For millions of Americans, a Costco run isn’t complete without a stop at the food court. From the iconic hot dog and soda combo to pizza slices that rival restaurant portions, the food court remains one of the warehouse club’s biggest draws. Yet one question continues to come up for shoppers nationwide: costco food court hours. While the food court usually follows the warehouse schedule, the details matter—especially as store access rules and member perks continue to evolve.
This comprehensive 2026 guide explains exactly when Costco food courts operate in the United States, why hours can vary, and how recent policy changes may affect your visit.
Standard Costco Food Court Hours in the United States
Across most U.S. locations, Costco food courts operate during the same general window as the warehouse itself. While exact times can differ slightly by location, the following schedule reflects the most common service pattern nationwide.
Weekday Hours (Monday Through Friday)
At most warehouses, the food court opens around 10:00 a.m. and remains open until approximately 8:30 p.m. This schedule allows shoppers to grab food before, during, or after their shopping trip. In many locations, the food court closes shortly before the warehouse doors shut for the night to allow staff time to wrap up operations.
Saturday Hours
On Saturdays, Costco warehouses typically open earlier and close earlier. Food courts usually begin service between 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. and close around 6:00 p.m. Saturday evenings tend to be quieter, and food court service often ends promptly at closing time.
Sunday Hours
Sunday food court hours usually mirror Sunday warehouse hours. Most locations open around 10:00 a.m. and close by 6:00 p.m. This shorter schedule reflects Costco’s reduced Sunday operating hours across the country.
These time frames represent the standard experience for most U.S. shoppers, but they are not guaranteed at every warehouse.
Why Costco Food Court Hours Can Differ by Location
Costco does not enforce a single, nationwide food court schedule. Instead, individual warehouses have some flexibility to adjust service hours based on local demand, staffing levels, and store layout.
Urban warehouses with heavy foot traffic may extend food court service closer to closing time, while smaller or lower-traffic locations may shut down food service slightly earlier in the evening. Warehouses with outdoor food courts can also follow slightly different schedules due to weather or security considerations.
Because of this flexibility, two Costco locations in the same state can have different food court hours, even if their warehouse opening times look similar.
Executive Member Early Access and Food Court Availability
One of the biggest changes affecting Costco shoppers in recent years has been the introduction of early warehouse access for Executive Members. At many U.S. locations, Executive Members can enter the warehouse earlier than standard members on certain days.
However, this early access does not automatically mean the food court is serving food during those early hours. In many warehouses, the food court still begins food service closer to the standard opening time, even if members are already shopping inside.
Some locations may allow Executive Members to access the food court space early, but actual menu availability typically starts later in the morning. This approach allows Costco to manage staffing and food preparation efficiently while still offering early shopping benefits.
Membership Rules and Food Court Access
For years, Costco food courts were known as one of the few places where non-members could occasionally grab a cheap meal. That has changed.
Today, most U.S. locations require an active membership to purchase food court items. Many warehouses now check membership cards at the entrance, at self-service kiosks, or during checkout. This policy applies to indoor food courts and, increasingly, to outdoor food courts as well.
If you plan to eat at the food court, bring your membership card and be prepared to scan or show it when ordering.
Holiday Closures and Adjusted Hours
Costco food courts follow the same holiday schedule as the warehouse. On major federal holidays when warehouses are closed, food courts are closed as well. These holidays typically include:
- New Year’s Day
- Easter Sunday
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
On holidays when Costco remains open, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day or Presidents Day, food courts usually operate on the normal daily schedule. That said, some locations may close food service slightly earlier than usual on high-volume shopping days.
Outdoor vs. Indoor Food Courts
Some Costco locations feature outdoor food courts, especially in warmer regions. While menu offerings are generally the same, outdoor food courts may follow slightly different hours than indoor ones.
Outdoor locations may close earlier in the evening or adjust hours due to weather, lighting, or local regulations. If your local Costco has an outdoor food court, checking its specific hours can help avoid disappointment.
Best Times to Visit the Costco Food Court
If your goal is a quick meal without long lines, timing matters.
- Late morning on weekdays is often the quietest period, especially before the lunch rush.
- Mid-afternoon can also be a good window once lunch crowds die down.
- Weekends, especially Saturdays around noon, tend to be the busiest.
Arriving earlier in the day also increases the chance that all menu items are available, as some popular items may sell out closer to closing time.
Planning Ahead for a Smooth Visit
Because Costco food court hours can vary by location, the best way to avoid surprises is to check your local warehouse’s operating hours before heading out. Seasonal adjustments, renovations, or staffing changes can all affect food court service times.
Understanding how food court hours align with warehouse hours—and how membership rules apply—can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
Have you noticed changes at your local Costco food court? Share your experience or stay tuned for future updates as policies continue to evolve.