Sister Pie announces temporary closure for 'reconfiguration,' citing economic challenges

West Village mainstay Sister Pie, the lauded bakery beloved by locals and food critics alike, announced Wednesday that it would temporarily close in June, citing "multiple, interesting factors...most urgently in the form of a financial crisis."

"Although the spirit of Sister Pie is alive and well, I’ve arrived at the conclusion that the business isn’t working in its current state," owner Lisa Ludwinski posted on the bakery's social media. "The year 2025 (so far) has been about confronting truth, sometimes courageously and in community, and at other times, under a blanket. As a business owner and a leader, I’m learning, reminiscing, mourning, growing, and searching for hope in the midst of challenge and chaos."

Ludwinski says Sister Pie will close the week of June 9, reassuring customers that changes are "temporary" and "necessary." Special orders will continue to be fulfilled, and baking classes will be taught in the interim.

"The business will enter a period of rest and radical reconfiguration, of exploration and experimentation, and of occasional pop-ups and events to keep the roof over our heads," Ludwinski, a James Beard Award winner, writes.

In recent months, restaurants in Detroit that have catalyzed growth among its neighborhoods have seen economic challenges, forcing temporary or permanent closure. Earlier this year, Bobcat Bonnie's in Corktown closed, following Seva in Midtown.

Sister Pie's temporary closure, however, comes on the heels of its tenth anniversary of business at the corner of Kercheval and Parker in the resurgent West Village. Regularly featured on best-of and must-visit lists in Detroit, the bakery, known for its signature salted maple pie, use of fresh ingredients, hiring directly from the community and paying its employees fair wages, lines for the shop were consistently out the door and around the block.

Since opening in 2015, the greater intersection around Van Dyke and Kercheval has seen an injection of popular businesses, including Marrow and Two Birds, and a new commercial and residential complex built opposite Marcus Garvey Middle School.

"The best way to support our phenomenal staff during this transition is to visit the bakery in these next couple weeks to spread some kindness (and tips!!)," Ludwinski writes. "We would love to see you, and stay tuned!"