I talked to a Costco Employee who worked there for 10 Years: These are the 7 Things He’d Always Buy There

Working at Costco for a decade teaches you that the real value isn't always in the lowest price, but in the ratio of quality to convenience. While some bulk items are destined for the trash, others are “hall-of-fame” products that outperform high-end specialty grocers.

In March 2026, as the warehouse introduces new seasonal treats and “clean-label” innovations, the savvy shopper looks for items with long shelf lives or high-impact flavor. These are the products that employees consistently buy for their own families because they represent the absolute best of the Kirkland Signature and name-brand offerings. Here are the eight food items a ten-year veteran always keeps in their cart.

The Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Costco’s Kirkland Signature Organic EVOO is legendary among staff for its purity and incredible price point. In 2026, it remains one of the few large-scale brands that consistently passes independent laboratory tests for being 100% authentic extra virgin oil.

Employees know that a 2-liter bottle at Costco often costs the same as a tiny premium bottle at a gourmet shop, without sacrificing the peppery, fresh finish. Because it is a high-turnover item, the stock is always fresh, which is crucial for maintaining the oil's antioxidant properties. It is the ultimate kitchen workhorse that staff members refuse to buy anywhere else.

The 2-Pound Bag of Grilled Chipotle Chicken

New for 2026, this pre-cooked, seasoned chicken has quickly become an employee favorite for its sheer versatility. It features the same well-seasoned poultry found in the popular Street Taco Kits but sold separately in a massive 2-pound bag for just $11.99.

Staffers love it as a “macro-friendly” meal prep solution that can be thrown into salads, bowls, or quesadillas in seconds. It saves hours of kitchen labor without the “rubbery” texture often associated with pre-packaged meats. In a year focused on efficiency, this protein has replaced the standard rotisserie chicken for many busy warehouse families.

Pure Grade A Maple Syrup

If you are still buying “pancake syrup” made of high-fructose corn syrup, Costco employees are shaking their heads. The Kirkland Signature Organic Maple Syrup is a top-tier “Grade A” dark amber syrup that consistently ranks among the best in national taste tests.

At roughly $11 to $15 for a massive 33.8-ounce jug, it is an unbeatable value compared to the tiny, expensive bottles at traditional supermarkets. Staffers often use it as a natural sweetener for coffee, oatmeal, and even savory marinades. It is a “one-ingredient” luxury that proves Costco’s commitment to quality over fillers.

The “Super Premium” Vanilla Ice Cream

Don't let the simple packaging fool you; this ice cream is a cult favorite among the people who stock the freezers. Labeled “Super Premium” because of its high butterfat content and low “overrun” (meaning less air is whipped in), it rivals brands that cost three times as much.

It is made with fresh cream and real vanilla, resulting in a dense, velvety texture that is perfect for a la mode desserts. Employees often recommend it as the best base for the “Monster Cookies” found in the bakery department. It is a decadent staple that reminds shoppers why the Kirkland brand is so trusted.

Individual Raw Almonds and Cashews

The nut aisle is where a ten-year veteran finds some of the most consistent savings in the store. Kirkland Signature almonds and cashews are sourced for their size and freshness, avoiding the “dusty” or shriveled pieces often found in discount bags. Employees know that these high-protein snacks can be expensive elsewhere, so they stock up and store them in the freezer to maintain peak crunch.

In March 2026, the Marcona almonds have become a particularly popular “bougie” snack among the staff. Whether for a healthy mid-shift boost or a charcuterie board, these are a warehouse “must-have.”

The Twice-Baked Chocolate Croissants

A recent star of the 2026 bakery department, the twice-baked chocolate croissants have caused a stir among employees and members alike. Following the success of the almond version, these pastries feature a decadent chocolate spread both inside and on top of a buttery, flaky dough.

They are baked a second time to create a crispy exterior that shatters perfectly with every bite, mimicking a high-end French boulangerie. Staffers often grab a box for weekend brunches, noting that they taste even better when warmed in the oven for a few minutes. It is a “bakery-level” indulgence that justifies the membership fee on its own.

Boxed Pork Tonkotsu Ramen Broth

For a quick, restaurant-quality dinner, the new Kirkland Signature Tonkotsu Ramen Broth is a 2026 standout. Simmered with pork and chicken fat and flavored with aromatic ginger, it provides a rich, savory base that far surpasses standard boxed stocks. Employees love it because it allows them to create a “gourmet” meal by just adding noodles and some of that pre-grilled chipotle chicken.

It is sold in a four-pack of quart-sized containers, making it a shelf-stable lifesaver for busy weeknights. For those who crave authentic Japanese flavors without the twelve-hour simmer time, this broth is an essential pantry addition.