For anyone who truly knows me, my obsession with Petee’s Pie Company is no secret. This delightful, sun-drenched café nestled in Manhattan isn’t just any bakery; it’s a haven of a different kind of New York slice – the kind filled with luscious fruits and creamy custards. My life, in many ways, revolves around these pies. When I was on the hunt for a new hair salon, proximity to Petee’s was a serious factor. The chosen spot? A mere five-minute stroll, perfectly positioned for a post-haircut slice of apple crumb or dreamy banana cream pie. Even my airport commutes are strategically planned: the J Train, while not the most direct route, conveniently stops near Petee’s, ensuring I can get my pie fix before heading to destinations sadly lacking in Petee’s goodness. Fall gatherings mean I’m bringing pumpkin pie, summer picnics are synonymous with key lime pie – I’ve wholeheartedly embraced my role as the designated Pie Person, a title I wear with immense pride.
Having frequented Petee’s countless times, I’ve become intimately familiar with every flavor profile they offer. You could call me a pie matchmaker; I confidently recommend slices to friends, knowing disappointment is simply not on the menu. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything they bake. Sour cherry crumb sold out? No problem, the blueberry crumb is equally divine! Feeling down and craving serious comfort? A slice of black bottom almond chess or the intensely satisfying salty chocolate chess pie is the perfect remedy.
I truly believe pie making is an art form worthy of accolades, especially when considering the creations of owner and head baker Petra Paredez and her incredibly talented team. And while every pie at Petee’s is exceptional, I do have a personal favorite: the utterly decadent chocolate cream pie. I rarely close my eyes while eating, but the first time I tasted this particular pie – with its melt-in-your-mouth, buttery crust, the silkiest, richest chocolate pudding, and a cloud-like mountain of whipped cream – I instinctively closed my eyes, leaned back, and exclaimed a very loud and satisfied, “Yum!” It was love at first bite.
Now, I’m not going to declare Petee’s chocolate cream pie as definitively “the best pie in New York.” That’s a claim I can’t make until I’ve diligently sampled every single slice this amazing city has to offer (a mission I’m fully committed to). However, this pie holds an incredibly special place in my heart. It was the first dessert my partner and I shared after our relationship took a romantic turn. We had been roommates for two years, and after an incredibly fun Carly Rae Jepsen concert, we decided to “give us a try.” Best. Decision. Ever. Sometime later, I brought home two slices of that glorious chocolate cream pie. We settled onto the couch, took a bite simultaneously, and simply melted into the cushions.
Sharing the magic of Petee’s Pie with the people I love brings me an almost ridiculous amount of joy. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about stepping into that bright, butter-scented café and picking up a slice or two. And experiencing that joy with my partner makes it even more special. Now, whenever I find myself on Delancey Street, a text goes out to my boyfriend: “Chocolate cream pie?” The enthusiastic “Yes!” is practically a given, but I still wait for it with anticipation every time.
Craving Petee’s but can’t make it to the café? While nothing truly compares to the Petee’s experience, you can certainly explore making your own cream pie dreams come true at home and bring a little piece of pie heaven to your own kitchen.
