Pie floater

The pie floater is a cherished Australian dish with origins dating back to the 1890s. This culinary delight is particularly popular in Adelaide and consists of a savory meat pie immersed in a thick pea soup, typically garnished with a generous dollop of tomato sauce. The dish is believed to have evolved from English traditions that paired pea soup with meat.

Historically, pie floaters were a common late-night snack sold from pie carts on Adelaide’s bustling streets. These mobile vendors would set up in busy areas during mealtimes, providing a warm and satisfying meal to hungry customers.

In 2003, the pie floater was recognized as a South Australian Heritage Icon, solidifying its place in the region's cultural history. Pie carts have been a familiar sight in South Australia since the 1870s, although their numbers have decreased over the years. Today, only a few establishments still serve the traditional pie floater, including Café de Vilis, Enjoy Bakery on Norwood Parade, and the Upper Sturt General Store. Variations of the dish can also be found at Prices Fresh bakery outlets.

Despite its reduced availability, the pie floater remains a nostalgic and iconic dish in South Australia. It stands as a testament to a unique culinary tradition that continues to be cherished and preserved at select locations in Adelaide.