Five Pie Pit Stops for Your Summer Road Trip to Chicago
I make a lot of pie, but I eat a lot of pie too. Fortunately I live in Chicago and great pie is not too hard to find if you know where to look. Whether you are visiting Chicago or you live there, here are five places worth stopping for pie.
Bang Bang Pie Shop (2051 N. California Ave): This hip little Logan Square pie shop specializes in two amazing things: pie and biscuits. The key lime pie was my favorite, until I had the apricot crumble –– it's tangy, balanced, and just all-around amazing. And when you go, be sure to check out the outside "pie garden." bangbangpie.com
Hoosier Mama Pie Company (1618 W. Chicago Ave): This vintage-style pie shop in West Town serves up whole pies, mini pies, and pies by the slice. You can't go wrong with anything served here, but my personal favorite is the lemon meringue. The store even serves "pie flights" on Friday nights. hoosiermamapie.com
First Slice Pie Cafe (5357 N. Ashland Ave): This truly humble shop's cause is just as good as its pie. First Slice, which operates as a nonprofit, serves up incredible handmade pies daily, all while feeding many Chicago families in need. With a well-stocked case, it's hard to choose. But try the French Silk pie, and you won't be disappointed. firstslice.org
Pleasant House Bakery (964 W. 31st St): This is the home of the "Royal Pie," a bold name, but one these savory pies lives up to. It's a small shop, a bit off the beaten path, but the English-style meat pies are absolutely worth the trip to Bridgeport. In fact, I love them so much that they are being served at my wedding in August! pleasanthousebakery.com
Little Goat Diner (820 W. Randolph St): While Little Goat is not necessarily known for its pie, the mini PB & J pie is insanely delicious and worth saving room for. It's made with a white-bread crust and strawberry jam and topped with peanut-butter meringue. littlegoatchicago.com
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