Pie Town

A few years ago, Josh and I pulled off the road on the way to San Diego when lights started flashing on the CRV dash. Figuring it was just overtaxed after coming over the pass, we took the first exit, followed an access road and stopped at a little cafe for lunch… and the most amazing pie either of us had ever eaten.

This was back before we always carried our cameras or made notes about the places we visited, and now that little cafe is only a memory. A pie Brigadoon that appeared out of the mist only to disappear in time. It turns out if we could have taken a bird’s eye view of this mountain region just outside San Diego, we would have seen pie heaven just over the ridge.

I was ready to head back to Phoenix after ringing in New Years in San Diego, but didn’t want to rush back. The little town of Julian caught my attention. It’s claim to fame: historic mining town known for its pie. It was an easy detour off I-8 and a beautiful New Year’s Day for a drive. I stopped by a state park for a hike and view of the landscape – coastal mountains transitioning into high desert. After the hike, I was ready to eat and made my way to Julian.

I think everyone else had the same idea. This little town was wall to wall traffic. I snagged a parking spot in front of the first restaurant I saw and was quickly seated for a bowl of chili and slice of pie. And yes, it was good. Not as good as that mysterious cafe, but flaky, buttery crust and apples with just enough tang to them.

I walked up to main street, and realized Julian was not a one-pie town. Every other store was a pie shop each claiming to be the best. It all looked good, but I had to guess Mom’s was the first and best only by the line down the block waiting for a chance to eat a slice.

If only I was hungrier. Or if it weren’t New Year’s Day with all those pesky resolutions. I might have taken the challenge for a personal taste test. Instead I was satisfied just knowing where this pie town was on the map. I would be back to find the best slice later.

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Tags: california, food, julian, san diego