Quick Verdict
The battle for the best pie in Julian, California is fierce.
- Julian Pie Company (JPC): Famous for their "Dutch Apple" with a crumb topping and a crust that tastes like a sugar cookie. It is sweeter, heavier, and widely distributed in grocery stores.
- Mom's Pie House: Famous for the "Flaky Apple." The crust is traditional pastry (flour, butter/lard, salt) and not sweet. The filling relies on the apples' natural tartness.
| Feature | Julian Pie Company | Mom's Pie House |
|---|---|---|
| Crust Style | Sweet, crunchy, cookie-like | Traditional, flaky, savory/buttery |
| Sweetness | High (Very sweet) | Moderate (Tart/Sweet balance) |
| Atmosphere | Cozy cottage, patio seating | Open kitchen (watch them bake), bustling |
| Wait Time | Long (Main St), Shorter (Santa Ysabel) | Long (on weekends) |
| Best Slice | Dutch Apple | Apple Flaky |
The Competitors
Julian Pie Company
Founded in 1986. They have two locations: the main one on Main Street (charming pale yellow cottage) and a large production facility/shop in Santa Ysabel (7 miles west).
- The Vibe: Feels like grandma's house. Cute patio in the back.
- Signature: The crust is the star. It basically melts in your mouth because of the sugar content.
Mom's Pie House
Founded in 1984. Located right at the majestic entrance to town on Main Street. The front window lets you watch bakers rolling dough and peeling apples.
- The Vibe: Busy bustling bakery. Smells incredible because the ovens are right there.
- Signature: Consistency. The "Apple Boysenberry" is a cult classic.
Detailed Comparison
1. The Crust (The Deciding Factor)
JPC: Their standard crust is unique. It's not flaky shatters-everywhere pastry. It's more solid, crunchy, and distinctly sweet. Many people say it tastes like a cookie.
Mom's: This is a textbook pie crust. Flaky layers, not sweet, acts as a vessel for the fruit.
Winner: JPC if you have a sweet tooth. Mom's if you are a pie purist.
2. The Filling
JPC: Often uses a thicker "goo" (cornstarch/sugar slurry) to hold the apples. Very comforting, but heavy.
Mom's: Feels fresher. You taste the distinct texture of the sliced apples (Empire, Granny Smith, etc.). Less goo.
Winner: Mom's.
3. The Experience
JPC: The back patio on a crisp fall day is unbeatable. It feels hidden away from the Main Street chaos.
Mom's: Watching the ladies peel apples in the window is iconic Americana. But the seating is tighter.
Winner: JPC for seating/relaxing.
Insider Tips
- Skip the Line: If the line at JPC on Main Street is out the door, drive 10 minutes west to their Santa Ysabel location. Same pie, zero line, easier parking.
- Order "Cheese Style": Both places offer a slice of sharp cheddar cheese melted on top. Don't knock it until you try it. The salty/sweet combo is historic.
- Take Home: If buying a whole pie to take home, buy froze unbaked ones. Fun fact: Most locals buy the frozen ones and bake them at home so the house smells like Julian.
Our Recommendation
Go to Mom's Pie House if you want a classic, high-quality apple pie where the fruit shines. Get the "Apple Flaky" with Cinnamon Ice Cream.
Go to Julian Pie Company if you want a decadent dessert where the crust is a treat in itself. Get the "Dutch Apple" with Vanilla Ice Cream.
Can't decide? You're in Julian. Have a slice at one for breakfast and the other for lunch. We won't judge.
FAQs
Q: Which is better, Julian Pie Company or Mom's Pie House? A: Julian Pie Company wins for crust lovers—its sweet, cookie-like pastry is a treat in itself. Mom's Pie House wins for filling fans who prefer a flaky, traditional crust that lets the tart apple flavor shine. Both are worth trying on the same trip.
Q: How much does a slice of pie cost in Julian, California? A: Expect to pay $6–8 per slice at either location, plus a couple dollars extra for a scoop of ice cream or a slice of sharp cheddar on top.
Q: What should I order at Julian Pie Company? A: Get the Dutch Apple with Vanilla Ice Cream. The crumb topping paired with their signature sweet, cookie-like crust is what makes JPC unique—it's the best representation of their style.
Q: What should I order at Mom's Pie House? A: The Apple Flaky or the Apple Boysenberry, served with Cinnamon Ice Cream. Don't skip the "cheese style" option—sharp cheddar melted on top is a classic Julian tradition that's worth trying at least once.
Keep Exploring
Last updated: February 2026. Visited both locations to verify hours, menu, and current prices.