HOUSTON — It's time again for what has become a local holiday tradition— buying a freshly baked pie from the Flying Saucer Pie Company in north Houston.
Thousands flock to the famous pie maker each year during the days leading up to Thanksgiving, standing in a line that usually stretches for three or four blocks.
The company is prepared to serve up its delicious pies, but operations will run a bit differently this year, like everything in 2020, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Editor's Note: The above video shows the line that formed around the Flying Saucer Pie Company during Thanksgiving 2018. Featured photo is also from Thanksgiving 2018.
First, guests are asked to maintain six feet of separation, or social distance, while waiting in line. Once inside the bakery, they'll be required to wear masks or in any instance where social distancing isn't feasible.
Of course, Flying Saucer will be limiting the number of people inside the bakery— but not the line. They ask that only one person per group come inside the building to pickup orders.
According to the website, there will be a specified loading zone in the parking lot where all guests can carry out pies once their order is filled.
They didn't give any specifics on changes being made in the kitchen but promised bakers and staff will be taking additional precautions for cleanliness and safety.
Thanksgiving Week Hours
- Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020: Closed
- Monday, Nov. 23, 2020: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020:7am - 7 p.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Thursday, Nov. 26, 2020: Closed
The menu includes classic holiday flavors like Dutch Apple, pumpkin, pecan, cherry and mince pies. There's also an assortment of cream pies and cheesecakes.
Most pies sell $15.25.
It all started with co-founder William "Pie Bill" Leeson, who passed away in November 2015, and is currently run by his children and other relatives.
Flying Saucer Pie Company has been baking homemade pies — always made that morning, never frozen — since the late 1960s. They're the oldest family-owned and -operated bakery in the city, the company claims.