It just wouldn’t be the holiday season without the pumpkin pie. But mediocre pies seem to pop up just in time for the holiday season and it can be hard to tell a Real Pie from a tasteless pumpkin dessert. Pasadena Now selflessly taste-tested local pies and ranked them according to their characteristics to take the pain out of pie shopping for you. We’ve done all the hard work – all you need to do is sit back and enjoy your pie.
Pie ‘n Burger, located at 913 E California Blvd, Pasadena. Phone: (626) 795-1123.
“The Classic”
Stepping into Pie ‘n Burger, it’s easy to forget you’re in Pasadena. The vibe is relaxed and it feels like a genuine East Coast diner minus the wintry temperatures. Pie ‘n Burger has pumpkin pie all year long as well as a rotating menu of seasonal flavors. This 52-year-old recipe comes has not changed since the restaurant opened, confirmed owner Michael Osborn. Their pie is light and not too sweet. The nutmeg and spices really stand out against the caramelized pumpkin and firm crust. Be sure to ask for a generous scoop of homemade whip cream, which basically tastes like heaven on Earth, or a scoop of creamy French Vanilla ice cream. While this pumpkin indulgence is available year round, Osborn says that they sell upwards of 700 pies around Thanksgiving so get in early and order one ahead of time.
Pie Hole, located at 59 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena. Phone:(626) 765-6315
“Best Presentation”
Pie Hole is a dedicated pie shop in an airy, open building with a few other dessert places. Their pumpkin pie is a seasonal treat that comes but once a year. This family recipe has been updated since last season. It’s a little sweeter and than last year’s batch but not overbearing. Pie Hole’s pumpkin pie has a lovely, ruffled butter crust and cheery orange color. Rafael, at the Pie Hole, does not recommend freezing this pie but you probably won’t have enough leftovers to freeze anyway. It’s best to enjoy straight from the refrigerator or right out of the box. While the spices are not as pronounced, this pie is flavorful and richly pumpkin. Enjoy this as a stand-alone dessert, no toppings necessary.
Know Reality Pie, 5431 Townsend Ave Los Angeles. Phone: 1.916-799-5772
“Most Decadent”
Know Reality recently won KCRW’s pie contest taking Best Pie Crust in Los Angeles and it’s easy to see why. The buttery crust is only the beginning of the indulgence. Try the Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pecan Pie for the best of every holiday dessert. This indulgent pie is not for the faint of heart – or appetite – it’s a genuine dessert lover’s pie. The delicate layer of spiced pecans with perfectly compliments the traditional pumpkin layer beneath. If that weren’t enough, this little slice of heaven comes topped with a caramel swirl and a pumpkin cream cheese whipped cream. While a brick-and-mortar location is currently in the works, Thanksgiving orders can be placed via the web by November 20.
Any way you slice it, pumpkin pie is a holiday season staple. No matter your pumpkin pie preferences, there are plenty of places to satiate your sweet tooth. Grab a slice, or a whole pie, and dig in. It’s pie time.
