AZ Food Crafters, hand-pie makers who are regulars at many of the Valley’s farmers markets, have opened a takeout shop in Chandler.
Located in a worn strip mall on the southeast corner of Ray and Alma School, AZ Food Crafters offer hand-sized, folded pastries (also known as calzones, empanadas, or hot pockets) with either savory and sweet fillings.
Partners Eddie Castillo and Mike Caliendo have three signature fillings: green chile pork, Italian sausage with peppers and onions, and veggie Greek.
They also offer several weekly specials. This week it’s El Cubano (roasted pork and ham), spinach cheese, and Italian meatball.
This week’s dessert pies are Lemon Créme Delight, made with locally grown lemons, and Burning Love, filled with dark chocolate ganache, ancho chile blackberry jam.
Breakfast pies come in eight varieties, including one with bacon, potatoes, cheddar, and maple syrup.
The pies are $4 apiece, or three for $10. They can be purchased hot and ready to eat, or frozen to cook later (they’ll take about 20 minutes).
AZ Food Crafters also offers a breakfast special: Any of the breakfast pies with coffee for $5.
The no-frills space, which open in January, is open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
It’s takeout only; there are no tables or dining area, although there are a couple chairs for those waiting.
If you can’t make it to the shop, you still can find AZ Food Crafters at 13 farmers markets throughout the weekend. Check the schedule on their website.
