Thanksgiving in Boston isn’t complete without a slice of pie. With so many bakeries and patisseries in the city, finding the perfect pie can be overwhelming.
Whether you’re a fan of classic pumpkin, crave a rich pecan, or want to try something unique, Boston’s pie scene has something for everyone.
From traditional recipes that evoke nostalgia to innovative flavors that surprise the palate, these pies are sure to make your holiday feast memorable.
Dive into our curated list of the 9 best Thanksgiving pies in Boston and discover where to get your next favorite dessert. We’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.
Expect detailed reviews of each pie, highlighting flavor, crust quality, and overall presentation. Ready to elevate your Thanksgiving spread? Let’s get started with the top picks!
Boston’s Best Thanksgiving Pies: Top 9 Must-Try Places
Discover Boston’s top 9 spots for Thanksgiving pie, where tradition meets flavor. Indulge in the city’s finest pies, perfect for your holiday table.
1. Petsi Pies
Petsi Pies in Somerville offers a charming, grandma’s-kitchen vibe. They provide a range of pies, from five to ten inches, catering to both sweet and savory tastes.
Their holiday-worthy Classic Apple Pie is a Thanksgiving favorite. Seasonal specials add excitement to their menu. Petsi Pies also offers reheat-at-home options like quiches and Chicken Pot Pies.
Open daily, the shop ensures you’re covered with preorders before Thanksgiving, with an extensive in-store selection available on Tuesday or Wednesday of that week. Also, their pies are available wholesale at several shops, including a Dorchester ice cream bar.
2. Sofra Bakery and Cafe
Sofra Bakery and Cafe brings a delightful twist to Thanksgiving pies. Their Sesame Caramel Pumpkin Pie, featuring tahini caramel custard and a candied pepita-sesame crunch, redefines traditional flavor.
Another standout, the Brown Butter Pecan Pie, includes a layer of espresso-infused dates, offering a rich, aromatic experience, while the Apple Butter Custard Pie combines buttermilk custard and caramelized white chocolate buckwheat crisp.
Order these innovative pies online for pickup at their West Cambridge location on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
Alongside pies, Sofra offers pumpkin bread and assorted cookies, highlighting their Middle Eastern-inspired treats.
3. Flour Bakery + Cafe
Flour Bakery + Cafe, with locations in Cambridge and Boston, offers an irresistible selection of Thanksgiving pies. Their famed Mile High Lemon Meringue is a must-try, standing out among the nine-inch pies available.
Each pie, including the double-crusted apple, pumpkin, and TCHO Chocolate Cream Pie, can be ordered by the slice or whole with 48 hours notice. All pies can also be made gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge.
For holiday gatherings, acclaimed pastry chef Joanne Chang’s creations add a gourmet touch, making Flour Bakery + Cafe a top choice for Thanksgiving treats.
4. American Provisions
American Provisions, with locations in Southie and Ashmont, offers standout Thanksgiving options. Their dinner packages for six ensure a fulfilling holiday feast. More impressively, their cheese and charcuterie boards are visually stunning and delicious.
Don’t miss the in-house bakery’s three pie choices. The Apple Crumb Pie offers a classic taste with a crunchy topping, while the Classic Pumpkin Pie brings traditional flavors to your table.
The Salted Oatmeal Pie, a house favorite, combines a pecan pie-like custard with spiced oats and flaky sea salt for a unique twist. Orders must be placed by the Friday before Thanksgiving for in-store pickup.
5. Hi-Rise Bread Company
Hi-Rise Bread Company in Cambridge offers an array of Thanksgiving pies, including a standout Apple Pie with three-and-a-half pounds of fresh local apples, Pumpkin Pie, and Cranberry Crumble. Their quiches are also popular.
Customers can pre-order these items by the Sunday before Thanksgiving for pickup on Wednesday or Thursday at Porter Square or buy them in-store. Petsi Pies, another local favorite, is renowned for its Pecan Pie with a rich pecan filling and flaky crust.
Their Chocolate Cream Pie, which is buttery and indulgent, also receives rave reviews. For those vegan and gluten-free needs, Vegan Treats Bakery provides a range of options, including a decadent Vegan Pumpkin Pie.
6. Mamaleh’s Delicatessen
Mamaleh’s Delicatessen in Cambridge, Brookline, and High Street Place offers a variety of comforting pastries and standout pies for Thanksgiving, available for online order.
Notable options include a Charoset-inspired pie with dried currants, golden raisins, apples, pears, cinnamon, and walnuts; a Sweet Potato Pie topped with house-made toasted marshmallow Fluff; and a Chocolate-Tahini Swirl pie.
Customers can choose to pick up their orders or have them delivered. Each pie is crafted with care, highlighting both traditional flavors and unique twists.
Remember to place your orders early to ensure availability, as these delightful desserts are in high demand during the holiday season.
7. Formaggio Kitchen
Formaggio Kitchen, with locations on Huron Avenue in Cambridge, Kendall Square, and Boston’s South End, is your go-to for Thanksgiving pies. Known for its world-renowned cheese shop and curated selection of wines, Formaggio also offers an exquisite pie selection.
This year, choose from delectable options like Local Apple and Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan pies. Their bakery uses high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients to ensure exceptional taste.
Order by Thursday, November 16, to pick up your pies ahead of the holiday. Whether you’re dining in Cambridge or the South End, Formaggio’s pies are sure to elevate your Thanksgiving feast.
8. Clear Flour Bread
Clear Flour Bread, a gem in Boston, is famous for more than just dinner rolls and bread. Starting November 17 through November 22, they offer a rotating selection of Thanksgiving desserts, including Apple Crumble Pies, Bourbon Pecan, and Pear Cranberry Rustic tarts.
These festive treats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so visiting early is key. Don’t miss their Pumpkin Pavé, a unique dessert blending.
The richness of custard with a crumbly crust is like a cross between pie and cheesecake. Check their Weekly Specials tab for specific daily offerings and indulge in these seasonal delights.
9. Puritan & Company
Puritan & Company, in Inman Square, pays homage to the Puritan Cake Company that once occupied its space. Renowned pastry chef Brian Mercury leads the baking program, crafting a stellar selection of pies perfect for Thanksgiving.
Their Dutch Apple Pie offers a classic experience with a New England twist, while the Pumpkin Pie delivers the quintessential taste of the season. For those craving something richer, the Pecan Pie stands out with its luscious filling.
Don’t forget to add an order of their Parker House Rolls, burnished on the outside and fluffy on the inside to complement the flavorful pies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of Thanksgiving pies are popular in Boston?
In Boston, popular Thanksgiving pies include traditional flavors like pumpkin and pecan, as well as innovative options such as Apple Crumble Pies and Pear Cranberry Rustic tarts.
Which establishments are recommended for ordering Thanksgiving pies in Boston?
Top recommendations for ordering Thanksgiving pies in Boston include Mike’s Pastry, Flour Bakery, Tatte Bakery & Café, Mamaleh’s Delicatessen, Formaggio Kitchen, Clear Flour Bread, and Puritan & Company.
What unique offerings does Puritan & Company have for Thanksgiving pies?
Puritan & Company offers a variety of pies, including Dutch Apple and Bourbon Pecan, under the guidance of pastry chef Brian Mercury. They are also known for their flavorful Parker House Rolls.
When should I place my Thanksgiving pie order in Boston?
To ensure availability, it’s important to place your order by the specific dates provided by each establishment. Checking with the bakery or restaurant in advance is recommended.
Can I pre-order Thanksgiving pies from these Boston establishments?
Yes, all the mentioned establishments accept pre-orders for Thanksgiving pies, allowing for a stress-free holiday planning experience.
Conclusion
Planning your Thanksgiving feast in Boston can be delightful and stress-free with these top pie options. Place your orders at renowned spots like Mike’s Pastry, Flour Bakery, Tatte Bakery & Café, Mamaleh’s Delicatessen, and Formaggio Kitchen.
Don’t forget to explore Clear Flour Bread and its variety of tarts. Puritan & Company’s pies, crafted by Brian Mercury, offer incredible choices like Dutch Apple and Bourbon Pecan.
Ensure timely orders to savor these delicious Thanksgiving pies, making your holiday celebration in Boston truly special. Additionally, check out the delectable creations from Petsi Pies and the seasonal specialties at Market Day.
Each of these establishments promises high-quality, mouthwatering pies that will elevate your Thanksgiving gathering.
Whether you prefer classic flavors or unique twists, Boston’s pie scene has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these top-notch options to make your Thanksgiving unforgettable.
Timothy Russell Dewart