The Perfect Costco Shopping List for Mahjong Snacks
I love hosting mahjong. I favor late afternoon games, 3:00 to 5:00 or so. Hosting mahjong is incredibly satisfying – gathering four friends around a table, putting out a few good snacks, and settling in for an afternoon that's equal parts strategy, conversation, catch up, and fun.
Costco is one of my secret weapons for hosting. The portions are generous, the quality is consistently good, and best of all, there are plenty of options that are easy to serve without turning your mahjong table into a sticky mess.
Here are my secret Costco finds for mahjong hosting.
1. Spanakopita
If you've never picked up Cuisine Adventures spanakopita from Costco, consider this your sign.
They're crisp, flaky, and packed with spinach and feta, making them feel just a little more special than the average appetizer. Very easy to prepare, just a cookie sheet and ___ paper. I like serving them before we start playing so everyone can grab one while we're washing the tiles and building the walls. You’ll find them in the freezer section.
2. Pinwheel Sandwiches
In the prepared food section, you will find Costco’s pinwheel sandwiches and if your game starts around lunchtime they are hard to beat.
They're filling without being too heavy, require zero prep, and let everyone eat before the first tile is drawn. And if the game goes on longer than expected and more robust snacks are needed, these will absolutely fit the bill.
3. Mixed Nuts
Maybe it’s because they sell so many of them, but Costco’s mixed nuts are some of the best we’ve had and may be the most underrated mahjong snack of all.
They're easy to grab between hands, they don't leave sticky fingers, and they're satisfying enough to keep everyone happy without distracting from the game. I always put out a bowl or two.
4. Furikake Seaweed Snack Mix
This one has become a favorite at our house.
It's crunchy, salty, a little unexpected, and somehow disappears faster than almost anything else I serve. If your friends haven't tried it before, don't be surprised if someone asks where you found it before the night is over.
5. Aussie Bites
We discovered Aussie Bites by Universal Bakery last year and have not stopped buying them. You’ll find them in Costco’s bakery section but don’t be fooled, these are not super sweet cookies. Certified organic, with grains and apricots, chia seeds, flax seeds and all the good stuff. They are perfect with coffee or tea and here’s the big secret – they freeze extremely well so if you keep a bunch in the freezer you’ll always have the perfect mahjong snack on hand.
Bonus: Cookies. Lots of Cookies.
Costco has no shortage of cookie options, and honestly, it's hard to go wrong.
Whether you choose chocolate chip, mini cookies, or something seasonal from the bakery, having a little dessert on the table is always a hit.
One More Hosting Tip
No matter what you're serving, keep the game table reserved for the game.
I like to set up a few small side tables or TV trays between players for drinks and snacks. It keeps the tiles clean, protects against spills, and gives everyone a little more elbow room.
Hosting mahjong doesn't have to be complicated. A welcoming table, a few favorite snacks, and good friends are really all you need.
And if you happen to make a Costco run beforehand, even better.