Costco Montreal Food Court Now Requires Membership

Glenn J. Nashen: A new Vietnamese experience at Tran Cantine

When it comes to a Vietnamese dining-out experience in Montreal look no further than the Tran Family. Following up on our recent sensational night out at the newly launched Hang Bar in Old Montreal, Judy and I, along with our friends Dana and Jeff accepted an invitation to Marilyn Tran’s diner in St. Henri, aptly named Tran Cantine.

Review of Restaurant Hang: Glenn J. Nashen: Montreal’s Top-Notch Vietnamese Cuisine

What secret treasures await when a new restaurant opens? One can only imagine, until being lucky enough to be exposed to the sights, smells and tastes of Restaurant Hang. Such was the experience on a recent Thursday night when my wife and I made reservations at what has been billed as the “first haute cuisine Vietnamese restaurant” in Montreal. Sure, our city has plenty of upscale trendy places, but nothing quite like this new concept in Asian fine dining. It tantalized all of our senses, from the moment we walked through the doors and took in the sumptuous decor. Hang arrives as the newest restaurant in the renowned hospitality group JEGantic’s portfolio. Vietnamese cuisine will be elevated from its usual humble “mom and pop” eateries to a refined haute cuisine experience that celebrates the unique flavours of the Southeast Asian country. Montrealers will be fittingly welcomed to come “hang” and indulge in a culinary journey that reflects Vietnam’s rich heritage with an innovative spin on favourite dishes. We were greeted by Joyce Phanekham, the effervescent general manager, who was helpful and attentive to her guests throughout our two-and-a-half-hour dining experience. She promptly introduced us to one of the most personable restauranteurs we have yet to meet, Marylyn Tran. Marylyn teamed up with her husband Alain and the folks from JEGantic to create an experiential and uniquely Asian venue for traditional, authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a class of its own. And who better to know how to achieve this pinnacle other than the Tran family who already own several restaurants under the Tran Cantine banner? After all, Marylyn was raised in her parent’s kitchen where she acquired her unique taste, over at their St. Denis Street Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Tay Ho. The family started this business back in 1986 and it is still going strong. Indeed, the name Hang is a nod of appreciation to Marylyn’s mom. Marylyn grew up cherishing the culinary and cultural intricacies that captivated their family, friends and clientele and eventually branched out, opening her own chain of traditional Vietnamese restos. Located between Griffintown and Old Montreal, Hang will surely attract the young in-crowd, as well as tourists seeking a memorable night out on the town. Marylyn introduced us to her right-hand man, Marco, a knowledgeable and experienced server and cook who took care of us for our date-night. He described in great detail each dish served, with ease and familiarity as though he himself was the chef. We started out with, what else, Pho Wagyu Consommé, a classic noodle soup that Hang has enhanced with its elaborate preparation: 14 hours of cooking over at Tran Cantine. It had many delicate ingredients including Wagyu beef and fresh rice noodles. The aroma of truffle alone made this a mouth-watering winning choice. Judy’s Franco-Viet Salmon Tartare tasted “like the ocean.” This dish of salmon was served with old-fashioned mustard, crispy rice, shallots, green onions and long red peppers. My Five-Spiced Buttered Scalloped – Ngo Vi Houng consisted of three pan-fried scallops each nestled in its own Asian soup spoon and bathed in secret fish sauce. They were garnished with crushed nuts and a hint of lemon making them simply perfect. Judy enjoyed her main course of Vegan Red Curry, a locally sourced seasonal vegetable medley stewed in red curry paste, coconut milk, palm sugar and julienned taro. I literally licked my fingers while eating a homemade order of Banh Mi Foie Gras. Imagine pan-seared foie gras, caramelized onions, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, coriander, and homemade mayo with Hang special sauce on a soft baguette, an ode to Alain’s native city of Paris. It was served on a large banana leaf, and the garnish on all their plates was a work of art. So too was the elegantly designed cutlery. Joyce describes Hang as a chill environment to linger, drink, talk and share delicious dishes among friends. All the staff were extremely personable, friendly and helpful. The decor features exotic nature elements that mimic the dense greenery of Da Nang’s jungle. The soaring ceilings, leafy chandeliers and striking wood columns add an impressive grandeur to the place. There was a great vibe throughout our evening with lots of smiling, happy young patrons. Indeed, owing to the immersive bar environment diners must be 18 or older at Hang. Finally, our dessert was served. Gateau au Pandan was quite distinct and attractive but we both decided that the Creamy Coconut Flan with Banana was the clear winner. Hang has a flair for mixology. From our opening round of shots to our cocktails, and mocktails and ending with a Vietnamese Coffee Martini, they are pros at presentation, taste and hospitality. Marylyn and her crew may be new to the high-end market but the high-end market is also new to Vietnamese cuisine. They are truly passionate about their mission and are on a winning track. Our experience was delightful and our evening was enriched by their warm and hospitable demeanour. We felt like we were hanging out (no pun intended) with friends and family around an exquisitely prepared table of outstanding cultural cuisine. Who could ask for more? Hang is poised to become Montreal’s new must-visit dining destination. It is located at 686 Notre Dame Ouest in Old Montreal, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. Visit hangbar.ca or call 514 910-2227.

Glenn J. Nashen’s Five Alarm Culinary Adventure at Sushi Taxi

Not even a major shutdown of Notre Dame Street in Little Burgundy could keep us away from a gastronomic luxury take-out of sushi and Asian fusion at Sushi Taxi. No exaggeration! The fire department literally closed down the street for an emergency. However, the conscientious staff called to say, ‘stand by’. As soon as the ‘all clear’ sounded we headed into the bistro-chique locale.

Glenn J. Nashen discovers more than a good dinner at Casa Grecque in Chomedey

I was looking for a tasty, family-friendly take-out dinner and Casa Grecque in Chomedey was my next pick. My family and I love plentiful Greek salads and tangy appetizers, particularly during long, cold Quebec winters when delicious, plump red tomatoes are not in abundance. What I found at this spacious, well-decorated restaurant in Chomedey at the corner of St. Martin Blvd. and Daniel-Johnson Blvd. was far more than I could have imagined.

Nashen does Take-Out: Bistro Amerigo still heating up on Monkland

Bistro Amerigo may be a relatively small eatery, but during the pandemic lockdown the well-known West-End restaurant is doing large scale take-out and delivery. I last reported on Amerigo some two-and-a-half years ago and have returned numerous times with friends and family since then. The local “Garde Manger Italien” (or kitchen pantry) has maintained its flair for fine authentic dishes at reasonable prices, not far from home.

Glenn J. Nashen grabs a kosher slice at PizzaPita Prime

PizzaPita has been going strong in the Snowdon area for more than 30 years. With their recent move across Decarie Boulevard to the former Pizza Hut location in front of Decarie Square, at the corner of Decarie and Vezina, they have a prime spot to garner the attention of thousands of commuters, shoppers and locals each and every day. Hence they’ve rebranded PizzaPita to PizzaPita Prime.

Tony Medeiros

Tony Medeiros is a Montreal-based blogger with over 20 years of experience covering pop culture and the culinary scene. Known for his engaging reviews and unique insights, he has built a trusted voice for readers seeking informed and entertaining perspectives on food and entertainment.

What to Know About the New Rules and the Most Popular Menu Items

• Costco now requires an active membership to access all food courts, including Montreal locations, with strict enforcement starting in 2024 and continuing into 2025.

• Montreal Costco food courts are famous for low-priced classics like the $1.50 hot dog and soda, poutine, ice cream sundaes, and the double chocolate chunk cookie.

• Top grocery favorites include rotisserie chicken, prepared meals like mac and cheese or chicken alfredo, and Kirkland Signature nut bars made by Leclerc Foods.

• While pharmacy and optical services may still be available to non-members, food court dining is now a members-only perk designed to reduce crowds and add value to membership.

One of the most enduring perks of shopping at Costco has always been its legendary food court, and in Montreal, that reputation is taken especially seriously. For years, the combination of ultra-low prices and comfort food staples turned Costco food courts into dining destinations of their own. In fact, they became some of the busiest eating spots in the city, rivaled only by IKEA restaurants in sheer volume and foot traffic.

Until recently, access rules were loosely enforced. While customers were required to scan a membership card at the main entrance, many people discovered they could enter through the exit without showing a card at all. This unofficial loophole allowed non-members to enjoy rock-bottom food court prices without ever paying for a Costco membership. For a long time, it was an open secret, and many locations allowed it to continue.

That era has officially ended. Costco now strictly requires an active membership to purchase items at all Costco food courts. This policy is being enforced across most locations, including stores that previously allowed non-members to order through exterior food court windows. Membership scanners are now commonly used at entrances and at food court checkout counters to ensure only members can order.

The reasoning is simple. Costco is managing growing crowds while reinforcing the exclusive value of membership. The food court is not just a convenience; it is a benefit designed to reward paying members. Limiting access helps reduce congestion, shorten wait times, and preserve the experience for members.

Costco Montreal Food Court and Grocery Favorites

Costco locations in Montreal offer a familiar mix of Canadian and American food court classics, along with a few regional touches that reflect local tastes. The menu consistently delivers massive portions, reliable quality, and some of the lowest prices in fast casual dining.

Among the most popular Costco Montreal food court items are the following:

All-Beef Hot Dog and Soda Combo: The iconic $1.50 hot dog with a drink remains the crown jewel of the Costco food court. Its value, size, and consistency have made it a Canadian staple for decades.
Poutine: A generous serving of fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy, making it one of the most ordered items in Quebec locations.
Rotisserie Chicken Caesar Salad: A large, fresh salad featuring Costco’s famous rotisserie chicken is popular with shoppers looking for a lighter but filling option.
Ice Cream Sundaes and Ice Cream Cups: Oversized portions of soft serve ice cream with classic toppings, offering exceptional value for dessert lovers.
Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie: A massive, soft-baked cookie that has quickly become a fan favorite for its indulgent texture and rich flavor.

Beyond the food court, Costco Montreal is also known for several grocery department best sellers that often end up on the same shopping trip:

Rotisserie Chicken: One of Costco’s biggest sellers, widely used for family meals, salads, and meal prep, is due to its size and price.
Kirkland Signature Nut Bars: A top-selling snack made by Leclerc Foods, frequently cited as one of the best value healthy snack options in the warehouse.
Prepared Meals: Items like Chicken Alfredo, Mac and Cheese, Shrimp Cocktail, and other ready-to-heat meals are consistently popular in the refrigerated section.
Montreal Style Smoked Meat Sandwich: Occasionally returning as a limited item, this local favorite reflects Montreal’s food culture and is eagerly anticipated when it appears.

What to Expect at Costco Montreal

While the Costco Canada food court menu remains largely standardized nationwide, Montreal locations sometimes feature local influences, particularly with items like smoked meat. This blend of national staples and regional favorites makes the Costco Montreal food court a uniquely local experience.

Important Exceptions to the Membership Rule

Guests
A Costco member may bring up to two guests into the warehouse, but only the member is allowed to make purchases, including food court items.

Pharmacy and Optical Access
In many regions, non-members can still access pharmacy and optical services due to legal requirements. This access does not apply to the food court.

Membership Refund Policy
Costco offers a flexible cancellation policy. If you decide the membership is not worth it, you can cancel at any time and receive a refund.

In short, grabbing a Costco hot dog or poutine in Montreal now requires a valid membership card. If the food court is part of your routine, a Costco membership has officially become the price of admission.

Costco Montreal Food Court Now Requires Membership

What to Know About the New Rules and the Most Popular Menu Items

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