Batehaven Bakehouse

Pies are what Batehaven Bakehouse gets talked about for, and it's easy to see why people plan a stop around them. Locals mention the tradies pie and the Ned Kelly, along with sausage rolls and quiche, and one family on a week and a half of holidays ended up here for three breakfasts. One visitor felt the plain pie could use a touch more flavour, but the overall word is that the pastry side of things is done well.

It's a proper bakery with a cafe attached, so you can take something away, eat in, or have it delivered. Seating runs inside and outside, and we hear the rooftop spot is a favourite for a view over the water. Breakfast is on, with egg and bacon rolls and fruit toast getting a mention, plus coffee and pancakes. The thickshakes have a following of their own, with the classic Oreo singled out by one happy visitor, and the cream buns, lemon slices and brownies fill out a tempting sweet cabinet. One local also noted they give you a biscuit with your coffee, a small touch people appreciate.

Staff come up warmly. Friendly, polite and quick to help is how they're described, and one customer singled out Peter for going out of his way on a public holiday to get a customised cake made and delivered within hours. If you're after a custom cake order, that's a good sign they take it seriously. Prices are called good value, which suits the surfers and holidaymakers who stop in for lunchtime pies after a morning in the water.

The odd order mix-up has been grumbled about during a busy rush, so it pays to double-check a larger order at the counter. It's a busy, friendly spot, so expect a bit of buzz.

The bakery is women-owned and has free parking, wheelchair-accessible seating and an accessible car park. Hours run from early morning most days, so check before you head in. For a bakery in Batehaven, New South Wales, this is worth considering for pies, a coffee by the water or a cake made to order.