Planning a gathering can often feel like a juggling act, balancing the guest list, the venue, and the ever-daunting task of feeding a hungry crowd. In 2026, many hosts are turning to a reliable favorite to simplify their event: the Costco deli department. Known for high-quality ingredients and warehouse pricing, Costco offers a selection of sandwich and party platters that provide significant value. If you are asking how much are the sandwich platters at Costco, you will find that prices generally range from $39.99 to $55.99, depending on the specific variety and weight of the tray.
Understanding the Costco Catering Menu for 2026
Costco has refined its catering options over the last couple of years. While some classic items like the Chicken and Swiss Rollers were phased out from the official special-order menu, they have been replaced by more robust and sophisticated options. These platters are designed to be “grab and go” or pre-ordered to ensure they are fresh and available for your specific pickup time.
One of the most important things to note is that these platters are substantial. They are not the small, flimsy trays you might find at a local supermarket. Weighing in at several pounds each, a single Costco platter can often serve as the main course for a medium-sized group or a significant appetizer for a larger party.
The Artisan Bread Sandwich Platter
The Artisan Bread Sandwich Platter is a premium offering that has become a staple for corporate lunches and family reunions. This platter typically costs $49.99. It is designed to feed approximately 18 to 24 guests, making the cost per person remarkably low, often landing between $2.00 and $2.75.
This platter features a variety of sandwiches made on high-quality artisan bread. The selection usually includes roasted chicken, roast beef, and ham. What sets this apart from a standard deli tray is the attention to detail. The sandwiches are often topped with slow-roasted tomatoes, Swiss and cheddar cheeses, and a flavorful garlic herb aioli. To round out the meal, the tray includes a container of pickle chips, providing that essential crunch and acidity to cut through the richness of the meats and cheeses.
The Croissant Chicken Salad Sandwich Platter
Newer to the lineup and rapidly gaining popularity is the Croissant Chicken Salad Sandwich Platter. Priced at approximately $44.99, this tray is a fan favorite because it utilizes two of Costco’s most iconic products: their buttery, flaky bakery croissants and their famous rotisserie chicken salad.
This platter is generally intended to serve 16 to 20 people. Each sandwich consists of a mini croissant filled with creamy chicken salad, green leaf lettuce, and sometimes a slice of provolone or cheddar cheese. Because the croissants are rich and the chicken salad is dense, these sandwiches are surprisingly filling. At roughly $45, you are getting a professionally prepared meal that would cost significantly more at a dedicated catering company.
The Fruit, Meat, and Cheese Platter
While not strictly a sandwich platter, the Fruit, Meat, and Cheese Platter is often ordered alongside the sandwich options to create a full buffet. This tray is priced at $39.99 and is designed for 18 to 24 people. It serves as an excellent “filler” or appetizer tray while guests wait for the main event.
This platter is packed with red and green grapes, slices of dry salami or soppressata, and cubes of cheddar and Gouda cheese. One tip for those ordering this tray: it does not typically come with crackers. To maximize the value and turn this into a more substantial snack, you will want to head over to the dry goods aisle and pick up a bulk box of crackers or baguettes to serve on the side.
The Massive Wing Platter for Large Events
For those hosting a more casual event, such as a Super Bowl party or a backyard BBQ, the 8-pound Chicken Wing Platter is a massive addition to the deli section. In early 2026, this platter has been seen for approximately $47.00.
While prices for poultry can fluctuate, this tray remains a standout for its sheer volume. It contains roughly 70 garlic-seasoned wings and includes four tubs of ranch dressing for dipping. When you break down the math, you are paying roughly $0.68 per wing. Compared to restaurant prices, which can easily reach $1.50 or $2.00 per wing, the Costco option is a budget-saver for anyone looking to feed a crowd without spending a fortune.
How to Order Your Costco Platters
One of the quirks of the Costco deli system is that you generally cannot order these platters online. To ensure your event goes off without a hitch, you must follow a specific process.
- You should visit your local warehouse at least 24 hours in advance.
- Near the deli or bakery section, you will find a kiosk or a stand with paper order forms. You fill out your name, phone number, membership number, the specific platters you want, and your desired pickup date and time.
- Once completed, you drop the form into the designated slot.
On the day of your event, you head back to the deli. Your order will typically be waiting for you in a refrigerated holding area or behind the counter. You then take the platters to the front registers and pay for them along with any other groceries you might be picking up. It is a streamlined process, but it does require that one extra trip to the store before your party.
Tips for Maximizing Value and Freshness
To get the most out of your Costco sandwich platters, keep a few logistical details in mind.
- First, check your refrigerator space. These trays are large—often 16 to 18 inches in diameter. If you are picking up multiple trays, you will need a significant amount of cold storage space until your guests arrive.
- Second, consider the timing of your pickup. While the sandwiches are made fresh, bread can eventually become soggy if it sits for too long with dressings or vegetables. Picking up your tray within a few hours of your event is the best way to ensure the croissants stay flaky and the artisan bread stays chewy.
- Finally, don’t forget the extras. Costco’s deli section also offers large containers of pasta salad, potato salad, and quinoa salad. Adding one or two of these to your order can turn a simple sandwich tray into a full-scale catered experience for just a few dollars more.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the average price of a Costco sandwich platter?
In 2026, most sandwich platters at Costco cost between $39.99 and $49.99. The Artisan Bread Sandwich Platter is usually at the higher end of that range, while simpler meat and cheese trays or the croissant platters may be slightly less, depending on the current market price of the ingredients.
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How many people does one Costco sandwich platter feed?
Most Costco platters are designed to feed between 16 and 24 people. For a light lunch, a single platter is often enough for 20 guests. However, if the sandwiches are the only food being served, you may want to plan for a higher volume or supplement with side dishes like salad or chips.
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Do I need to order Costco sandwich platters in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to order at least 24 hours in advance. While some warehouses occasionally have a few “ready-to-go” platters in the refrigerated deli cases, they sell out quickly and are not guaranteed. Using the in-store order form ensures your food is ready when you need it.
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Can I customize the sandwiches on the platter?
Generally, Costco does not offer customization for their party platters. The sandwiches are prepared in a standard assortment to maintain efficiency and low prices. If you have guests with specific allergies or dietary restrictions, you may need to purchase additional items separately to accommodate them.
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Are there vegetarian sandwich platter options at Costco?
The standard Artisan Bread and Croissant platters are focused on meat-based fillings like chicken, ham, and roast beef. However, some regions may offer vegetarian wraps or specialized trays. It is always best to check the specific order form at your local warehouse, as regional availability can vary.