Costco’s food court is a favorite for many. The iconic $1.50 hot dog-and-soda combo keeps members coming back. But lately, some folks have been disappointed with the fountain soda taste. While the loyalty to Costco’s food court remains strong, complaints have surfaced about the flavor of their sodas.
In 2013, Costco switched from Coke to Pepsi, then reverted back to Coke in 2025. However, current issues aren’t about the brand but the taste itself. Many customers feel the soda tastes watered down. Discussions on Reddit reveal that some think the syrup dispenser needs attention, while others blame the ice or carbonation levels. It seems these sodas don’t have the same zing as those from other fast-food spots.
So, what influences the taste of fountain sodas? Experts point to the mix of syrup and carbonated water as key. The ratio can create a big difference in taste. For instance, some restaurants adjust their syrup for melting ice, which keeps the flavor strong. McDonald’s is a great example; they have a specific setup that balances flavors even as ice melts.
A recent survey indicated that nearly 70% of soda drinkers believe the quality of their fountain drinks varies significantly from place to place. This variability is influenced not just by the syrup-to-water ratio but also by the equipment itself. When machines are not maintained well, that can lead to a less-than-ideal drinking experience.
Costco might want to revisit their soda setup to improve customer satisfaction. It could turn those frowns into smiles and keep members enjoying their meals without any complaints about the drinks.
For more insights on this topic, you can check out studies related to beverage quality and consumer preferences on FoodSafety.gov.
