There’s a reason so many people can’t leave Costco without grabbing something from the food court.

Beyond the bulk snacks and giant household staples, there’s one thing members truly swear by—the classic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo.

It’s a deal that has survived price hikes and supply chain issues, remaining one of the store’s most beloved traditions.

But now, a clever new hack is making the rounds online, and it’s turning this humble hot dog into a next-level creation known as the “Hot Dog Royale.”

The Birth of the “Royale”​

It all started with a clever Costco shopper who goes by the handle bixbyvegas on Reddit. Their post, complete with a tantalizing photo, revealed a secret weapon for elevating your food court frank: a medley of chopped onions, relish, ketchup, mustard, crushed red pepper flakes, and—wait for it—Parmesan cheese.

All of these are available for free at the condiment station (when supplies last, of course). The result? A hot dog so loaded and flavorful, it’s been dubbed the “Royale.”

“When the onions are available I make the ‘Royale,’” bixbyvegas wrote, lamenting that onions are often in short supply at their local warehouse.

The post quickly caught fire, with fellow Costco fans expressing everything from curiosity to outright devotion. “I’m… intrigued,” one commenter admitted.

“I’d give it a good ol’ college try,” said another. And, as is the way of the internet, it wasn’t long before someone tried it and reported back: “Edit: Tried it today! It was actually quite good. Real spicy mustard experience.”


Turns out, the Royale isn’t just an American innovation. One commenter pointed out that Costco shoppers in Korea have been jazzing up their hot dogs with similar toppings for years, affectionately calling it “Costco Kimchi.”

It’s a reminder that food court creativity knows no borders, and that sometimes, the best ideas are the ones people share across continents.

Of course, not every Costco is created equal. The real sticking point for many would-be Royale makers? The elusive chopped onions.

“I ask for onions every time I go. I haven’t had onions in years,” one user lamented. Another reminisced about the “free-for-all onion spinner,” a beloved fixture that’s become a rare sight in some locations.

If you’re lucky enough to spot onions at your local warehouse, consider it your golden ticket to hot dog glory.



Also read: Save big on dinner: 5 Costco meals under $18 that will feed the whole family

How to Make Your Own Hot Dog Royale​

Ready to try the Royale for yourself? Here’s how to build this cult-favorite creation:

1. Start with the Classic: Order the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo.
2. Load Up on Toppings: Head to the condiment station and pile on chopped onions (if available), relish, ketchup, and mustard.
3. Add the Secret Ingredients: Sprinkle on a generous helping of Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes. Don’t be shy—this is what takes your dog from ordinary to extraordinary.
4. Enjoy!: Take a bite and savor the symphony of flavors. You might just find yourself a convert.

Also read: Man’s $15 Taco Bell hack shows how to order the perfect haul

There’s something special about the Costco food court. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of a simple, affordable meal after a marathon shopping trip.

Maybe it’s the sense of community—strangers swapping tips, families sharing a pizza, friends debating the merits of the chicken bake.

Or maybe it’s just the thrill of discovering a new way to enjoy an old favorite.

Read next:

• October's best fast-food deals will stretch your budget further than ever
• 7 Kirkland Signature deals that Costco members say are October’s biggest jackpots

Have you tried the Hot Dog Royale? Do you have your own secret food court creation? Maybe you’re still mourning the loss of the onion spinner, or you’ve found a way to make the pizza even cheesier.