The Contenders: Top Pita Chip Brands
Choosing the ideal pita chip depends heavily on personal preference, as well as the dip you plan to pair it with. While one chip might be perfect for a thick, hearty dip, another might shine on its own or with a lighter spread. We've broken down some of the most popular brands to help you navigate the snack aisle.
Stacy's Pita Chips
Without a doubt, Stacy's is the most recognizable name in the pita chip world, tracing its origins back to a Boston food cart in the 1990s. Their 'Simply Naked' variety is often lauded for its robust, classic pita flavor and perfect level of salt. The chips are baked, resulting in a satisfying crunch that is sturdy enough for almost any dip, from thick hummus to spinach artichoke. However, some customer reviews mention a potential downside: a significant amount of broken chips or crumbs at the bottom of the bag. While a versatile and beloved classic, their sodium content can be higher than competitors. Stacy's also offers a variety of seasoned flavors like Parmesan Garlic & Herb, which have strong, distinctive tastes.
Open Nature Pita Chips and Crackers
For shoppers with access to Albertsons or Safeway stores, the Open Nature house brand offers excellent variety and value. Their product line includes a thicker, more substantial original pita chip that is ideal for heavy dips, as well as a thinner, layered pita cracker with a lighter texture. The garlic and herb crackers are noted for their pleasant flavor, providing a great balance without overwhelming the dip. Open Nature's chips are often more budget-friendly, making them a top pick for large gatherings where you need a lot of sturdy dippers.
365 by Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods' house brand, 365, offers several options for the conscious consumer. The 365 Parmesan and Garlic Pita Crackers are particularly noteworthy, with a strong, delicious flavor profile that holds up well for standalone snacking. In contrast, their plain sea salt pita chips have been described as lacking flavor and being uncomfortably thick, though this is a matter of personal preference. For those who prioritize rich seasoning, the Parmesan and Garlic variety is a strong contender.
Aplenty Pita Chips (Amazon Brand)
Amazon's private label, Aplenty, brings an innovative design to the pita chip market. Their pita chips are slightly concave, making them perfectly shaped for scooping generous amounts of dip. This unique feature addresses one of the most common snacking frustrations. Despite being on the thinner side, they remain surprisingly sturdy and held up well against thicker hummus varieties in taste tests. This brand is an excellent choice for dedicated dip enthusiasts.
Specialty and Alternative Brands
- Simple Mills Veggie Pita Crackers: A great gluten-free option, these crackers have a slightly sweet taste that complements many dips. However, their structural integrity is not as strong as other brands, meaning they may break more easily.
- Cedar Valley: Hailing from Canada, this brand focuses on authentic, thin, and crunchy pita chips, often favored for their quality ingredients and robust flavor.
- New York Style Pita Chips: A long-standing brand known for its thinner, crisper texture. The Parmesan Garlic + Herb flavor is a popular choice for those who prefer a less substantial chip.
How to Choose the Right Pita Chip
To find your perfect match, consider these key factors:
- For Heavy Dips: If your dip of choice is thick and creamy, like a chunky spinach dip or a dense bean dip, opt for a thick and sturdy chip. Brands like Open Nature's thicker variety or classic Stacy's are excellent choices.
- For Lighter Dips: For spreads like tzatziki or thinner hummus, a lighter, crispier chip or cracker will do. Thinner Stacy's Thins or Aplenty chips work well here.
- For Standalone Snacking: If you enjoy eating pita chips on their own, a heavily seasoned option is best. The 365 Parmesan and Garlic or Stacy's Fire Roasted Jalapeño offer complex flavors that don't require a dip.
- For Dietary Needs: Those seeking gluten-free options should look for brands like Simple Mills, though they should be prepared for a slightly different texture and durability.
Pita Chip Brand Comparison Table
| Feature | Stacy's Simply Naked | Open Nature Original | 365 Parmesan & Garlic | Aplenty Sea Salt | Simple Mills Veggie (GF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crunch | Medium to hard | Hard | Medium | Medium | Light |
| Dipping Strength | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Fragile |
| Flavor Profile | Classic, salty | Mild, salty | Strong, savory | Balanced, salty | Slightly sweet, savory |
| Best For | All-purpose dipping | Very thick dips | Standalone snacking | Scoopable dips | Gluten-free needs |
The Verdict: So, What is the best brand of pita chips?
The title for the overall best brand of pita chips is a close race, but Stacy's Simply Naked remains a top performer due to its consistent quality, classic flavor, and broad availability. However, the "best" chip ultimately comes down to your intended use. For budget-conscious snackers and those needing a thicker chip, Open Nature is a standout. For those who love intensely flavored crackers, 365 offers a fantastic option. And if your primary concern is efficient dipping, Aplenty's concave design is a game-changer. The key is to define what you value most in a pita chip and choose a brand that delivers on those specific qualities.
Conclusion
While Stacy's may hold the crown for its classic appeal, the world of pita chips is more diverse than ever. From budget-friendly options to gluten-free alternatives and specialty scoopable designs, there's a perfect pita chip out there for every snack craving. Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands to find the one that best complements your favorite dips and snacking habits.
