Downtown LA: The Pie Hole is (Deservedly) the Talk of the Town

Everywhere I turn, The Pie Hole is in my face—food blogs, Facebook posts, IMs, texts, whispers in the hall. Okay, there are no whispers in the hall, but it does seem like everyone’s gabbing about Downtown’s latest dessert haven. And this is just its second week in business.

Intrigued and nearby, I made my way over last weekend to see what all the hype was about. I found the Pie Hole cinched into a smallish space in the Arts District, right across the street from Wurstkuche. The décor is simple and homey with a few communal picnic tables and some two-seaters, a menu handwritten on butcher paper and a small case of available treats.

The menu is small but sufficient. Listed are pies both sweet and savory, including the expected apple crumb and lemon meringue along with the more inventive peanut butter pretzel and carnitas with queso fresco. They also have a full coffee program, plus an obligatory supply of Mexican Coke.

There were four of us, so in addition to my own Lemon Curd Meringue slice (top of the post), I was able to score tastes of the Bourbon Pecan (see above), the Curry Veg (see above), and the Carrot Cake Whoopie (see below) pies. All were top notch with flaky, buttery crusts that caused my heart to flutter a bit. The lemon curd provided the perfect shock of tartness that was nicely balanced by a very fluffy and gooey meringue and that crust I just mentioned. Also a standout was the curry pie, sized for one and filled with carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and some golden raisins for a little unexpected- but-much-welcomed sweetness.

Since opening, The Pie Hole has been selling out on a daily basis, but I was told they’ll be upping production soon. Still, get there early, so you can be choosy. All slices are $6 and worth every penny. Oh, and they’re super friendly, so feel free to ask questions.

-Valentina

Sorry for the iPhone photos…

The Pie Hole
714 Traction Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90013