What is a pie floater?
A pie floater is a South Australian dish consisting of a meat pie served upside down or floating in a bowl of thick pea soup, often topped with tomato sauce. It is a classic Adelaide late-night snack.
The pie floater became popular in the late 1800s and was sold from pie carts in the streets of Adelaide. Pie carts operated late at night, serving hungry workers and people leaving pubs and theaters.
The pea soup is usually made from green or blue boiler peas, giving it a thick texture. Some versions add mint or vinegar.
A heritage icon
In 2003, the National Trust of South Australia declared the pie floater a South Australian Heritage Icon.
Pie carts were once common in Adelaide, but only a few remain. The Cowley's Pie Cart, near the Adelaide railway station, was a famous example.
The pie floater is also found in parts of Sydney and other areas, but it remains strongly associated with Adelaide. It is often eaten during winter or after a night out. Some cafes and bakeries offer gourmet versions.