Osteria Da Franco

Osteria Da Franco is the kind of Bega cafe locals head to for coffee and something baked, and the pastry cabinet is a big part of why. We hear the cannoli keep winning people over, pistachio included, and they're a good size for a small treat. The croissants get plenty of love too, from plain and almond to a ham and cheese version that's flaky outside and generously filled. Sfogliatella shows up on the list of favourites as well, which is not something you find at every bakery counter.

The cafe side holds its own. There's focaccia and panini for lunch, a vegetable quiche that one local described as hearty and full of flavour, and the odd detail people appreciate, like rocket going on after the toasting rather than before. Dessert, breakfast, brunch and lunch are all on the table, with coffee made properly: one traveller on a long drive south ranked it the best they'd had in the country so far.

Staff are a consistent talking point. People describe a friendly, accommodating welcome, and regulars say they've never been served without a smile. The atmosphere gets called warm and relaxed, and a newer indoor space next door has added more room to settle in, along with outdoor seating. It suits families, and there's a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Takeaway and dine-in are both available, there are vegetarian options, and cards are accepted.

The menu is on the short side, and one passing visitor found the panini pricey for what they were and the service a bit flat on the day. Most locals paint a much warmer picture, though, and the pastries and coffee are what people come back for.

It opens early on weekdays and keeps shorter hours on weekends, so check the hours before you head in. If you're after a bakery in Bega for a flaky croissant, a cannoli or a focaccia with a good coffee, this is a solid stop on the way through or a regular spot if you live nearby.