Pie in Arkansas isn’t just dessert—it’s tradition baked into a flaky crust. Every slice tells a story, whether it’s peach pie cooling on a farmhouse windowsill or chocolate meringue piled high at a roadside café.
These shops aren’t about fancy plating or fleeting food trends. They’re about recipes handed down for generations, sugar and butter measured by memory, and fillings so rich they make you pause after the first bite.
Step inside, and you’ll find more than pie—you’ll find neighbors gathered at counter stools, kids with whipped cream on their noses, and bakers who treat every crust like a promise kept.
Here are the Arkansas pie shops where tradition lives on, one slice at a time.
Ms. Lena’s Pies
In the small town of De Valls Bluff, Ms. Lena’s Pies has been serving delightful southern pies for decades. Step inside, and you’re greeted by the aroma of freshly baked pecan and coconut pies, each slice a testament to the tradition of Southern baking.
Ms. Lena herself, now in her 70s, still oversees the kitchen. Her secret? A dash of love and a sprinkle of nostalgia. With each bite, you not only taste deliciousness but also the warmth of a community gathering spot. Did you know Ms. Lena’s pies are often shipped across the country? It’s a slice of Arkansas you can’t miss.
Old Mill Bread & Flour Company
Old Mill Bread & Flour Company is more than just a bakery; it’s a cornerstone of Little Rock’s culinary landscape. Known for its hearty bread, the pies here are equally commendable. With a rustic charm, the shop offers pies that remind you of grandma’s kitchen.
Lemon meringue and cherry pies are customer favorites. The baker, now in his late 60s, draws inspiration from family recipes passed down through generations. It’s not just a pie; it’s a piece of heritage. Quick fact: the company mill their own flour, ensuring the freshest quality for all their baked goods.
Family Pie Shop
In De Valls Bluff, the Family Pie Shop stands as a testament to the timeless art of pie-making. Famous for its coconut cream and chocolate pies, this shop has been a family-run establishment for over 50 years.
Each pie carries the essence of home-cooked goodness, a reason why locals cherish it so dearly. The current owner, in her late 60s, inherited the shop from her parents, continuing the legacy.
A quirky fact: the shop’s recipe book is a closely guarded family secret, ensuring every pie tastes like a cherished memory.
The Wooden Spoon
The Wooden Spoon in Gentry captures the essence of homemade goodness. This charming spot is known for its hearty meat pies and seasonal fruit offerings.
Run by a retired couple, both in their 70s, the shop exudes warmth and familiarity, making every visitor feel like family. Their signature dish, the chicken pot pie, is a comforting delight.
A highlight: the shop hosts pie-making classes, inviting the community to share in the joy of baking. It’s more than just a shop; it’s a gathering place for pie enthusiasts of all ages.
PattiCakes Bakery
Situated in Conway, PattiCakes Bakery offers a comforting retreat into the world of pies. Known for its signature chocolate meringue pie, this bakery is a must-visit for any dessert enthusiast.
The quaint, vintage charm of the shop invites you to savor each bite slowly. Every pie is baked with love, reflecting a dedication to quality that locals cherish.
From tangy lemon meringue to rich coconut cream, the variety ensures there’s something for every taste. PattiCakes captures the heart of traditional baking with a personal touch.