(KMDL-FM) In the world of culinary hierarchy, two standards stand out; the hardest to achieve and maintain is that of a Cajun Mamaw. The second most respected culinary accolade anyone who cooks can attain is recognition from the Michelin Guide.
The Michelin Guide has just released its “Ultimate Guide to the Best Pies in the U.S.,” and I won’t argue about who is on the list. The pies they have listed with Louisiana connections and the restaurants that make them are among the state’s most respected. But there are two other places in the state that really should be noted.
Where Does the Michelin Guide Suggest For Apple Pie in Louisiana?
Photo by Kavya P K on Unsplashred apple beside brown pie
In the Guide’s guide, they broke down their choices by pie style and flavor. The first Louisiana pie of note that popped up was Apple Pie, and among Michelin’s choices for Apple Pie was Elsie’s Plate & Pie.
Elsie’s makes their pies from scratch. They use the Granny Smith variety of apple to give the pie some sour bite. They soften the sourness with a delightful blend of sugar and spices. It’s all baked to bubbly goodness, and that’s why you’re now googling Elsie’s Plate & Pie in Baton Rouge.
Louisiana Celebrity Chef Earns Spot on Michelin Guide Best Pies List
Astrid Stawiarz, Getty ImagesAstrid Stawiarz, Getty Images
As we transition to “B” in the pie world, that means Banana Cream Pie, and this is where the Michelin Guide finds a popular personality in Louisiana kitchens: Emeril Lagasse. Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie tempts with Chantilly cream, banana caramel, and banana diplomat. It’s lovingly nurtured in a graham cracker crumb shell, and it is the signature dessert of the restaurant.
As we continue our pie alphabet, the letter “C” would be Chocolate Pie, and for this, the Michelin Guide takes us back to Baton Rouge as far as a Louisiana influence is concerned. The pie features a rich chocolate custard, freshly whipped cream, and a passion from Chef Paul Chauvin to honor the legacy of his grandmother, Elsie, for whom the restaurant is named.
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And finally, the Michelin Guide gave a well-deserved nod to the Pecan Pie at Dooky Chase in New Orleans. The Guide calls the fall pie a classic version with a flaky crust, toasted pecans, and an almost guaranteed nap within one hour of consuming. Okay, I added that last one.
Two Louisiana Pie Shops That Are Worthy of Consideration For Best Pies
Google Maps/Google StreetviewGoogle Maps/Google Streetview
Speaking of adding, I ranted a bit earlier about two places that didn’t seem to capture the attention of the Michelin Guide contributors and editors. I respectfully submit two nominations for “pie consideration”: Lea’s Lunchroom in Lecompte, LA, and Strawn’s Eat Shop in Shreveport, LA.
First, our condolences to the Strawn’s Eat Shop family. We are saddened to hear of your loss. Mr. Buddy was a generous soul who served his community with a kind heart.
Second, the pies, all of the pies, at Strawn’s Eat Shop are beyond award-winning to me. I have had them all, some of them twice in the same meal. If you’ve not tried any pie at Strawn’s, then you haven’t really had pie, have you?
Google Maps/Google StreetviewGoogle Maps/Google Streetview
It has been a while since I visited Lea’s Lunchroom in Lecompte. This is the pie that was so good it was on the “Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” back in the day. I can’t suggest a pie to you, but if you read the reviews, you’ll see why Lea’s Lunchroom has been keeping people happy for almost 100 years.
There are my suggestions, the Michelin Guide’s suggestions, and now the only thing left for you to do is go have some pie. Where would you go, and what kind of pie would you get? Do you make pies?
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And since you’re having pie, you’re going to need to find something to do to walk and work off all of those extra pie calories. Here are some ideas on how you can pass the time in between pies.
What’s There To Do In Acadiana in October? 10 Events,Fairs, Festivals, You Can’t Miss
October is really the heart of Louisiana’s second festival season. We have the spring season; then it gets too hot to go outside, and when temperatures cool off, we start to celebrate outdoors again. We also celebrate the harvest of some important crops during October, plus it’s the start of Spook Season too. So, what is there to do in October in South Louisiana? Here are our 10 suggestions.
Gallery Credit: Bruce Mikells
Dining and Cooking