Previously, we highlighted Costco’s latest arrivals that have us buzzing. As always, we couldn’t resist sampling them firsthand. Today, we crack open a bag of Great Lakes Michigan Cherry BBQ chips.
To set the scene, Great Lakes is a brand widely found in the Great Lakes region—and I’m writing from Indiana. I can grab their products at nearby Meijer stores. So I was thrilled to see their chips reach a countrywide stage, courtesy of Costco. Costco does a fine job of bringing regional favorites to a national audience.
Our Assessment
What differentiates Great Lakes chips from standard grocery-store crisps? They’re exclusively kettle-cooked, which yields a heartier, thicker slice. I appreciate that extra heft—the same satisfying snap with a bit more potato in every bite. The chips originate from a small operation that processes Michigan potatoes at their own Michigan facility, delivering genuine chip quality.
While the line-up includes many options, Costco highlighted the Michigan Cherry BBQ variety. And honestly, it’s an excellent pick. These chips aren’t merely a smoky BBQ snack; they fuse smoke with a bright, tart note from Michigan cherries. The result is a sweet-and-smoky profile. You might wonder about fruit in a BBQ chip, but it’s less unusual than it sounds. If you watch cooking competitions, you’ll frequently see fruit paired with BBQ, and that sweetness adds depth to the overall flavor.
I’m not typically drawn to BBQ chips, yet Great Lakes stands out for me, likely thanks to the cherry accent. That subtle sweetness elevates the BBQ presence beyond a mere smoky crust on the chip.
If you’re a fan of BBQ chips or simply crave a novel bite, swing by Costco to grab a bag of Great Lakes chips. If, by chance, Costco discontinues them—and that happens—rest assured you don’t have to drive to the Midwest for refills; Great Lakes makes all of their chip varieties available directly from their website.
