Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's store is so tiny and paired-down that it only takes a few visits to orient yourself. But despite the no-frills retailer's small size, veteran shoppers on Reddit say that some products fly under the radar, especially if they're stocked on the lowest shelves where hardly anyone ever looks.
This list of misfits, unsung heroes, and hidden gems highlights those oft-overlooked products, many of which shoppers say you can't afford to miss.
$3.99
While “lemon curd” includes one of the ugliest words in the English language, the zesty English spread sure tastes good. One fan says that Trader Joe’s retailer’s recipe is “shockingly good,” adding that they “struggle to do anything with it besides just eating it with a spoon.” If you do want to pair it with something, another Redditor suggests eating it with the store’s baked lemon ricotta and ginger cookies.
$4.49
Trader Joe’s vanilla and chocolate chantilly cakes, often tucked away on the store’s bottom shelf, are true hidden gems. But maybe that’s for everyone's own good. Multiple commenters say they avoid the creamy, mini sheet cakes for lack of self-control. As one Redditor puts it: If you buy one of these cakes, you risk turning into a “cake gremlin.”
$5.99
If you’ve been shopping at Trader Joe’s for more than a decade and haven’t heard of these, join the club. They’re usually buried under other nut varieties, and many Americans don’t even know what Marcona almonds are. That’s unfortunate, because these sweet, gourmet nuts — common in Mediterranean countries — are a hit among people who have tried them. Commenters say they make great snacks and are a “must-have” on any cheese plate.
For more Trader Joe's coverage, please sign up for our free newsletters.
$1.99
It seems a bit hyperbolic to call oat creamer “a revelation,” but those are the exact words one Redditor uses to describe this oat and pea protein-infused milk alternative. And more revelations are to come, according to one Redditor, who claims that a cinnamon roll oat creamer is slated for the holidays.
$2.99
As one of the easiest, healthiest meals that comes in a can at Trader Joe’s, it’s surprising that the dolmas aren’t more popular. For just $2.99, you get 10 rice-stuffed vine leaves (there’s also a quinoa version), enough for a light lunch or quick snack. “Great to throw on a salad or even just eat as a snack,” one commenter writes. “Filling and tasty!”
Related: I Tried 9 Types of Trader Joe's Hummus — Here's How They Ranked
$1.99
A commenter writes that these corn bites are “salty, crunchy, and hit the spot every time,” which is the definition of a top-shelf snack. Sadly, they’re “always on the bottom shelf,” leaving treats like Joe-Joe’s to steal the spotlight.
$2.99
Have you ever felt like a dish needed a little extra oomph, something to deepen the flavor? You’re likely missing umami, that meaty, savory dimension to food that makes mushrooms and meat so good. Well, Trader Joe’s went and bottled it up, using a mixture of mushroom powders and spices. (The flavor enhancer MSG also works.) One commenter who uses it daily says they buy three bottles of it every time they go to Trader Joe’s.
Related: The Only Dips for Your Chips: 8 Trader Joe's Salsas, Ranked