Dining Out at Costco

We went to Costco last Friday afternoon and the sample spread was outstanding – more on that later – but we were also reminded of one of the most lucrative savings opportunities Costco offers, namely the wide varieties of discount gift cards, which work equally well as gifts for yourself, especially the restaurant cards. They cover major chains, including California Pizza Kitchen and McCormick & Schmick’s seafood restaurants. a pair of $50 cards for only $79.99. Obviously a great deal – 20% savings. They also have similar offers for spas and travel.

Can’t overlook deals on movie tickets -- $15.99 for a pair at AMC Theaters – and premium field and loge seats for the L.A. Dodgers -- $32.99 per ticket, a savings of $35 each.

Anyway, the samples were out in force, heavy on the poultry: Two forms of chicken sandwich – grilled and Kirkland canned – along with some excellent turkey spinach lasagna and two types of spicy chicken sausage, accompanied by tomato-basil chicken burger.

And that’s just scratching the surface. Further proof that these complimentary lunches alone more than make up the annual membership fee, especially when you split it with family or a friend, as we do. We left with full bellies.

Here’s the rest of the lineup:

 Noh Hawaii grilled pork

 Chipins popcorn chips

 Greek yogurt

 Peanut butter filled pretzels

 Café mocha

 Whole grain rice with delicious Yoshida’s marinade (we picked some up)

 El Monterey taquitos and quacamole

 Tropical pineapple salsa and chips

 Boca vegan burger

 Hillshire Farms chicken lunch meat and American cheese