Costco is known for its extensive food options, buying in bulk, and food court. (P.S. Did you know about their merch?) The food court is a favorite on TikTok with many raving about the hot dogs, pizzas, and chicken bake. Let’s add Kirkland Signature sushi counters to that list.
Earlier this week, NBC4 Washington posted on X that Costco will be expanding Kirkland Signature sushi counters to more locations.
When did Costco’s sushi counters first appear?
The Kirkland Signature sushi counters first appeared in Costco’s Issaquah, Washington location last June — a project that had been in the works since October 2022 according to the Seattle Times. To prepare, the Seattle Times said that the wholesale chain tested batches at its R&D kitchen near the Issaquah location as well as flew its culinary team to Japan to work with “rice masters.”
Once Costco's sushi counter launched, it quickly gained popularity. There was always a crowd waiting for the sushi and the food rapidly sold out per a TikTok video posted by @mag___s.
“The rice is a little mushy, but the flavor is there,” @teaspoonofyum said in a TikTok review. “The spicy tuna does have a nice kick to it.”
When can I expect the sushi counters at my local Costco?
Due to this success, expansions are in the works. In the Q2 earnings call on March 7, CFO Richard Galanti announced that Costco will be adding more Kirkland Signature sushi counters to some of its stores.
“The sushi program has proven to be a category where we can be successful in both quality and price,” Galanti said in the call, “and we're looking forward to seeing more of that in the future.”
Galanti also noted that two new sushi counter locations would open in the “very near future,” however, the specific Costco locations were not mentioned.
Though two sushi counters will certainly be coming to a Costco location, it’s uncertain how many will follow after that.