master-cooks | What Happened To Costco's Discontinued Combo Pizza?

Costco's Combo Pizza, a popular menu item in its food courts, was discontinued, much to the dismay of its loyal customers. The decision to remove this item was part of a broader menu simplification strategy that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic began, Costco had to adapt its operations to ensure safety and efficiency, which included streamlining its offerings. The Combo Pizza, known for its generous toppings of meat, cheese, and vegetables, was one of the items that did not make the cut. The company focused on simplifying the menu to reduce the complexity of operations and minimize the time customers spent waiting for their orders. Despite numerous requests and petitions from fans to bring back the Combo Pizza, Costco has not reinstated it, choosing instead to concentrate on its core menu items. While the disappearance of the Combo Pizza left a void for many pizza lovers, Costco has continued to maintain strong customer loyalty through other popular food court offerings, such as its hot dogs and pepperoni pizza. The decision reflects a broader trend in the food service industry toward streamlining menus to improve operational efficiency and customer service.

Costco's combo pizza is returning in an unexpected way

In early 2024, speculation began to spread online regarding the return of Costco's combo pizza — but not in the food court. A Reddit thread from March, allegedly posted by a company employee, hinted that the beloved pizza would be reintroduced as a take-and-bake option available at the in-house delis. Although the post was later removed, raising some skepticism about the claim, solid evidence has since emerged.

Just a few months later, in June 2024, a Reddit user shared images of the new version being sold at a warehouse in Honolulu, Hawaii, though it's still uncertain when it will be available at locations across the country. The new combo pizza differs from the discontinued version in a few notable ways. Firstly, the new iteration is rectangular instead of circular. While this shape may facilitate baking in a standard oven, it's unclear if it matches the size of the food court pizzas. The most significant difference, however, is the price. The ready-to-bake combo pizza is priced at $16.99, which is over $7 more than the previous $9.95 cost. Overall, reactions appear to be mixed based on comments in the online thread, primarily due to frustration over the higher price and the added hassle of baking and slicing it at home — a valid concern given how exhausting a trip to Costco can be.

Costco's combo pizza is actually still on menus — just not in America

If the new take-and-bake option doesn't excite you and you've been craving Costco's combo pizza since it was removed from the menu, you can fulfill your desires with a trip overseas. A Reddit post reveals that the original pizza is still offered at the food courts of Costco in Japan. While the combo pizza available across the Pacific may have a few minor variations, like the type of onions used as toppings, it remains largely the same hot-and-ready version that is no longer found in the United States. Additionally, Costco food courts in Japan boast other unique offerings, such as the bulgogi bake (sorry, chicken bake) and a variety of soft serve flavors. And, of course, the classic hot dog and soda combo is also available there.

Japan's distinctive menu reflects a broader trend among Costcos worldwide to provide different delectable items that cater to local tastes and cuisines. For example, Costco locations in Korea offer a range of tempting choices that American members might be eager to sample, including ricotta fruit salad, BLT sandwiches, iced coffee, and yes, the combo pizza. They even have a Korean BBQ-inspired version of the classic cheesy pizza: bulgogi pizza. Clearly, embarking on a global tour of Costco food courts could be an exciting and flavorful adventure for devoted fans of the retailer. Not only can you savor the original combo pizza, but you can also explore new and inventive food court offerings.

What Happened To Costco's Discontinued Combo Pizza?

Costco's combo pizza is returning in an unexpected way

Costco's combo pizza is actually still on menus — just not in America

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