The world’s third biggest retailer, Costco operates over 890 warehouses. So it’s no surprise you can find a slew of necessities in bulk, like paper products, produce, frozen foods, and more.
But did you know a lesser-known Costco membership perk is access to high-quality foods and beverages from around the world that you may not find elsewhere?
From a 70-pound wheel of cheese to Japanese wagyu beef, here are 10 outside-of-the-box foods you can buy at Costco.
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Caviar
Costco has so many resources at its fingertips that they even carry a wide selection of caviar options at incredible prices.
Grab a three-pack of two-ounce jars of Tsar Nicoulai Estate Classic White Sturgeon Caviar for $199, or splurge a bit for a larger 8.8-ounce canister of Plaza Golden Osetra Caviar for $549.99.
Wagyu beef
Another fancy, unexpected food item sold at Costco is premium Japanese Wagyu beef. Striploin, tenderloin, Shabu slices, boneless ribeye, donburi, and even ground Wagyu can be purchased at the bulk retailer.
While the prices are reasonable compared with other grocers and suppliers, you still won’t be able to check out with a purchase of less than $100.
Emergency food kits
Costco has several different emergency food kits available for those who are disaster planning. Readwywise's 150-serving meal bucket for $99.99 includes easy-prep foods like pasta alfredo, vanilla pudding, white rice, apple cinnamon cereal, teriyaki rice, and more.
Chef’s Banquet touts a similarly priced one, with 280 servings of food. Foods in emergency kits normally have a shelf life of 15 or more years.
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Wheel of cheese
Costco’s got your back for those occasions when you need a nearly $1,000 wheel of cheese.
Much like how they have the market cornered on high-end products like wine and caviar, they also have great relationships with international cheese options.
That means you can score an entire 72-pound wheel of parmigiano reggiano for $949.99 or a wheel of Mifroma gruyere for $999.99.
Jamon Iberico
If you want to eat one of the most expensive cuts of ham in the world for less, try the Jamon Iberico at Costco.
These free-range pigs are raised in Valle De Los Pedroches in Southern Spain on a highly nutritious diet that includes acorns. The leg of the pig is sold with its own cutting board and knife for just $649.99.
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Sea Cucumber
Shoppers across America probably aren’t used to having sea cucumber as an option in their grocery aisles.
But if you're feeling adventurous, Costco sells a three-pack of three-pound bags of flash frozen wild-caught Alaskan red sea cucumber online for less than $100 per bag.
Crispy Potato Corn Dogs
This popular Korean street food is hard to find in US Costcos, but when you spy one, snap it up. It’s not a corn dog at all — this particular snack is mozzarella on a stick that’s been coated with crispy potato chunks.
While this savory snack is regularly stocked in Canadian Costco locations, you can occasionally find these in limited batches in the US.
Massive lobster claws
Not only does Costco sell sustainably caught lobster claws and arms, but they are some of the biggest ones you’ll likely find, and some say are over five times the size of regular claws.
These lobsters are caught in the North Atlantic and sold in an eight-pound box that holds 24 to 40 pieces for the unheard-of price of $199.99.
A giant tub of Nutella
Have you ever thought about stocking up on enough Nutella to get you through an apocalypse? If so, Costco’s got you covered.
You can buy a nearly seven-pound tub of the delicious, popular hazelnut and chocolate spread at Costco for when that sweet tooth strikes.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Mango cheesecake
You’ll often find cherry, strawberry, and chocolate cheesecakes in the aisles of your favorite grocery stores. Rarely, however, will you happen upon a fully loaded tropical cheesecake.
You can grab a two-pack of high-quality David’s Cookies cheesecakes at Costco for $69.99. One is a classic strawberry option, while the other is a more unusual mango version that may just become your new favorite.
Bottom line
Costco is a go-to retailer for many who want to save money on essentials by shopping in bulk on items like home goods, produce, and more. But every once in a while, you’ll see something there that truly surprises you.
While it’s fun to try new foods and products, make sure you go in with a shopping list to ensure you stick to your budget and only get new things you know you’ll actually enjoy.
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- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
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