Tuga Pastries Alexandria

If you're after Portuguese pastries in Alexandria, Tuga Pastries is the name locals keep pointing to. The pastel de nata is the headline act here, hand-pressed to a traditional family recipe, with a flaky shell and a creamy custard finished with a caramelised, lightly charred top. The tagline, "Hand Pressed. Hand Made. Every day.", is exactly how people describe the experience.

The pastel de nata isn't the only reason to go in. We hear plenty of love for the almond croissant, the twice-baked Nutella croissant and the gila, a flaky pastry filled with a smooth Portuguese squash preserve that's a little different from anything on the average bakery shelf. On the savoury side, locals rave about the cheeseburger pie and the beef and potato pie. The bakery is also known for its sourdough and for a fresh-from-the-oven feel. New artisanal specials turn up regularly, and some of the popular items sell out early, so it pays to go in the morning if you have your heart set on something.

The family story adds to the appeal. The website tells of pastry chef Agostinho Ferreira, who migrated to Australia in 1985 and started his first bakery with his wife Lucia in 1994, and that background shows in the baking. Gluten-free options are available, and people with dietary needs say the staff are accommodating and friendly. Custom cake orders are also on offer.

It works as a sit-down spot as well as a grab-and-go bakery. There's coffee and breakfast, dine-in and takeaway, plus delivery and in-store pick-up. Access is good, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, toilet and car park, and they take cards and mobile payments. The outdoor seating is a pleasant place to linger, though one local warns the birds can be cheeky with unattended food.

One visit left someone underwhelmed by the drinks and a dry sausage roll, though even they rated the cheeseburger pie and the egg tart. It's open early every day of the week, but check the hours before heading in.