New & Noted: Pie Society

Talk Magazine first featured Pie Society almost two years ago, in our “Alternative Eats” section, and we are delighted this month to note that the company has a fully-fledged F&B venue. Pie Society first made their debut onto the Shanghai foodie scene by hosting pop-up events around the city, and ever since then, Jane Siesta has been working hard to make her dream of opening her very owe pie shop in Shanghai a reality.

We were already taken with the flaky, crispy, baked pastry and rich flavours a few years ago, and Siesta has continued to produce scrumptious pies, using high quality flours and fats, as well as adding a variety of flavours, including seasonal offerings over the festive period, which we hope to see more of in the future.  There are currently eight different pie varieties on offer in store, and available for take away, including two vegetarian options, priced at a very reasonable RMB 48 per pie. There are also five classic sides available at RMB 12 each, or four super sides, including the quintessentially British chips with curry sauce, for RMB 25 each. We suggest going for a “Bee Cheese” minced beef with cheddar, mozzarella, carrots and peas pie, accompanied by minty mushy peas, or “HenHao” chicken, leek and mushroom, with cream and wine pie, accompanied by sweet potato mash. Alternatively, if you really can’t make up your mind, ask Siesta for a suggestion, or get her to surprise you with a combination.

 

Also available in store, and for delivery, are “bangers”, or sausages for those not familiar with the UK’s gastronomic vocabulary. Served with gravy and shallots, the sausages (RMB 20 for one or RMB 38 for two) can be paired with the various sides to round out a plate. Muffinwiches are also on the menu, and are Siesta’s take on the infamous McDonald’s breakfast offering (from RMB 18 and served until 5pm).

Located in the heartland of the Jiaotong University area, this place is a little out of the way for some, but in our opinion well worth a visit. The cosy store is bright and airy, and set in an up-and-coming commercial area. Although the store is small, Siesta’s warmth and personality shines through and makes it a very comfortable place to spend time digging into a variety of pies. Builder’s Tea, coffee and craft beers are also available. In the springtime, it will be possible to eat out on the small patio in front of the store, but for now, we will make do with huddling indoors.