National Pie Day is celebrated every January 23, honoring one of humanity’s greatest culinary achievements. From the flaky, buttery crust to the warm, comforting fillings, this day celebrates a treat that has delighted taste buds for millennia.
The history of pies dates back thousands of years, with the first pies appearing around 9500 BC in the Neolithic era in Egypt.
National Pie Day 2026
National Pie Day is dedicated to the art of pie-making and the joy of tasting them. It is an opportunity for bakers, pastry chefs, and home cooks to showcase their creativity through a variety of pies—from classic apple pies to rich and creamy cheesecakes.
The day was established by the American Pie Council, a nonprofit organization devoted to preserving the heritage of American pies. It celebrates pies’ cultural and culinary contribution and encourages enthusiasts everywhere to share their love for this beloved dessert.
A Brief History of Pies
Pies existed long before the official holiday. Ancient civilizations experimented with primitive crusts:
Egyptians made early dough shells to preserve fillings, focusing on function rather than flavor.
Greeks refined the dough using flour and water, creating edible crusts.
Romans elevated pie-making to art, filling pies with meats, seafood, honey, and spices.
Over time, pies evolved from survival food to gourmet delicacy in Europe, with thick crusts preserving meat and broth.
Pies arrived in North America with early settlers, who adapted recipes to local ingredients, particularly apples, making apple pie a symbol of abundance, creativity, and comfort. By the 19th century, pies had become an integral part of American identity, appearing in holidays, celebrations, and even everyday meals.
Sweet vs. Savory Pies
Sweet pies: apple, cherry, pecan, pumpkin, berry. They evoke nostalgia and celebration.
Savory pies: chicken, meat pies, and regional specialties. They provide comfort and nutrition.
Both types remain popular, reflecting the timeless versatility of pies.
Top 5 Pie Spots in London
Pies are a cornerstone of British culinary heritage, with many restaurants serving traditional and innovative creations. Here are five notable pie destinations in London:
1. Bistro Freddy
Located in Shoreditch, this French-inspired bistro combines British ingredients with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It seats 45 guests and is perfect for food enthusiasts, romantic evenings, or lively gatherings.
2. Caravel
Situated on a converted barge on Regent’s Canal, Caravel offers elevated classic dishes. The Guinea fowl pie features golden chanterelle mushrooms, sweet leeks, and perfectly cooked guinea fowl inside a crisp, baked crust.
3. Holborn Dining Room
This restaurant features a dedicated pie corner with hand-crafted savory pies made by skilled pastry chefs, serving some of the most authentic British flavors.
4. CovaDés
A historic gem offering traditional British cuisine with daily pies on hand-written menus. Known for rich, buttery crusts and hearty fillings.
5. J Sheekey
Famous for its seafood pies, including cod and salmon pies in creamy sauces. Even non-pie lovers leave impressed by this classic, celebrity-favored establishment.
National Pie Day is a perfect excuse to bake, taste, and celebrate pies, whether sweet or savory. From their ancient origins to modern culinary artistry, pies continue to delight generations across the globe.
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