A culinary delight with deep historical roots has arrived in Placerville with the opening of Placerville Eatery and Savory Pasty Pie Shop. This unique establishment offers a modern twist on the traditional Cornish pasty, combining centuries-old techniques with international flavors to create a dining experience that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
A Culinary Classic Makes a Comeback
The humble pasty (pronounced PAST-e) is making a flavorful comeback, reimagined with global influences while honoring its rich heritage. Local food enthusiasts are already buzzing about this distinctive addition to Placerville’s growing culinary scene, where tradition and diverse cuisine converge in a handheld meal that’s perfect for busy modern diners.
Roots in the Mines: A Meal Built for Survival
The Cornish pasty’s story begins deep in the tin mines of Cornwall, England, where these portable pies served as the perfect meal for hardworking miners. The ingenious design featured a thick, crimped edge that functioned as a handle, allowing miners with dirt-covered hands to enjoy their lunch without contaminating their food. After eating the filling portion, miners would discard the crust, which may have been touched by toxic mining residues, ensuring their meal remained safe despite harsh working conditions.
Heritage Meets Hospitality in Placerville
This practical food innovation has been lovingly preserved at Placerville’s newest eatery, where each pasty features the traditional crimped edge as a nod to its utilitarian origins. The owners have embraced this historical connection while educating customers about the pasty’s fascinating past. “We wanted to honor the ingenuity of those Cornish miners while bringing something truly special to our community,” explains the owner. “Every pasty tells a story of survival, practicality, and the simple pleasure of a well-made meal.”
Crafted With Care and Culinary Creativity
The menu at Placerville Eatery and Savory Pasty Pie Shop offers an impressive array of international flavors encased in perfectly flaky pastry. Traditional options include the Classic Cornish with seasoned beef, potato, swede, and onion, but adventurous diners can explore pasties inspired by cuisines from around the globe. Mexican-inspired pasties feature spiced chicken with black beans and corn, while Mediterranean versions burst with spinach, feta, and olives. Asian-influenced offerings include fillings like ginger-lemongrass beef or yellow curry vegetables.
Seasonal Twists and Local Ties
Each pasty is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the precisely crimped edges to the golden-brown exterior achieved through careful baking. Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, with creative fillings like roasted butternut squash with sage and caramelized onions or spiced chickpeas with roasted vegetables.
“We wanted to create a menu where everyone could find something to enjoy,” says the head chef. “The beauty of the pasty format is its versatility – it can hold almost any combination of ingredients while keeping them moist and flavorful.” The establishment also offers seasonal specials that highlight local produce, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
