Trader Joe’s has built a cult following for its affordable, unique, and downright addictive snacks, and even professional chefs can’t resist filling their carts with a few favorites. We asked three Los Angeles chefs, Nancy Silverton of Osteria Mozza, Frankie Guerrero of Sandough, and Shane Lyons of Vesti, to share the Trader Joe’s snack they always come back to.
Their picks range from sweet classics to freezer aisle staples, proving that great taste doesn’t have to come with a Michelin-star price tag. Their delicious favorites might just inspire your next grocery run.
Frankie Guerrero – Chicken Soup Dumplings
Frankie Guerrero is the founder of Sandough, known for his creative approach to baking and his commitment to quality, ingredient-driven food. In a recent interview with Secret LA, he shared that the Chicken Soup Dumplings are his favorite Trader Joe’s snack.
He stated, “It’s so crazy because I used to shop at Trader Joe’s so much, but like when I would go over there, I was kind of a sucker for like the Chicken Dumplings. I mean, it’s, it’s a great product. It’s affordable. It’s quick. It’s there for you when you need it, when you don’t want to cook or put any much effort into it.”
Nancy Silverton – Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Nancy Silverton is a highly influential chef and co-founder of Osteria Mozza, known for her refined, Italian-inspired approach to cooking and emphasis on exceptional ingredients. She told Secret LA in a recent interview that she enjoys Chocolate-Covered Almonds as her favorite Trader Joe’s snack.
She stated, “They’re right by the register, and you just can’t help but grab them.”
Shane Lyons – Peanut Butter Pretzels
Shane Lyons is a chef at Vesti known for his inventive approach to modern American cuisine and his focus on bold, seasonal flavors. When we asked about his go-to Trader Joe’s snack, he picked Peanut Butter Pretzels.
“Am I being a naughty naughty fat boy? …. I want the Peanut Butter Pretzels. I want them, I want to shovel them in. They’re so dangerous because you can knock a bag out and somehow you think they’re healthy because it’s not, it’s not a health food, but it’s like, no, it feels good for me.”
