master-cooks | Can You Eat At Costco's Food Court Without A Membership?

Costco's food court is popular for its affordable and delicious offerings, but there is often confusion about whether you need a membership to enjoy these treats. Officially, Costco's policy is that you must have a membership card to purchase food at their food court. However, there are some exceptions and workarounds that people have found useful. In certain locations, especially those with outdoor food courts, you might be able to purchase food without being asked for a membership card. This largely depends on the store's layout and how strictly they enforce the policy. Some shoppers report success by simply saying they're there to eat, as not all locations require you to show your card before entering the food court. Additionally, Costco allows non-members to use their pharmacy and purchase alcohol in some states, which might also provide an opportunity to access the food court. Another approach is to accompany a friend or family member who is a member, as they can make the purchase on your behalf. Ultimately, while the official stance is that a membership is required, local practices and store layouts can sometimes allow for non-members to enjoy the food court's offerings.

Is a Costco membership actually worth it?

Is a Costco membership truly a worthwhile investment? If your only interest is the food court, it might not be. However, if you plan to utilize the store's various benefits, it’s definitely a great deal, with the food court being a delightful bonus.

As of now, a Gold Star membership at Costco costs $65 annually, granting you access to the entire store where you can stock up on a wide range of food products, including those from Costco's Kirkland Signature line, renowned for its quality and affordability. Costco also offers a plethora of pre-made meals, including some hidden treasures that loyal customers rave about, along with an impressive selection of fine liquors. Essentially, if you need something, Costco likely has it.

Alternatively, you can shop at Costco through Instacart without a membership, but you may end up paying higher prices. Some customers craving Costco pizza have reported successfully ordering it via Instacart by directly messaging their shoppers, as food court items cannot be added to grocery orders through the app. However, this option can be more expensive overall, and there’s no guarantee that your shopper will be willing to stop by the food court for you. Ultimately, the best approach is to get a membership and enjoy the food court whenever cravings strike—plus, you can pick up some groceries while you’re there.

Now, check out our comprehensive ranking of Costco's food court offerings to find out which items are worth your hard-earned money (or credit).

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

Is a Costco membership actually worth it?

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