Happy happy Monday, friends!
I did it.
I left my comfort zone and ventured into the unknown…
That’s right. I went to H-E-B!
For those of you who don’t live in Texas and have no idea what I’m talking about, don’t quit on me yet, please! Let me explain:
So, there is a big grocery store chain in Texas called H-E-B that’s been around forever and ever, but it wasn’t allowed to come to North Texas until just recently and now that they’re starting to pop up here, they are a BIG DEAL. I’m telling you, people in the DFW area that maybe once lived in Houston, San Antonio, Austin or somewhere else in Texas where they have always had them are EXCITED about this development. I have lived in North Texas my entire life (minus that one odd year when I lived in Detroit) and even graduated from the University of North Texas so clearly, H-E-B wasn’t on my radar.
Until now.
Over the summer, a brand new H-E-B just opened up minutes from my home and based on my Facebook feed, Andrew and I were the only McKinney peeps not to have shopped there. Passionately shopped there. Why not? The honest answer is we just didn’t need to go there. We love our neighborhood grocery store (you KNOW how much we love our neighborhood store), and we love Trader Joe’s, so we just didn’t have a need/want/desire (nor sentimental attachment as some do).
Buuuuuuut…after I posted…
…my TRADER JOE’S BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE two weeks ago, so many of you insisted I try our new H-E-B, so, I wrote down all of your suggestions begged Andrew to go with me and off we went 😉 .
I felt very much like a trader to Trader Joe’s and my normal grocery store…
…but in we went with a list and a purpose. I am nothing if not a team player here in blog world, friends! 😉
Just to be clear, we weren’t there to do “major grocery shopping”. We were just there to check it out and grab a few of your suggested items.
First stop…
…we ate lunch inside the store at their famous BBQ restaurant.
It’s a walk up, order and sit down place…
…and my chopped beef sandwich with collard greens was very delicious. I tried both the sweet and the spicy sauces too 🙂 .
After we were fueled, we went to shop…
Now, I snapped some pics inside the store, but if I’m being honest, it was quite overwhelming. H-E-B is a BIG store (it felt Walmart/Target sized), and I was trying to focus and pay attention to the list I made based on your comments HERE, but I wanted to see everything else too, so excuse the lack of photos.
Here are just a few pictures from our time there…
I honestly thought their prepackaged, store made food section shined the most. I didn’t buy much as this was on Thursday afternoon and by then, I only had one more weekday until the weekend, so I really didn’t need “lunch food” for myself, but would have been an excellent place for me to grab salads, wraps, sandwiches, soups, chicken salad and/or smaller/individual meals.
Alllllllllll we had been hearing about is how amazing the homemade tortillas are at H-E-B. It’s the #1 thing people told me to buy, and the #1 item chatted about in my FB feed…when I think H-E-B, I think tortillas. In fact, as soon as Smith came home from school, and I told him that I went to H-E-B that day, he said, “Did you get their tortillas?”. YOU GUYS! I was floored. Even my 13 year old son knew that H-E-B was known for their tortillas. So, we went and checked them out, buuuuut they are not gluten-free. I would normally not purchase things that aren’t g-free, but since this was the #1 suggestion, I bought them for everyone in our house (besides Kensington) to carefully try that night.
Of course, I stocked up on their sparkling soda and mineral water too.
So, we bought a few things and came home to sample it ALL.
While we were in the store, we decided to make my SLOW COOKER CHICKEN SOFT TACOS for dinner as a lot of what we bought complemented it quite nicely. We picked up their chicken and then added…
…this salsa. It was delicious! My family enjoyed the entire container with our tacos.
We typically make our own guacamole (about 3 or 4 times a week…we are avocado people!), but so many of you suggested we buy their guacamole, and it was really good too!
And yes, no trip to H-E-B is apparently complete without the tortillas. I had one, but I think Ashby and Smith each had three! It was really good! Kensington…
…made nachos with her taco toppings out of these chips. I dipped my chips in the salsa and guac. They were restaurant quality for sure!
Other things we purchased based on your recommendations include…
…the peanut butter (delicious!)!
No one will be surprised that I was most excited about the sausage. Ha! I bought all four including turkey which is something I’m always looking for in tubes but have never been able to find. I will be whipping up all sorts of sausage balls and breakfast casseroles with these!
Other than the tortillas, the second most suggested item to buy was…
…the coffee! You guys were passionate in the comment section about both the San Antonio Blend and the Texas Pecan, so I went ahead and bought K-Cups of their four different blends (so also including Houston and Snickernut Cookie). I’ve now tried all four and love them! They pair perfectly in the afternoon at my desk along with…
…the dark chocolate covered almonds.
Knowing me, you also know that I bought…
…both sparkling water to enjoy out of the can along with…
…bottles of mineral water to use for cocktails. We had a Ranch Water (tequila, this lime mineral water and lime juice) that very night and loved it! It’s very much like Topo Chico. We paired our drink with…
…some cheese 🙂 . I was a very big fan of both the Horseradish and the Buffalo Wing. H-E-B had a large variety of cheese too!
Of course, I bought this Hatch Chile Hummus too!
Last but not least, when Sheaffer tells you to…
…you do. Sheaffer told me buying their Shrimp Fried Rice was a must, so we did. Now, this is also not gluten-free, so Ashby enjoyed it for lunch on a day when Kensington was at all day UIL cheer practice, and she loved it. I snuck a bite and thought it was delicious too.
So, that’s what we bought, and we truly enjoyed everything? Did we do major grocery shopping? No. Did we probably miss 1000 items that are amazing that we would love? YES! Did I do H-E-B justice? Absolutely not. Now though, I can say I went, and I have a little bit of an understanding of why so many of you love it (friendly people, a lot of great Texas-made products, huge selection, great service, etc).
I *think* (and please tell me if I’m wrong) that people are very different about their grocery shopping desires. I personally prefer smaller stores and actually don’t mind having less of a selection if the experience feels a bit more intimate to me. I’ve never been one to enjoy grocery shopping at Target and Walmart either (now Walmart’s grocery delivery is another thing!). I stood in our H-E-B’s produce department, and I really and truly think my entire Trader Joe’s could fit right there between the produce and meat in our H-E-B. I think I get a little overwhelmed with big grocery stores and just like a bit smaller of an experience. I realized quickly too that one of the big draws to this store (and rightfully so!) was the HUGE selection of pre-made food/pre-packaged food. They had everything from things you throw in the oven to the microwave, they even had an entire section of items for the air fryer and slow cooker too. This section was gigantic (dips, soups, salads, wraps, Mexican food, Asian-influenced, sushi…SO MUCH…), but unfortunately, very few things were marked g-free, so that eliminates a ton of the items that looked delicious from our cart. The bakery items looked fantastic too, but again…not really a g-free family’s best friend. So, we went, we shopped, we enjoyed what we bought, and now, we understand the loyalty.
That was our little field trip this week! Next up on my list of “must-shop” based on your recs…Aldi. I’ve never set foot in one, and we’ve had one in McKinney for years. If you’re passionate about this store, I’d love to know why.
That wraps up our Monday! You guys, go and have THE BEST DAY! xx
Elspeth says
I’m from PA so I’ve never heard of HEB, but appreciate the review! I always enjoy a Trader Joe run when I’m near one!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
jen says
Aldis produce, cheese and chocolate milk
Beth Knecht says
I love Aldi! I was fearful of going for years…truthfully because you have to bag your own groceries and it wigs me out to have to stand there and box everything up, but I quickly made a decision to have bins in my car and go there and bag everything instead of standing in store! Their produce section is the best we have around, and we love their meat too! Very cost friendly!
L Smith says
For a sweet treat, we love the Aldi flavored water. It comes in a large pack of 4 flavors-strawberry, peach, raspberry and grape. I add plain water to mine to dilute the sweetness.
Sarah says
Aldi is wonderful!!! We love it in my family! The produce is so fresh. They also have delicious cheese. They have yummy chips too that are inexpensive. Aldi has so many different items to choose from!
Jess says
HEB sounds great, not sure I’ll ever see one in CT though. I’m excited for Aldi though!! Definitely go in September.. all the Oktoberfest goodies will be out soon!🙂 It definitely has a smaller store feel. Not quite Trader Joe’s but maybe his cousin! 😆
Jeanie says
I don’t live in a state with an HEB but certainly have friends who are very loyal. I have Kroger, Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s and Aldi all within five minutes and I shop Aldi more than any of the others. Remember your quarter for the carts and bring bags.
Erika Slaughter says
I still haven’t been! But the two things I keep hearing about are tortillas and coffee so sounds like you did it right!
Paula says
We don’t have H-E-B here in East Tennessee, BUT, we just had a Buc-cees open here at our exit. Supposedly the largest yet. People have lost their heads over it. I couldn’t figure it out. Waited two weeks for it to die down, honestly it hasn’t, to see all the fuss. I get it. It’s bright, they are friendly, sing chants, bathrooms are clean, wall to wall snack, shirts, knick knacks, candles & BBQ is good…..BUT….IT’S A GAS STATION! AND IT’S OVERWHELMING! So, in the same way, I like our small local gas station, pump & get out without the temptation of a full size ‘Walmart’ like stop.
I do get tickled at all the Buc-cee shirts I see everyone where now and I saw Halloween blow up in someone’s yard this week. 😂 Makes me giggle.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh we have Buc-cees here too and people FLIP THEIR LIDS over them. I have been inside several times, and I will say, their brisket breakfast burritos are pretty darn amazing 😉 .
Jami says
I live in Indiana and have only been to Buc-cee’s once and that was in Richmond, KY. I still think about their brisket breakfast burrito and sandwich.
Sheaffer says
I was reading the whole post and was like “Dangit, she forgot the shrimp fried rice.” BUT YOU DIDN’T! I hope Ashby loved it as much as I did!!!! I had that topo chico type water yesterday and liked it more than actual topo chico, and the bottles are so cute! 😉 I want to go back this week to explore more.
Mix and Match Mama says
When Sheaffer tells me to, I DO IT!!! Ashby loved it, and I thought my few bites were delicious too!
Kathy says
I wish they would come to Iowa!
Becky Smith says
We have Aldi Walmart and in a nearby town Kroger. I drive 20 min to Kroger. I enjoy the selection prices and it’s normally stocked with what I need.
Most people around me are Aldi shoppers. I’ve never shopped Aldi. Can’t wait to see your review
Laura m says
I’m not sure if I’m passionate about Aldi- there’s nothing I have to but there as far as quality is concerned. The main reason to shop there is to save money. So that’s my main reason to shop there- it makes a huge difference on a tight budget.
Kimbrough says
I love Aldi! My favorite part is their sparkling water is $3.67 for a 12 pack of 8 ounce cans!
Caroline says
Just popping in to say that HEB offers pickup and delivery too, so if in store shopping is too overwhelming, there are other ways to use it 🙂 I also love the small store experience of a trader Joe’s, but I think comparing the two is like apples to oranges!
Alysa says
I wouldn’t say I’m super passionate about Aldi but they’re good for a few things!! We’re in PA so I’m not sure how much it varies by state but:
– we love their Simply Nature brand! Good, clean snacks
– affordable organic eggs compared to other grocery stores
– veggies and fruit are always affordable and good!
– affordable and yummy grass fed burgers!
Jami Hamrick says
Aldi has the best cauliflower crust pizzas! So it fits your g-free house. They aren’t frozen but in the refrigerator section. We put our stone in the oven while preheating and then once the oven is hot out it on your stone it makes the crust so crisp. I do not care for most thing that cauliflower pretends to be but these are so good. And their selection of cheeses are always good.
Amy Heinl says
Love Aldis and I believe the same parent company owns them and Trader Joe’s. So many choices and such good quality. Can’t wait till you go there
Lynn Schadler says
Yes that is 100% true!
Andrea at Opulent Cottage says
Remember to take a quarter for your shopping cart when you go to Aldi! You get it back when you return the cart 🙂 I shop there every week so I keep one in my glove box and keep shopping bags in my trunk. I recommend their organic produce, pastured eggs (the yolks are beautifully orange) and their Simply Nature brand items are all great. Also fresh flowers for 3.99, and every week there are deals on home goods and other random items, which you can see every week in their ad.
April Jordan says
We used to live in San Antonio, home base for HEB. I can’t wait til one comes out here in Rockwall!!! There fajitas are amazing, just like you can get at the Mexican Grocery stores!
Leslie Westen says
Oh! I’d love to see your review of Aldi! I’s my favorite place to shop, and I think you made me realize why. It’s a smaller store, little bit less variety, but so much easier to shop. And they have lots & lots of gluten free options. My husband loves their gluten free white bread more than any of the others. I hope you do try it out!
Amber B says
I live in Austin where HEB is king and I have most everything pictured. 🤣🤣. Depending on the store they can be very big so most of the time I prefer to do curbside because I still love Trader Joe’s for the bulk of our stuff. However, H‑E‑B has a divine packaged food section. Their Greek salad is awesome. My daughter brings them to school daily. I’m glad you guys braved the crowds!
Faith says
Go you for stepping outside of your comfort zone! We don’t have HEB here but it was interesting to read your thoughts. I’m personally not a big fan of Aldi’s but I am curious to see what you think. You may sway me! Was it hard to grocery shop for gluten free items in Nantucket?
Mix and Match Mama says
I would say that on Nantucket, it was the same as it is here when shopping for gluten-free. I was able to find most of the same brands we use and love here there as well.
Amy says
I have found many different H‑E‑B items that are sooo good over the years. Though I have lived in N TX for forever, my girls got addicted to H‑E‑B when they were attending Texas A&M, and now our oldest lives in Austin so that’s still their “go-to” groc store.
My #1 thing I absolutely LOVE from HEB is their pimiento cheese. You must try it! More specifically (for me at least) I love the jalapeño pimiento cheese! 🥰😋
Valerie says
I hated pimiento cheese my whole life… UNTIL I tried H-E-B’s version! It is incredible.
Allison says
I love Aldi. It’s not fancy but it’s small and cost effective! Their cheeses are great. They remind me a lot of Trader Joe’s. Their teriyaki chicken is incredible! It come raw in the marinade. It’s so good on the grill. You should also check out their chocolate!
Danielle says
I’m an aldi shopper through and through, but it’s mainly because of their prices. You can get a good charcuterie spread for sooooo cheap compared to Kroger, Publix, etc. so definitely look at their meats and cheeses. You can also get pasture raised eggs and not have to sell your foot to afford them, ha! Oh and my daughter and I have discovered these brioche rolls with chocolate in them (Pains au Chocolat) and we are obsessed. Salad mixes and produce are almost always less expensive. Their peanut butter is just like jif, their club crackers are good, lots of things taste just the same as the name brand except for their cereal. You just can’t do store brand cereal…it’s gotta be the name brand.
Definitely walk down their Aldi Finds aisle…both food and their aisle of randomness. You can find some fun things!
Oh! And try their Pearsecco. They are sold in a blue box either near the front or in the alcohol aisle but they are yummy!
Sarah Johns says
I LOVE the Pearsecco! I have some in the fridge right now.
Susan Swiggart says
This post made my day!! I am an H‑E‑B fan and have shopped there for my favorite coffee for years! Try the Hill Country Blend. It smells and tastes amazing. I am normally a name brand only shopper, but H‑E‑B brand items are GOOD. I like the mineral water better than Topo Chico. If you like sweet and spicy, their brand of Sweet Jalepeno Cheese Puffs are a must! We drive from Rowlett to Plano to shop there. We buy all of our meat, cheeses, keto snacks, and lunch items at H‑E‑B. I love that Trader Joes is on Preston as well, so I always pop in there for my favorite TJ items, too.
So glad you tried it!
Megan Losher says
At Aldi’s we love their Multi-grain Tortilla Chips that are Gluten-Free, the cheese section is amazing (but you have to dig), their organic brown rice and quinoa gluten-free pasta, the g-free white cheddar puffs.
Geni says
The best part of Aldi is they have some really good gluten free options. The cheese selection is great with g-free written on the bag so there is no question. They also have a brownies, yellow cake mix, cheddar biscuit and cornbread mixes from a brand Live G-Free. Absolutely try those!
Stacey says
I’m north of Austin, TX. HEB is the best…no other store comes close! 🙂
Debbie Alsip says
I live in Arkansas where we have multiple Wal- Mart formats in all the bigger cities, so I love to visit a REAL grocery store on vacation. My favorite is Publix. Not a huge Aldi fan, but do like their Pain au Chocolat from France and the dark chocolate salted caramels. Based on your TJ Recs, I think you would like the caramels.
Caroline Brnik says
Aldi is really great for gluten free options! I think you’ll be impressed!
Denise M. says
I think I’m in the minority because our family does not care for Aldi. We’ve tried multiple items but they always seem “less” to us. Less tasty, less crunchy, etc. Plus, we always need to go to another store to get all of the things on our list. Maybe you can change our minds! We’re in Ohio so no H-E-B or nearby TJ 🙁
Kristi says
Aldi is really only good because it’s so much less money than the other grocery stores. If you aren’t on a budget, it’s probably not the best place to shop, IMO. 🙂
Sara Alexander says
Agree! I absolutely LOVE Aldi, but I have a tight budget! If budget isn’t too much of a consideration Aldi probably won’t impress you too much.
Kate says
My MIL is obsessed with Aldi! She really likes the aisle of really random stuff… She gets the craziest things there for great deals. She’s found soccer chairs, all kinds of things…it’s now a running joke when she has something new that she got it from Aldis! It’s definitely a money, saving appeal.
Kathy Floyd says
I’m definitely a Kroger girl. Aldi does nothing for me. Walmart is far and in between for me. Not a fan of having to shop, pay for the inflation pricing, and having to bag my groceries at any grocery store. If I have to do all the work let’s lower the prices. HEB is opening next year across from our Kroger and I will do the experience of it…but will stay loyal to my Kroger.
maggie mahar says
Aldi has many gfree products! I’m celiac also and their bread is the best I’ve found! 🙂
Kallen says
Aldi….you will be so surprised by how much you get for the price! Things I get every single time I’m there:
– Fresh never frozen salmon (so good!)
– Oat protein pancake mix (not GF but it’s the best protein pancake mix I’ve ever had. I add some pumpkin, pie spice, and pecans to it in the fall time)
– white cheddar puffs (GF!)
– Broccoli and bagged Caesar salad (I buy zero other fresh produce at Aldi….but I love both of these)
– Frozen fruit…can’t beat the price
– Charcuterie board meats and cheese
– Peanut butter fudge cookies (knock off girl scout cookies)
– 70% dark chocolate
Ranisa Brletich says
Aldi list- chocolate mint protein bars, large black container of honey vanilla yogurt, pre seasoned chicken ready for the grill, all the crazy cheeses, girls scout peanut butter Pattie knock offs-they are better than Girl Scout cookies. Check out out the isle of random. From candles to wooden bowls, seasonal chocolate etc. I do anlso like the premade chicken salad on crackers or toast. I get the one that has the maroon color on the label. Think it has almonds maybe? also-my husbands has worked for major brand food companies and most of them co-pack for Aldi. For example Post cereal makes and packs Aldi cereal. Aldi has very high quality standards for what they expect from their co-pack companies and the ingredients that are put into them.
Brittany says
We are a gluten free house too! Like you, I had not been to Aldi’s, until recently when another GF mom gifted me a basket of their GF crackers, bread, and chips upon learning I had never been. We don’t have a Trader Joes in Fargo, ND, but I frequent TJ’s when in Minneapolis …. I think Aldi’s is comparable to TJ’s in terms of the feel and what I found I loved there when I finally went were some of the things I would buy at TJ’s (dips/cheese spreads/crackers/etc.). On that note, at Aldi’s buy the GF sweet chili tortilla strip chips, nacho cheese cauliflower chips, actually any of their GF tortilla chips are great, and their cauliflower based dips or their pimento cheese dip, guac, and buffalo cheese dip. 😉
Shawn says
I’ve always lived in South Texas and so HEB has always been a part of my life, in fact,my Dad worked at HEB when he was in college in the 60’s! It’s a great store, don’t get me wrong, but- I agree with your, they do lack gluten free options ( i’m not celiac, just prefer gluten free) and really push their own brands. Their brand items are great but they don’t have everything and have stopped stocking some name brand items I prefer.
Colleen says
I live in San Antonio so HEB is all over. The newer HEB’s are large like the one you went to. I agree that they are so big! San Antonio has all the original HEB stores and I still enjoy going to what we call the ‘little HEB’ most of the time for a more relaxed shopping experience. I recommend the Sicilian Herb seasoning in the bulk section, so good!
Shirley says
I’m also not from Texas so I learned something about HEB! The only thing I know about Aldi’s is my oldest son LIVED AND SURVIVED eating lots of their cheap hotdogs in college (yes-it’s cringe worthy, I know!) I live in a small town with a small grocery store & I love it too! I’m always lost when I try to do grocery shopping at Walmart!
Sandy Blitch says
As a g-free person also, and I live in Austin, their gluten-free offerings are minimal. You have to REALLY read labels there, they have a great Freschetta g-free frozen pizza. Although I buy for someone in my home that is not gluten-free so, there are great offerings for him. We find that a combo of WholeFoods/Trader Joe’s and HEB. So glad you took the time to go in HEB, lots of specialty items.
Romon Martin says
I am originally from California. Moved to Louisiana in 2017 found HEB during storm in2020 I now drive from lake charles to Texas every month to shop at HEB thier quality is one of a kind,and we’ll worth the drive. Love me some HEB keep up the good work!
Aja says
We went into a HEB this summer while in Austin for a concert. Honestly, other than the tortillas (bc Florida), it felt just like a Publix. 🤷♀️
Beth Valenta says
I live to walk into Wegman’s here in VA. It used to have a sweet cafe that closed, but the rest of the store is amazing. I go to Kroger for my Sunday shopping for week, but if I want special I hit Trader Joes and Wegman’s. We have an Aldi, and I just don’t feel happy in there. By the time I find a quarter for cart, I don’t love their set up. I need cozy if I am just getting a few special items, and Trader Joes does that with a cinnamon broom and sunflowers. Having a little wine tasting tilts it over!
Jen says
This would be a whole diff post if it was a Wegmans! Best grocery store ever!! Miss it so much (I live in GA, originally from NY)
Laci L Murray says
Aldi’s Happy Farms Cheese brand is YUMMY
Stephanie says
Get the Aldi’s house vinaigrette, chopped kale, freeze dried strawberries, gourmet deli selection package (salami, prosciutto, etc)!
Leslie S says
Aldi is relatively new where I live in SC but honestly I’ve never been. I’ve not heard it’s a “must” except produce, and I just don’t have time to go to multiple places. Publix is my go-to. I’m super curious to read your Aldi review… maybe it will change my mind to be worth checking out. (Bucees recently came here and folks drive an hour just to go there LOL)
Damiana D says
Aldi has the best prices and excellent quality on grass fed beef and grass fed cheeses and pasture raised eggs!
Denise says
I can’t do my full shopping at Aldi, but do love going there for certain items and is first on my list for charcuterie & party items!
I love their Coconut Cashews and Chili Lime Cashews, dried fruit and nut selections, pickles, olives, etc. Frozen acai granola bowls are a favorite, also coconut dark chocolate almonds and their fresh mango salsa, cranberry chicken salad, jalapeno artichoke dip, and cheese selections!
Aldi is similar to Trader Joe’s in that they have great seasonal items so definitely check them out for fall treats!
Maggie says
When you are up in Massachusetts you have to check out a Wegmans!! The pre-packaged/pre-made section cannot be beat and feels more quaint and less massive warehouse although it is quite large!!
Lizzie says
Thanks for the review! I live in the HEB area and you would think that they would put an HEB store in the HEB area, right?! My daughter is an HEB fan since attending A&M in College Station. She does shop Central Market at times. We both shop Market Street in Colleyville. Not a Traders Joes fan. Haven’t been to Aldi, or even in a Buc-cees, LOL.
Sara Alexander says
I love Ali because I have a tight budget. I think you probably won’t be too impressed with it but they do have a lot of German items!
Jan says
I feel this way about any “big” store. We don’t have HEB here in CT, but I’m close to Costco….I nearly have to call 911 before I’m over the parking ordeal!!! Hence, I go seldom. Besides I’m a single grandmother who doesn’t need 5 containers of catsup and mustard at a time. I prefer my TJ’s, Whole Foods and local independent grocery store.
Tracie says
Celiac family here and Aldi is our go-to for so many GF staples at the best prices (cost is a big factor for us). We love their bread — slices are the size of normal bread and pastas. Cheese selection is also fun. I think it’s similar to TJs in terms of size and I personally like having one brand to choose from instead of 18 different kinds of PB or something. Love that I can breeze through the store quickly with 2 toddlers.
Lauren Petrik says
We don’t have a H-E-B where I’m from. We do have an Aldi’s and just lately I have been shopping there. They have a cauliflower dip that is delicious. Reminds me of a taco dip. The street corn dip is delicious with a little kick to it. I also love the little packages of Turkey sausage and cheese. Some of them have sausage and nuts and chocolates.
Bethany says
Try to Dill Dip at Aldi! I think it might be seasonal!
Alison says
Something I appreciate about the Aldi brand is that they don’t use synthetic food coloring like red dye. I’m all about eliminating anything from my family’s food that isn’t necessary. Their Italian sausage is my favorite!
Alisha says
Oh how we love Aldi!
All the breads. My husband is keto and they have a great variety of tortillas and breads! My seasonal favorite is almond butter filled pretzels. We love their boxed hamburger patties, fresh seasoned chicken (cilantro lime is our fav!), all the cheeses, fairlife milk is way cheaper there, breaded chicken parmesan is delicious and a freezer staple, honey chicken tenders, and of course, the here today gone tomorrow is a must stop!
Remember, Aldi and Trader Joes are owned by the same family. You’re gonna love it 😉
theresa says
I buy 80% of our food at Aldi. Great prices and they’ll not only refund but also replace any item that you don’t like/is spoiled etc. They have good GF options (their sister company is Trader Joe’s) and many items that I could also get at TJ but for less $. The knockoff Girl Scout cookies are amazing. Less boutique-feeling but same good quality for a lower price. Plus it’s super small with barely any selection so it’s really fast. Enjoy!
Colleen says
I live in MA, so HEB isn’t an option here, BUT @things.I.bought.and.liked does a massive Giving Tuesday campaign for teachers every year and HEB is a huge donor. One of her top givers. For that reason alone, I feel like I would be a loyal shopper if I lived there!
Maria says
Thanks for showing us around an H-E-B. I’m in NYC, had no idea it was much more than an average market.
For Aldi, I only pop in occasionally for produce, cheese and chocolate. They have a Gouda string cheese that my kids love! They have an amazing selection of imported chocolate with reasonable prices. Go during Christmas for the best selection. Make sure to have a quarter for the cart and be prepared to pack your own groceries after the cashier checks you out. I was unaware of the procedure my first visit.
You also need to bring your own reusable grocery bags. I bought the cutest one from a trip to Martha’s Vineyard stop & shop with a ferry on it. It makes me smile every time I look at it and it helps me remember to use it!
Taylor says
We have always shopped Aldi. I love the selection and prices. Beer, produce, simply nature line of healthy foods, cheese section, frozen dinners! The size is just right and the products RARELY change (except for seasonal stuff; they will have almost everything the same at Trader Joe’s seasonally), so it’s almost brainlessly easy to shop.
Jaren says
Y’all have so many great things in Texas!! When we go to Houston, we purposefully make a trip to Central Market! I could spend hours!!!
Marissa T says
My suggestion for Aldi: dark chocolate and sea salt covered caramels. So delish!
My husband’s grandmother was from Germany so we buy the German chocolate bars and candy at Christmas for his uncle and Dad.
My husband also likes the sauerkraut and I love the bread and baked goods selection (I don’t know how much might be g-free though). They usually have a good selection of cheese too.
SS says
The main reason to shop Aldi’s is price I think. Very well priced. I feel the same about these huge grocery stores. Way too big. I can’t handle it. I much prefer smaller stores in general. So I like that about Aldi’s but their selection is really limited. Like, Scheel’s is awesome, but so big. So you’ll find me at Academy. Wish Market Street and Trader Joe’s were closer to us. Trader Joe’s has great price and products. Convenience is my #1 driver for grocery shopping. So Walmart grocery delivery has been AMAZING! At our house AND the lake house. It makes lake house weekends so much easier to just have it all delivered when we get there :-). I go to the Tom Thumb a lot b/c it’s close and on way to everything we do and we like it fine. #1 thing I need at a grocery store nowadays is someone to check me out. Really hate how so many grocery stores don’t have people to check you out. It’s why I can’t do Walmart in the actual store or Kroger’s anymore. Bring back the checkers! This HEB review cracks me up b/c the one near us is in Plano – and same thing. People are nuts about it. But seriously the parking lot which is the size of 5 football fields is packed every time I drive by. So I’ve been in once. Completely agree the prepared food was where it shined. I got a great sandwich platter for a party and those same topo-chico dupes. They are good. But I was under-whelmed besides that. Definitely not worth the effort of walking a mile just to get inside. They are too big here. The ones in Austin were just normal sized grocery stores.
Amy says
Aldi has the best peanut butter! Creamier than Jif. Also, they have an amazing selection of charcuterie type items! My husband loves the fresh salmon. Lots of unexpected great items.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I love that you wrote about this because when we came to McKinney to stay in January, we were SO excited to go to HEB since we don’t have those in AL. When we stayed in Corpus Christi and San Antonio for Harrison’s adoption, we shopped at HEB all the time. So I hate to hear that we just barely missed the new HEB! LOL! I totally understand having a grocery store preference though–I think we are all like that!
Kasey H. says
yay i loved hearing your review!! It is a little eye opening to know there aren’t that many g-free items. I dont typically shop those however if i did-it is a bummer that they wouldnt offer as many as TJoe’s. The Texas-Pecan coffee is AMAZING!! They also have a cooking connection that on weekends they’ll have simple family recipes with a cute card and you usually get an item for free if you buy those ingredients they’re cooking with that day.
KC says
I live in SC and we don’t have an H-E-B obviously but I went to one while on vacation in Texas. I am like you, it was overwhelming. Lots of awesome stuff but honestly I prefer something a little smaller and less crowded. As far as Aldi, I’ve been a couple times. It’s right down the road from Trader Joe’s and I go to Trader Joe’s much more. I like it a lot more than Aldi. Good deals are at Aldi but I just don’t enjoy the experience at all.
Pam says
Love, love, love my HEB. I can get all my organic, paleo products in one place. Trader Joe’s for me is a 30 minute drive and I haven’t found it worth the effort since my HEB carries everything, and more, that I want/use. When we moved to Wyoming, there was nothing I missed more than my HEB. Thank goodness that move was only 7 months.
Brooke says
I think I might feel about Aldi like you did about HEB. There is one about 20 minutes from me and I just don’t want to do it. I have 2 HEBs within 10 minutes and I would much rather just stick to my HEB curbside routine.
Josie says
I love ALDIs but like others have said it’s bc of the price. It is so much cheaper than the regular grocery store. Now when I go to our local store I feel like I’m being robbed bc it is so much more expensive. It’s a small store which I love and now can’t stand big mega- grocery stores. You have to bag your own food so take bags and a quarter for the cart. Also, you will never fine 100% of what you’re looking for there. And if you are brand loyal to something you won’t find it either. But you can get 80% if what you need. Like they don’t sell water chestnuts, which we like for stir fry’s so I always have to go to another store for that. They don’t have a lot of ethnic foods in general. But great for basics and pantry staples.
Sharon says
Aldi’s has SAVED my family during this time of high inflation. Truly, I don’t know how we would have grocery shopped this past year without it. And on top of that, the quality is great. Also, I believe Trader Joe’s and Aldi’s are owned by the same company. When you are back in Boston, try out Wegmans!
Nadine says
If you love TJ’s nut mixes, check if they have them at Aldi. Apparently same company, different label, and way less expensive at Aldi! Coconut cashews (maybe season) are always yummy! Also their pb crackers–probably not g-free, but dead ringer for TJ’s. Their produce is often picked through so figure out when they reload before you go! And have that quarter ready for the carts 🙂 Can’t wait to see that haul!
Mary Dollar says
I don’t care for Aldi, but do love Trader Joe’s. Aldi has limited choices with limit brands I recognize. I will say I have friends that really like Aldi. Maybe some stores are better than others. HEB IS AWFULLY BIG FOR ME ALSO.
Keisha Dawson says
We are currently in Houston while my son undergoes treatment at MD Anderson, and we have gotten to experience the goodness that is H-E-B. We move into our temporary home on Friday, and I’m already making my list to stock up. Our favorite items so far are the tortillas and mineral water. I know I will enjoy shopping there while we stay in Houston, as I do not see us getting one in Amarillo anytime soon. It may just make me make more frequent trips to Lubbock for our favorite items.
Lynn T says
Im glad you went, but I’m surprised you didn’t comment about their Gluten Free section. I commented on your earlier post that there are two place in HEB for gf items. Part of an aisle and then part of a frozen aisle too. The guac is good, and the tortillas. I haven’t found gf tortillas anywhere. I’m not an Aldi fan. I have not been.
Sandy says
Aldi is the closest store to my house. I run in there all the time. I feel it takes a while to figure out what you like. But, I will say there does seem to be a decent gluten free selection. The center aisle usually has fun finds. We really like the burnt ends they sell. I don’t know if it’s GF.
Betty Ripley says
I shop at Aldi because I like the prices. Their fruit & vegetables stay fresh longer than any other store’s. I agree their cheese products are great! There is a cheddar cheese spread that we love. Compares to Pub cheese spread. Their Velveeta-like cheese is as good as Velveeta, & so much cheaper. We love their fresh salmon. Dairy products are excellent & cheaper. We love their Mocha Iced Coffee! It’s in the dairy. I’ve learned what to buy there. We are not gluten-free, but I see a lot of gluten-free foods there. It is not fancy! Their peanut butter cups are yummy, too! We don’t have Trader Joe’s near us. I wish we did!
Lisa Southwell says
You have to try HEB cranberry pecan turkey salad. It’s so good. We love it with their Bite Size Deli Crackers. Also try the Mixmi Orange Dream frozen yogurt cups…so good! The HEB Creamy Creations ice cream is delicious, they always have seasonal ones…Pumpkin Pie is out now and Cinnamon Apple.
Kacy M says
Love HEB! Glad y’all visited and got their popular items (huge fan myself). My family regularly shops at Aldi and I’ve also been in Europe as well. Their canned items and cereals taste just like name brand (yay cheaper), their charcuterie selection is great, as well as their frozen items. They also get seasonal things as well like TJ’s. I like that they’re plastic bag free (they offer cardboard boxes like Sam’s/Costco, you bring your own reusable shopping totes, or you pay like $1 for one/paper bags).
Erica says
I love Aldi! The Gfree selection is great. The shells and cheese is my daughters favorite. I love their cheese selection. The fruits and veggies are great too. The organic marinara sauce is really good too. For a sweet treat the sea salt chocolate covered caramels are so good.My daughter also likes the gluten free chicken nuggets for a quick protein. The hazelnut spread tastes like Nutella. Plus visit the Aisle of Shame.😂
Katie Stewart says
Aldi always has a BOMB fruit selection. Never disappoints!
Sara says
Aldi has some great deals on produce and meat that save me a lot of money! But my favorites at Aldi are pickle products! 😆 6 pack of Oh Snap! Dilly bites, dill pickle hummus, and fried pickle ranch dip. Yes!!
Liz Lind says
We have the smaller HEB a mile from our house. It’s probably a similar feel to your local grocery store. I rarely go to the HEB plus.
Channa Norman says
I love both! Your little grocery store is a must visit when we come in town, their boutique section is one of my most favorite things during the holidays. But H‑E‑B has my heart, of course I have been a ride or die to Central Market since it came to Dallas, so naturally HEB won me over when we moved. I even made a list for all of our DFW family of things to try when H‑E‑B started popping up all over.
A few things to add to your list if you go again; (you can always do a grocery pick up 😉)
Frozen meat section; Western Grillers Stuffed Chicken breast, we have tried all of the flavors and love them but the Spinach Parmesan, Armadillo Eggs and Chicken ticklers are our favorites
Also the stuffed Pork Tenderloin is very good, and in that same section is a Creamed Spinach that is amazing
Their Cranberry Turkey salad, next to the chicken salad, is to die for, the Drunken Goat Cheese is amazing also!
Juanita Blaszczyk says
When i purchase H‑E‑B strawberry creamy ice cream I was very disappointed.
It was pink in color with strawberries NOW
It’s white icecream with bits of strawberries
What happened ?
Kimberly M says
I know next to nothing on H-E-B so this was useful!!
But I know a ton about Aldi! LOL here are 5 things I think can help (hopefully!)
1. You will want to bring a quarter to pay for the buggy- a small thing but it is a MUST and I have dropped items b/c I thought I did not need one.
2. You won’t be able to do all of your grocery shopping there. There is a limited selection. However, they do have decent gluten free choices!
3. It is not easiest (for me) to navigate around….it is on the small side and things are kind of in weird places so I find myself back tracking constantly for things I know the kids like that I missed, etc…
4. Definitely check out the ‘Aldi finds’ or the ‘Here today gone tomorrow’ section which is usually separated in a separate area or section by the cold items. These are their ‘specialities’ and they are delicious and often seasonal!!! The negative side is they really are gone tomorrow so if you find something you love don’t get too attached!
5. Prices are pretty good! Also you have to pay for a bag 12 cents per bag in SC but if you bring your own you can avoid this.
I probably about 30 percent or so of my grocery shopping at Aldi. It definitely works for me but not exclusively. Looking forward to reading what you think!! 🙂 🙂 Good luck
J Edwards says
I appreciate you posting the video here since I don’t have Instagram. Thank you!
Lori Bittenbender says
Aldi: Sweet potato chips, almond butter, chocolate covered almonds, frozen egg cups. Have fun!
Nichole S. says
We LOVE Aldi!! Did you know they are related to the owners of Trader Joe’s? Their items are very similar to TJ’s, and their gluten free section is AMAZING!
Lori Keller says
It’s been quite a few years since I lived in Texas, but the one thing I did love from HEB was the Hatch Green Chile Hummus. I’ve had other Hatch hummus, but it doesn’t compare. Glad you got some!
Deena says
We weren’t that impressed by H‑E‑B but have only done a couple of quick stops at the Frisco one. Will have to give it another try soon. We’re pretty comfortable with Kroger and get the bulk of our things there. I go to Trader Joe’s for a few things but are trying not to buy the treats too often. We stop at Aldi’s once in a while but the only thing I’ve loved from there, the dark chocolate with sea salt, hasn’t been there lately. If you shop there don’t go in without a cart because we didn’t have a quarter like we did the first time,
Kikki says
We don’t have H-E-B in Oklahoma, but we do have Reasor’s and I think you’d enjoy it! It’s bigger than Trader Joe’s but Smaller than Walmart/Target and they have fantastic produce and bakery items, plus their décor is beautiful! They’re building a new one just half a mile from my house and I can’t wait to shop there – so convenient, the staff is amazing, and you always find what you need.
Jennifer says
If you guys are a fan of ranch salad dressing I HIGHLY recommend the in house made ranch dressing. It’s truly amazing and we love it with wings, pizza, mozz sticks. All the things. Glad you ventured out and sampled H‑E‑B!
Irene Kelly says
I do not get Aldi no name brands and that is all I buy. And never go to Costco I just cannot see paying a retailer to shop in their store. But they do have some really good products that friends and family buy for just the two of us. Since we live in NJ no H-E-B here buy would probably not go because I prefer smaller stores and get around them much faster since I know where everything is