Outside the Lines Original: Not Just Pie
In the heart of Monroe, Louisiana, a small family-run eatery has been creating delicious memories for locals and visitors alike for 40 years. Not Just Pie isn’t just a name, it’s a story of resilience, community, and family. Co-owner J. Walter Stone shared the journey of this beloved establishment, from its humble beginnings in Pecanland Mall to its triumphant return after a devastating fire.
Not Just Pie began as a dream shared by J. Walter’s mother, Christy Stone and her friend in 1985, the same year the Pecanland Mall was being built. The name reflects its evolution over time - what started as a pie shop soon expanded to include cakes and other baked goods. When J. Walter’s father, Jimmy Stone, joined the business, the menu grew further to include lunch options, establishing the shop as a favorite among the community.
“Dad brought the lunch side to the business,” J. Walter explained. “Mom’s partner had to move on, and that’s how Dad stepped in. From the beginning, it’s been a family effort.”
In 2022, Not Just Pie faced a turning point when a fire destroyed their old location. For a time, J. Walter considered leaving the business behind. However, the outpouring of support from the Monroe community gave him the strength to rebuild
The community’s kindness during those months after the fire was overwhelming. Strangers would buy us lunch, offer words of encouragement, and remind us how much the shop meant to them. It gave me hope and confidence to keep going.”J. Walter Stone
By New Year’s Eve 2022, J. Walter made the decision to reopen Not Just Pie. The shop found a new home and returned with its iconic blue-and-white design, including a recreation of the original wallpaper that had become synonymous with its charm.
What sets Not Just Pie apart is its dedication to quality and tradition. Each pie is made fresh with pure vanilla extract and their signature handmade crust, which J. Walter proudly calls their standout feature.
J. Walter’s personal favorite is the Peach Pie, made with locally sourced peaches from the West Monroe Farmers Market. “There’s nothing like Mitcham peaches from Ruston. They’re truly special,” he said.
The menu also includes cherished family recipes like their roast beef po’boy and chili, which was passed down by J. Walter’s grandfather.
Not Just Pie has always been more than a business, it’s a family legacy. J. Walter now works alongside his parents, nephews, and even close family friends. The team also welcomes longtime employees, including one who worked at the original shop decades ago.
“It’s amazing how life comes full circle,” J. Walter reflected. “Our contractor’s wife reconnected us with her, and now she’s back in the kitchen. That was definitely God working in mysterious ways.”
Over the years, Not Just Pie has become more than just a restaurant - it’s a place where memories are made. Generations of customers who once visited as children now bring their own kids to experience the same warmth and hospitality.
“People come here not just for the food but to see my parents and connect with our family,” J. Walter shared. “It’s a special bond we have with the community.”
While the future remains uncertain, J. Walter is content to take things one day at a time. His focus is on continuing the legacy his parents built and spreading kindness along the way.
Be sweet to people. A small act of kindness can make all the difference in someone’s life. That’s what we’re about here - good food and good people.J. Walter Stone