Matter of Taste: Best Pies on the Beach

Sun, surf and pie.

The pickings are slim on the Pinellas Beaches for those looking to enjoy a delightful slice of pie. With that said, is it possible to find a whole pie for a family gathering or holiday party?

After a lot of research, we discovered some of the best places on the sand to enjoy deliciously fresh pie, whether you're on the go or enjoying a relaxing night out.

• For Variety: Village Inn @ 4945 Guld Boulevard.

In case you’ve been living on another planet, Village Inn is the place to go for pie. From traditional fruit to Oreo-infused delights, these desserts satisfy a sweet tooth. Village Inn’s pie options include: Banana Creme, French Silk, Caramel Pecan Supreme, Pumpkin (with or without whipped cream), Apple and Triple Berry. Prices vary, from $2.89 a slice to a $12.49 a pie.

• Key to Sweet Success: Friendly Fisherman Restaurant @ John’s Pass (150 Boardwalk Place West).

As a tropical favorite, it is no surprise that Key Lime Pie is the pie of choice for  a lot of restaurants on the beach. Friendly Fisherman at John’s Pass is no exception, with top of line slices selling for $5.25.

       Dockside Dave’s @ 14701 Gulf Boulevard.
These guys say that “one dessert is all we need.” That one dessert of choice is Key Lime Pie. It’s a tossup as to who has the best Key Lime recipe, so decide for yourself. The slices go for $3.95 at Dockside Dave’s.

• On the Go for a Holiday Party or Family Dinner: Publix @ 111 104th Ave.

On your way to a holiday party and don’t have time to bake? Publix has you covered. Pies are made fresh daily and can be picked up, on the spot in the bakery. From Pumpkin Pie to Chocolate Cream Pie, the bakery meets all your holiday pie needs. Coconut Cream, Mango Key Lime and Chocolate Cream are $7.99 each. Most of the other pies cost about the same, except for the mini-pies, like Sweet Potato and the Coconut Custard, that go for $3.59 each. Pumpkin Pie is a deal at Publix, with a whole pie for just $4.99.

• For a Casual Slice: Cooter’s @ 423 Poinsetta Ave.

In a casual bar environment, dessert can be an added plus. Cooter’s on Clearwater Beach has a couple of different pies to choose from: Key Lime Pie and Peanut Butter Pie. Slices can be yours for under $5.