Simplethings Sandwich and Pie Shop

Los Angeles, CA. "Pie" was the word that brought me into the doors of Simple Things: Sandwich and Pie Shop. One three-letter word that began my fixation with wanting everything on the menu. The restaurant sits along the 3rd Street Shopping district, next to a number of eclectic clothing and specialty item stores, cafes, finer dining, and brunch choices. Under this simple awning rests a few white tables and chairs, and inside, as one could guess, is a very simple, clean feel consistent with the shop's name.

Earlier in the day, orders may be taken by the cashier, but when dining in at a later time, just take a seat and the menus will be brought to the table. Staff are friendly, attentive, and open to any and all questions one could ask about the sandwiches, soups, sides, and pies. Yes, it is not JUST a pie shop, nor is it just a sandwich shop. Pies and pastry are located at the front counter, and pay mind to the daily offerings as there may be a new one to try (FYI: pies come in 3 different sizes)! There generally is a "Chef's Specials" menu listed both on their website and the counter, with a fresh sandwich, salad, or soup that may temporarily take the place of another favorite.

Roasted Tomato Soup - thick, hearty, served with a rather large 'crouton', mildly sweet and warms up the core. The order of a cup is more than sufficient.

Tuna Melt - What makes for a good tuna melt? Frankly this isn't one of my stronger areas of interest. This version is served with tomato, fontina and manchego cheeses on toasted rye. The taste was mild and the absence of any discerning flavors was a bit odd to me - for it being tuna and all. It could have used a little kick.

Portabella Mushroom Pot Pie - a must-try for a PIE shop. Pies are made daily and these certainly aren't excepted from the group. Simply put, it was: heavy-handed with the crust, liberal with the cream, and hearty with the individual portion, not incredibly salty and the mushrooms were served tender. The shop also offers a Steak and Lager, BBQ Pulled Pork, Free-Range Chicken, and Chicken Curry versions to try.

Chocolate Silk Pie - a dollop of whipped cream, a creamy chocolate mousse-like filling, bits of chocolate...questions? 

Salted Caramel Pie - is worthy of a mention. It tastes of a salted caramel taffy in a graham cracker crumble crust. If the particular candy is commonly enjoyed, this pie will come in with high marks!

The number of times I have come to Simple Things far outweighs the number of pictures posted to this site. There is much I could say but the food speaks quite well for itself. For a variation of southern comfort, homestyle classics, and a take on tradition, this place comes highly recommended. Order a full sandwich or do a 50/50 option and try two things in one go! This eatery has quickly become my usual spot for a cup of coffee or a consistently good meal.

Simple Things

Sandwich and Pie Shop