On March 14 we celebrate pi, which any math nerd can tell you is the mathematical equation that represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. Or 3.14159 (and so on), hence the yearly recognition. But enough about math, we like to celebrate pi day with an “e” and dive into all things pie. From sweet to savory to theatrical shows, here are some quick ways to get in on the fun.
Redeemer Pizza
We enjoy the pies from Redeemer all year long, and after its sister spot Dio Mio took over our Instagram stories yesterday, we’re craving it even more. Some highlights from the menu include All The Mushrooms ($28) with garlic cream, a melty cheese blend, roasted oyster mushrooms, soy-pickled mushrooms, and a drizzle of aged balsamic.
Not a fungi fan? No problem, get a classic slice like Tomato ($18) with garlic, oregano, red sauce, and shaved aged gouda, which can be left off to make it vegan. For the spice lover, Diavolo ($27) is calling to you with Calabrian red sauce, soppressata, pepperoni, jalapeños, yellow peppers, and cheese. 2705 Larimer St., Denver, redeemerpizza.com
Osteria Alberico
It might surprise you to learn there’s a savory pie over at Frasca Hospitality’s Osteria Alberico in Englewood. But lo and behold, chef Russell Stippich has created the Bologna Pizza ($25). On the decadent savory dish you’ll find crème fraiche, mortadella, burrata, and pistachio pesto. The pie gets its name from the city of Bologna, which is famous for mortadella and pistachio-laden dishes. 3455 S. University Blvd., Englewood, osteriaalberico.com
The Greenwich
To add on one more delicious pizza to dive into today, head to The Greenwich in RiNo. We’re thrilled by the ‘Nduja Sausage Pizza ($27), which includes smoked mozzarella, tomato sauce, and honey labneh on chef Luke Miller’s sourdough crust. The Speck & Creamed Leek Pizza ($27) also comes on that signature crust, and this unique pie has confit potatoes, mascarpone, and goat cheese. Enjoy a pie at the bar with a cocktail, or make a night of it at one of the cozy tables. 3258 Larimer St., Denver, thegreenwichdenver.com
Wynkoop Brewing Co.
Not all pie is round, though technically that defeats the purpose of pi, 3.14159 (et al). Still, the Shepard’s Pie ($16.50) at Wynkoop Brewing Co. in the Ballpark neighborhood has us bending the rules. It’s a hearty dish of ground beef, carrots, peas, corn, beer gravy, and mashed potatoes, perfect for this rainy and cool Pi Day. 1634 18th St., Denver, wynkoop.com
The Bindery
Another different kind of pie comes thanks to chef Linda Hampsten Fox, owner of The Bindery in LoHi. The Smoked Rabbit and Pecan Pie ($21) has been a staple on the chef’s menu for years, and there’s simply nothing like it in town.
The dish mixes a bit of old England with the South to create a decadent pie. The flaky puff pastry crust perfectly encapsulates the creamy, cheesy, smoked rabbit filling. Find even more sharp cheddar, smoked candied pecans, and a mustard gelato on top. 1817 Central St., Denver, thebinderydenver.com
Carne
Of course we couldn’t make a quick Pi Day list without a sweet pie, and yes, there’s a great one at the global modern steakhouse by chef Dana Rodriguez. Head to Carne in RiNo and dive into the Key Lime Pie ($9). It’s the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, and goes great with an Espresso Martini, which is served nitro-style on tap. 2601 Larimer St., Denver, carne-rino.com
Legacy Pie Co.
When a pie shop has been perfecting a recipe for close to 100 years, it’s bound to be good. A family-run operation, Legacy Pie Co. has four Colorado locations, each serving up fresh pies all year round. Order apple, banana cream, mixed berry, key lime, and more, all for around $26 each. Multiple locations, legacypie.co
Life of Pi at The Buell Theatre
We promised a non-food pi item, and what better theatrical production than Life of Pi. No, the traveling Broadway hit has nothing to do with pie, but it’s a good excuse to book tickets.
The story is based on author Yann Martel,’s award-winning book, and delves into the life of a 16-year-old boy named Pi who is in shipwreck in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The teen survives by boarding a lifeboat, which also has a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger on board. The show runs March 18 to 30, get tickets here.
