Costco is widely recognized for its iconic food court, particularly the legendary $1.50 hot dog and unlimited drink combo, which has become a favorite for shoppers. While Sam’s Club may not be as famous for its food court, it actually has many similar items to what you’ll find at Costco. Despite the similarities, there are a few key differences in pricing, menu options, and convenience. In this comparison, we’ll go over the similarities and differences between the food courts at Sam’s Club and Costco.
Sam’s Club Has a Grab-and-Go Section
One thing that makes Sam’s Club food court different from Costco’s food court is that it has a grab-and-go section. This refrigerated case is stocked with ready-to-eat items like salads, sandwiches, sushi, kids’ snacks, bottled sodas, coffee, and other drinks. Instead of waiting for food to be prepared, you can simply pick up what you need and go—making it an easy option for busy shoppers.
Costco’s Chicken Bacon Sandwich
Costco introduced a chicken bacon sandwich last year to its food court menu, and it’s quickly become a favorite. It’s a large sandwich filled with sliced oven-roasted chicken, cheese, and bacon jam. At $6.99, it’s a massive sandwich—so big that it could easily be shared between two people (it has 920 calories!)
This is my son’s favorite Costco food court item, even surpassing the chicken bake. It has a flavor profile similar to Panera Bread’s Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich, though I wish it was served hot instead of at room temperature. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s worth a try!
Sam’s Club Sells Sushi
Another thing that makes Sam’s Club different from Costco’s food court is that you can buy sushi at the food court. A 15 piece Spicy California Roll costs just $7.85, providing an affordable and quick sushi fix while you shop.
Sam’s Club Has a Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich
If you’re looking for an inexpensive quick meal, Sam’s Club sells a chicken salad croissant sandwich for just $2.74. The buttery, flaky croissant filled with creamy chicken salad is an affordable option for shoppers who want something more than pizza or hot dogs.
Unlimited Sodas
Both Sam’s Club and Costco sell unlimited soda refills at incredibly low prices. Costco has a slight edge in pricing, with a fountain soda for just 79 cents, while Sam’s Club charges 89 cents. Either way, it’s a really inexpensive way to stay refreshed during your shopping trip. Check out Costco vs Sam’s Club: I Compared 21 Food Prices- See Who’s Cheaper
Costco Is Switching to Coca-Cola
Both Sam’s Club and Costco currently serve Pepsi products at their food courts, including Mountain Dew, Pepsi, and Tropicana Lemonade. However, Costco has announced that it will be switching to Coca-Cola products later this year. This change means that classic Coke beverages will replace Pepsi options at Costco food courts nationwide. Check out 26 Things I Never Pay Full Price at Costco
Sam’s Club Sells ICEE for Just 89 Cents
One thing that sets Sam’s Club food court apart from Costco’s is that you can buy ICEE beverages. For just 89 cents, you can get a cold, slushy drink. It’s an affordable and refreshing treat, especially on hot days. Check out 25 Easy Costco Frozen Food Staples
Costco’s Famous Chicken Bake
Costco is well-known for its chicken bake, a warm, hearty pastry filled with grilled chicken, cheese, bacon, and Caesar dressing, all wrapped in golden, cheesy dough. This savory item has been a fan favorite for years. You can buy one for $3.99. Check out 17 Costco Meals Cheaper than Restaurant Take Out to Save You Money
Sam’s Club Soft Pretzels
Both food courts sell their version of sweet snacks. Sam’s Club food court sells soft pretzels. You can buy classic salted or cinnamon sugar for only $1 each. Check out 10 Costco Shopping Mistakes that Waste Money for Couples and Small Families
Costco’s Giant Double Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Costco’s sweet snack is its giant double chocolate chunk cookie. Priced at $2.49, it’s a large, shareable cookie that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. However, be warned—one cookie packs a hefty 750 calories, so it’s definitely best enjoyed with a friend! Check out 24 Best Kirkland Products I Always Buy at Costco
Frozen Yogurt and Sundaes
Both Costco and Sam’s Club sell soft-serve ice cream, but Sam’s Club has the better prices. At Costco, you can get a strawberry or chocolate sundae for $2.49 or a plain chocolate or vanilla soft-serve in a cup for $1.99.
Meanwhile, Sam’s Club sells frozen yogurt soft-serve in chocolate or vanilla for just $1, making it half the price of Costco’s. Their berry or brownie sundae is also a great deal at $1.58, significantly cheaper than Costco’s sundae. Check out 21 Best Bulk Buys from Costco that Will Last You All Year (and Save You Money)
Costco Smoothies
Costco sells two refreshing blended drinks at its food court: the strawberry banana smoothie and the cold brew mocha freeze, both priced at $2.99. These drinks are massive in size, making them a great value. The strawberry banana smoothie has 320 calories, while the cold brew mocha freeze is a more indulgent option with 530 calories. Check out 23 Costco Items that are a Total Waste of Money for Small Households
Pizza
Pizza is a staple at both Costco and Sam’s Club food courts, and you can buy it by the slice or as a whole pie. Costco’s pizza is larger, with an 18-inch pizza priced at $9.95, while Sam’s Club offers a 16-inch pizza for $8.98. Both locations sell cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Check out 19 Surprising Things You Can Buy at Costco
Salads
Both Costco and Sam’s Club sell Caesar salads at their food courts, but there are differences in how you get them, the types available, and the pricing. At Sam’s Club, you can easily buy a Caesar salad from the grab-and-go case for $4.75, making it a quick and affordable option. However, it’s just a plain Caesar with no chicken.
At Costco, you’ll need to order the salad at the counter, which takes a little more time, but the Caesar salad comes with chicken and is priced at $6.99. Check out I Spend $1000 a Month at Costco, here are 22 Costco Pantry Items I Buy Again and Again
Food Court Kiosk
Costco makes the ordering process convenient with its self-serve food court kiosk. At these kiosks, you can easily input your order, pay, and receive your food without having to wait in line at the counter. This system streamlines the experience, especially during busy times, and allows for quicker service.
While Sam’s Club doesn’t have self-serve kiosks, they do offer Scan & Go through the Sam’s Club app. This feature allows you to place your order via the app and simply pick it up at the counter, providing a similar level of convenience and efficiency, though it does require you to have the app on your phone. Check out Costco vs Sam’s Club: 14 Major Differences You Should Know About
Hotdogs
Both Costco and Sam’s Club are well-known for their hot dog and drink combos at their food courts. Costco’s $1.50 hot dog and drink combo has become iconic over the years, attracting countless loyal customers who love the unbeatable price and the size of the meal. On the other hand, Sam’s Club sells a slightly cheaper combo at $1.38. Both deals include a hot dog with unlimited soda refills. Check out 22 Prepared Foods You Can Only Find at Sam’s Club (not at Costco)