The Pie Hole, a sweet and savory pie brand, has tapped a former The Counter and Morton’s executive as its new CEO, the Los Angeles-based fast-casual operator announced Wednesday.

Edie Ames

Photo: The Pie Hole

Edie Ames, who started March 26, joins the current leadership team of the privately held brand. She has more than 30 years’ experience working in nearly every restaurant segment, including multiple full-service chains. She previously worked at better burger concept The Counter, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Morton’s of Chicago, Real Mex Restaurants (parent company of El Torito, Chevys and Acapulco) and Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group.

Ames joined the team as The Pie Hole ramps up its U.S. and global growth plans. The company currently operates 12 locations in Southern California, North Carolina and Tokyo. The company declined to reveal where it plans to expand.

“We are excited to welcome Edie to The Pie Hole team, as we know her vast experience in the restaurant industry will help us exceed the goals we’ve set for the company,” co-founder Sean Brennan said in a statement. “Edie’s passion for the industry matches the passion we had when we initially opened The Pie Hole, and we have full confidence she will carry the concept to its full potential.”

The chain was founded in 2011 by mother-and-son Rebecca Grasley and Matthew Heffner. Using Grasley’s recipes, which span four generations, they launched the first pie shop in the Los Angeles arts district. It earned immediate buzz for its handheld comfort food-inspired savory pies such as Mac ’n Cheese and Chicken ’n Cornbread pot pies.

The Chicken ’n Cornbread pot pie

The fast-casual menu also features a large variety of whole and individual sweet pies such as Mom’s Apple Crumble, Earl Grey Tea and Chocolate Brownie.

Stores have also earned a reputation for its coffee program. Baristas serve specialty house blends, nitro-infused cold brew coffee and hand-pulled espresso drinks made with fair trade coffee beans.

The Chocolate Brownie pie

The chain is working with Alexandria, Va.-based Fransmart, which specializes in expanding emerging brands through franchising. 

Kitchen Fund, a New York-based restaurant investment firm with ties to Fransmart, became a Pie Hole investor in 2016.

Contact Nancy Luna at [email protected]

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