The best pies in greater Milwaukee: Your ultimate guide

The Milwaukee area delivers a rich pie scene, from award-winning bakeries tucked into Bay View storefronts to century-old Polish institutions and orchards famous enough to attract Food Network crews. Whether you're craving a buttery slice of cherry pie, a take-and-bake chicken pot pie for weeknight dinner, or authentic Argentine empanadas, this comprehensive guide covers every corner of the metro—complete with addresses, hours, prices, and insider tips for holiday pre-orders.

Milwaukee's pie culture spans generations and traditions. The Elegant Farmer's paper-bag apple pie has achieved near-legendary status across Wisconsin, while newer arrivals like Mr. Dye's Purple Monster (made with Okinawan sweet potatoes) have earned national recognition. This guide organizes pie destinations geographically, so families can plan efficient outings or discover hidden gems in their own neighborhoods.

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Honeypie Cafe — The gold standard for Midwestern pie

This Bay View institution has anchored Milwaukee's pie renaissance since 2009. The woman-owned café bakes everything from scratch using Wisconsin ingredients, and Milwaukee Magazine has repeatedly praised their "golden, flaky, buttery crust."

Location: 2569 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 489-7437 | Bakeshop Kitchen: (414) 242-6389
Hours: Daily 9am–9pm
Website: honeypiecafe.com

The signature lineup includes Whiskey Walnut Pecan, Bourbon Fudge, Chocolate Pistachio Cream, and a tart cherry pie that wins blind taste tests. Seasonal rotations bring Animal Cookie Pie, Rocky Road, and Whiskey Peach. Whole pies and slices available daily, though calling the Bakeshop Kitchen (9am–3pm) at least 48 hours ahead is recommended for whole-pie orders. Honeypie also hosts pie-making classes and an annual Pie Championship for competitive bakers.

SmallPie — Hand pies done right in a converted garage

Sister café to Honeypie, this counter-service spot in Bay View specializes in something most Milwaukee bakeries overlook: exceptional savory hand pies.

Location: 2504 E. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 763-7067
Website: smallpiemke.com

The Wisconsin Cheeseburger hand pie wraps all the flavors of a diner classic into flaky pastry. Cuban Pork features shredded pork with ham and pickles. Curry Vegetable offers a satisfying vegetarian option. Sweet hand pies run $5–$7, savory versions around $6. They also pour beer, wine, and cocktails—making this an ideal spot for a casual dinner with pie as the main event.

Mr. Dye's Pies — USA Today's pick for Wisconsin's best

Johnathan Dye started selling pies at farmers markets in 2011, learning his craft from his grandmother Virginia. Today, his permanent home inside the 3rd Street Market Hall downtown has earned the title of "Best Pie Shop in Wisconsin" from USA Today.

Location: 3rd Street Market Hall, 275 W. Wisconsin Ave. Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: (414) 759-4992
Website: mrdyespies.net
Hours: Mon–Thu 10am–8pm, Fri–Sat 10am–10pm, Sun 10am–7pm

The menu celebrates Southern soul food tradition with a Wisconsin twist. The Key Lime Pie ($21 half, $40 whole) consistently sells out—one taste of the creamy, tart filling explains why. The Purple Monster ($17/$32) turns heads with its dramatic indigo color from Okinawan sweet potatoes. Classic Sweet Potato, N'Awlins' Pecan, and a Brandy Cherry Old Fashioned (yes, lit on fire) round out the options.

Mr. Dye's also serves savory Cornish-style pasties ($11.99): Ground Beef, 3-Mushroom (vegan), and Maxwell Street Polish. Walk-ins welcome; pre-orders available for holidays. Slices run $7, making this an affordable way to sample multiple flavors.

Elsie Mae's Canning & Pies — Farm-fresh with serious roots

Owner Kelly Deem named her Brady Street shop after her grandmother, and the philosophy matches: all-natural ingredients sourced from farms within a 100-mile radius.

Location: 1101 E. Brady St., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (262) 914-9198
Website: elsiemaescanningandpies.com
Hours: Fri 7am–5pm, Sat 7am–3pm, Sun 7am–1pm (Closed Mon–Thu)

Signature sweet pies include Buckeye (fudge, peanut butter, chocolate ganache), Wisconsin Berry, and Chocolate Pecan Bourbon. The Margarita Pie layers white chocolate cheesecake with key lime cream and coconut. Savory options include highly-praised take-and-bake pot pies—Veggie, Chicken, Reuben, and Beef & Beer. The shop also carries 100+ varieties of homemade jam and an award-winning Bloody Mary mix. Call before visiting, as not all days have pies stocked.

Blue's Egg / Black Shoe Bakery — James Beard-nominated pies

Part of Black Shoe Hospitality (a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurateur), this West Side brunch destination produces exceptional pies through their bakery operation.

Location: 317 N. 76th St., Milwaukee, WI 53213
Phone: (414) 336-1005
Website: bluesegg.com

The French Silk earns consistent raves for its smooth, rich filling. Bourbon Pecan, Key Lime, Salted Brown Butter, and seasonal Pumpkin round out the rotation. Whole pies available for pre-order online through Black Shoe Hospitality with pickup in the Blue's Egg parking lot—especially popular for Thanksgiving orders (deadline typically November 22, pickup November 27).

MOR Bakery & Cafe — The dedicated gluten-free specialist

For families navigating dietary restrictions, MOR operates a 100% certified gluten-free commercial kitchen using ancient grains like quinoa, teff, and sorghum.

Location: 5504 W. State St., Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: (414) 249-3316
Website: morfoodsmke.com
Hours: Thu–Fri 11am–5:30pm, Sat 9am–1pm

Their Pecan Pie earns the word "decadent" from reviewers. Whiskey Chocolate Pecan, Pumpkin Gingersnap, Double Chocolate French Silk, and Caramel Apple rotate seasonally. Many items are also dairy-free, nut-free, or egg-free. The savory Shepherd's Pie features local ground beef with colcannon potatoes. Pre-orders open Sunday through Tuesday each week, with pickup Friday afternoons or Saturday mornings.

North Shore communities offer artisan quality close to home

Matilda Bakehouse — Fox Point's French-Midwest fusion

This mother-daughter operation opened in 2024, with Pastry Chef Allie Fisher combining Le Cordon Bleu techniques with Midwest family recipes.

Location: 6874 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 364-8869
Website: matildabakehouse.com
Hours: Wed–Sat 7am–1pm, Sun 8am–1pm (Closed Mon–Tue)

The Salted Caramel Apple Pie, French Silk, and Derby Pie (loaded with pecans and chocolate chips) change seasonally based on available ingredients. Everything is made from scratch daily, so arriving early ensures the best selection. Custom orders available via email. Also found at Shorewood Farmers Market on Sundays during the season.

North Shore Boulangerie — Authentic French in Shorewood

Established in 2014, this LGBTQ-owned boulangerie brings Le Cordon Bleu training to Oakland Avenue.

Location: 4401 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood, WI 53211
Phone: (414) 963-2153
Website: northshoreboulangerie.com
Hours: Mon–Sat 7am–5pm, Sun 7am–3pm

While known primarily for French tarts and quiches rather than American-style pies, their holiday pie pre-orders draw serious crowds. The daily quiche selection provides an excellent savory option for lunch. Famous annual gingerbread displays make this a holiday destination, and the Cafés Richard coffee (exclusive area vendor) pairs perfectly with pastries.

Blooming Lotus Gourmet Bakery — Allergen-friendly pies at $42

Operating from a certified gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and cane sugar-free kitchen, Blooming Lotus serves customers with even the most complex dietary needs.

Shorewood Location: 3948 N. Maryland Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53211
Phone: (414) 800-5030
Hours: Sat–Sun 9am–1pm only

East Side Location: 2215 E. North Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 212-8010
Hours: Wed–Sat 7:30am–1pm, Sun 9am–1pm

All whole pies run $42 and require advance ordering. The Cherry Berry Pie combines two kinds of cherries with blueberries and toasted almonds in a pecan crust. Banana Cream features chocolate frosting, vanilla pudding, and coconut whipped cream. French Silk, Classic Pumpkin, Pecan Brownie, and Coconut Cream round out options. Also available at Outpost Natural Foods locations throughout the metro.

Western suburbs hide some of the area's best-kept secrets

Aggie's Bakery & Cake Shop — Traditional pies since 1977

This West Allis institution has spent nearly five decades perfecting old-fashioned recipes with generous fillings.

Location: 7328 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis, WI 53214
Phone: (414) 482-1288
Website: aggiesbakery.com
Hours: Mon–Fri 7am–6pm, Sat 7am–5pm, Sun 7am–1pm

Standard 9-inch pies run $17.95–$23.99: Apple, Dutch Apple, Cherry, Blueberry (crumble or double crust), Pumpkin, Key Lime, and Pecan. Caramel Apple climbs to $20.99. Mini pies (5-inch) sell by the dozen at $49.95 for fruit, $59.95 for pecan. Deep-dish 10-inch and tiny 2-inch versions also available.

Pre-orders require 48 hours notice and can be placed online. Aggie's delivers throughout Milwaukee County and parts of Waukesha County, making this an excellent choice for party planning and holiday gatherings.

The Bake Sale — West Allis creativity with Honeypie lineage

Head baker Allison Collard trained at Honeypie Café, bringing serious pie credentials to this cozy West Allis shop.

Location: 6923 W. Becher St., West Allis, WI 53219
Phone: (414) 543-4230
Website: bakesalewestallis.com
Hours: Mon–Thu 6:30am–1pm, Fri–Sat 6:30am–4pm, Sun 8am–2pm

The rotating lineup includes French Silk, Key Lime, Whiskey Chocolate Caramel Swirl, Banana Cream, and Crème Brûlée (Honey Chess). Slices run around $7. Savory options include Chicken Pot Pie ($5) with a phyllo crust, Denver Omelet Pasties, and quiches. Butter-based crusts come standard, with vegan pies (shortening crust) also available. Walk-ins for daily selections; 48 hours for special orders.

Mama Ducky's Desserts — Waukesha's grandma-recipe champion

Reviewers claim Mama Ducky's Caramel Apple Pie "blew Elegant Farmer out of the water"—high praise in Wisconsin.

Location: 290 W. Main St., Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (414) 949-0222
Website: mamaduckysdesserts.com
Hours: Sun 9am–2pm, Fri 5pm–8pm, Sat 9am–2pm (Closed Mon–Thu)

This woman-owned shop specializes in recipes handed down through generations. Cream pies, fruit pies, Coconut Cream, and even hard-to-find Prune Pie appear seasonally. The atmosphere feels like visiting mom's kitchen—complete with a rubber ducky vending machine. Special orders and local delivery available.

Periwinkle's Bakery — European tortes in downtown Waukesha

Chef Daniel Strackbein and daughter Alicia Schuster create European-style pastries and pies using premium ingredients.

Location: 141 W. Broadway, Waukesha, WI 53186 (pickup at Rochester Deli, 143 W. Broadway)
Phone: (262) 522-9888
Website: periwinklesbakery.com
Pickup Hours: Tue–Thu 10am–2:45pm, Fri 10am–4:45pm, Sat 10am–2:45pm

Blueberry Rhubarb and seasonal fruit pies showcase the bakery's handmade approach. Phone orders accepted Tue–Fri 9am–2:45pm; tortes require one week advance notice. Also known for wedding cakes and custom orders.

Southern suburbs deliver hidden gems and savory specialists

Kelly's Pot Pies & More — The definitive savory pie destination

This woman-owned, family-run business has perfected the take-and-bake pot pie with a secret crust recipe that produces "crisp, flaky perfection."

Location: 3785 S. 108th St., Greenfield, WI 53228
Phone: (414) 662-7100
Website: kellyspotpies.com
Hours: Mon–Fri 10am–5:30pm, Sat 10am–2pm (Closed Sun)
Second Location: 3268 Main St., East Troy, WI 53120 — (262) 592-1900

The lineup includes Chicken, Turkey, Beef, Veggie, Reuben (a standout favorite), Taco, and Pizza pot pies. Shepherd's Pie and hand pies round out the savory options. Sizes include 5-inch personal and 9-inch family. Sweet options include Cheesecake and Lemon Torte.

No pre-order necessary—walk-ins welcome. Also available at 17+ local retailers including Karl's Country Market (Menomonee Falls), Oak Creek Farmers Market, and Becher Meats (West Allis). All pot pies come frozen as take-and-bake.

Bakehouse 23 — Food Network winner's rotating creations

Owner Sarah Mironczuk won Food Network's "Sweet Genius" and brings classical pastry training to this South Milwaukee spot.

Location: 1309 Milwaukee Ave., South Milwaukee, WI 53172
Phone: (414) 304-5151
Website: bakehouse23mke.com
Hours: Thu–Fri 7am–5pm, Sat–Sun 8am–2pm

There is no regular menu—creative pies rotate daily. Recent appearances include French Silk, Cookie Butter, Reese's Peanut Butter, Grasshopper, Salted Caramel Banana Cream, Key Lime with Meringue, and Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. Vegan and gluten-free options (Vegan Dutch Apple, Vegan/GF Cherry Crumble) appear regularly. Whole pies run $28, cheesecakes $60. The vintage 80s/90s sci-fi décor and open kitchen add to the experience.

O&H Danish Bakery — Home of Wisconsin's Official State Pastry

While technically a kringle shop, O&H's legendary 36-layer pastries deserve mention in any serious pie discussion.

Oak Creek Location: 9540 S. 27th St., Oak Creek, WI 53154
Phone: (414) 856-1141
Hours: Mon–Fri 6am–6pm, Sat 6am–5pm, Sun 7am–1pm
Website: ohdanishbakery.com

The fourth-generation, family-owned bakery (founded 1949) also produces actual pies: Merry Cherry Christmas Pie, Key Lime, and Banana Cream. But the star remains the kringle—Door County Cherry, Crisp Michigan Apple, Chocolate Pecan, Turtle, and dozens more. Ships nationwide. Additional locations in Racine and Sturtevant.

Ethnic bakeries bring global pie traditions to Milwaukee

La Masa Empanada Bar — Argentine street food on Brady Street

This woman-owned restaurant serves authentic Mendocina-style empanadas—oven-baked rather than fried, as is traditional in Argentina's Mendoza region.

Location: 1300 E. Brady St., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 885-1866
Website: lamasaempanadas.com
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–11pm, Sun 10am–9pm

Classic fillings include Beef with green olives, raisins, and hardboiled egg; Mexican chile-rubbed shredded beef; and Creamy Sweet Corn. Wisconsin fusion appears via Cheese Curds & Bacon and Beer-Boiled Bratwurst with kraut empanadas. Dessert empanadas include Pecan Pie and Apple. Individual empanadas run around $4; dozens come with a $5 discount.

Take-and-bake par-baked empanadas let families stock the freezer. Full bar with Pisco Sours and sangria. Reservations for 6+ or 2+ during Sunday brunch.

National Bakery & Deli — Celebrating 100 years of Polish tradition

Founded in 1925 in Milwaukee's historic Polish neighborhood, National Bakery just won the 2025 Best Bakery Award from the Wisconsin Bakers Association.

Original Location: 3200 S. 16th St., Milwaukee, WI — (414) 672-1620
Brookfield: 13820 W. Greenfield Ave. — (262) 827-4097
Greendale: 5637 Broad St. — (414) 423-4620
Website: nationalbakery.com

Famous for paczki (Polish filled doughnuts)—they sell 40,000 on Fat Tuesday alone. Prune, raspberry, lemon, and raisin fillings run $21/dozen. Traditional Polish pastries, donuts, and cakes round out the bakery; a full deli serves Polish meats. Pre-orders highly recommended, especially approaching Fat Tuesday.

Three Brothers Restaurant — James Beard Award-winning Serbian burek

This Bay View institution has served Serbian cuisine for 60+ years in a historic Schlitz Brewery bar on the National Register of Historic Places. The 2002 James Beard Award confirmed what locals already knew.

Location: 2414 S. St. Clair St., Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 481-7530

The signature Burek ($19.50) is a plate-sized phyllo pie with beef, cheese, or spinach-cheese filling (similar to Greek spanakopita). Allow 45 minutes to one hour for preparation—order when making reservations. Baklava and apple strudel finish the meal. Cash or check only. Reservations strongly recommended.

Additional ethnic options worth exploring

Antigua Latin Inspired Kitchen (6207 W. National Ave., West Allis) offers multiple empanada varieties including the Yolanda Empanada—an Argentine beef recipe with chimichurri basil sauce. La Nueva Bakery (500 W. Lincoln Ave.) serves Mexican chicken and beef empanadas alongside pan dulce for under $1 each. For Jamaican patties, try Mobay Cafe in Walker's Point for flaky, golden-crusted beef, chicken, or vegetable versions alongside jerk chicken and oxtail.

Reynold's Pasty Shop (3525 W. Burleigh St.) has made traditional Cornish pasties for 60+ years, though it's currently closed for family matters—check reynoldspasties.com for reopening updates. In the meantime, their frozen pasties remain available at Pick 'n Save, Sendik's, Woodman's, and other grocers throughout Wisconsin.

Orchards and farm stands deliver fresh-baked authenticity

The Elegant Farmer — Wisconsin's most famous apple pie

The Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag® has appeared on Food Network's "Throwdown with Bobby Flay" and earned "Best Overall" from the Wall Street Journal. The paper-bag method creates a unique cross between cobbler and pie.

Location: 1545 Main St., Mukwonago, WI 53149
Phone: (262) 363-6770
Website: elegantfarmer.com
Hours: Daily 9am–6pm year-round (closed major holidays)

Beyond the famous apple, varieties include Cranberry Apple, Cranberry Walnut, Pumpkin, Cherry, and Caramel Apple. Ships nationwide for gift-giving. The Autumn Harvest Fest (September–October) adds hayrides, wine tastings, and festive atmosphere.

Apple Holler Family Farm — Full orchard experience plus bakery

This 78-acre family farm ranks among USA Today's "Top 10 Best Orchards" with a team of bakers producing fresh pies daily.

Location: 5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, WI 53177
Phone: (262) 884-7100
Website: appleholler.com
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm (weekends 8:30am)

Homemade apple pies, cider donuts, and bakery items complement the pick-your-own experience (September–October). The on-site restaurant serves home-style meals. Hayrides, farm animals, and a gift shop make this ideal for family outings.

Barthel Fruit Farm — Mequon's 180-year-old orchard

Family-owned since 1839, Barthel offers 20+ apple varieties with a bakery producing cider donuts, apple streusel muffins, apple cinnamon scones, and mini apple crisps.

Location: 12246 N. Farmdale Rd., Mequon, WI
Phone: (262) 242-2737
Website: barthelfruitfarm.com
Hours: Daily 9am–6pm (September–November)

The fall beer garden (Sat–Sun 12–6pm) pairs Wisconsin craft brews with bakery treats. Oktoberfest events add live music. Close to the North Shore for easy access.

Patterson Orchards — New Berlin's neighborhood option

Growing 33 apple varieties plus pears, plums, and grapes since 1967, Patterson offers pre-picked fruit alongside bakery pies and homemade caramel apples.

Location: 4607 S. 124th St., New Berlin, WI 53151
Phone: (414) 425-0563
Hours: 9am–5:30pm (in season)

Not pick-your-own, but the bakery produces fresh pies throughout the season. Gift baskets available for corporate or holiday giving.

Farmers markets connect you directly with pie makers

West Allis Farmers Market — Milwaukee's oldest (106th season)

Location: 6501 W. National Ave., West Allis, WI 53214
Hours: Tue & Thu noon–5pm, Sat 1–5pm
Season: First Saturday in May through Saturday after Thanksgiving
Phone: (414) 302-3276

Voted Best Farmers Market by Shepherd Express and Milwaukee Magazine, this 1919-founded market features baked goods from Apple Holler and rotating food vendors. Over 100 vendor stalls make this worth a weekend visit.

Milwaukee Winter Farmers Market — Year-round pie access

Location: The Table, 5305 W. Capitol Drive, Milwaukee
Season: November through spring
Website: fondymke.org

When outdoor markets close, the winter market takes over. Mr. Dye's Pies has been a featured vendor, maintaining access to those famous Key Lime and Sweet Potato pies through the cold months.

Seasonal markets throughout the metro

Tosa Farmers Market (Wauwatosa, Saturday mornings, June–October) features local bakers alongside farmers. Cathedral Square Market (Downtown, Sunday mornings, June–September) brings the scene downtown. South Shore Farmers Market (Saturday mornings, June–October) adds Lake Michigan views. Check individual market websites for current vendor lists—Matilda Bakehouse and Rocket Baby Bakery both appear at suburban markets seasonally.

Planning your pie-seeking adventure

Best for holiday pre-orders

Most bakeries require 48-hour minimum notice for whole pies, with holiday deadlines falling earlier. For Thanksgiving, expect to order by November 20–22 with pickup November 26–27. Key contacts:

• Aggie's Bakery: (414) 482-1288 — delivers throughout Milwaukee County

• Honeypie Bakeshop: (414) 242-6389 — order 48 hours ahead

• Mr. Dye's Pies: (414) 759-4992 — Thanksgiving pre-orders via phone/online

• Blue's Egg/Black Shoe: (414) 336-1005 — pre-order online through website

• The Elegant Farmer: (262) 363-6770 — ships nationwide

Best for dietary restrictions

• Gluten-free: MOR Bakery (dedicated facility), Blooming Lotus ($42 whole pies)

• Vegan: Bakehouse 23, The Bake Sale, Blooming Lotus

• Allergy-friendly: Blooming Lotus (grain-free, dairy-free, egg-free, sugar-free)

Best for savory pie lovers

• Pot pies: Kelly's Pot Pies (take-and-bake specialist), Elsie Mae's, SmallPie

• Hand pies: SmallPie (savory lineup), Kelly's, Mr. Dye's pasties

• Empanadas: La Masa Empanada Bar, Antigua Latin Kitchen

• Serbian burek: Three Brothers Restaurant (allow 45–60 min)

Best for families with kids

• Orchard outings: Apple Holler (animals, hayrides), Barthel Fruit Farm, The Elegant Farmer

• Downtown fun: Mr. Dye's Pies at 3rd Street Market Hall (games, multiple food vendors)

• Casual café: SmallPie (converted garage, kid-friendly counter service)

Conclusion

Milwaukee's pie scene rewards exploration. A weekend circuit might start at Honeypie for brunch and a slice, continue to La Masa for empanadas, and finish at The Elegant Farmer for a paper-bag apple pie to bring home. Families navigating allergies will find dedicated options at MOR and Blooming Lotus. Savory pie seekers should stock their freezers at Kelly's Pot Pies.

The depth of ethnic traditions—from National Bakery's century of Polish paczki to Three Brothers' James Beard-winning burek—distinguishes Milwaukee from cities with more homogeneous food scenes. And the seasonal rhythm of orchard visits, farmers market discoveries, and holiday pre-orders creates year-round opportunities for pie adventures.

Call ahead for whole pies, arrive early at smaller bakeries for the best selection, and don't overlook the savory options. Milwaukee's pie makers have spent decades—in some cases, a full century—perfecting their craft. Your job is simply to eat the results.