Prep your pie-tinerary

THE ovens are firing up again for Ballarat’s Best Pie this winter.

Whether you’re craving a flaky classic, a gourmet creation or something a little unexpected, Ballarat’s Best Pie is here to answer the tastiest question of the season – who’s serving up the most mouthwatering morsel?

Back from August 1 to August 31, Ballarat’s Best Pie will showcase 36 sweet and savoury pies from the region’s top bakeries, cafes, restaurants and bars.

From Roy Hammond’s Korean-inspired beef short rib and bone marrow pie to Drive Cafe’s eggs benny pie and Mondegreen Cafe’s apple sty pie with bacon-fat pastry, the creativity on offer proves that the humble pie has endless potential.

“The line-up of options this year is impressive,” City of Ballarat mayor Tracey Hargreaves said.

“Sweet and savoury, traditional and creatively ambitious, it’s a showcase of what Ballarat’s culinary scene has to offer.”

As well as the Ballarat’s Best Pie grand prize, this year’s competition features another six categories – Best Savoury Pie, Best Sweet Pie, Best Bakery Pie plus the all-new Brilliantly Unexpected Pie, Pie with Purpose and People’s Choice Pie.

The 2025 judging panel consists of acclaimed Peruvian-born chef Alejandro Saravia, Melbourne restaurant critic and presenter Kara Monssen, MasterChef Australia favourite and Good Chef Bad Chef co-host Tim Bone, esteemed food journalist Richard Cornish and City of Ballarat deputy-mayor Cr Ben Taylor.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony hosted by renowned cook, author and television presenter Julia Busuttil Nishimura on Saturday 2 August at Itinerant Spirits.

Tried a pie that’s downright unforgettable? Until August 31, cast your vote for People’s Choice Pie and go into the draw to win a luxury Ballarat escape (or staycation!) valued at over $1500.

“The People’s Choice Pie gives everyone the opportunity to vote for their favourite pie so grab a map, plan your pie-tinerary and make the most of this delicious celebration of local talent,” Cr Hargreaves said.

Whether you’re a pie purist or up for something a bit different, there’s a pie with your name on it.

You’ll find all 36 entries and the pie map at ballaratsbestpie.com.au, making it easy to plan your next lunch outing or weekend pie adventure.

So, this winter, get out there and show some pie-triotism. Try a few. Try them all. And have your say on who should wear the Ballarat’s Best Pie crown.

//SPONSORED CONTENT