Costco’s food court revival: a classic returns with a new spin, but will it satisfy the cravings of yesteryear?
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The bustling aisles of Costco have long been a haven for bargain hunters and bulk-buy enthusiasts, but for many, the heart of the warehouse giant lies in its iconic food court. Known for its affordable and hearty fare, the Costco food court has become a beloved part of the shopping experience.
So, when a classic menu item makes a comeback, it’s bound to stir up excitement—and a bit of controversy—among the Costco faithful.
After all, food court staples have a way of becoming more than just meals; they become traditions.
But, as with any nostalgia-driven return, there are bound to be mixed feelings about the changes.
The Return of the Combo Pizza... with a Catch
The Costco Combo Pizza has been a staple for shoppers seeking a hearty, satisfying slice. Its generous 18-inch size, cut into 12 pieces for the unbeatable price of $9.95 plus tax, made it a supreme deal.
Topped with sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, green bell peppers, red onions, black olives, and a generous helping of cheese, it was a meal that could rival any local pizzeria's offering.
However, in 2020, the combo pizza disappeared from the food court menu, leaving a void in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.
A petition even circulated, pleading for its return.
Source: Reddit / r/costco.
Fast forward to March 2024, and Costco answered the call—sort of.
The Kirkland Signature Combo Pizza made a comeback, but not as the hot and ready-to-eat delight members remembered. Instead, it reemerged as a take-and-bake product.
The New Take-and-Bake Dilemma
Now, every Costco location stocks the combo pizza, but it’s a grab-and-go affair. Customers can pick it up cold, take it home, and bake it in their own ovens.
While some members have embraced this new option, others are less enthused, especially considering the price hike to $16.99.
The convenience of a ready-to-eat meal has been replaced by a DIY approach, and not everyone is on board with the change.
“I would get it again, just wish it was $3 less expensive,” one member lamented, echoing the sentiments of others who miss the original food court experience and its more wallet-friendly price.
The Membership Sharing Guidelines Reminder
Amidst the food court changes, Costco has also been tightening up on membership sharing rules. It’s a good time to remind our GrayVine readers of the guidelines:
The Chicken Bake Shrinkage Controversy
It’s not just the combo pizza that’s been stirring up conversation. The chicken bake, another food court staple, has reportedly undergone a slimming transformation, with claims of it being “30% skinnier.”
While some members have noticed a difference, others maintain that their local Costco’s chicken bakes remain unchanged.
Source: Reddit / Caramel_weeknd
As we look ahead, Costco is poised to make three major changes to stores in 2025. While details are still under wraps, it’s clear that the retailer is not afraid to shake things up.
From food court menus to store layouts, Costco is evolving, and we’re here to keep you informed every step of the way!
Have you tried the new take-and-bake combo pizza? Do you miss the original, or are you a fan of the change? What about the chicken bake—have you noticed it getting skinnier? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
So, when a classic menu item makes a comeback, it’s bound to stir up excitement—and a bit of controversy—among the Costco faithful.
After all, food court staples have a way of becoming more than just meals; they become traditions.
But, as with any nostalgia-driven return, there are bound to be mixed feelings about the changes.
Costco's iconic food court: Where classic favorites and new twists meet for loyal members. Image Source: Costco.
The Return of the Combo Pizza... with a Catch
The Costco Combo Pizza has been a staple for shoppers seeking a hearty, satisfying slice. Its generous 18-inch size, cut into 12 pieces for the unbeatable price of $9.95 plus tax, made it a supreme deal.
Topped with sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, green bell peppers, red onions, black olives, and a generous helping of cheese, it was a meal that could rival any local pizzeria's offering.
However, in 2020, the combo pizza disappeared from the food court menu, leaving a void in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.
A petition even circulated, pleading for its return.
Source: Reddit / r/costco.
Fast forward to March 2024, and Costco answered the call—sort of.
The Kirkland Signature Combo Pizza made a comeback, but not as the hot and ready-to-eat delight members remembered. Instead, it reemerged as a take-and-bake product.
The New Take-and-Bake Dilemma
Now, every Costco location stocks the combo pizza, but it’s a grab-and-go affair. Customers can pick it up cold, take it home, and bake it in their own ovens.
While some members have embraced this new option, others are less enthused, especially considering the price hike to $16.99.
The convenience of a ready-to-eat meal has been replaced by a DIY approach, and not everyone is on board with the change.
“I would get it again, just wish it was $3 less expensive,” one member lamented, echoing the sentiments of others who miss the original food court experience and its more wallet-friendly price.
The Membership Sharing Guidelines Reminder
Amidst the food court changes, Costco has also been tightening up on membership sharing rules. It’s a good time to remind our GrayVine readers of the guidelines:
- Primary Member Use: Only the primary cardholder is permitted to use the membership card for purchases.
- Household Card: Primary members can add one household cardholder for free, provided they live at the same address.
- Guest Policy: Members can bring two guests per visit, but only the member can make purchases.
- Authorized Cardholder: Additional cardholders can be added for a fee, allowing them to shop independently, even if they don’t live at the same address.
It’s not just the combo pizza that’s been stirring up conversation. The chicken bake, another food court staple, has reportedly undergone a slimming transformation, with claims of it being “30% skinnier.”
While some members have noticed a difference, others maintain that their local Costco’s chicken bakes remain unchanged.
Source: Reddit / Caramel_weeknd
As we look ahead, Costco is poised to make three major changes to stores in 2025. While details are still under wraps, it’s clear that the retailer is not afraid to shake things up.
From food court menus to store layouts, Costco is evolving, and we’re here to keep you informed every step of the way!
Have you tried the new take-and-bake combo pizza? Do you miss the original, or are you a fan of the change? What about the chicken bake—have you noticed it getting skinnier? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
