It’s already mid-October, which means Thanksgiving is right around the corner and pie-filled days await us. The Pie Hole, Durham calls Thanksgiving season “Pie-magaeddon,” and with good reason- their pies are absolutely spectacular. The LA-based store just opened its Durham location this September, and it has just about everything you’re looking for in a new local spot.

Sweet Pies 

If dessert is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear pie, then head over to Pie Hole ASAP for your sweet-tooth fix. With classic flavors like Blueberry, Apple Crumble, and Pumpkin, these pies might be as good as (dare I say better than?) the ones from your old family recipes. Some of their more creative flavors include S’mores, Earl Grey Tea, and Cereal Killer Cheesecake.

The S’mores pie was superb- layered with a graham cracker crust, marshmallow fluff, dark chocolate mousse, and house made whipped cream; each bite is a little reminder of summer.

And Earl Grey Tea might be an unconventional flavor for a pie, but it’s my new favorite pie flavor, and it will be yours too once you try it! 

Savory Pies

The Pie Hole is also more than just a dessert shop- it’s comfort food galore. Whether it’s a classic Shepherd’s Pot Pie or a mouthwatering Mac ‘n Cheese Pot Pie, this is the place you head to when you want a deliciously filling meal that will make you forget about any midterms stress. During my visit I tried the Chick ‘n Cornbread Pot Pie, and it’s absolutely a dish I’ll be looking forward to as the temperature starts to slowly drop.

Coffee and More 

A coffee fix is an important part of any college student’s diet and Pie Hole is just the place to venture for a latte or cold brew. The shop’s Durham location also serves alcohol, so you can also sip on beer or wine with your pie or add a liqueur shot to your coffee order. 

Part of what makes The Pie Hole, Durham so special is its incredible staff, who were all more than happy to give me recommendations on their favorites during my visit. Its location on 810 Ninth Street is an easy walk from Duke’s East Campus, and its wide and spacious layout definitely makes it an ideal new favorite study spot. The locale is highly inviting, so it’s also the kind of place you want to spend a long afternoon chatting with friends. 

Grab your friends and pick out a couple of different dishes to try; the options are endless, and the experience will be rewarding, I can guarantee it.