20 Must-Try Trader Joe’s Items 

If you’ve ever ventured into a Trader Joe’s, you know it’s not just a grocery store, it’s an experience. Between navigating the tiny, often packed parking lot (why is this a thing at EVERY trader joes?), there’s a certain charm that makes every visit unique. It’s not just about the food; there’s a little magic hidden in each store, too.

Did you know that each Trader Joe’s location has a special stuffed animal hidden somewhere in the store every day? It’s like Elf on the Shelf but with a twist! Kids can search for this cuddly critter while shopping. Once they find it, they simply tell the cashier where it’s hiding, and in exchange, they get a fun sticker or a lollipop. It’s one of those small but delightful touches that make a trip to Trader Joe’s extra fun, especially when your little kids want to be anywhere but the grocery store.  

And let’s not forget how exciting it is that Trader Joe’s is always introducing new seasonal items! Whether it’s cozy fall treats, holiday specials, or summer snacks, there’s always something fresh to discover. If you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a sample at the store’s sample station—a perfect way to try something new before adding it to your cart.

I love the community feel you get at Trader Joes.  It’s just different from your regular grocery store.  Always friendly employees and good vibes.  I like to ask my cashier what their favorite items are, since some of my personal favorites have come from other people’s recommendations.  

Here’s a list of my top 20 favorites that might become part of your regular rotation!  

1. Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
This seasoning is a fan favorite, perfect for sprinkling on bagels, avocado toast, eggs, and even popcorn.

2. Harvest Veggie Sticks
Trader. Joes version of Veggie Straws.  They’re a crunchy, snackable treat made from a mix of vegetables like potatoes, spinach, and tomato.  They’re lighter and less greasy than traditional chips and offer a tasty way to sneak in some veggie goodness while snacking

3. Mandarin Orange Chicken
A quick and tasty frozen dinner option, perfect for for busy nights.

4. Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnut Bar
All their chocolate bars are good but this one has been a recent fav.  The crunchy nutty hazelnuts combined with the dark chocolate is such a satisfying flavor 

5. Speculoos Cookie Butter
A sweet, spreadable treat made from crushed speculoos cookies. Great for spreading on toast or drizzling over ice cream.

6. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Rich dark chocolate with a smooth peanut butter filling. A perfect snack for chocolate lovers.

7. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Love having frozen pizzas stocked in my fridge for whenever teenagers show up.  This one has a crispy crust topped with BBQ sauce, chicken, red onions, mozzarella, and a blend of cheeses. 
Pair with a ceasar salad and you’ve got a simple & quick dinner! 

8. Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies
These little bags of cookies are my nemesis!  SO GOOD.  Crunchy and brown sugary, perfect to throw into a lunchbox or to go bag.  

9. Chocolate Cat Cookies
These crunchy, chocolate-flavored cookies are a nostalgic treat that remind me of college!  They come in a few different flavors but the choc is my fav.   

10. Frozen Mac and Cheese
Loved for its creamy, cheesy texture, this is a go-to comfort food that’s easy to prepare.  It also comes in a “guilt free” and gluten free version. 

11. Vanilla Almond Cereal 
I always have a backstock of this cereal.  Great to eat as cereal with milk, but also to top granola. 

12. Greeting Cards
When you realize their cards are not only cute but also less than a dollar, you’ll never buy a card anywhere else! 

13. Mini Onion Rings
They are made with a rice and corn flour base, giving them that light, crispy texture and a flavor similar to Funyuns.  I have a hard time not eating the whole bag. 

14. Brie Bites
Trader Joe’s has a variety of brie and other cheeses, but their mini brie bites are perfect for lunch boxes! 

15. Trader Joe’s Chicken Spring Rolls
My kids love to throw these into the air fryer.  They’re a great snack to have on hand.

16. Ice Cream Choc Chip Sandwiches 
These mini cones are packed with flavor and a favorite treat, especially for those who want a small indulgence.

17. Dark Chocolate covered pretzels 
Pretzels covered in dark chocolate.  Also available in milk, but i love the dark! 

18. Fresh Flowers
No matter what season, TJ’s always has a great flower selection!  

19. Pineapple Probiotic Shot 
Small but mighty shot designed to support gut health. Made with pineapple juice, ginger, and probiotics, giving it a refreshing, slightly spicy flavor with a tropical twist.

20. Chicken Chips for Dogs 
My dogs are crazy for these chicken chips. They’re like a potato chip but chicken!

I want to hear what your TJ favorites are.  Leave me a comment below and I’ll add them to my grocery list!