Move over fancy cupcakes and designer doughnuts – pies are making a comeback. A new generation of young bakers are shaking things up with fun shops and innovative flavours that will satisfy the most modern palate, and classic pie shops continue to deliver the quality that has kept them in business for decades. No matter what kind of pie you’re craving, here’s where to find the perfect slice. [Photo courtesy of The Pie Hole]
After 15 years in the Vancouver pie business, Tartine still serves up some of the best pie in Vancouver and at some of the best prices, too. The salted caramel apple pie is a long-standing favourite, and the sour cherry is sprinkled with just the right amount of sugar. The shop is perfectly positioned for a break after a walk on the Seawall.
Savary Island has been West Vancouver’s go-to destination for freshly baked pies for nearly 30 years. The little shop has a reputation for line-up-worthy pastry and consistently racks up awards – so if you’re craving a slice, be prepared to wait. You’ll find a selection of seasonal fruit pies made from local ingredients, plus a custardy lemon buttermilk pie.
The pair of sisters at the helm of The Pie Shoppe source whole fruit from the Fraser Valley and the Okanagan and pit, peel and chop it all themselves. Pies are baked on site daily and always sell out, so don’t wait until closing time to pick up your slice of a unique seasonal flavour, like salted honey or bergamot custard.
Pie happy hour? Yes please! Stop into this retro diner between 2 and 4 pm on weekdays and you’ll get a free tea or drip coffee to go with your housemade pie. Pies come in fruit, cream and nut varieties, with occasional ventures into boozy bourbon or Kahlua territory. Grab a stool at the U-shaped counter to be transported back to the soda shop days of yore.
Aphrodite’s serves up soups, sandwiches and freshly made organic pies at its cute café-style pie shop, with a full restaurant for more substantial meals (and more pie) just across the street. With gluten-free options and a commitment to using local fruits and berries, Aphrodite’s has been a Vancouver favourite since 2003.