9 Hidden Gems in California Grocery Aisles Locals Don’t Tell Tourists About

California’s grocery stores are treasure troves of regional favorites that locals quietly claim as their own. Beyond the obvious brands and touristy snacks, there’s a secret menu in every aisle; foods that rarely make it into travel guides.

Here are nine unique products locals love, each with a story, a flavor, or an origin that makes it stand out from the crowd.

1. It’s-It Ice Cream Sandwiches From San Francisco

Few desserts inspire nostalgia among Bay Area natives like the It’s-It ice cream sandwich. Created at Playland-at-the-Beach in 1928, this treat features vanilla ice cream pressed between chewy oatmeal cookies and dipped in dark chocolate.

The secret is in the balance: creamy, crunchy, cold, and sweet. Locals will tell you there’s nothing quite like biting into one on a foggy afternoon, especially after a walk along Ocean Beach.

Despite its legendary status in San Francisco, it rarely appears in tourist maps or guides. Find it tucked in local frozen sections, waiting to surprise those in the know.

2. Clif Bars Born in Berkeley

Back in 1990, a frustrated cyclist dreamed up what would become Clif Bar on a ride through the Berkeley hills. These energy bars are now a staple for hikers, students, and commuters seeking a flavorful boost.

With flavors ranging from crunchy Peanut Butter Banana to chocolatey Sierra Trail Mix, Clif Bars are both practical and bold. They’re designed to fuel adventure, not just satisfy hunger.

Many locals reach for Clif Bars as breakfast on the go or as a post-workout snack. Their origins in Berkeley cement them as a homegrown legend that transcends the usual health bar fare.

3. Strauss Family Creamery Organic Yogurt

The creamy richness of Strauss Family Creamery’s organic yogurt is a revelation for dairy lovers. This family-owned creamery in Marin County has been perfecting sustainable dairy for decades, using milk from pasture-raised cows.

The yogurt’s flavor is clean and tangy, with a smooth texture that stands apart from mass-produced brands. Look for reusable glass jars; a testament to their eco-friendly ethos.

Locals reach for Strauss not just for taste, but also for its commitment to organic practices. It’s a little taste of Northern California’s countryside, right in the dairy aisle.

4. Guittard Chocolate From Burlingame

Not all chocolate is created equal, and Guittard has been quietly proving this since 1868. Founded during the Gold Rush in San Francisco, the company now crafts its confections in Burlingame.

Bakers, chefs, and chocolate aficionados seek out Guittard for its nuanced flavors and impeccable texture. Each bar reflects careful sourcing and generations of expertise.

Whether melted into cookies or nibbled straight, Guittard remains a well-kept secret among Californians. Tourists often overlook it in favor of flashier brands, but locals know where quality lies.

5. La Tortilla Factory Sonoma Wraps

Sonoma is more than wine; it’s also the birthplace of La Tortilla Factory’s famous wraps. For over 40 years, this family business has redefined what a tortilla can be, using unique grains and creative flavors.

From traditional white flour to low-carb whole wheat, locals love the versatility. These wraps hold up to the juiciest fillings and never fall apart in your lunchbox.

The company’s commitment to quality is evident with every bite. Tourists may pass by these packages, but those in the know stock up for picnics and quick dinners alike.

6. Acme Bread Company Loaves in Bay Area Markets

Ask a Bay Area resident about their favorite bread, and Acme loaves will almost certainly come up. Started in Berkeley, Acme Bread Company helped ignite California’s artisan bread revolution.

Their sourdough boasts a chewy crust and airy crumb, ideal for sandwiches or simply with butter. Acme’s breads are a fixture in local markets and beloved by chefs and home cooks alike.

Freshness is key: the best loaves often vanish before noon. While tourists flock to big-name bakeries, locals quietly claim Acme as their daily staple.

7. Ghirardelli Squares Beyond the Tourist Shops

Many visitors snap up Ghirardelli chocolates as souvenirs, but locals gravitate toward the individually wrapped Squares found in grocery aisles. These treats blend convenience with indulgence.

Whether caramel-filled, dark, or milk chocolate, each square offers a precise moment of sweetness. Their packaging keeps them fresh and portable for snacking anywhere.

Ghirardelli’s local roots run deep, dating to 1852. While tourists line up at the flagship shop, residents know the best stash is often hidden in plain sight at the neighborhood grocery.

8. Blue Bottle Cold Brew Ready-to-Drink

Locals in the Bay Area get their caffeine fix with Blue Bottle’s ready-to-drink cold brew. Founded in Oakland, this brand’s devotion to freshness and quality is legendary among coffee fans.

Each bottle holds a robust, smooth brew with notes of chocolate and toasted nuts. The convenient format makes it perfect for busy mornings or road trips.

You’ll find these bottles on grocery shelves before spotting them in tourist guides. For California’s coffee purists, Blue Bottle cold brew is an everyday indulgence worth seeking out.

9. Humboldt Fog Cheese by Cypress Grove

Unexpectedly complex yet approachable, Humboldt Fog cheese from Cypress Grove is a true Californian original. Its signature line of edible ash creates a striking landscape inside each wedge.

The cheese is creamy, tangy, and develops floral notes as it ages. Locals pair it with fruit or honey and claim it makes any picnic feel gourmet.

Crafted in the misty hills of Humboldt County, this cheese is a testament to Northern California’s innovative spirit. Often missed by visitors, it’s a staple for those who appreciate bold flavors and artisan craftsmanship.