciate a no-fuss environment and the option to explore a diverse range of products. For some, the combination of shopping and dining becomes a social tradition, emphasizing both utility and enjoyment in one visit. Additionally, Costco’s widespread presence means many groups can conveniently find a location nearby, making it a reliable option for meetups regardless of where members live.
Are there any special perks that come with being a Costco member during group visits?\ Being a Costco member brings additional perks that can enhance group meetups at the food court and beyond. Executive members, for example, receive a 2% annual reward on qualified purchases, which can include food court transactions when combined with store shopping. This means dining and shopping as a group can add up to tangible savings or cash-back benefits over time. Membership also grants peace of mind through Costco’s satisfaction guarantees on merchandise and services, reducing uncertainty about quality. The exclusivity of member-only access to the food court ensures that groups enjoy consistently fresh and well-priced food, protected from overcrowding by non-members. These benefits position Costco Food Court not just as a place to eat, but as part of a larger lifestyle advantage accessible to those invested in the Costco community.
What considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Costco Food Court?\ Groups planning to meet at Costco Food Court should be aware that access to the food court requires active membership, so coordinating attendance around membership status is key. Since the food court can become busy during peak shopping hours, it’s advisable to plan meetups during off-peak times to ensure seating availability and a more comfortable atmosphere. For groups keen on specific items like the large pizzas, calling ahead to pre-order can reduce wait times and guarantee availability, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Given the warehouse setting, parking and navigation may require some coordination, especially for larger groups arriving together. Lastly, while the seating is communal and casual, groups should be prepared for a vibrant environment where other shoppers mix with diners, which differs from private or reserved dining spaces but enhances the social, welcoming character unique to Costco’s food courts.