New Zealanders love pies so much that they even hold annual pie awards. Recently, a new pie shop called Pie Rolla’s opened in Auckland, causing long lines outside. Lewis Mazza-Carson runs the shop on Karangahape Road, and since opening in June, the pies have been selling out almost every day.
Mazza-Carson says their popularity comes from a family recipe that has been passed down through generations. His grandmother, who passed away in 2020, originally made the pies in Australia and sold them to soldiers. “It’s a classic mince and cheese recipe, nice and chunky,” he said.
The roots of Pie Rolla come from his parents’ cafe, Salvation Kitchen, known for its homemade pies. While working at KFC, Mazza-Carson decided to start his own business, focusing on the family pie recipe. He makes everything by hand without any processed ingredients, using only butter, flour, salt, and water.
Along with his chef Patrick Marckus, who has experience at Michelin-starred restaurants, they create new pie recipes. The most popular one is the brisket pie, which includes jalapeños and American cheese. Mazza-Carson’s favorite is the creamy Béchamel chicken pie, which has a hint of cranberry.
Since opening, Pie Rolla’s sells three times more pies each day. Customers are lining up, and many say it’s the best pie they’ve ever had. One man even skateboarded from Mission Bay to try the pies.
Mazza-Carson believes that a good product speaks for itself. He is also planning to turn the old Thirsty Dog pub next door into a Melbourne-style bistro.
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