If you're anything like me, you're a big fan of sweet and savory pie. It's one of the best comfort foods ever created. Looking for great pie in Lawrence, Kansas? Look no further—I've compiled a list of some of the best pie spots in the area.
Ladybird Diner
If you stop a local on the street in Lawrence, Kansas, and ask them where to go for pie, chances are they're going to enthusiastically reply, "Ladybird!!" And they'd be correct. Ladybird Diner is an awesome spot to go for pie, and they're known for it all throughout the region.
Photo Courtesy of Ladybird Diner's Facebook
The pastry case is always filled with delicious delicacies, and the biggest problem you'll face here is what to choose. You can't go wrong with a classic like peach, chocolate cream, or cherry, but don't overlook some of their extra-unique recipes! Try the chocolatey-gooey Douglas County Pie (an original recipe from the gone-but-not-forgotten Paradise Cafe) or the Blueberry Basil pie, which tastes like a slice of summer on a plate.
The Lemon Meringue Pie from Ladybird Diner
When I think of Ladybird Diner, I think of pie, coffee, comforting diner food, and a sense of community. Grab a table with your loved ones, or go by yourself and grab a stool at the bar. You're sure to feel welcome and leave satisfied.
Aunt Netters Cafe
This next one technically isn't in Lawrence, but who doesn't love a road trip? I'd be remiss if I didn't highlight another Douglas County favorite, Aunt Netters Cafe in Historic Lecompton, Kansas. Just an ~18-minute drive down the road from Lawrence, Lecompton is a fun little trip to make for some small-town charm. Take the Farmers Turnpike for a quick trip or the Scenic River Road if you're feeling adventurous, and be sure to bring your appetite.
Photo Courtesy of Aunt Netters Cafe on Facebook
In 2024, Aunt Netters Cafe made big waves when they placed in 4th place on the USA Today's Reader's Choice Awards 10 Best Pie Shops in the United States. The pie shops on the list were nominated by a panel of experts and voted on by pie lovers across the country, and I'm inclined to agree with the results. What to get? The most loved classic flavor seems to be their Double Crust Peach Pie. I myself can't resist the Dutch Apple or the Peach Pecan Praline.
Auntie Em's Deli
If you find yourself in West Lawrence, a slightly hidden but tasty spot to visit is Auntie Em's Deli. This little shop is a comfort-food-focused place known for its soups, sandwiches, and bakery. It's locally owned and uses artisanal Amish ingredients. This is the perfect spot to stop before or after a day on Clinton Lake—doesn't swimming always make you hungry?
Photo Courtesy of Auntie Em's Deli on Facebook
My recommendation? Order a slice of blackberry pie and say yes when they ask if you want a scoop of vanilla ice cream with that. If you're extra hungry, don't miss out on a big bowl of the hearty soup of the day.
Wheatfields Bakery & Café
Another favorite of mine is Wheatfields Bakery & Café, a charming little spot that I go to whenever I want to feel a little European. Their pastry case is packed with exquisitely decorated desserts, and behind those, you'll find racks lined with dozens of different kinds of freshly baked bread.
Photo courtesy of Wheatfields Bakery on Facebook
Wheatfields is a great spot to grab lunch with friends or to sit and read a book while you eat. The bakery and café offers classic dessert pies once a month for a weekend special (keep an eye on their social media for the details!) and is serving up Cherry, Key Lime, and Coconut Cream mini pies with their classic buttery, flaky pie crust for Pi Day on March 14.
Photo courtesy of Wheatfields Bakery on Facebook
Looking for something savory? Check out their rotating special quiches, empanadas, and Shepherd's Pie. And if you happen to visit on a day that they're serving their Chicken and Vegetable Pot Pie, order one immediately—it's my favorite.
The Roost
Pie for breakfast? No problem. While The Roost is known for being one of the hottest breakfast and brunch tickets in town, part of their secret is that they hire seriously good chefs & bakers. In fact, I'd almost say that the pastry case is one of the best-kept secrets in Downtown Lawrence. Come for the (perfect) Eggs Benny and Bloody Mary, stay for the rotating pie and cake specials.
Photo Courtesy of The Roost on Facebook
I had a slice of their Banoffee Pie on special a few years ago, and I'm still thinking about it. Which is funny, because there was a time in my life when I didn't even think I'd like Banoffee Pie once I tried it. The Roost proved me wrong.
Photo Courtesy of The Roost on Facebook
Last but not least, keep an eye out for The Roost's signature hand pies. Sometimes they're sweet, sometimes they're savory, but they're always deliciously buttery and flaky and tasty.
I hope you have a great time trying pies all across Douglas County! Want to share your favorites with us? Tag us in your pie pictures on Facebook and Instagram.
