A Deeper Look at Costco Food Court Calories
While the low prices at the Costco food court are a major draw, the nutritional content often reflects that value is prioritized over health. A large portion size at a low price point typically means high calories, sodium, and fat. Whether you're a regular visitor or planning a treat, knowing the facts is key to staying on track with your dietary goals. Here’s a breakdown of the calories and other key nutritional information for many of the most popular items, based on the latest available data.
The Main Menu Items
- Chicken Bake: The Chicken Bake, a beloved food court classic, is one of the highest-calorie savory items. At 840 calories per serving, it's a significant meal. The combination of chicken, cheese, bacon, and Caesar dressing inside a baked dough casing contributes to its high-calorie density. It also contains substantial fat, carbohydrates, and a very high sodium content, which should be noted by those monitoring their intake.
- Pizza (Slice): The pizza slices are another high-calorie choice, largely due to their size and the generous amount of cheese. A single slice of pepperoni pizza contains around 650 calories, while a cheese pizza slice has approximately 710 calories. A whole cheese pizza is a staggering 4,540 calories, while a whole pepperoni is 4,230 calories, according to Nutritionix.
- All-Beef Hot Dog & Soda: A staple of the Costco food court, the all-beef hot dog served with a bun, and a 20 oz soda, is a famously cheap meal. The hot dog and bun alone contain 580 calories, with the optional toppings like relish and mustard adding minimal calories. The total calorie count increases when you factor in the soda, which can add between 150-250 calories depending on the flavor chosen. The hot dog is also known for being very high in sodium.
- Rotisserie Chicken Caesar Salad: While it might seem like a healthy option, the Costco Rotisserie Chicken Caesar Salad, with its dressing and croutons, is not a light meal. The calorie count is listed as 710, with 820 calories in some regions, largely due to the creamy dressing and parmesan cheese. Opting out of the dressing or using a minimal amount can significantly reduce the calorie count, making it a genuinely healthier choice.
Desserts and Drinks
- Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie: The new food court cookie, which replaced the churro in early 2024, has gained notoriety for its high-calorie count. Weighing in at 750-800 calories per cookie, it's a substantial dessert. Its richness and large size contribute to a calorie count equivalent to many main courses.
- Açaí Bowl: This option is one of the more health-conscious choices available. An açaí bowl contains 330 calories and is relatively low in saturated fat and sodium compared to other items. However, its sugar content is still high due to the fruit, so it's a better choice for a treat than a regular dietary staple.
- Ice Cream: The plain ice cream cup from the food court is reported to be around 550 calories, while the berry sundae has 650 calories. The ice cream bar is the highest-calorie frozen dessert option, at 869 calories, due to its chocolate and almond coating.
- Cold Brew Mocha Freeze: At 580 calories, this coffee drink is high in both sugar and calories, making it more of a dessert than a simple caffeine boost. A plain soda has fewer calories, but still adds sugar and empty calories to your meal.
Smart Choices and Alternatives
While many Costco food court items are high in calories, it's possible to enjoy them in moderation or make smarter choices. For instance, sharing a pizza slice or hot dog with a friend is a simple way to cut your calorie intake in half. For a truly healthier meal, consider making modifications or bringing your own alternatives.
Here are some tips for navigating the food court menu:
- Split the splurge. Share a slice of pizza or a hot dog with a friend to reduce your portion size and calorie intake.
- Go light on dressing. If you choose the Chicken Caesar Salad, ask for the dressing on the side and use only a fraction of it.
- Choose the Açaí bowl. Among the sweeter options, the açaí bowl offers the lowest calorie count, though it's still sugary.
- Stick to water. Avoid sugary sodas and mocha freezes. Water or diet soda are the lowest-calorie options for beverages.
Calorie Comparison of Popular Costco Food Court Items
| Item | Calories (approx.) | Macronutrient Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Bake | 840 | High in carbs, fat, and sodium |
| Cheese Pizza (Slice) | 710 | High in carbs and fat |
| Pepperoni Pizza (Slice) | 650 | High in carbs, fat, and sodium |
| All-Beef Hot Dog (w/bun) | 580 | High in fat and sodium |
| Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie | 750 | Very high in sugar and fat |
| Chicken Caesar Salad (w/dressing) | 710 | High in fat and sodium from dressing |
| Berry Sundae | 650 | High in sugar and carbs |
| Açaí Bowl | 330 | Lower calorie, but high in sugar |
Conclusion
The Costco food court offers delicious and affordable meals, but they are generally high in calories, fat, and sodium. Items like the Chicken Bake and Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie can provide a significant portion of an average person's daily caloric needs in a single serving. While treats are fine in moderation, those watching their diet need to be mindful of these nutritional facts.
To enjoy the food court without derailing your diet, focus on portion control, making small modifications like reducing dressing on salads, and opting for the lower-calorie items when possible. The Açaí bowl represents a notably lower-calorie dessert choice, and sticking to water with a hot dog can significantly reduce the total calorie count. By being informed about how many calories are in Costco food court items, you can enjoy a treat while making health-conscious decisions.
Note: Food court menus and nutritional information can change. It is always a good practice to check the most current information available, which can sometimes be found posted at the food court itself or requested from customer service.
Learn more about making smart choices at fast-food restaurants on the Verywell Fit website.
