The Best Items at Costco Food Courts in Japan

If you already think your local Costco’s food court alone is worth a trip to the grocery store — where you can snag cheesy Chicken Bakes and $1.50 hot dogs — the options at Costco locations in Japan might just persuade you to book a flight. From a variation on the classic Chicken Bake to ice cream infused with Japanese flavors, there are enough tempting choices at the Costco food courts in Japan to enjoy a multi-course meal.

The best news? If you’re already a member in any other country, including the United States or Canada, your Costco membership extends to international locations. The bulk retailer confirms on its website that “Your membership card is valid at any Costco warehouse worldwide…” 

Several food-focused influencers have shared their favorite highlights from the Japanese Costco food court online, showcasing the bites you should try if you ever visit the country. Vancouver-based food creator Daniel Wong (@gengduck) plans to taste and rank every Costco food court around the world, and the locations in Japan received top marks. In his review, Wong notes that the Japanese branch of the superstore updates some items on its food court menu seasonally — which sounds like a reason to visit more than once. 

Whether you’re as dedicated to Costcos around the world as Wong is or have a trip planned to Japan and happen to be a member, these are the five food court items you should make sure to try from the beloved retailer while abroad.  

Jumbo Bulgogi Bake

If you’re a fan of the Chicken Bake at the bulk retailer in the U.S., then this item might look familiar. The Jumbo Bulgogi Bake at Costco stores in Japan is also a rectangular pastry that resembles a large Hot Pocket, but instead of the usual chicken and cheese filling, this menu item contains sweet and savory marinated beef, melted cheese, and green onions. All wrapped up in a golden brown crust, it couldn’t possibly be bad.

Calzone

Yes, American Costcos sell calzones, but this one has some subtle variations that make it stand out. Along with plenty of onions and cheese, you’ll find Japanese sausages that are similar to hot dogs inside. The sauce in this calzone is thinner and sweeter than what’s usually in an American version, giving it a generally more saccharine flavor profile. 

Uji Matcha and Hokkaido Soft Cream 

Every food court haul should end with a sweet treat. At Costco in Japan, you’ll find soft creams — or soft serve ice cream — available in several flavors. Customers can try a cup of Hokkaido soft serve, Uji Matcha soft serve, or a half-and-half swirl of both.

The Hokkaido treat offers a mild, rich cream flavor made from Hokkaido milk, while Uji Matcha is a little less sweet, showcasing the earthy taste of matcha. (Soft cream flavors at Japan Costco rotate seasonally, so these options might not always be available, but there will undoubtedly be something delicious in their place.)

Clam Chowder

One unexpected place to enjoy a cup of clam chowder? The food court at Costco in Japan. However, this is something you can’t get at American Costco food courts, and members who have tried it repeatedly give rave reviews, so tasting the comforting, creamy soup in Japan is worth it. Some other international Costco locations may serve hot chowder too, so keep an eye out while traveling.

Salmon Poke Roll 

This simple sushi roll is one of the most popular items at Japanese Costco locations. The eight-piece roll is made with nori, sushi rice, and large pieces of marinated salmon. As TikTok creator Jeanelle (@jeanelleats) points out, “[The salmon poke roll] looked too simple but actually tasted like poke we’ve had in Hawaii.”