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Shopping at Trader Joe's is an experience within itself. Whenever I step into the independently run, quirky store filled with bright colors and staff decked out in Hawaiian shirts, I can't help but smile. I, along with the rest of the editors at The Kitchn, am a big fan. Its store-brand snacks, frozen dinners, and bakery items are top-tier. (I mean, have you tried the mini sheet cakes?) Plus, there's always something new to try.
But we're not the only ones who look forward to a TJ's run. Professional chefs can be equally as excited about the store's offerings - and its competitive prices. Tengo Eteria, executive chef at Askili Orchard, a restaurant in New York City that specializes in Georgian cuisine, is one of them. Eteria shared what he always adds to his cart, and which items you should grab to get the best bang for your buck. All his faves come to just under $25 ($24.75, to be exact!).
The Best Trader Joe's Groceries, According to a Professional Chef
1. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese, $3.99 for 7 ounces
"Trader Joe's private-label cheeses consistently offer exceptional value, and I often find their quality comparable to cheeses that cost significantly more elsewhere," Eteria said. One of his all-time favorites is the Unexpected Cheddar Cheese, which you can buy whole as a block, in shreds, in snacking rounds, or even in ready-meals like broccoli cheddar soup. "It has the richness and nuttiness of an aged Parmesan while still melting beautifully like a sharp cheddar, making it incredibly versatile." (He's also a fan of TJ's Double Cream Brie for cheese boards.)
2. Boneless Chicken Thighs, $6.99 for one pound
We're all trying to save money in this economy, and boneless chicken thighs are a great protein choice. Eteria knows the ones at Trader Joe's are consistently high-quality, even despite the low price point. (Trader Joe's sources from free-range chickens raised on family farms fed a vegetarian diet.)
"Chicken thighs are flavorful, juicy, and more economical than chicken breasts. [It's a great option to] create a restaurant-quality dish while staying within a modest budget." His favorite thing to make with them? Georgian-style crispy chicken thighs with blackberry cilantro sauce and Broccolini, a riff off a Cornish hen dish they serve at the restaurant.
3. Spanish Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, $8.49 for 16.9 ounces
Olive oil is a staple in most pantries, and while there are plenty of fancy and expensive brands on the market, Eteria says you really can't beat Trader Joe's Spanish Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. "It has a clean, balanced flavor with a slightly peppery finish that works well for everything from salad dressings to finishing roasted vegetables or grilled meats. It's consistently good-quality and one of the best values for an everyday extra-virgin olive oil."
4. Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, $2.79 for 16.9 ounces
Modena, Italy, is the birthplace of balsamic vinegar after all - so it's no surprise that Trader Joe's version is one of Eteria's top picks. Not only is it sourced from Italy, but it also has the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), so you can rest assured it's legit. "Trader Joe's does an excellent job sourcing pantry staples that perform well in everyday cooking while offering outstanding value compared to many traditional supermarkets. [This is one of the products] I use regularly because it's consistently high-quality, competitively priced, and easy to keep on hand."
5. French Green Beans, $2.49 for 24 ounces
If you've been to Trader Joe's before, then you know its frozen section isn't one to be slept on. And they've got great prices when it comes to produce. "Frozen vegetables and fruit are picked and frozen at peak ripeness, making them flavorful, convenient and reducing food waste. They're perfect for both home cooks and professional kitchens when fresh products aren't at their seasonal best." His personal favorites are the frozen French green beans (also known as haricots verts), broccoli florets, and wild blueberries.
A Few Chef Tips When Shopping at Trader Joe's
- Chat with the staff. "I recommend starting with the seasonal products and asking the crew what's new, for recommendations, or seasonal favorites - they're incredibly knowledgeable and often introduce you to ingredients you might otherwise overlook."
- Get there early. "Shop early on weekday mornings for the best selection and shortest lines."
- Stock up on pantry staples, especially if you shop in New York. "For the best overall value in NYC, buy pantry items and specialty products at Trader Joe's, and consider local produce markets for the freshest fruits and vegetables."
Did your favorite Trader Joe's staple make chef's list? Tell us about it in the comments below.
