Driving through Fairview Park on Lorain Ave, you would not suspect that the most delicious pies are right at hand. Nestled snugly in a small strip mall at 22560 Lorain Rd sits a small nondescript store front. The sign out side says simply, “Pies.” Inside is a bakery case and shelf with some of the most delicious pies in the state. I am talking about Gray House Pies. I had heard they used organic ingredients and that whenever possible local. I had to see what was up. Not only do they sell the typical fruit pies, they had a large selection of savory choices. Perfect for lunch, they offered small serving pies in things like goat cheese and caramelized onion. They sell quiches, too and free range eggs with organic milk make all the difference. I opted for the Sunshine. It was a blend of peach and tart cherry. Just sweet enough and minus all the gooey crap that usually overpowers the flavors of cheap store pies. Coming from the Pacific Northwest, land of espresso and pastry, this was like a slice of home. I would drive half an hour to pick up stuff like this at teh Pike’s Place Market in Seattle.
What makes people stop, must be word of mouth, because it isn’t the strip mall. But people do stop. 
While I gazed through the selections, trying not to drool on the pristine glass cases, they sold at least 4 or five whole pies to several different patrons. In addition, the phone rang constantly and I overheard the manager listing off the pies selections with the reverence of a nun saying the rosary. I never miss the chance to support the local business, and I was glad to see that I don’t have to make this drive just to get a pie. The manager told me that they participated in over 10 farmers markets, and I picked up the flyer that listed 6. If you are going to any of these farmers markets, try stopping by and seeing the Gray House Pie table: Lakewood Farmer’s Market (Wednesdays), Tower City Farmer’s Market (Fridays), Shaker Square Farmer’s Market (Saturdays), Crocker Park Farmer’s Market (Saturdays), Parma Farmer’s Market (Sundays), and Chagrin Falls Farmer’s Market (Sundays). Stop by the store for the best selection, or hit the farmers market early, as I am sure that supplies run out fast! Better yet, plan ahead. You can order your pie in advance, or find out the flavors available by calling. Check out the website for a list of all the flavors and the phone number to call.
Gray House Pies is expanding. Opening new store in Westlake…projected date is March 1st. Would love to tell you more about it. Please contact me for more information.