Trader Joe's
Grocery store · Pasadena ·

Trader Joe's

Grocery store · Pasadena ·

Original grocery chain with unique products & affordable wines

Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null
Trader Joe's by null

Information

610 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA 91105 Get directions

$$

Information

Static Map

610 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA 91105 Get directions

+1 626 568 9254
locations.traderjoes.com
@traderjoes

$$

Features

payment credit card
Tap to pay

Last updated

Nov 21, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater
390,870 Postcards · 10,986 Cities

Trader Joe’s Founder Joe Coulombe Dies at 89 | Eater

"Founded by Joe Coulombe with the idea of serving “overeducated and underpaid” customers like classical musicians and museum curators, this grocery chain began with a 1967 Pasadena location and built a reputation for offering high-quality international goods and affordable wines at strong value. Early and enduring hallmarks include a focus on natural and organic items, a private-label sourcing model, maritime-themed stores, a deliberate “policy of discontinuity” that keeps inventory rotating, and an expansive selection of budget-friendly wines exemplified by the Charles Shaw “two-buck Chuck.” Coulombe emphasized fair employee compensation and benefits—contributing to the chain’s friendly, Aloha-shirt-clad staff—and after selling his interest to Germany’s Aldi Nord in 1979 and retiring as CEO in 1988, he left a legacy that grew into a network of more than 500 U.S. stores built on the principle of good food and good value; he died at age 89." - Jenny G. Zhang

https://www.eater.com/2020/3/2/21161357/trader-joes-founder-joe-coulombe-dies-at-89
Trader Joe's

SeeTheWorld

Google
I love Trader Joe's but unfortunately the closest one to my house is 15 miles away. We were visiting our daughter and I was very excited to see there's a TJs nearby AND it's the original one! They have high quality products at good prices.

Map Cat

Google
The original one, and they’re proud of it. Lots of murals and signs celebrating their history. TINY parking lot in front of door (maybe there’s another one I didn’t see). Very clean and well organized. Nice bathroom. Super friendly employees. If you love TJ’s it’s worth a drive from anywhere in LA.

Borderlessfoodie

Google
I got to visit the very first Trader Joe’s, which opened back in 1967! While the store isn’t very big, its long history is evident—especially in the lower ceilings, which make it feel less open compared to more modern locations. That said, the product offerings are about the same as other stores. Still, I just loved the idea of visiting the “founding store.”

Sean Mitchell Christopher

Google
This is the original Trader Joe's parking is a (B) but worth waiting. You'll be shopping in the market that opened in August of 1967. The cheese counter, meat market, and produce areas have changed since. But boy Trader Joe's has a very friendly staff willing to help with your every need!

Irene Posadas

Google
Always love going to shop at this location for their variety of organic and fresh produce. Sometimes I find something different and am willing to try it out. Love the friendly workers who are always ready to help you find what you're looking for. So many products to choose from. The only complaint is the parking: very small and tight spaces. Not easy to get in to a tight space. My car is not big, but I had trouble getting out of it. I was right between the lines.

America Martinez

Google
First of all parking is impossible! Weird curly head following me around the store after i told her my dog is a service dog, she even followed me to the bathroom. Weird atmosphere weird employees who can’t mind their business and others personal space.

Susanna SS

Google
This is the very first Trader Joe’s. What it lacks in square footage, it makes up with its great inventory. There is a lot of seasonal items presently including holiday fare and decor as well as European chocolates, sweets and pastries. The staff are always nice and helpful.

Albert Vaca

Google
The OG Trader Joe’s! I feel like Norm from Cheers when I drop in and grab the essentials that I need. The staff is super friendly and helpful. This smaller store is laid out nicely and never seems cluttered. And there’s always something new that I find to try out. The crunchy almond butter is the bomb! And the flowers last longer than other places. Well done TJs Arroyo.
google avatar

Travis T.

Yelp
I was in L.A. and about to head back home to AZ and wanted to grab some food and snacks for the road. While passing through Pasadena, I came across Trader Joe's and realized that this store is their first location. I am a huge Trader Joe's fan and enjoyed being in the store that started it all. If you look at old photos, there is not a lot of difference in how the building looked back in 1967 and how it looks today. Other than the TJ logo on the sign is now its trademark red color. Trader Joe's now has close to 600 stores nationwide. The signature Hawaiian shirt that the employees wear has been a thing since their inception. Trader Joe's is named after its founder Joe Coulombe. This location opened on August 25, 1967. Trader Joe's is a neighborhood grocery store that sells all sorts of unconventional and interesting products. The customer service is always great here. You really can't go wrong with planning a dinner night on the fly with Trader Joe's. Even though I have my usual favorites that I like to pick up, I still feel my friends always find way cooler stuff at Trader Joe's than me. I love their seasonal items. They like to roll out the carpet for the holidays. If you like pumpkin everything products in the Fall, this is the place to go. The tiki theme at Trader Joe's is a lot of fun. I am a big fan of how environment friendly their products are. I make sure I bring in my Trader Joe's shopping bag every time that I stop by one. I follow a couple of Instagram accounts that give you ideas on what to shop for. I even have a cookbook with meal ideas that use only Trader Joe's products as the ingredients. You can make a pretty good charcuterie board using a variety of their affordable cheeses. Flowers and wine are good pick-ups too. Even though it is no longer $2, "Two Buck Chuck" is still a solid affordable wine. Check out the Fearless Flyer for food ideas and specials.
google avatar

Tiffany D.

Yelp
I dropped in while visiting the area. This is the first trader joes store, which was very cool to see. It was stocked well with plenty of alcoholic options--- more than just beer and wine. Service was great and I appreciated that they acknowledged it being the first store with a mural in the front. The parking lot was unusually tight, which we all know is a key feature of TJ, but it was extra small here.
google avatar

Natalia O.

Yelp
OG store so it gets all my votes! Staff are always very friendly, aisles are cleaned and well-stocked, and it never seems to get TOO crazy (at least all the times I've been)!
google avatar

Lindsey N.

Yelp
This is THE original trader Joe's location and it definitely shows. It's definitely cool to swing by and see a piece of History, but the parking lot is so small and the store itself is quite small as well so I'm not sure I would make it my regular groceries store location. There is a brand new Peter Joe's a few blocks away that is almost triple the size and has a huge parking lot so I would definitely recommend going there instead if you are just looking to get some shopping done. That being said, the service here and the charm of the original location is amazing. There's definitely a historic ambiance that you won't get from the newer spot.
google avatar

Sarah H.

Yelp
I just want to shout this location out for their outstanding customer service. I wanted to serve their mini apple pies at an event I was hosting, so I called a week before and they ordered a few cases for me and set them off to the side for me. When I came to pick them up at check out, Tracy and Margie were so helpful in getting them, counting them out, and making sure everything was taken care of. Thank you, og TJ's!
google avatar

Josephine C.

Yelp
On a Saturday morning in mid November, I came here to get a few items at 8:30am. Inside, it wasn't too busy since everyone is going to South Pasadena location. It has everything I looking for including the seasonal item, such as horseradish potatoes chips and sin frozen items. The line to pay was short and quick.
google avatar

Randy B.

Yelp
The is the Original Trader Joe's. The very first one, the OG, the one that started it all. I have written that I love Trader Joe's and it is my favorite grocery store, but have never been to the first one. I love all the touches Trader Joe's does to their stores and how it still feels like a local neighborhood grocer. The service here is excellent, this is the one the rest have followed and made them the chain they are today. Amazing choice of healthy food, new discoveries, wine, snacks, you can find it all here. I will address the parking, the lot is quite small, but they have overflow parking as well as some street parking, so yes, not great, but something you can work through. I found parking right away right in front on the street, no problem. Not enough of a deal to drop my five star rating, Trader Joe's is just to awesome. Come back and check out some history, they have been here since 1967, a staple of Pasadena. Enjoy!
google avatar

Claribel V.

Yelp
I really like this Trader Joe's location. They always have what I am looking for in stock. I love coming here for prepared and frozen meals, snacks and meat/cheese for whenever I crave a charcuterie board. I also buy boxes of chocolate and cookies here during the holiday season to give as Christmas presents. Their flowers are also fresh and affordable. There is never a long wait to pay. The parking lot is small, but there are also street parking available.
google avatar

James A.

Yelp
The Original! You have to stop-in just to be able to see that. We love Trader Joe's, and will stop in any chance we get. Parking is a bit hard, and we ended up finding spots in the alley behind the store (we knew it was OK since a sign proclaiming it was only for TJ customer was prominent). That being said, it would be really difficult to bring a shopping cart to that area so would recommend parking there only if you can hand carry it. As for the store itself, it tended to be on the smaller side, but seemed to have all the necessary essentials and the checkout line was very short. We were going to be in (South) Pasadena late, so we couldn't buy anything that would perish without refrigeration.We picked up our favorite (elote seasoning), and will try two things that I haven't tried before (peri peri sauce and red wine vinegar). We were also looking for pizza sauce, but the only one sold is the fresh, needs-refrigeration type (very close to the fresh pizza dough, which is very good btw). As usual, prices are low and the associates were all kind and helpful.
google avatar

Beverly Y.

Yelp
Best.place to shop! Fresh. Friendly manager. Come.to Hawaii! Great selection and new South pasadena location free Parking. Aisles are spacious.
google avatar

Mrs. T.

Yelp
First time shopping here and I'm so glad I navigated the tight spot at tjeir parking to run in and grab a few essentials. Within five minutes two friendly assoc. Asked if they could help me find something,(low carb wraps and frozen falafel) Josue at the cash register couldn't have been kinder. Knowledgeable, courteous and efficient Highly recommend this location!
google avatar

Linh Y.

Yelp
This past weekend I was out with my daughters in Pasadena. We hit a few places and Trader Joe's was one of them. I did not know this TJ is the original original TJ. It was built in 1967... older than me by the chinny chin chin of X number of years LOL. Even though this TJ is 57 years old, it looks really good inside. Very bright and clean... just well maintained all around. Very well stocked in inventory. Love the wall art! I strolled around the store, took pictures along the way, and picked up some of my favorite items (TJ sparkling water, aloe vera juice, banana chips, corn chips, salsa) and some newly found items (peanut butter pretzel, spicy tempura seaweed snack) as well. I'm always up for new and exciting eats and drinks. Staff was fabulous and a joy to connect with for the moment... thank you sir for thinking outside the box in helping me pack my items... you know who you are! He made it very easy for me to transport the 15 TJ water from my cart to my car trunk. I enjoyed my visit very much. I even took some selfies with the beautiful art wall LOL. The only down side was the parking. It was really really tight. Not too many parking spots. I was lucky and got a spot upon arrival. Thank you TJ for the experience!
google avatar

Luke L.

Yelp
This is the original and first ever Trader Joe's (opened in 1967) so I just had to pay a visit. Now is there anything special about this flagship store? Not really - in fact I probably prefer visiting other Trader Joe's locations for one simple reason: parking lot here is small with tight spaces. While I did notice this location has slightly more unique options (e.g. Instant Boba Kit) comparing with other locations, I would rather visit the one in Huntington Dr/San Gabriel Blvd. In general I love Trader Joe's, but treat this location as your average Trader Joe's with (1) the wall art to pay tribute on being the first store and (2) awful parking lot. P.S. - Didn't realize Trader joe's is owned by Aldi until now.
google avatar

Sarah S.

Yelp
You all should know by now the fastest way to my heart is to compliment me. A guy working here did just that and so five stars for this Trader Joe's! Review done. Lol just kidding. Kinda. Now, this is the OG Trader Joe's location. If you ever wondered what the first Trader Joe's was like, here you go. Right here in Pasadena, we have the original, albeit quite possibly the smallest Trader Joe's of all time ... with what I would imagine to be the smallest Trader Joe's parking lot of all time. Quite possibly the smallest parking lot for any grocery store ever of all time? I went in for a few items, and even though this location isn't huge, they had everything I needed so no big complaints. Also, with the aforementioned parking, I was able to snag the first spot so I didn't have to deal with a lot of the maneuvering issues that everyone else in the parking lot had to. This isn't going to be my go-to TJs but it's just so darn convenient when I'm in the town of rose bowls! I'm sure I'll be back.
google avatar

Patrick N.

Yelp
Honestly just wanted to post this review because of the amazing shot I had of this Winter Peonies as well as the nice lady who pointed me to where the peonies were at since I have no clue about flowers. The Peonies are to the right of the store when you walk in. There should be a section full of tubs filled with bouquet of flowers for $8-$13. I called in beforehand to confirm they had the peonies because the first store I called did have them! All of the bouquets of peonies only had 1-3 peonies that were fully bloomed and the rest were still in their bud form. Surprisingly parking was easy even though the parking lot was tiny!
google avatar

Deanna M.

Yelp
I wanted to share my experience regarding the staff at the Trader Joe's Arroyo location. Unfortunately, I have found some of the team members to be unfriendly and awkward. This contrasts with my visits to other Trader Joe's, where I've enjoyed pleasant conversations with the staff. As I live closer to the Eagle Rock, I absolutely love the employees there. I hope this feedback can help improve the experience at Arroyo TJ's.
google avatar

Delilah D.

Yelp
Yelp asked me if I recommend Trader Joe's? Such a great question...I mean who doesn't recommend Tj s. It's the most hyped, holy grail, if Trader Joe's sells it I buy it store. I love that I don't have too many options, but just 1 type. I don't need 4 brands of soy sauce. One is perf. Staff is always lovely and they have the best snacks. The freezer section? Total gem. Flower section is always perfection. Love 10/10
google avatar

Nadine C.

Yelp
The ORIGINAL Location of Trader Joe's! Did you know that Trader Joe's began in Pasadena, California? I didn't know what a great store this was when my cousin from San Francisco talked about it. Over the years, I've learned that Trader Joe's will never come to Hawaii because of the cost of shipping. It's a fact. That's why, whenever I travel, I need to bring items back for friends and family. The snacks are delicious, different, and reasonably priced! While I'm there, I like to look at the fresh flowers, greeting cards, pet supplies, household goods, and... Everything! I also appreciate the convenient restroom and free parking! This particular location is cozier than the others. I was just happy to be at the place where Trader Joe's first started... and happy to see new products such as Ube Spread!
google avatar

Sharon K.

Yelp
Original Trader Joe's! The parking here is a nightmare! The lot is so small and the surrounding areas quite busy with other businesses and residential area so very limited parking. Other than that, they usually have most things in stock. Sometimes I've gone and a lot of the shelves are cleaned out.
google avatar

Trisha B.

Yelp
Their selection of cookies is impressive! I like to tell myself they are good for me since they come from Trader Joe's . They taste amazing ...all of them...Every kind! They have a great frozen entree selection which I appreciate ...especially since I am looking for something healthy to wipe my conscience from eating all those cookies! Staff are always super helpful! Love this grocery store!
google avatar

Novia E.

Yelp
This is just right across where I live so I always always come here whenever I need something or if I need to do grocery last minute. The staff always greet me with a smile and they always make sure I was full filled during my shopping trip. They have a good selection of items and new items. They always keep updated with that. Too bad that every time I come too late and some famous items are always already gone.
google avatar

Shayna H.

Yelp
Nothing beats the original flavor... by the bathrooms they have a bunch of infographics about Trader Joe's. The store has a great layout and all the classic Trader Joe's offerings. The employee who checked us out was named Joe and he was just a delight! Will definitely be returning. However be warned the parking lot is small and tight, but don't let that stop you from visiting a piece of history.
google avatar

Caprina A.

Yelp
Well love the products here but this is not my fav traders questioned about the 3 products I returned and waited in line when other registers open I know everyone different They also celebrated or clapped when a co worker was getting off work They could welcome each customer like the other one on Huntington /San Gabriel
google avatar

Kelsey M.

Yelp
My partner and I are Trader Joe's addicts, so it was fitting that we finally checked out the original location. The food options were great, much like every other location. We went during October so they had a lot of deals on pumpkins, I think it was about $4-5 / pumpkin. The service was great. They were giving out samples at this location. We recently bought some fish that was not good and we didn't have a receipt and they didn't ask any questions and just gave us a refund back to our card. Trader Joe's had the absolute best service. Keep in mind this is the original location so parking is not great. The lot is small. I went around 4pm on a Wednesday and there were multiple spots open.
google avatar

Namir K.

Yelp
The personnel is very nice , professional and courteous. But that's not where the problem resides: My issue is that a lot of items don't last as long as others bought elsewhere. Maybe I don't store them properly but let's take the pita bread: First, It is difficult to create a pocket as most sides are stuck so forget making sandwiches. They don't age well either. The vegetables don't last long when kept in the fridge. Maybe it's the fact that they are prepackaged in plastic for some. The basil is the best example: 2-3 days max when bought in the box. One can argue that the prices are less than elsewhere but for the apples for example are sold by the unit and there is no scale to get an idea of the price per pound. Of course, there are many good items like the hard cheeses and maybe, I caught a bad day or a bad batch. I wonder if I am the only one with this experience? I will try again and maybe update my review.
google avatar

Lyn L.

Yelp
I love Trader Joes...Products are good but the employees make it even better. I try to find things to bring back to Hawaii....I received recommendations so I got some of those things. One problem I had was that there wouldn't be enough room in the freezer overnight for an item I bought...an employee helped me locate a dry ice store...beyond the call. Another time a manager helped me find flowers I needed for a party. He not only called around to other TJ stores in the area, he arranged for the flowers to be held for me. Again, I was looking for an item that they were out of stock on...the manager checked and told me when the item would be back in stock. People there are so nice and helpful...Love shopping there! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
google avatar

Seon M.

Yelp
Trader Joe's supposedly focuses on customer service so they do not worry too much about having quality fresh produce/meat. I have been coming to this particular location for around 2.5 years. Employees are generally okay here. Not friendly but not rude. Other locations (silverlake and hollywood) have much better customer service. Anyway during checkout, usually employees bag groceries in an efficient way. My husband wanted to help so he started bagging one bag. I thought the cashier named Miranda would bag the other reusable bag at the same time to reduce time, but she just stood there with her arms crossed until my husband grabbed the second bag and bagged rest of the items. I am very confused. Is this the new Trader Joe's standard?
google avatar

Stevo O.

Yelp
This Trader Joe's has a small town feel and is kind of off the beaten path. They have all the items a traditional store would have, but without the crowds. Parking could be a challenge, but on this day, it was quite easy. If you find other Trader Joe's stores super crowded, you might want to try this location for convenience.
google avatar

Winn H.

Yelp
There is a sign outside that mentions that this is the original Trader Joe's. Nothing from this one stood out too much, but as with most, this location is clean and organized. Everything was quite easy to find. My only disappointment with this one was that parking is exceptionally difficult. Its parking lot is very tight, and backing in and out is a chore. If you have a larger cart, consider parking on the street.
google avatar

Natalie Y.

Yelp
I like this location over South Pasadena location just because of the floor plan or layout of the store is much more efficient from what I see. Its a bit more spacious too. Most of the employees at Trader Joe's are nice and friendly and I have never seen anyone dry here. They are all welcoming and they never forget to greet you. My favorites to get here all time are grapefruit juice, pico de gallo, frozen foods, dry pasta (especially organic fettuccine) and some chips. Its affordable and portion is just right for me because I tend to waste a lot of food when I get it at Costco even though it maybe cheaper to get it there. Since the foods I get, no one eats in the family so its all my responsibility to finish them, haha. It's also fun to browse through their new item shelves. They always have a lot of fun & interesting new items to pique your interest. I recently purchased their watermelon spread because I love watermelon! Anyway, parking is not too great here but feel free to park in the streets like everyone else does. With this pandemic, please please wear a face mask or face coverings and do not bring any reusuable bags. They will be more than happy to bag it for you in recycled paper bags.
google avatar

Joyce T.

Yelp
Okay, so this is the ORIGINAL Trader Joe's! Yup. Looks like the general set up. The parking lot is busy and tight.
google avatar

Mabel T.

Yelp
I usually leave this Trader Joe's location in a happier mood. The employees and management here often go above and beyond. Each worker I encountered throughout the years really know the products and their way around the store. They are friendly and try hard to help out. Even during the worse of COVID I feel like they treated me with kind patience despite them risking themselves and probably working extra tiresome hours. In general, Trader Joe's offers some items that are actually better quality and priced than traditional grocery stores. Sometimes there are items that are seasonal that are really good but will be out the next time I head back....I guess it is probably better on my waistline... Before COVID they offered free samples of various goodies or must tries which got me hooked on a bunch of things I would have never purchased. I hope they bring back their samples, but I am now much braver to try new things. The parking lot is tight for me, but the bright side is that the customers are generally patient and I feel safe getting to my car and back.
google avatar

Maritza C.

Yelp
First time at this location. The first impression I got from this location was not good. Parking is a NIGHTMARE! Very limited parking spaces. I came on a Saturday around noon and when I got in, no parking spaces were available. I went around the block and came back in then a spot opened up. As I was parking I noticed a few inconsiderate drivers even when I was leaving after shopping. Once inside, the ambiance of the store was ok but not the shoppers themselves. I encountered several rude and entitled people. I honestly did not have a good experience because of all these people. This is not TJ's fault and it's under their control but I would not come back to this location. The highlight of this review is the awesome service I got from the cashier. Steven was very thoughtful and considerate. He was very friendly and very helpful. My baby was very cranky and ready to go. I had my hands full as I was approaching the register and Steven saw my struggle. He immediately helped me get my items and checked me out in no time! I don't think I will be back to this location but decided to post this review to compliment and recognize Steven's awesome service!
google avatar

Christianne P.

Yelp
Great frozen food! I'm petite so sometimes when they open a new register I get passed up. Other than that great original TJs been going since I was a kid w my dad. I only wish the corporate would give us heads up when discontinuing a product.
google avatar

Brenda L.

Yelp
The good: I love how kitschy and quirky it is that Trader Joes has that Hawaiian shirt theme going on. I love coming to Trader Joes because of their frozen food and snack selection. It isn't my go-to grocery store for fruits/produce because those can be pricier here but their selection of snacks (gummies and cookies!), international frozen cuisines (from Indian curry to chimichurri fried rice), and dried fruits/nuts are great. They also have really pretty flowers that included peonies. I love that they always keep it interesting by introducing new products. I recently tried the dill pickle popcorn and savory plantain chips. The bad: The parking lot is small. The interesting: This is the ORIGINAL Trader Joes that started in the 60s. What a legendary place!
google avatar

Leilani G.

Yelp
Could not leave Pasadena without visiting the very first EVER Trader Joe's! Picked up some snacks for the road trip back home but was sad to see they didn't have any of the CA state reusable bags for me to add to my growing collection. Seems like it's a widespread shortage across TJ's all around the US. But aside from that, every single one of my experiences at a TJ's store has been exceptional, including this one!
google avatar

Daphney J.

Yelp
Oh, Trader Joe's. Where do I even begin. I come here whenever I'm in the area. I'm not going to lie, sometimes I cheat on this location with other locations. But this place is my home! I remember my first interaction with a Crew member and thinking "OMG, I just made a new best friend!" Why is everyone at Joe's so insanely nice! I love it so much. Also! The products are always a hit, never a miss! I've never bought something I've hated, and I hope I'm not jinxing myself. Also, I love how the layouts of the stores are all so similar! The only downside with this location is the parking which makes you feel like you're auditioning for the Hunger Games, but there's usually plenty of street parking.
google avatar

Mayu H.

Yelp
The first TJ and I had time in Pasadena so decided to visit here. I also needed water and some fruits. When I entered I saw The cute drawing behind carts and it was 8a and not many people here yet. I decided to take a pic. The lady works here was organizing carts so I go side to not interrupt her job. And when she was gone I was taking only two pics: close and fat shots. The worker lady came in front of me again so I was just waited her to move. She noticed me and asked me to move from cart since people need it. I see no one coming to carts and she was kinda passive and aggressive way to ask me. I only need two pics and I've one already one shot. Oh well, I'm not kind of person who took 100 photos to bother people anyway so I gave up on taking pic. That's the bad experience. Usually any TJ workers are super friendly and nice. She wasn't. I'm sure she sees lots of people visit here to take pics since this is the first TJ. So she must be sick of seeing like me taking pics but I didn't take bunch snd I just take one pic with even 5 sec... Whatever! I go in and get water and a peach and left. Just one star for the first cute TJ.
google avatar

Harmony M.

Yelp
Like a kid in the candy store or the first time you go to Disneyland. My eyes were wide as I waited to go in. I have always called myself a "Trader Hoe" because I really only shop at Trader Joe's and I have been to so many from Charleston, SC to New York City to Provo, UT! I always feel at home at a TJs and love that they always have the staples plus fun new items depending on geographic location. This location (though it looked similar to most TJs) felt magical as I walked in. It felt like home. We just popped in for a couple items as we waited for the LA traffic to calm down. Just be aware that there is limited parking and all Covid precautions are being followed.
google avatar

Nanette L.

Yelp
Parking is usually hard here, but the staff is very friendly. I appreciate that the store looks clean and organized. Happy that my trip here was good and quick.

Maria A.

Yelp
My weekly go-to for treats, some frozen good and recently, our favorite Speculous Cookie Butter ice cream.
google avatar

Jamal H.

Yelp
A little about me I don't like diets but I do like meat now you may wonder why I do not like diets well simply a diet when you can eat the food that you want your great cuz you've lost all the weight but once you go back to eating the things that you like phone and all the way back so that just makes me mad I wouldn't make me upset what's the point. until recently my boss introduced me to a word keto or the keto diet. once he told me what it was that can eat what I want minus the sugar and carbs but have all thr meat and cheese within reason (protein and fat is what I want) I was all in but what does all that have to do work my review or Trader Joe's right? Well I was reading Googled about Keto friendly foods and this was on of the spots and it was right on the money cause let e let tell you those cheese bites yes those are the bomb of course I couldn't have the wine boo, however Chris nice TJ employee showed me these fudge bites yes Fudge brownie and Keto go figure, good stuff also I asked for cloud bread but Chris didn't have them but he did show me these cauliflower wraps let me tell you if you trying to watch your carbs this is it right there I mean basically you can put what you want meat cheese cabbage in those wraps taste just as good as having a bun. They were delicious! So I would like to say thank you to Chris and the rest of trader Joe's for helping me on my keto journey which is all day in Pasadena.
google avatar

Christine C.

Yelp
I have been meaning to write this review for forever and ever!!! This longtime employee...ugh not sure of his name but you will know him when you see him! How you ask? His GAIT!!! He literally is always on his toes and moves faster than a roadrunner even when standing in place! The guy is a superstar and CORPORATE needs to take notice and promote this fireball. People like him are RARE gems! If you own a company, believe me you want this guy running it for you. You should try and steal, hmm, I mean recruit him away from TJ's if you need a TOP employee for your company. He does the work of five employees! Think I am kidding, just watch him. C'mon Trader Joe's, know your talent! This guy is one in a million!!!!!
google avatar

Darylynn D.

Yelp
All Trader Joe's have a common factor and that is the parking lot is always small. This location is not an exception. Due to COVID, there's a line outside, but it moves quickly. They sanitize their shopping carts and is ready for you to use. I like that the market is pretty spacious and well stocked. The best part about the market is that the new items are right when you enter the store. The staff is very friendly and the store is clean.

Arvin Lloyd A.

Yelp
I noticed the parking has been updated for one-way traffic flow. This is helpful. Thank you!
google avatar

Glenn A.

Yelp
There are 3 Trader Joe's locations in Pasadena and this location is the smallest of the three. Parking here is very challenging. It has a small lot that can only accommodate about 10 - 15 cars. On the positive side, it's a great location and the store is very clean. The employees are very helpful and friendly here.
google avatar

Kathrine W.

Yelp
Wow, one of the best Trader Joe's I've been to! I stopped by this location after a doctors visit in Pasadena, and thought "why not". To my surprise, there was ample parking, the store was not crowded and everything i needed was in stock and so organized. You must be thinking "which TJ location does this girl usually shop at"? Well the answer is, the USC and Silverlake location. You can only imagine how chaotic they are. I'll definitely make the commute up the 110 to shop in peace!!
google avatar

Jessica H.

Yelp
I always love exploring Trader Joe's and the Pasadena one is no exception! Today I went in to see what fall themed items they had and went home with a $30 haul of food. I've already dug into the pumpkin/squash soup and it's delicious! I can't wait to try the rest of the items. There were some cute fall leaf tortilla chips with a pumpkin salsa that I didn't get - I might have to go back for it since I kind of regret but buying it. Staff here are super friendly and helpful. During COVID they limit the number of people in the store and you have to wait in line outside until someone comes out. I suggest going after sunset to beat the heat, but the line is shaded with tents if you go during the day. They have clearly marked the area with clean carts vs dirty carts so you know exactly where each is and I saw them actually wiping down the carts. Parking is limited here, so you might need to find street parking along some of the side streets if you go at a busy time.
google avatar

Ken S.

Yelp
This is the ORIGINAL, First ever Trader Joe's. Yup, these stores may be everywhere these days but this was the first one ever. That said it is pretty small and therefore seems limited in their selections, but the staff are friendly and the store in general seems to have a somewhat laid back and grungy vibe. When I went there during a weekday afternoon it was pretty empty and had no problem finding a parking spot. ---------------------------- Details Value: (4/5) Menu/selection: (4/5) Quality: (4/5) Service/staff: (5/5) Ambiance: (5/5) Value I find most items they sell here to be a good value. If I had regular access to a Trader Joe's, it would probably be the only place I'd shop. Menu/selection Most stores carry the same items and I found everything I was looking for at this one, but can't help but think if I were at another location, I. probably would have left the store with more bags. Quality Everything sold at Trader Joe's seems to be high quality, yet very reasonable prices. Service/staff I think most Trader Joes I've been to had great and friendly staff. This one was no different. Ambiance The small size of this store makes you feel like you are shopping at you local mom and pop grocer. So much to be said for that. Final thoughts I stumbled into this location by accident but it was a pleasant surprise finding out this was the original. Definitely was a pleasant shopping experience.