Costco food courts in the U.S. are well-known for their comforting classics: pepperoni pizza, chicken bakes, and the iconic $1.50 hot dog combo. But in Korea, Costco offers something unique: bulgogi pizza. This mouthwatering dish gives a taste of local flavor that American fans can only dream of.
What Makes Bulgogi Special?
Bulgogi, which means “fire meat,” features thin slices of marinated beef, often ribeye or sirloin. It’s seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and sometimes Asian pear, giving it a sweet, savory flavor. In Korea, it’s traditionally grilled and served in lettuce wraps with rice and kimchi, alongside banchan, which are various side dishes.
Toppings You’ll Find on Bulgogi Pizza
At Korean Costco food courts, bulgogi pizza comes topped with slices of bulgogi, green and red peppers, onions, black olives, and mushrooms. Many fans say it mirrors the classic Costco combo pizza, enhanced by the sweet bulgogi. This style of pizza is quite popular in South Korea and often features an array of vegetables.
Korean Costcos also serve tteokbokki, another beloved dish made of chewy rice cakes in a spicy red sauce. Interestingly, there used to be a bulgogi bake similar to the U.S. chicken bake, but that’s been discontinued.
Global Flavors at Costco
Costcos around the world cater to local tastes. In Canada, you can dive into poutine, while in Spain, croquetas stuffed with ham await. Australians enjoy beef pies, and in Japan, there are shrimp burgers. Even ironically, cheeseburgers don’t make a showing in the U.S. food courts despite their popularity elsewhere.
User Reactions and Trends
Social media buzzes with envy over the Korean offerings, with users sharing their cravings for bulgogi pizza. Hashtags like #CostcoFoodCourt often highlight how different dishes make shopping in various countries a culinary adventure.
Cultural Insights
Experts note that this trend shows how global brands adapt to local cultures, making the shopping experience feel more relatable. This kind of culinary customization can lead to increased customer loyalty, as people love to find something familiar yet unique.
In summary, while U.S. Costco food courts have their favorites, the vibrant tastes at Korean locations remind us how food can celebrate local culture—one slice at a time. For more about Costco around the globe, visit Costco’s International page.
