Costco. Mention it and you’re instantly bombarded with images of humongous carts, skyscraper-sized aisles, and that heavenly scent of pizza and hot dogs wafting from the food court. It’s not a warehouse it’s an experience in shopping. You can enter with the simple plan of just picking up a roll or two of toilet paper, but somehow you end up leaving with a kayak, a five-pound bag of gummy bears, and perhaps a little bit of happiness.
But the real question is: who are Costco’s actual MVPs? Ignore what everyone’s saying online who better to ask than the actual people who work and breathe the warehouse on a daily basis? They’re the ones who are most familiar with the items inside and out, the top bargains to the underappreciated treasures. They see the weekend rushes, the low-key weekday restocks, and they know the products that always get it right in both taste and value.
So I dug up employee suggestions, insider accounts, and yes, even my own taste tests to put together the ultimate list of employee-approved Costco eats. Think of this your guide to the warehouse food goldmine.
1. Deli Turkey Sandwiches
One of the biggest surprise favorites among workers is Costco Deli Turkey Sandwiches. Hidden away in the deli area, they’re usually overshadowed by the bulk prepared meats, but insiders give them a thumbs-up.
A worker confessed that these sandwiches were their own personal energy enhancers for extended workdays. And, frankly, that says it all regarding having the capacity to procure anything at Costco and yet selecting these day in and day out.
At approximately $10–12 a four-pack, they’re not only convenient, but budget-friendly. The secret? The sprouted grain bread. It keeps, never soggy, even after a day in the fridge, a great meal prep choice. So impressed is one customer that they claim to actually top the legendary food court roast beef sandwich bold claims, possibly, but not out of control.
If you’re in the market for a great lunch option that’s quick, cheap, and always delivers, these sandwiches could be your new addiction in no time.
2. Zalea Peaches in Light Syrup
Following is something sweet: Zalea Peaches in Light Syrup. Forget the overly sweet canned peaches you’ve had employees say these are on another level.
The syrup is light, not overly sweet, allowing the natural peach flavor to shine. One insider even revealed a clever hack: just add ice and water to the syrup for an instant peachy drink. And if you’re feeling fancy, the syrup doubles as the base for cocktails think white rum, mint, and a splash of peachy goodness.
From a quick snack to dessert toppings and even drinks, this pantry staple pulls way more weight than you’d expect.
3. Rotisserie Chicken
Ah yes, the Costco Rotisserie Chicken a warehouse legend. No Costco food list would be complete without it.
For only $4.99, it’s essentially a badge of thriftiness. Employees sing its praises: perpetually hot, perpetually juicy, perpetually available. It’s dinnertime, to be sure, but it’s also the basis for a dozen meals. Both customers and employees take it further still by simmering bones to extract broth, reducing a single chicken to the source of soups and stews.
It’s affordable, multi-purpose, and a favorite among anyone from the one-time purchaser to the long-term employee. Seriously, if you’re not picking one up on your way out, you’re losing one of Costco’s best sellers.
4. Realgood Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips
For health-conscious members, the Realgood Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips are a home run.
One even referred to them as “the one true good thing from Realgood,” complementing their unbeatable nutrition facts: protein-rich, lower in carbohydrates, and still tasting good. They’re a lifesaver for anyone who needs comfort food but does not want to sabotage their diet.
The only catch? They’re hard to come by, and that’s left fans essentially pleading for restocks. When compared to other brands, employees swear these are number one every time. If you spot them don’t think twice. Stock up.
5. Kirkland Signature Quinoa Salad
Wrapping up the first half of the list is the Kirkland Signature Quinoa Salad, a product that deserves blind loyalty.
One of the former employees admitted to being so desperate for the recipe once he left the job. That is dedication. They even admitted to having eaten an entire container in one sitting at times before even reaching home.
Filled to the brim with flavor, texture, and healthful balance, it’s the sort of meal that indulges cravings without remorse. For busy shoppers, it’s the ideal grab-and-go dinner, and for former employees, it’s a fond reminder of why Costco food is straight-up addictive.
The Next 5 Employee Favorites
Hungry? The best part? There’s more. Below are five additional insider-approved finds that should be awarded a permanent spot on your shopping list.
6. Kirkland Signature Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets
These salty-sweet little nuggets are the kind of snack you’ll struggle to stop eating. Employees say they’re dangerously addictive and shoppers agree.
Crispy pretzel on the outside, creamy peanut butter inside it’s a classic combo that Costco has absolutely nailed. Fans even claim they beat out Trader Joe’s and Aldi’s versions, both in price and flavor. Just beware: once the jar is open, portion control becomes a challenge.
7. Chicken Noodle Soup
During the colder months, employees swear by Costco’s ready-to-eat Chicken Noodle Soup.
It’s rich and comforting and very convenient. Many workers recommend freezing individual portions so you have a warm bowl of soup waiting for you at a moment’s notice whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or if you’re under the weather.
It’s a meal and an insurance policy, and another great way in which Costco takes mundane food and makes it a smart solution.
8. Fairlife Protein Drinks
Gym rats, listen up: Fairlife Protein Drinks.
With 30 grams of protein and only 150 calories per bottle, they deliver big-time nutrition. Staff swoon over the rich flavor and that they’re lactose-free, so anyone can enjoy them. At roughly $2 a bottle, they’re a bargain compared to most shakes.
Ideal for after the gym, snack time, or meal replacement, these shakes are a new favorite among many carts.
9. Spudlers Smoked-Bacon Breakfast Hash
Need a fast, filling breakfast? Employees recommend the Spudlers Smoked-Bacon Breakfast Hash.
Packed with potatoes, smoky bacon, and spices, it’s as hearty as it is convenient. Just heat it up in a skillet, and you’ve got a hot, crispy breakfast in under 15 minutes.
With solid protein content and comfort-food vibes, it’s the kind of product that makes mornings a whole lot easier.
10. Mixed-Berry Streusel Cheesecake
And lastly, dessert. The Mixed-Berry Streusel Cheesecake is Costco excess wrapped up in a nutshell.
Creamy cheesecake, tart berry topping, and crunch streusel on top it’s the ultimate in texture and flavor. Workers say it’s not just a dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser no less.
Pre-cut, sweated and ready to go, it’s great to serve at parties or simply to indulge yourself after a long day of shopping at Costco.
Final Bite
And there you have it 10 employee-approved Costco food finds that are greater than the sum of their parts; they’re the insider secrets that make warehouse shopping more enchanting.
From grab-and-go lunches and protein-packed staples to nostalgic comfort foods and decadent desserts, these items represent the best of what Costco has to offer. So next time you’re wheeling that oversized cart through the aisles, keep this list handy you’ll be shopping like a true insider.
Happy feasting, warehouse warriors.
