The Pie Shop

There’s nothing better than purchasing a true-blue Aussie meat pie from the local bakery or corner store on a lazy, wintery day. Chefs Matt Wilkinson – brainchild of popular hotspot Pope Joan – and Steve Rogers of Movida fame, unite to give you The Pie Shop: a pastry-filled paradise in the heart of Brunswick East. Milk Bar Mag was lucky enough to check out their range of their oh-so-sweet (and savoury) pie range. 

Located on Nicholson Street, a fold-up chalkboard with a simple yet striking message, ‘savoury and sweet pies available’, was enough to convince me that I’d made the right decision. Entering the twelve-seat venue, you’re greeted by two dessert pies on the counter and a large ball of dough full of potential. The atmosphere was booming and a swelling queue engulfed the front door.

The menu features individually portioned savoury pies and two dessert pies, which are purchased by the slice. The Bruce – the spag bol pie – is probably one of the most sought-after pies on offer, and is filled with authentic spaghetti bolognese sauce. Its mysterious origins date back to a past dish of bolognese sauce on garlic bread – a pub favourite. In a brilliant move by Wilkinson and Rogers, spaghetti was added to create The Bruce, and the rest is history. Sans crusty lid, The Bruce is topped with mozzarella cheese and is one for the ages.

Some of the savoury pies are named after people who have a connection to the duo, while some merely capture the good ol’ Aussie spirit. There’s The Allen, a chunky beef and veg pie, considered the Aussie staple; The Shazza, a sweetheart filled with caramelised onion, cauliflower and cheese; The Daryl, curried turkey; and The Clancy, the vegetarian calzone bursting with pumpkin, haloumi and chard goodness.

Now for those Twin Peaks vibes, the two dessert pies on the opening menu are the irresistible Strawberry Balsamic, and the Honey and Buttermilk. The lifespan of the sweet pies on offer are seasonal influenced by the availability of local produce. The Honey and Buttermilk is made from Alphington Rooftop Honey and Demeter biodynamic milk, a combination that produces an almost cheesecake quality to the flavour. A nod to the American South style of dessert pie, the dense pastry crust and the honey-infused filling will win every sweet tooth over.

If things couldn’t get any better, The Pie Shop serves all the favourites of a tuck shop: fried dim sums, hot chips, and Snickers bars. As for the chalkboard, in the time I was there, the sign changed to ‘sweet pies available only’, so get in early and have your appetites ready. 

The Pie Shop 
75 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East
Open Monday to Saturday, 11am to 3pm
thepieshop.com.au