14 Must Try California Pie Shops Where Every Slice Tastes Like Perfection
California has some of the best pie shops in the entire country, and trust me, you’ll want to visit every single one. From flaky fruit pies to rich cream-filled creations, these bakeries know how to make dessert dreams come true.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, treating yourself to a slice from these amazing spots is absolutely worth it. Get ready to discover where the most delicious pies are hiding across the Golden State.
1. House of Pies – Los Angeles
When you walk into this iconic Los Angeles spot, the smell of fresh-baked crust hits you immediately. House of Pies has been serving hungry customers since 1986, and they’ve perfected their recipes over decades. They offer more than thirty different varieties, so you’ll never run out of options to try.
Their banana cream pie is legendary among locals who’ve been coming here for years. The crust stays perfectly crispy while the filling melts in your mouth with every bite. You can visit any time since they’re open 24 hours a day, making late-night pie cravings totally manageable.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their savory pot pies too. The cozy diner atmosphere makes you feel right at home while enjoying your slice.
2. The Pie Hole – Multiple Locations
It’s hard to resist the creative flavors waiting for you at The Pie Hole locations across California. This bakery started in Los Angeles and quickly became a favorite for people who love unique dessert combinations. Their Mexican hot chocolate pie will change how you think about traditional flavors forever.
Each pie gets made from scratch daily using quality ingredients that you can actually taste. The Earl Grey tea pie sounds unusual but tastes absolutely incredible with its subtle floral notes. They also serve adorable mini pies if you want to sample multiple flavors without committing to a full slice.
Did you know their name comes from the phrase about being happy as pie? The friendly staff makes every visit feel special and welcoming for everyone.
3. Pie ‘n Burger – Pasadena
Are you ready to step back in time to a genuine old-school diner experience? Pie ‘n Burger has been a Pasadena institution since 1963, and they haven’t changed much since opening day. The retro vibe makes you feel like you’re in a different era while enjoying seriously good food.
Their apple pie comes with a buttery crust that crumbles just right with each forkful. Locals know to arrive early because popular flavors sell out quickly, especially on weekends. The slices are generous, so come hungry or plan to share with a friend.
This place proves that simple recipes done right never go out of style. You’ll understand why generations of families keep returning to this beloved neighborhood gem year after year.
4. Julian Pie Company – Julian
How amazing would it be to enjoy pie in a charming mountain town surrounded by apple orchards? Julian Pie Company sits in the heart of this historic gold mining village, and their apple pies are absolutely famous. People drive from all over California just to grab a whole pie to take home.
The apples come from local orchards, giving each slice an authentic fresh flavor you can’t find elsewhere. Their apple crumb pie combines cinnamon-spiced apples with a sweet, crunchy topping that’s totally addictive. You can watch bakers working through the kitchen window, rolling dough and preparing fillings by hand.
Though the line might be long during peak season, the wait is absolutely worth it. Grab a slice to enjoy immediately or buy a frozen one for later.
5. Mom’s Apple Pie – Sebastopol
If comfort food had a headquarters, it would probably be Mom’s Apple Pie in Sebastopol. This family-owned bakery has been warming hearts since 1981 with recipes passed down through generations. Everything about this place screams home cooking at its finest, from the welcoming staff to the incredible aromas.
Their pies use organic apples from nearby Sonoma County farms, supporting local agriculture while delivering amazing taste. The olallieberry pie is a regional specialty you absolutely must try if you’ve never had one before. Each slice comes piled high with fruit filling that tastes like summer in every bite.
You can also order whole pies for special occasions or holidays. The cozy atmosphere makes you want to linger over coffee and dessert for hours.
6. The Upper Crust Pie Bakery – Santa Cruz
When visiting the beautiful beaches of Santa Cruz, make sure you stop by The Upper Crust Pie Bakery. This local favorite has been creating amazing pies since 1983, perfecting their craft over four decades. Their commitment to quality ingredients shows in every single bite you take.
The strawberry rhubarb pie balances sweet and tart flavors so perfectly that you’ll want seconds immediately. They also make incredible savory pies like chicken pot pie that work great for lunch before dessert. The bakery case always displays a rainbow of options that look almost too pretty to eat.
Did you know they also teach pie-making classes for home bakers? You can learn their secrets and impress your family with homemade treats using professional techniques and tips.
7. Republic of Pie – North Hollywood
This North Hollywood gem brings a modern twist to traditional pie-making that you’ll absolutely love. Republic of Pie opened its doors with a mission to create the perfect slice using sustainable ingredients. Their creative approach to classic recipes keeps customers coming back to try new seasonal offerings regularly.
The salted caramel apple pie combines trendy flavors with timeless comfort in the most delicious way possible. They rotate special flavors monthly, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover. The cozy shop feels like your best friend’s kitchen, making it easy to relax and enjoy your treat.
You’ll find both sweet and savory options available throughout the day. Their pot pies make a satisfying lunch before you indulge in something sweet for dessert.
8. Polly’s Pies – Multiple Southern California Locations
Are you looking for a reliable spot where the whole family can enjoy delicious pie together? Polly’s Pies has been a Southern California tradition since 1968, serving generations of happy customers. With multiple locations, you’re never too far from a slice of their famous cream pies.
Their coconut cream pie features towering meringue that’s toasted to golden perfection on top. The restaurant atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it ideal for celebrations or just a regular Tuesday treat. Kids love the chocolate silk pie while adults appreciate the classic cherry and berry options.
When holidays roll around, you can order whole pies in advance to make your gathering special. The generous portions and reasonable prices make this a go-to spot for pie lovers throughout the region.
9. Pie Bar – Oakland
How cool is it when a bakery focuses entirely on perfecting one thing? Pie Bar in Oakland does exactly that, creating incredible pies with locally sourced ingredients. Their small-batch approach means every pie gets the attention and care it deserves from start to finish.
The Meyer lemon chess pie showcases California citrus in the most amazing way imaginable. You can taste the difference that fresh, quality ingredients make with every single forkful. They also offer vegan options that taste so good, you won’t believe they’re dairy-free.
The modern bakery space features an open kitchen where you can watch the magic happen. Seasonal flavors change throughout the year, celebrating whatever fruits and ingredients are at their peak freshness and flavor.
10. Humble Pie – Santa Monica
When you’re near the Santa Monica beaches, Humble Pie offers both sweet and savory options worth trying. This bakery specializes in hand pies that are perfect for eating on the go or at the beach. Their portable format doesn’t sacrifice any flavor or quality that you’d expect from a sit-down slice.
The chicken curry hand pie brings unexpected international flavors to traditional American comfort food brilliantly. Sweet options include classics like cherry and innovative choices like lavender honey that taste absolutely divine. Everything gets made fresh daily in small batches to ensure maximum freshness.
Did you know they also cater events with custom pie flavors? Their commitment to sustainability includes compostable packaging that makes enjoying your treat guilt-free in every way possible.
11. Three Babes Bakeshop – San Francisco
It’s impossible to resist the beautiful pies created by Three Babes Bakeshop in San Francisco. This woman-owned bakery started at farmers markets before opening their permanent location in the Mission District. Their artistic approach to pie-making creates desserts that look like edible masterpieces.
The marionberry pie bursts with Pacific Northwest berries that taste like concentrated summer sunshine. They decorate their crusts with intricate designs that make you hesitate before cutting into them. Using organic flour and seasonal fruits, every ingredient gets carefully selected for maximum flavor and quality.
You can follow their Instagram to see what special flavors they’re featuring each week. The bakery also hosts workshops where you can learn their decorative crust techniques and take home your own creation.
12. The Pie Shoppe – Ramona
Are you craving that authentic small-town bakery experience with incredible homemade pies? The Pie Shoppe in Ramona delivers exactly that with recipes that taste like grandma’s kitchen. This family-run business puts love into every pie they create, and you can definitely taste the difference.
Their peach pie uses California-grown peaches at peak ripeness for maximum sweetness and flavor. The flaky crust shatters perfectly with your fork, revealing juicy fruit filling that’s neither too sweet nor too tart. They also bake amazing cinnamon rolls and cookies if you want to try other treats.
Though it’s a bit off the beaten path, locals know this hidden gem is worth the drive. Call ahead during busy seasons to reserve your favorite flavor and avoid disappointment.
13. Bakers Square – Various California Locations
When you need a reliable chain restaurant that still delivers quality pies, Bakers Square fits perfectly. With locations throughout California, you can satisfy your pie craving no matter where you’re traveling. They’ve been serving families since 1983 with consistent quality and familiar favorites everyone recognizes.
The French silk pie remains their most popular choice, featuring rich chocolate filling topped with whipped cream. You can enjoy a full meal before dessert since they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Their pie happy hour offers discounted slices during specific times, making treats even more affordable.
Did you know you can buy whole pies frozen to bake at home later? This makes holiday planning easier when you need multiple desserts for large gatherings with extended family.
14. Rockridge Market Hall – Oakland
If you love exploring food markets with multiple vendors, Rockridge Market Hall in Oakland is paradise. Among the various specialty food stalls, you’ll find an incredible pie vendor creating European-style desserts. The marketplace atmosphere makes shopping for dinner and dessert an enjoyable experience all in one location.
Their fruit tarts and pies showcase seasonal California produce in elegant presentations that taste as good as they look. The buttery crusts use French techniques that create layers of flaky perfection. You can grab other gourmet ingredients while you’re there, making it a one-stop shop for food lovers.
The communal seating area lets you enjoy your slice immediately surrounded by the bustling market energy. This spot proves that quality pies can be found in unexpected places beyond traditional bakeries.
