When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Pop Pie Co.
Why Pop Pie Co. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Pop Pie Co. is a popular pie shop known for its distinctive all-butter crust pies that attract locals and visitors alike in San Diego, Costa Mesa, and Carlsbad. Established in 2019 with roots originating from its first location in San Diego's University Heights neighborhood, Pop Pie Co. has grown to multiple locations, including its recent opening in Carlsbad Village. The shop offers a delightful variety of both savory and sweet pies, crafted daily by co-founder and executive chef Gan Suebsarakham, who infuses global inspiration into the recipes. The defining feature of Pop Pie Co. is its flaky, buttery crust that strikes a perfect balance — substantial enough to hold piping hot fillings yet tender and light. The menu includes savory breakfast pies like The Boss 2.0, filled with applewood-smoked bacon, farm eggs, cheddar, jack cheese, and spices, alongside delicious sausage rolls and quiches made with ham, bacon, chive, cheese, mushrooms, and leeks. Patrons rave about the fresh-baked pies and the inviting atmosphere, complemented by outdoor seating at some locations such as Carlsbad’s The Cottages. The location often becomes a favored spot to meet up with friends for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering warm pies and comforting flavors in a casual café setting. Customers can also take advantage of discounted to-go pies from the previous day, making it easy to enjoy their favorites at home. A rewards program adds further appeal for regular visitors. Pop Pie Co. also pairs well with nearby businesses like Stella Jean’s Ice Cream and Revolution Roasters coffee shop, enhancing the food experience in their community hubs.
Here's what people think of Pop Pie Co.
As of recent, Pop Pie Co. holds a 4.6-star rating based on 182 reviews.
User reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction with Pop Pie Co., as evidenced by its 4.6-star rating from 182 total reviews aggregated across platforms like Tripadvisor and local blogs. Positive feedback praises the exceptional all-butter crust for its perfect flakiness and sturdiness, along with the flavorful fillings in both savory and sweet pies. Reviewers highlight popular dishes such as The Boss 2.0 breakfast pie and the breakfast sausage roll, noting the generous portions and creative flavor combinations. The ambiance receives positive mention, particularly for the Carlsbad location with its quaint outdoor seating and welcoming service. Many customers appreciate the option to purchase discounted to-go pies, which reheat well and extend the pie enjoyment beyond the restaurant. The rewards program incentivizes frequent visits and adds to customer loyalty. On the other hand, some less favorable notes mention the somewhat limited variety of flavors available at any one time, which may leave those seeking more options wanting. A few customers suggest that expanding flavor choices could enhance the overall experience. Nevertheless, complaints or critical reviews are rare, and there appear to be no formal customer complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong positive consensus that Pop Pie Co. delivers consistently delicious pies in a friendly atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for casual dining and meeting with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Luciana P
Came here for dinner yesterday with friends and it was delicious! I think the “piescream” idea is genius (ice cream with pie) but my bf said it could have a little bit more of ice cream. My friends said the mashed potatoes were amazing and one of them got a mocha and a lemonade (also delicious). Only con for us was that they don’t take cash. The card machine stopped working for a bit so we couldn’t pay with our cards, BUT the staff was super friendly and fixed it real quick. :)
Greg Knapp
A group of 7 hit them early evening and the girl serving was busy, a guy came out from the back and took care of us quickly. Very unusual flavor choices, but all were delicious. Examples: Baklava Cheesecake Ube, Pandesal Toffee, S'mores, Cream Fraiche, Clemetine Cake and Brown Butter Pecan. In addition to normal singles and doubles, they do a single split. You can guess that one. We also sampled some pies and the strawberry rhubarb reminded me of my fathers! It was amazing.
Jamie Lee Beals Ketelsen
First of all, the people who work here are 100% amazing. First impression : super clean and incredible staff? I’m already in. Then my friend and I split a Roasted Veggies & Yellow Curry pie with kale salad on the side. Followed it up with a Lemon Curd & Mixed Berry hand pie with Madagascar vanilla ice-cream on the side. This was plenty of food for 2 and very affordable, but best of all is that the food was delightful! So flavorful and appealing, I loved it all. We also both had a cold brew - mine had caramel syrup. Not overly sweet and very tasty, I’m super pleased with our experience and will definitely be back! Oh, and they have frozen pies to take home and bake when you want one. This option makes me super happy! Excellent experience and wonderful food!
King Yao
Opens early, decent coffee. I had the Aussie Pie (minced beef), very good. A dash of hot sauce made it even better.
Jim Nail
Wow! If like pot pies this is your place. All fresh and delicious.
How to reach Pop Pie Co.
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Website: None
Why Pop Pie Co. may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Pop Pie Co. with your friends is an experience rooted in great food, friendly atmosphere, and a unique culinary twist that makes group meetups genuinely enjoyable. This charming pie-focused eatery creates an inviting space where friends and family can share not just a meal, but moments of connection over warm, comforting pies that cater to both savory and sweet taste buds. With a strong reputation reflected in its impressive 4.6 rating from hundreds of reviews, Pop Pie Co. has become a beloved spot for gatherings because it marries quality, variety, and an approachable vibe perfectly suited for groups. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or just catch up on life, the mix of hearty pies with flaky, buttery crusts and flavorful fillings ensures everyone will find something to love. Add in the courteous service and quality sides like mashed potatoes or creamed corn, and Pop Pie Co. feels like a neighborhood gem that instantly sets the tone for good times with good company.
What activities make Pop Pie Co. perfect for group meetups? The primary draw is, of course, their extensive pie menu, which offers an exciting array of savory and sweet options. The pies are made fresh daily, featuring fillings like the Classic Chicken Pot Pie with tender chicken breast and creamy herb sauce, or crowd-pleasers like the steak and ale pie and Aussie pie variants. For groups, this means plenty of variety to share and enjoy, sparking conversations about favorite flavors and creative combinations. Beyond just eating, the dining setup encourages relaxed socializing, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Small groups can cozy up inside, while larger parties can enjoy the outdoor space, making the experience flexible and comfortable no matter the size of your meetup. Pop Pie Co.’s personable staff also adds to the atmosphere by being attentive and helpful, enhancing the communal vibe that makes friends feel welcome and at ease.
How does the food quality at Pop Pie Co. enhance the group meetup experience? The unmistakable quality begins with the pie crust, noted repeatedly for being flaky, buttery, and robust enough to hold generous fillings. This crust is a stellar foundation that elevates each bite, maintaining warmth and texture even as you take your time chatting and savoring. Since the pies have various fillings representing global tastes—not just Australian—they cater to diverse palates within any group. Complementing the pies are sides like creamy mashed potatoes, creamed corn, or even unique offerings such as their in-house made ice cream that doubles as a delightful dessert or pairing. These thoughtful sides mean that no one leaves hungry, and sharing these dishes creates an interactive dining experience. The moderate portion sizes allow friends to order several different pies and sides to sample together, making every meal communal and fun.
What makes Pop Pie Co. a standout choice for social gatherings compared to other casual dining spots? Aside from the distinctiveness of serving pies—a comfort food with universal appeal—the fast and courteous service helps groups keep their plans on track while still feeling relaxed. Their policy of accepting only credit/debit cards speeds up transactions and reduces wait times. Plus, their dedication to quality, from handling pies with care to preparing fresh batches daily, ensures consistency so groups can trust their experience each time. The vibe is informal but polished, avoiding the chaos of larger chain restaurants while offering something more special than typical fast food joints. The ability to grab to-go pies at discounted prices lets groups extend their meetup beyond the restaurant, maybe heading to a park or home for a more private hangout without sacrificing taste or warmth.
Why is Pop Pie Co. especially welcoming and suitable for groups of friends or family? This is a place where the seating arrangement and space encourage conversation and connection. Although seating may be somewhat limited, the staff’s welcoming attitude and the manageable size of the restaurant mean you’re likely to experience attentive, friendly service ideal for socializing. Their menu caters to varied preferences—vegetarian options, rich meat pies, and sweet treats—including unique offerings like caramel apple piescream, which add memorable touches for those with a sweet tooth. The environment feels casual but intentional, balancing efficiency with comfort to keep groups happy and engaged throughout their visit. Many regulars find their visits here addictive—the perfect spot for that next group gathering or casual hangout after a stroll or event. The menu encourages sharing, and the presentation of the pies invites everyone to dig in and enjoy without fuss.
How does Pop Pie Co. accommodate dietary preferences and group variety? With the growing demand for diverse food options, Pop Pie Co. shines by offering pies that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Their menu features classic meat pies alongside vegetable-based and curry-flavored pies that provide options for vegetarians or those seeking lighter fare. Sides are thoughtfully chosen to complement the main dishes without overwhelming diners, and the bakery’s commitment to freshness means each pie bursts with flavor. This variety ensures that mixed groups with different preferences can each find something delicious and satisfying. Additionally, the option to take pies home allows groups to customize their experience, sampling at the restaurant or enjoying favorites in a more casual, personal setting. This flexibility is perfect for groups who want to enjoy time together without the pressure of sticking to one setting or style of dining.
What about location and ambiance enhances the social experience at Pop Pie Co.? Located in convenient spots like Costa Mesa and San Diego’s University Heights, Pop Pie Co. taps into vibrant communities where people love to gather casually over good food. The atmosphere is upbeat but relaxed, featuring a clean and simple design that puts the focus on the pies and the shared experience. Natural light and cozy seating arrangements invite conversation, while the outdoor seating creates a breezy, welcoming feel especially popular during warmer months. The staff’s friendly, knowledgeable approach adds to the ambiance, ensuring that group members—from pie aficionados to first-timers—feel comfortable and valued. Whether you’re planning a family brunch, a weekend friends’ meetup, or a casual celebration, Pop Pie Co.’s ambiance fosters warmth and conviviality that make each visit special.
Why do Pop Pie Co.’s customer reviews affirm its status as an excellent group destination? With hundreds of reviews averaging 4.6 stars, customers consistently praise the combination of excellent food quality, strong service, and unique pie offerings. Guests highlight the delicious, flaky crusts and generous pie fillings, noting that these elements keep them coming back. Many reviews mention the courteous and efficient staff, which contributes to a smooth dining experience ideal for groups wanting both speed and hospitality. Several patrons also appreciate the variety, from classic pot pies to innovative flavors and dessert pies like strawberry rhubarb or key lime, offering a sweet end to any meal. These factors combined create a dependable and enjoyable place to gather with friends or family, achieving a balance of comfort, flavor, and friendly service that appeals across age groups and tastes.
In summary, Pop Pie Co. is more than just a pie shop—it is a welcoming hub for social connection centered around the universally loved pleasure of pies. Its expertly crafted menu, accommodating space, and friendly staff cultivate a perfect environment for group meetups full of hearty flavors and shared moments. Whether indulging in savory or sweet, dining in or taking pies to go, Pop Pie Co. offers an inviting setting where friends and family can rally together, making each gathering both memorable and delicious.