Does Costco Still Have the Very Berry Sundae? The Ultimate Guide

Costco. The land of bulk bargains, discounted tires, and, of course, its iconic food court. For years, one particular item has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Costco members: the Very Berry Sundae. But in the ever-changing landscape of fast-food offerings, the burning question remains: Does Costco still have the Very Berry Sundae? Let’s dive deep into the history, availability, and potential future of this beloved treat.

A Berry Good History: The Very Berry Sundae’s Rise to Fame

The Very Berry Sundae wasn’t always the star of the Costco food court. It arrived relatively recently compared to other menu staples like the hot dog and pizza. It quickly gained popularity thanks to its refreshing flavor profile, generous portion size, and unbeatable price point. The combination of creamy vanilla frozen yogurt, a vibrant berry blend, and its affordability made it a go-to dessert for shoppers seeking a sweet reward after navigating the warehouse aisles.

The sundae offered a lighter, fruitier alternative to richer desserts. The berry blend provided a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the frozen yogurt, making it a satisfying treat that wasn’t overly heavy. It’s easy to see why it became a fan favorite.

Ingredients and Nutritional Information: What’s in a Sundae?

While the exact recipe remains somewhat of a Costco secret, we know the key components. The base is a creamy vanilla frozen yogurt, not ice cream. This difference contributes to the sundae’s slightly lighter texture and calorie count compared to traditional ice cream-based sundaes. The real star, however, is the berry blend. This typically includes a mixture of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and sometimes blackberries. The exact proportions and types of berries can vary slightly depending on the region and seasonal availability.

As for nutritional information, it’s important to remember that the Very Berry Sundae is a dessert, and therefore not a health food. While the berries offer some vitamins and antioxidants, the sundae also contains sugar and fat. Calorie counts have been estimated to be around 500-600 per serving, but this can vary depending on the serving size and specific ingredients used. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.

The Great Costco Sundae Disappearance (and Reappearance?)

In recent years, the Very Berry Sundae has experienced periods of unavailability at some Costco locations, causing widespread panic and disappointment among its loyal fans. The reasons behind these temporary disappearances are varied and often unclear.

Possible Reasons for Discontinuation: Supply Chain and Menu Changes

One potential factor is supply chain issues. Sourcing fresh berries in large quantities can be challenging, especially during certain times of the year. Fluctuations in berry prices and availability could make it difficult for Costco to maintain the sundae’s low price point while still ensuring a consistent quality.

Another factor could be menu changes. Costco occasionally tweaks its food court menu to introduce new items or streamline operations. While the Very Berry Sundae is a popular item, it may not always be the most profitable or efficient to produce. Costco is always evaluating its offerings and making adjustments based on customer demand, cost, and operational considerations.

Regional Variations: Availability Across Different Locations

It’s important to note that the availability of the Very Berry Sundae can vary significantly depending on the region and individual Costco warehouse. What’s available in one state might not be available in another. Some locations may consistently offer the sundae, while others may only offer it seasonally or sporadically. The best way to determine if your local Costco carries the Very Berry Sundae is to check the food court menu directly or ask an employee.

The Current Status: Is the Very Berry Sundae Back?

So, what’s the current status of the Very Berry Sundae? The answer is, unfortunately, complicated. The sundae has been removed from the menu at many Costco locations, replaced by a chocolate frozen yogurt sundae. However, there are some reports of the Very Berry Sundae still being available at select locations.

Checking with Your Local Costco: The Best Way to Find Out

The most reliable way to find out if your local Costco still offers the Very Berry Sundae is to check with the food court directly. You can call your local warehouse and ask a food court employee, or simply visit the food court and check the menu board. Keep in mind that menu offerings can change without notice, so it’s always a good idea to confirm before getting your hopes up.

Online Communities and Social Media: Tracking Sundae Sightings

Another helpful resource is online communities and social media. There are numerous online forums and social media groups dedicated to Costco enthusiasts, where members often share information about menu changes and product availability. Searching for “Costco Very Berry Sundae” on social media platforms like Facebook and Reddit can often reveal recent sightings or reports from other members. However, it’s important to take these reports with a grain of salt, as they may not always be accurate or up-to-date.

Alternatives and Similar Treats at Costco

Even if the Very Berry Sundae is no longer available at your local Costco, there are still other delicious treats to enjoy. While nothing quite replicates the unique combination of vanilla frozen yogurt and mixed berries, here are some alternative options:

The Chocolate Frozen Yogurt Sundae: A New Contender

The most common replacement for the Very Berry Sundae is the chocolate frozen yogurt sundae. While it lacks the fruity tang of the berry version, it offers a rich, chocolatey alternative. Many customers find it to be a satisfying substitute, especially for those who prefer chocolate desserts. It also offers a similar price point and generous serving size.

Other Food Court Options: Pizza, Hot Dogs, and More

Of course, the Costco food court offers a variety of other options besides sundaes. The iconic hot dog and soda combo remains a perennial favorite, and the pizza is always a popular choice. Depending on the location, you may also find items like chicken bakes, salads, and even acai bowls.

Costco Bakery: Cakes, Cookies, and Pastries

Don’t forget about the Costco bakery! From sheet cakes and croissants to cookies and muffins, the bakery offers a wide selection of sweet treats to satisfy your cravings. While these options aren’t typically available in the food court, they can be purchased in bulk and enjoyed at home.

The Future of the Very Berry Sundae: Will It Return?

The future of the Very Berry Sundae at Costco remains uncertain. While it has been discontinued at many locations, there’s always a chance that it could return in the future. Costco often listens to customer feedback and may bring back popular items that have been removed from the menu. The return of the Polish dog after a long hiatus is a testament to Costco’s willingness to listen to its members.

Customer Demand and Potential for a Comeback

Ultimately, the fate of the Very Berry Sundae will likely depend on customer demand. If enough people express their desire to see it return, Costco may consider bringing it back. Sharing your thoughts with Costco through their website, social media channels, or customer service representatives can help to demonstrate the sundae’s popularity and potential for a comeback.

Hopes for a Seasonal or Limited-Time Offering

Even if the Very Berry Sundae doesn’t become a permanent fixture on the menu, there’s still hope for a seasonal or limited-time offering. Costco could potentially bring it back during the summer months when berries are in season and demand for refreshing treats is high. A limited-time return could generate excitement and attract customers who have been missing the sundae.

In conclusion, while the Very Berry Sundae is no longer widely available at Costco, its legacy lives on in the memories of its many fans. By checking with your local warehouse and expressing your desire for its return, you can help to keep the hope alive for a possible comeback. And in the meantime, there are still plenty of other delicious treats to enjoy at the Costco food court and bakery. The quest for the Very Berry Sundae continues.

Is the Very Berry Sundae currently available at all Costco locations?

Unfortunately, the availability of the Very Berry Sundae at Costco warehouses can vary significantly. While it’s a beloved item, Costco often rotates its food court offerings based on regional preferences, ingredient availability, and operational considerations. The best way to determine if your local Costco has the Very Berry Sundae is to call ahead or check when you’re physically present at the food court.

Even within the same region, some Costco locations might stock the sundae while others do not. This inconsistency can be frustrating for devoted fans, but it’s a characteristic of Costco’s dynamic menu management. Remember that factors like seasonality of berries can also influence whether the sundae is temporarily unavailable.

What ingredients are typically included in the Costco Very Berry Sundae?

The classic Costco Very Berry Sundae consists of vanilla frozen yogurt as a base, topped with a generous mixture of various berries. These typically include strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and sometimes blackberries. The sundae is then finished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

The quality of the ingredients is a key factor in the sundae’s popularity. Costco uses high-quality frozen yogurt, and the berries are generally fresh and flavorful, contributing to the sundae’s refreshing taste. The combination of the sweet yogurt, tart berries, and rich chocolate sauce creates a delightful and satisfying treat.

How much does the Costco Very Berry Sundae usually cost?

The price of the Very Berry Sundae at Costco is typically very affordable, aligning with the warehouse’s value-driven model. Historically, the sundae has been priced around $2.99 to $3.49. However, prices can vary slightly based on location and potential inflationary pressures on ingredients.

While a small price increase is possible over time, Costco usually strives to maintain accessible pricing for its food court items. Compared to similar desserts at other establishments, the Very Berry Sundae offers a substantial portion size and quality ingredients for a remarkably low price. This affordability contributes to its enduring popularity.

Is the Very Berry Sundae considered a healthy food option?

While the Very Berry Sundae does contain fruit, it’s important to consider it as a dessert item rather than a health food. The frozen yogurt base and chocolate sauce contribute to a relatively high sugar and calorie content. While berries offer some nutritional benefits like vitamins and antioxidants, the overall nutritional profile is more indulgent.

If you’re watching your sugar or calorie intake, it’s best to enjoy the Very Berry Sundae in moderation. Consider sharing it with someone or opting for smaller portions to balance your diet. It’s also worth noting that frozen yogurt, while often perceived as healthier than ice cream, can still be high in sugar.

If the Very Berry Sundae is discontinued, are there alternative options at Costco?

Yes, even if the Very Berry Sundae is unavailable, Costco’s food court typically offers other dessert options. These might include ice cream, frozen yogurt, or other seasonal sundaes. Pizza, hot dogs, and chicken bakes provide savory choices.

The specific alternatives will depend on the location and time of year. It’s a good idea to check the menu board when you visit the food court to see what’s currently available. Costco often introduces new items to keep the menu fresh and appealing, so there’s always something interesting to try.

Can you order the Very Berry Sundae through Costco’s online ordering system?

Generally, food court items, including the Very Berry Sundae, are not available for online ordering through Costco’s website or app. The food court is primarily designed for in-person service and immediate consumption. Online ordering is usually reserved for grocery items and other products sold within the warehouse.

While there might be third-party delivery services that pick up from Costco food courts in some areas, this is not an official Costco service. Check with local delivery apps to see if that option is available in your region, but be aware that availability and pricing may vary significantly.

Has Costco ever temporarily removed or changed the Very Berry Sundae?

Yes, Costco has occasionally made temporary adjustments to the Very Berry Sundae. These changes can range from sourcing different types of berries to altering the chocolate sauce. In some cases, the sundae might be temporarily removed from the menu altogether due to supply chain issues or seasonal availability of ingredients.

These temporary removals or changes are often short-lived, and the classic sundae usually returns in its original form. Keep an eye on online forums and social media groups dedicated to Costco enthusiasts for updates on any menu changes reported by other members. Costco sometimes provides information in-store, but it’s not always broadly publicized in advance.