Jewel’s Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Taste-Tested Haul

From legendary bakery treats to surprisingly gourmet deli finds, Jewel-Osco is packed with local favorites. We’ve cross-referenced the aisles and gathered the ratings to bring you the definitive guide to the store’s best-selling, most delicious eats.

Bakery Assorted Buttercream Cupcakes

• Price: $9.99 (12-count) / $4.99 (6-count)

• Description: A Jewel-Osco bakery staple featuring moist vanilla or chocolate cake topped with a thick, traditional American buttercream frosting in various colors.

• Taste Test: The frosting is rich and heavy, satisfying a serious sweet tooth. The cake is notably moist for a grocery store brand, and the buttercream is creamy without being gritty.

• Rating: 4.5/5

• Verdict: A “must-buy” for gatherings or a budget-friendly indulgence; many locals prefer these over specialty boutiques for the price-to-quality ratio.

ReadyMeals Ham & Swiss Pretzel Sandwich

• Price: $5.99 (often includes a free bag of chips)

• Description: Part of the “Ready2Eat” line, this sandwich features sliced ham and Swiss cheese on a soft, salted pretzel bun.

• Taste Test: The pretzel bun is the highlight—chewy and flavorful. The ham is standard deli quality, but the pairing with Swiss on a pretzel roll makes it far superior to a standard white bread sandwich.

• Rating: 4.2/5

• Verdict: The perfect quick lunch. Look for the “Free Chips” sticker often found on the packaging for the best value.

ZENSHI Sushi Spicy Tuna Roll Special

• Price: $9.99

• Description: Freshly prepared in-store daily (available after 11 AM), this roll includes spicy tuna, cucumber, and spicy mayo.

• Taste Test: Surprising quality for a supermarket. The rice holds together well, and the tuna has a clean taste with a legitimate kick of heat.

• Rating: 4.0/5

• Verdict: Jewel’s sushi is widely considered some of the best “grocery sushi” in the Midwest. Great for a healthy, fast dinner.

Signature SELECT Deviled Egg Potato Salad

• Price: $4.49 (16 oz)

• Description: A creamy deli-style potato salad with hard-boiled eggs, mustard, and a hint of paprika.

• Taste Test: Tangy and classic. It has a heavy mustard base that mimics homemade deviled eggs. Users highly recommend adding Tajín or bacon bits to elevate the flavor profile.

• Rating: 3.8/5

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• Verdict: A solid side dish, though it can be a bit “mushy” for those who prefer chunky potato salad. Best served extra cold.

Celsius Sparkling Tropical Vibe Energy Drink

• Price: $2.00 – $2.49 (12 oz can)

• Description: A zero-sugar, vitamin-infused energy drink with a pineapple and starfruit flavor profile.

• Taste Test: Very refreshing and crisp. Unlike other energy drinks, it lacks a heavy medicinal aftertaste and tastes more like a tropical sparkling juice.

• Rating: 4.8/5

• Verdict: A fan favorite for those in a “calorie deficit” or looking for a cleaner energy boost.

Impossible Made From Plants Chicken Nuggets

• Price: $9.99 (13.5 oz bag)

• Description: Plant-based nuggets designed to mimic the texture and flavor of processed chicken nuggets.

• Taste Test: Virtually indistinguishable from real chicken when air-fried. The breading is seasoned well and stays very crunchy, while the interior remains juicy.

• Rating: 4.7/5

• Verdict: A top-tier meat alternative. Even kids and “picky eaters” usually can’t tell the difference.

Goodles Gluten-Free “Loopdy-Loos” Pasta

• Price: $3.97 (8 oz box)

• Description: A nutrient-packed, high-protein gluten-free pasta made with a blend of corn, rice, and chickpeas.

• Taste Test: Holds its shape much better than traditional brown rice or chickpea pastas. It has a firm, “al dente” texture and tastes very close to wheat-based pasta.

• Rating: 4.6/5

• Verdict: The best gluten-free noodle option currently at Jewel. It doesn’t get “slimy” when boiled.

On The Rocks “The Margarita” (Hornitos Tequila)

• Price: $12.99 (375ml) / $24.99 (750ml)

• Description: A premium ready-to-drink cocktail crafted with Hornitos Plata Tequila, triple sec, and lime.

• Taste Test: Very strong (20% ABV). It is tart and professional-grade. It tastes like a margarita from a high-end bar rather than a sugary pre-mix.

• Rating: 4.3/5

• Verdict: Excellent convenience. Always serve over plenty of ice, as it is designed to be slightly diluted by melting ice for the perfect balance.