Happy TRADER JOE’S TUESDAY, friends!
In keeping with the BACK TO SCHOOL theme we have going on this week, I thought I would share some new finds from Trader Joe’s today plus, remind you that, I also have my TRADER JOE’S BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING LIST… a printable guide just for you!
Grab your coffee, sit down, meal plan, print my Back to School list, take it with you, and get your shopping done.
I’m trying really hard to make life special, fun and easy over here for you 🙂 .
Speaking of which…can we take a moment to discuss something?
A few weeks ago, an HEB opened its doors here in McKinney and the people are going NUTS over this grocery store. My personal Facebook feed has been nothing but HEB pictures over the last three weeks. This store is very close by my house and something I’ve passed often, buuuuut at this point, I am just not mentally prepared to go inside. I’m sure at some point I will go inside and who knows…maybe I’ll love it? I know myself well enough to know a few things: I like small, cozy and quiet. I like calm. I like relaxing music. I like to stroll and take my time. I like things to be peaceful and chaos really doesn’t sit well with me…and by the looks of that parking lot and the size of that building, it looks like the opposite of the vibe I’m going for in my day to day life. When I need to run inside a grocery store, I don’t want to hunt for a parking spot. I want to walk in with my coffee in hand, be greeted with seasonal items and be inspired. As you know, my “normal” grocery store does that for me. How many times have I mentioned that on super stressful works day, I head there just to relax. Yes. I head to my neighborhood grocery store to relax. Ha! Well, Trader Joe’s gives me the same vibe. It’s small, it’s happy, it’s always decorated for the seasons, and it brings me a moment of peace while I grocery shop. I just love it…ESPECIALLY THOUGH…I love it between now and Christmas when it really shines.
So, I haven’t ventured into HEB, if you think I’m missing out greatly and must go today, please tell me so! Please tell me what I should buy, what I should focus on…inspire me to go, please! I’m the last McKinney person to walk inside, so if I’m going, I’m going to need to be armed with what to purchase. Please comment if you’re passionate about HEB.
Okay, let’s focus back on Trader Joe’s 🙂 .
First up, here are some of the newer goodies that ended up in my cart on my last visit that I think your family will love too…
I mean, this was a no-brainer! These have made some EASY back to school breakfasts over here! What do I mean? Instead of using a yellow cake mix like I do for my GREEN PANCAKES, I whipped up a batch using this mix and then added peanut butter on top. My kids were big fans (plus, they stay great frozen after you make them on the griddle).
And these have been added to lunchboxes! I already need to go back and get more! Delish!
Ashby is obsessed with seaweed, so we were excited to see that Trader Joe’s has some too! We add a package of these to her backpack for school snacktime.
Now, these little bites are so delicious! They are each individually wrapped which makes them so easy to add to lunchboxes, plus, that keeps them super fresh and moist too!
This is such a great find! I heated up chicken twice last week and added it to my salad for easy lunches. So simple!
I love Hatch Chile season! This cheese isn’t too spicy, it’s just super flavorful.
And bam! Two new burritos to heat up for my quick weekday lunches. I enjoyed both! These burritos (found in the refrigerated section by the hummus) are always such easy ways for me to grab lunch while I’m working.
Those are a few new items, but now, here are my favorite items for BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING at Trader Joe’s!
Now, if your family is in the middle of BACK TO SCHOOL SEASON, don’t forget that you need to check out my PRINTABLE LIST!
HERE IS THE LINK TO THE PRINTABLE SHOPPING LIST:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/10NGBDMEdwct01k9TU7PJeHNQ5I4Y4h4bV8RCUFwmVqY/edit?usp=sharing
Hopefully, this list will help make your next trip to Trader Joe’s even easier!
Now, please note, not all of these are gluten-free as I thought back over the years to alllll the things we’ve loved for back to school and many of those were purchased before we were eating gf at our house. I’m going to call out a few of my faves and then include a more complete shopping list (with staples on there most households need!).
Here we go…
Stock up on these! Our family things these little bites of pure heaven are way better than Pirate’s Booty. It’s like eating cheesy air. It’s amazing.
These little nuggets make excellent after school treats especially if your family is on the go!
Add to your kiddos’ lunchbox or have on hand for after school.
‘Tis pb & j or almond butter and j season 😉 .
Oh how I wish these were gluten-free! We love, love, loved buying these little cookies for after school snacks. When Mades was little, we would spell out words together with the cookies before she enjoyed them. They’re so delish too!
As most of you know, one of these with a little avocado and my morning breakfast is done! These are DELICIOUS!!!!!
I do not like corn in the can. I prefer fresh or frozen…except for Trader Joe’s canned corn. It’s magical. It is the best canned corn you can buy. Now that corn season is winding down, stock up on this to add to your family’s weeknight soups and chilis.
Make sure you grab pasta for easy weeknight suppers! They make excellent g-free pasta too!
For easy early morning breakfasts at your house!
Yessssss! I love these as much as my kids do! Add to lunchboxes or keep them handy for after school snacking.
Grab these or their sweet potato fries or their tater tots, pop them in the oven or air fryer and your easy weeknight side is done!
If I had to name my top two all-time favorite Trader Joe’s items, this would be in the top two (the frittatas above would be in there as well!).
Not only do they just make sense for back to school season, but they’re delicious too!
Quick desserts, little lunchbox treats, easy to grab.
Whether you buy the gluten-free versions or the regular, stock up on freezer waffles and pancakes this time of year with…
…maple syrup too.
I will heat this up and send it to school with Kensington! Easy lunch!!
Head to the bakery aisle for easy breakfast ideas like their cider donuts…
…varieties of breads…
…and muffins!
Yes, yes!! Add to cart!
I love their sparkling waters!! They come in a variety of (seasonal) flavors and never disappoint!!
Grab their yogurts while you’re there too! We like both the bowls and the tubes for lunchboxes.
From frozen corn to frozen gnocchi, riced cauliflower, rice…there are SO MANY easy weeknight sides that just need to be heated at Trader Joe’s!
Whew! Okay, if you want to check out my complete BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING LIST, you can view and print that here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/10NGBDMEdwct01k9TU7PJeHNQ5I4Y4h4bV8RCUFwmVqY/edit?usp=sharing
Don’t forget, you can also check out…
…my TRADER JOE’S FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE as
If you have other Trader Joe’s finds to share OR if you have thoughts on items from HEB, I want to read about it in the comment section below!
In the meantime, have a wonderful Tuesday and make sure you check out THIS POST TODAY as well FOR AN EASY TRADER JOE’S DINNER IDEA 🙂 .
See you all tomorrow! xx
Erika Slaughter says
I just went to Trader Joe’s for the first time in a LONG time! I really need them to start grocery delivery!
Scarlett Spangler says
Trader Joe’s makes me so happy- I don’t get much “me” time during the week, so if I’ve had an especially rough one I tell my husband he is on toddler duty so I can grab a coffee and head to TJ’s!
I have to ask- under your first picture of the gluten free brownie mix, you said it makes for easy back to school breakfasts? I’m not opposed to a brownie for breakfast, but please elaborate Lol.
Mix and Match Mama says
I should have specified! I have been using it instead of the cake mix for quick pancakes. Why didn’t I say that? I will add it now! You know how I use a cake mix for my “green pancakes”, I used this instead of chocolatey pancakes and then added peanut butter!
Dana P says
I have never really understood the HEB hype, but all my Texas friends love it. Some of them say it’s the coffee-Café Ole Texas Pecan, the fresh tortillas, or the quality of the meat and produce. You might really like to order groceries from them to your house, but I would stick with your incredible grocery store for in-person shopping. That place really is amazing!
I will say though, HEB’s high end grocery store, Central Market, is worth the hype to me. They have so many international products (among other reasons) that I couldn’t find anywhere else, including real bakery items from France! I’m sure you’ve been to the one in Southlake, right?!
Oh, and for Trader Joe’s, we do movie, pizza, and ice cream night every Friday and their frozen pizza is definitely the family favorite over any other brands!
Alyssa Hohle says
You NEED to go to H‑E‑B. It’s our only big grocery store beside Walmart in our town and I love it. The Mixla tortillas (corn and flour fusion, I use them for enchiladas), brisket queso, homemade ranch, everything is so good! I buy H-E-B brand everything.
Ann Walker says
Houstonian here. I love HEB, but it isn’t my always store. They have the best online shopping and store pickup. My young adult kids use this every week. I
Here are my tips if you go: go early it’s not as crowded around 8 or 9. I don’t even bother trying to find a close parking spot; I just got to the end of the parking lot and get a space. The walk isn’t bad and you can get out easier. They have wonderful seafood! Their homemade bread and butter tortillas will change your life. 🙂 I am kind of a brand name snob and don’t usually buy them. HEB brand foods are really good. They have some canned borracha beans that are so good. I dont even bother to make them anymore. Their lower end brand, Hill Country, is really good. They have great wine prices and a huge selection. It is a fun store to wander around in and explore all the different things, but yes, it can get crowded, but again, go early. Produce is so fresh and lots of things you don’t always see. Same with their grocery items…all sorts of international options.
The staff are some of the nicest people I have ever met. They are great about keeping all the lanes open for a fast check out.
But, the main reason why HEB is so special, is that they are so community minded. When Hurricane Harvey and the dam release devastated us, they had all the necessities for those of us who were running out. Milk, batteries, non perishable food. Other stores didn’t have the supply chain to keep out. They had charging stations so you could come in, have a cup of coffee and charge your devices. They were even handing out chickens when you left! The same thing during the ice storm. Their logistical planning and supply chain are some of the best I have ever seen. And the ice storm was state wide. They were able to take care of the entire state! They take great pride in giving back to the community and taking care of us.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, Ann!!!! I needed this encouragement and your tips!
Ann Walker says
You are welcome! Glad you could read it with all my typos! 😆
Coreline says
Totally agree on the community minded .. always giving back!
Darian says
Also agree with the community minded HEB! During the freezes in the past few years, they were our life savers by opening up and being available–same with the pandemic. The kids who work there can get scholarships and it’s a great place for them to start work.
I also am a fan of the HEB brand and participate in their surveys and panels to improve their services—sign up and you can also share your thoughts and get a $75 gift card. We are in Austin and they are remodeling our stores, but parking is the real problem. Just figure out the best time/store to go. And, huge TJ fan as well and go once a week for salads, fruits, vegan items, but can get more at HEB.
TJ has better service when it comes to bagging, but overall HEB wins out. Wait until the “newness” wears off and hope you enjoy!
Staci hays says
I am in South Carolina and miss HEB and Central Market terribly! I’d give anything to be able to shop in person or online or however!! When we visit, we run by and stuff our suitcases full of whatever makes sense that can fly home with us 😂
Sheaffer says
I’ve only run into HEB once since it opened, but I loved several things I got! At the top of the list was the shrimp fried rice. You can find it by the sushi counter. It was fresh and warm and DELICIOUS. I also loved their pimento cheese. They have TONS of already prepared foods, and lots of it looked amazing including several pre-made salads. I want to get back soon to try more of them! The regular tortillas are great, but I didn’t love the butter tortillas that get lots of attention.
Ann Walker says
The HEB ready meals are so good. That jalepeno pimento cheese is my go to easy appetizer. It even tastes amazing warm.
Dana P says
That’s good to know! That’s also what I love about Central Market and I bet it’s the same food.
Gail H says
Eventually, you will have to wander into HEB! However, like you mentioned in a previous post…not on a Sunday afternoon (basically, wait for they hype to die down and go on a weekday morning). I live in a small town and HEB and Walmart are our only grocery options. HEB beats Walmart groceries hands down!! I almost never get groceries at Walmart. HEB produce and meat is so much better – not even a close contest imo. If you love Central Market (a branch of HEB) I think you’ll enjoy HEB and its more reasonable prices. The instore HEB and Hill Country Fair brands are really good. I actually prefer some of their products over the “name brand” ones. That said, there are a few items that I prefer the original…I’m looking at you crescent rolls. The sushi bar is fantastic as well as the bakery and deli. It’s a great store and certainly worth checking out 🙂
Ashley Rodriguez says
Hi Shay!
We moved to Tennessee from Texas and one of the things I miss the very most is HEB! We had a few accessible and there were big and small ones. I liked both. I could find everything on my list there…no going here and then there like I have to do now. It was festive and the HEB Organics were great at a great price. My very favorite though was the coffee. When we travel back to Texas I load up on the coffee-extra suitcase style! Ha! I went often enough that I made friends with the grocery checkout, deli meat check out…always friendly people working there.
I totally understand it is big box and you like quaint and personal, but give it a try, at least for the coffee! My very favorite is the Cafe Ole San Antonio blend….I can smell it now and miss it so so much!
Thank you for your blog and such FUN content!
Your friend,
Ashley
Mix and Match Mama says
Sheaffer already called me this morning and had me start a list! Bahahaha! I will add coffee to the list now too. THANK YOU!!!
Allison says
That coffee is superb. The cafe ole San Antonio blend. Delish. Otherwise it just has a lot of awesome premade things and great meats. I was raised going every single week in the town I grew up in but still haven’t gone to the new one in mckinney either yet. Just waiting for craziness to die down. Will go a random weekday morning!
Tracy Abraham says
We moved to South Carolina and HEB is my most missed place. Coffee, tortillas, premade food, fresh veggies, bakery is exceptional, ranch style beans (I did spy a few cans at Publix 😂) Ours had a lot of gluten free items so you should try that too! Go early and it is not as packed. Can’t wait to hear about it! Enjoy!
Leslie S says
Fellow South Carolinian here, and no HEB here either. Our Trader Joe’s is really small and doesn’t have many of the things you can get in yours Shay!!
Love all the back to school, meal planning, etc content – we just started back so this is excellent timing 😉
Carolyn H says
Ahh drinking my San Antonio blend as we speak, no other k-cups compare 🙂 ! I’m originally from NY and have to fly back with it for friends who have had it at my house and love it.
Stephanie says
Ha-I feel the same. We moved to Kansas 7 years ago and my teen boys still talk about HEB! W my family brings their tortillas for them when they come to visit. We were just in Texas this summer and my guys wanted to go to the grocery store! Never happens here. All their brand items and their fresh put together meals are great! Their Creamy Creations ice cream rivals Blue Bell…some may even say it’s better. I hope I don’t get my native Texan card taken say for that statement!
Elspeth says
I wish I had a Trader Joe’s closer to me! These all look so good!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Linda says
HEB Cream of Poblano soup added to queso is delicious!
Taste of San Antonio Coffee
and always the fresh made Tortillas!
Andrea says
I love Trader Joe’s but my local store is very much not a relaxing trip! The parking lot is tiny, the store is tiny and congested and even the carts are tiny. Hah!
Kim says
Same Ours is packed and not relaxing at all. Parking is super busy. It’s actually stressful and I don’t go much!
Jeanie says
I love my TJ’s but it’s not my main grocery store. They just have such small quantities. Even their bagged veggies seem like such small quantities. I guess it would work for purchasing single serve lunch items but most of the time I am trying to eliminate my time in the grocery store. The items that are must haves for us are the pizza crust, the cheeses and the popsicles.
We don’t have HEB but other TX friends LOVE IT so I would like to read about a review of the store. I would literally never shop at the Walmarts in our town…they are absolutely disgusting. I live in an upscale area and my local Walmart has the worst produce ever.
Jenny N says
We live south of Houston and HEB is big here and we love it! It is crowded, but go early in the day during the week and you shouldn’t have a problem. Their produce is so fresh and always looks beautiful! They have so many great options in ready to go food if you need quick options for crazy nights. Their house made chicken salad and pimento cheese is so good!! Their butter tortillas are to die for!! Ours in undergoing renovations right now and has been complete chaos for months, but I still go because it is really awesome!! I had no clue that HEB was new to the Dallas area. I thought all of Texas had HEB’s.
Sandy Blitch says
We live in Austin, HEB and Central Market are both here. HEB has so many unique products, so many varieties of peanut or almond butters, unlike other stores. I love their produce and meat selections. Yes, it is big, so you need some time to explore. The employees are so friendly. Trader Joe’s is great too, it is just two different shopping experiences.
Melissa says
HEB Instacart is the way to go…
Alyssa’s healthy oatmeal / gluten-free cookies are worth the money. They’re also on Amazon.
Nades says
To live that close and not go into HEB us just plain wrong. HEB is our weekly grocery store here in the Houston area. They do right by Texas. Great store!
Linda says
As others have said, go early to HEB. Mornings around 8:00/8:30 a.m. are usually pretty quiet (I am in the Austin area). The fresh tortillas are a must. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll never go back! HEB has great meat and produce too. I also shop Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and I’ve been trying Kroger delivery. LOVE your TJ’s recommendations, and now I need to get over there asap!
Brooke says
I love HEB but I hate parking and going in. I mostly do grocery pick up, which is super fast. They have great HEB brand products. Part of why people love them so much is how they have given back to communities. HEB is great in a disaster.
Leslie says
We love the TJ’s Mexican-style cauliflower rice…add black beans, roasted corn and some avocado to it and you have a complete meal in 10 minutes.
Shelly Nutt says
My favorite items at HEB are the HEB brand Texas Pecan Coffee and the HEB peanut butter, made with Texas grown peanuts. I love HEB’s commitment to purchasing from Texas farmers.
Terri says
I love HEB. I buy a ton of their brand of products. I like that they carry a lot of products made in Texas. ex. salsas and seasonings. I saw someone comment on their coffee, the Cafe Ole is good and so is the Austin and San Antonio flavors. The only place I will buy fresh meat from. The seafood counter has some great local seafood (I live not far from the coast). Lots of pre-made items near the deli. Excellent sushi and potstickers (edamame is my favorite) I will say, you have to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Ours is always crowded at peak times. Let the new wear off a bit and give it a try. I think you will like it.
Terri says
I love HEB. I buy a ton of their brand of products. I like that they carry a lot of products made in Texas. ex. salsas and seasonings. You can grind fresh almonds for almond butter. I saw someone comment on their coffee, the Cafe Ole is good and so is the Austin and San Antonio flavors. The only place I will buy fresh meat from. The seafood counter has some great local seafood (I live not far from the coast). Lots of pre-made items near the deli. Excellent sushi and potstickers (edamame is my favorite) I will say, you have to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Ours is always crowded at peak times. Let the new wear off a bit and give it a try. I think you will like it.
Leigh says
I’m in the metroplex and the nearest H‑E‑B is a 20 minute drive. I go there once a month because they have great items I cannot get anywhere else. I never go inside. I always use the pick up option, and they do it better than anyone else. I also love their tortillas. They have a wonderful selection of store brand chips, and their queso blanco is to die for. The one nearest me also has their True Texas BBQ restaurant inside. It was voted Best BBQ Chain by Texas Monthly. After I pick up my groceries, I head to the restaurant drive up window and pick up dinner. I’m kind of thankful it’s as far away as it is or we would be eating too much barbecue over here!
Caroline says
Native Houstonian here. I definitely think you should check out HEB, but you don’t necessarily have to go right this minute. I think their customer service is top notch and they have really good produce. During Hatch chile season they have alot of great products as well. I live in the Pacific NW now and I definitely miss HEB quality. Enjoy!
Brooke says
Here are my H‑E‑B favorites: bakery tortillas, bakery tortilla chips, fresh guacamole and salsa (in produce), sushi rolls (seriously their sushi department is fantastic!), meal simple soups, marinated meats, bagged salads, meal simple salads, two bite brownies. Hope this helps ◡̈
MollyP says
I don’t fully understand the HEB hype. I do like their organic Atlantic salmon and mini containers of pico de gallo in multiple varietals. So far the produce department doesn’t impress me, not a lot of organic options. Whole Foods is still my fave local go to and Amazon return center 🤣
Casey says
Our closest HEB is 1.5 hrs away but I love to go! My favorite items are in the ready to eat fresh food section. I’ve noticed they have made up sandwich trays, fruit trays etc if you’re having guests or a party you can just grab one and they look delicious! I love their bread, the huge selection of cheeses and we get HEB brand snack foods for the kids:PB&J bars etc. it’s definitely worth the trip!
KL says
Because of health issues I have not been able to go into a grocery store, small or large, in three years. If I could go, I would go to HEB in a heart beat. I agree with all the above posters who mentioned their quality, variety and community involvement. I’ve lived in several states and the only other grocery store on par with HEB is Publix in Florida and the Southeast. And except for possibly Sunday afternoons, I’ve never felt it was crowded. The stores are big enough to manage the crowd. You might be pleasantly surprised to give it a try.
Krista Dragoo says
HEB is amazing and I miss it (from college) and can’t wait for the one down the street to be finished!! If you do go get their rotisserie chicken salad in the deli section!!! In your defense though Market Street IS a subsidiary of HEB!!
Janet says
I have been serving the spicy riced cauliflower to my veggie hating husband for years. He thinks its just spicy rice:) Thanks for all the recommendations.
Robyn says
Shay,
You definitely need to go to HEB!!! I get having the quaint shopping experience as your usual grocery store offers, but there are SO many good items that you can only get at HEB. #1 being their homemade tortillas, once you have those, you will never go back to any other type. As many have said the Cafe Ole Coffee is amazing, SA blend being my favorite. We love the seasoned and pre-packaged meat selections, makes dinners very easy. Thier sushi selection is top notch. So good!!!
I am not sure if you have a regular HEB or the upscale HEB Central Market. I live outside of San Antonio and we have both. I will go to the Central Market about once a month to grab specialty items. Many imported items from all over the world. The Italian section of pastas is amazing there. It is a whole experience going to Central Market for me. LOL
Hope this helps! 🙂
Betsy says
Born and raised Texan, then moved to the Midwest for a cold second—thing we were most looking forward to getting back to was H‑E‑B! You don’t realize how amazing it is until you don’t have it. Everything H‑E‑B brand is delicious!! I chose that over name brands. Also all of their premade food, Texas pecan coffee, etc! And curbside ALLLLLL the way!
Suzanne says
Can not live without H‑E‑B!!!! I love me some TJ’s don’t get me wrong, but H‑E‑B has it all!! I extremely dislike grocery shopping in general so that is why I do curbside pickup almost 95% of the time. Their curbside pickup is soooooo easy and efficient! We just had a nice new one open in our neighborhood and we can even walk there when it is not 1000 degrees out!
Lauren Hindes says
H‑E‑B is superior to most grocery stores lol. Fresh tortillas, coffee, bagged chopped salads, seafood, sushi counter, dog treats, canned borracho beans, queso blanco, that green sauce, creamy creations ice cream, etc. I could go on and on.
Amylynn says
I feel the way you feel about HEB, about Trader Joe’s 🤣 I love HEB!! And I’ve shopped Trader Joe’s a handful of times but I DON’T really enjoy it and don’t get the hype. HEB…. I’m always happy to get back to as a currently misplaced Texan 😬😅
Debbie Hoover says
I LOVE H‑E‑B. They treat their employees very well, including my special needs son. I am thankful for such a good company!
Yes, the store is typically busy, which should speak highly of the grocery store, but as busy as the store is, you rarely have much of a wait as most cashiers are open. No need to feel like you have to check yourself out, but that option is available.
We love their prepared meals. So good. The produce and meat dept. is above average, too!! Store brands are good and my snobby family has never complained of their Hill Country Fare or HEB brand products.
The stores are clean and organized and prices are compatible with Walmart, but this is not a Walmart grocery store. So nice.
As for me, I’ve never been to Trader Joe’s, even though there is one not too far from me! If nothing else, try grocery pickup or delivery from HEB, you’ll be pleased you did.
Jami Hamrick says
I agree with most everyone the jalapeño pimento cheese is sooo good. Their guac is good. I don’t care for their chicken salad but their turkey cranberry pecan salad is the best. My favorite thing is they will steam your shrimp for you while you shop you can ask for old bay or Cajun seasoning. It takes 10 minutes and doesn’t cost extra. We will have steamed shrimp with your crab cakes or throw it in pasta or just roasted veggies makes for such an easy meal when your kids are all going in different directions. The tortillas are so good but since your gf house that probably doesn’t work for you😉. Give it a shot once the newness dies off.
K.K. says
It’s been said already, but the produce is best at HEB in my experience! Hope you love it once it calms down! 🙂 (And they are very community-centric, which earns them bonus points for giving back so much!)
Amanda says
I personally dislike the HEB experience here in our town. The parking lot is alway completely full, the store is overwhelmingly huge, and there are always the huge carts in the way that the employee use for the curbside orders. I know HEB has some unique and fun offerings but it’s not worth it for me. I’ll take my smaller more manageable stores!
Mary says
HEB is everything…hence here everything is better! 🙃 When we visit my in-laws in San Angelo…it will be the only walking I do since it’s literally across the street from their home. Lol. They live in a nice area but the 2nd heb managed to make it to their neighbood. But anyways…I agree I love a quiet grocery shopping environment. So…I recommend a stop 30min into opening in the morning. Get their fresh tortillas! And if you can get your hands on PECOS BRAND CANTALOUPE AND WATERMELON…you’ll never want any other brand! Soooooooooooo good! And their meat section is out of this world! So much goodness! Their store brand has tooo many good stuff! It’s fun. It’s overwhelming! I’m in Fairview but I make a stop in mcK once a week. They are getting ready to open one in Allen right next to Kroger where I’ve shopped for the last 6yrs! I’m soo excited I won’t have to make a trip to frisco or Plano or mcK anymore..we have our own. Lol. Stop by I’m the early morning hours and give it a chance! 🙃 have fun!
Lynn T says
I loved your post on Monday about meal planning. I got lots of great ideas for meals. I love the shared notes about the grocery list. Trader Joes and HEb are both close to my house and I shop more at HEB. At HEB I like Boars Head meat for sandwiches. They also have the best fresh tortillas and their brisket queso is really good to put on the grill. HEB also has two gluten free sections. there is a dry food section of an aisle for like snacks and mixes and then a frozen section too. I find some good snacks and other staples for my son. But Trader Joes does have good gf bread and also good produce.
You could use the fresh tortillas for the brisket queso. I would definitely give it a try…go early in the morning after school drop off.
Ky says
H-E-B is really the best. No hype. We traveled all over the country and no other grocery store compares. I don’t love going in, but I do love their curbside. You have already received so many good recommendations—the only thing I didn’t see mentioned yet was the frozen Central Market brand French demi baguettes. 7 minutes in the oven and they taste so fresh!
Erin says
Hey! This isn’t the right place for this question, but maybe you can help? Skin care for teens? I have a 13yo boy with just a slight, slight bit of acne on his forehead, near his hairline. You have teens, so I was wondering if there’s any products you love and trust for keeping skin clear. I know there’s a kajillion options. I’m 42 and haven’t had pimples in ages. Lol. Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my heavens, Smith has no routine. I’ve encouraged one, but I really think he just sticks his head under the shower and calls it a day. I wish I had a great method, but sadly…I do not.
Melissa says
HEB is not worth it. Lived for years in Waco, and that was our only real grocery option, and I hated it the whole time. Most people say go early, but I always went immediately following school drop off and it was still terrible. Even at “slower” times of the day they completely filled the aisles with pallets no one was ever unloading and then all the carts of employees shopping for people who do grocery pickup. Impossible to get around. It’s never relaxing. Not even close. The tortillas are the only redeeming quality.
Renee says
I live VERY close to your favorite grocery store, but H‑E‑B is a must! While the parking lot looks a little crazy, there are calmer times to go like early in the morning during the week. It’s definitely a store to just browse through but the produce, meat, deli, cheese, bakery, and outdoor plants selections are my favorites! I’ve bought so many plants from H‑E‑B and they are all gorgeous. Don’t forget to grab the yellow coupons throughout the store for extra savings or use their app. Let us know what you get.
Claire says
Shay, can Mix and Match Travel plan me a trip to Texas so I can visit these HEB stores y’all are talking about?! They sound amazing!
When I lived in Ohio, we had an absolutely fabulous grocery store called Dorothy Lane Market; it was sort of “boutique” style and upscale but still very friendly and inviting. It was my relaxation place, too! They have a wonderful online store as well and ship all over the country. If you see “Killer Brownies” in your grocery shopping adventures, they originated at DLM! 🙂
Sarah says
A Texan living in the land of Publix and whole Publix is great it’s not HEB. As others have mentioned the Cafe Ole’s Texas peca, taste of San Antonio and Taste of Houston coffee’s are amazing. When we are back in SA visiting my family, we ALWAYS make at least 3 visits. My kids love, love, love HEB. I always stick up on Cafe Ole Kcups ans bring them back and every time a family member visits, part of their suitcase has Kcups for me. I have had friends here in Florida stop me and ask me about my Cafe Ole coffee. I have even given it as gifts 😂. But seriously, take sometime and stroll through your store on a quiet morning. If I could bring one store from Texas to Florida it would without a doubt be HEB.
Audrey says
H‑E‑B is a must try! I live outside SA. I tell my husband I’ll live anywhere in the world…as long as there is an H‑E‑B.😜😉
As mentioned before their store brands are great. H‑E‑B salsa (by the sour cream), their Pico and Mango Pico (produce section), homemade tortillas in the bakery, great sushi, Mootopia brand milks, their coffee, they also have a variety of Christmas flavored coffees during the holidays – candy cane is my favorite and I stock up to get me through half the year. All the deli meats and cheeses and items for a charcuterie board. I buy their cashews in bulk. The list of great items at H‑E‑B is endless. Their app is awesome and so user friendly with awesome coupons. I mainly use curbside but taking a stroll inside when I can – is a joy, too. Ours has an awesome coffee shop inside as well. H‑E‑B has a huge heart for community and giving back. They have camps and family camps in Leakey, TX that are incredible.
Enjoy!
Marion Wachsmann says
I ❤️ HEB! I have spent 5 month of the last year in Utah and I almost cry shopping at Kroger and Walmart, my only options. HEB is the thing I miss the most! HEB makes me happy. The shopping experience, the clean stores, happy employees, the produce selection and quality products are top notch.
Anita Chaplin says
Go to HEB!! If you don’t like chaos find a time that’s not as crowded. They have so many specialized items and they are always giving back to their local communities. I promise you will love them!
Laura says
I am a Northeast girl, lived in TX for 13 years now I am in PA. I miss HEB every day!! I consider it one of my happy places when I go back and visit TX
It has amazing prices, the freshest produce, and very good meats. Their prepared food items are a game changer. They would be perfect for your sport kiddos to heat up and eat quickly. They are great ingredients and made fresh
HEB also has amazing store brand items. You will also find alot of gluten free things
Stop being stubborn and have fun shopping 😂😊
Leslie says
Did you see my comment? I hit send before I put in my email address!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I do not see it!
Nancy Crain says
We love Trader Joe’s too, but it can’t hold a candle to an HEB. Send that HEB to Forney, Texas! We love HEB, so much do that I went to a new one recently and felt like I did when I visited the teacher store for the first time!! Gorgeous produce, delicious bakery and incredible cheese section. There are so many choices of various items too. Get over there and peruse each aisle. You will love it! Parking will get better as the newness wears off.
Sarah says
LOVE H‑E‑B! Also, really love TJ’s and both are just across the street from us so I’m always hitting up both! I don’t know if I’d call their music relaxing necessarily, but I’m constantly embarrassing my kids by dancing in the aisles, they play allll the good jams…it’s hard not to sing along and feel happy! We love stopping by the cooking connection to sample the latest recipes they have and get new ideas for dinners. Some of our other faves are brisket queso…hands down, the best…also, the fresh tortillas, H‑E‑B organics, the chicken salad snack packs, they get a lot of Texas grown produce, and their jalapeño pimento cheese!
Leslie says
Let me try this again! Lol!
You are not the only one in McKinney/Fairview that hasn’t gone to HEB yet; I haven’t either! My go to store is your Market Street in McKinney. It’s hard to beat that store for selection and you can always find a parking space even on Sunday afternoon, which is my shopping day. I also love the TJ in McKinney. Thanks for all the new product TJ posts.
I’m making a list of all the recommended HEB products and I’m sure I will go in there once the newness wear off and it’s not so crowded. I can’t wait for your review/post after you go to see what you think.
For everyone who lives out of state and loves the Cafe Ole coffee, you can get it on Amazon! We’ve been buying the Texas Pecan for years and it really is good!
Happy Shopping Everyone! 🙂
Penny G says
I live in the Panhandle, near Lubbock. H-E-B has been in Lubbock around 3 years. Like you, I do not like chaos when shopping for groceries. It is just a very busy store – and cavernous. I feel like I am in a warehouse. I have been twice and just did not hardly purchase anything. It is overwhelming and huge to walk and navigate. Lubbock has United grocery stores and United Market Street – LOVE. It is my choice. Customer service is unparalleled and the design, size, grocery choices and specialty items are the best. Not a fan of H-E-B, but so many do love it.
Kristen says
I would love to see what Kensington takes in her school lunch for some gf kid lunch ideas.
Mix and Match Mama says
This morning, I made her a chicken Caesar salad (which is pretty easy!). I took a container, added shredded Romaine, roasted chicken (from the deli department of our grocery store) and grated Parm. I put dressing in a little container. She also had one Granny Smith Apple with another little container of peanut butter and then those popcorn chip things my kids like from Walmart.
Janet E says
No HEB here in the Florida town I live in. No TJ’s either. However, I did get my first Pumpkin Spice Natural Bliss creamer yesterday from Publix and immediately thought of you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that you saw the creamer and thought of me!! xx
Anna says
I’m from San Antonio so we have H‑E‑B almost on every street corner lol. We have a big one not far from our house and a smaller one as well and I have to say the smaller one is my go to store or as we say here in SA town “My H‑E‑B “ They have the best produce, meats, coffee, and their chicken and beef fajitas in their brand are the bomb! Easy to grill and a quick dinner. The whole set up of their stores are just beautiful. My daughter moved to Dallas 8 years and the first thing she missed was H‑E‑B she is now so happy to have one in the area. You gotta go and see for yourself!!!
Courtney says
HEB has the BEST preseasoned beef fajitas…hands down. You have to get the Mi Tienda preseasoned beef skirt steak…and while you’re at it, get the Mi Tienda refrigerated refried beans. Come in a bag, and mexican restaurant quality and perfect for nachos!
Taste of San Antonio is the coffee I drink every morning for years now!