It starts like all epic weekend tales: a card check, a warehouse's concrete floor, and a small paper cup containing a microwaved meatball on a toothpick. This is Costco, where samples come at zero cost. But how does this system operate? Who finances these delightful morsels? It's a curious mystery.

What was your favorite Costco sample? Which Costco location was it? Share your thoughts in the comments!