Yes, I am fully aware that Costco is not a restaurant. But I would be doing both you and I a great disservice if I did not mention the convenience, speed, value, and downright outstanding quality of the Costco lunch. Only got a few minutes? Only a few bucks? Just not that hungry? Really, really hungry? No matter what lunch-time obstacles may have been thrown your way, Costco is right there to boost you over that hurdle.

The most obvious option as you approach the bright lights of the food court would be the 1/4 pound all beef hot dog or polish dog and a 20 oz. drink for $1.50. A buck fifty? That’s right, a buck fifty. Not a dog person? Go with the chicken bake! This is a generous portion of chicken, bacon, and cheese all melted and snuggled safely inside a crisp, yet soft bread blanket, for $2.69. Still not convinced? Try a huge slice of pizza for $1.99, either cheese, pepperoni, or supreme. Or, grab a whole one for the family for ten bucks. They’ve even got a chicken caesar salad for the more (slightly) health-conscious.

Any one of these could stand alone as a meal, making a $1.50 go one heckuva long way, but go ahead and get creative. Add an ice cream bar (say yes to the chopped almonds). Add a very berry sundae, with real berries, or a frozen latte smoothie. Whatever you do, finish it off with a twisted foot-long churro for a buck. There are those who would have me hanged for this, but I am going to go ahead and say their churros are better than Disneyland’s. It was a worthy replacement of the pretzels that were once so popular.

What it boils down to: You simply can’t beat the value of the Costco food court anywhere in Utah. It has really grown since the humble beginnings of a hot dog cart parked at the exit. As a slight negative, if you choose to go with the hot dog that started it all, there is a very good chance that you will be burping up that flavor all day. If this does indeed happen, be sure to stand extra close to your wife for the rest of the day, kissing her often to show your love. She will appreciate the extra affection!

‘Til we eat again

Costco Wholesale

View locations in Utah