I think Trader Joe's can be an acquired taste. Going in the first time you might think, wow this is small, it doesn't carry nearly the items my regular grocery does, so what is the big deal?
Truth be told I pick up groceries at any one of 6-8 grocery stores, but I have certain things I do buy at TJs and go there at least once a week if not more frequently. I don't purchase many pre-packaged/frozen ready to eat items, but do buy things like San Marzano tomatoes, broccolini, delicata squash (yay--it's in season), fruit, nuts, quinoa, lentils, nutritional yeast, spices, almond flour and their Sicilian olive oil (very highly rated).
When entertaining their cheese selection is great. Add TJs whipped cream cheese topped with their hot pepper jelly, their everything crackers, some grapes and you have quick, company-worthy appetizers to be served with their very affordable wines.
I wouldn't write it off after only one visit. Oh and the best part is they have the very best staff--ever!