What makes a good pie? What are the right combinations of flavors that make the best pies stand out? That’s what the founders of the Southside Pie Contest have been trying to figure out for years. Since 2012, Julie and Kate have been asking those questions as they raise money to combat hunger in Chicago’s Hyde Park and Kenwood neighborhoods. I was fortunate enough to serve as a judge at the 2017 event. I tasted and rated over 20 different fruit pies. I judged along with some great chefs including James Beard winner, Gail Gand; restaurateurs Kazuyoshi Yamada and pastry chef, Fabianna Carter. This event provided $4000 to the local food pantry.