Brickfields Chippendale

Brickfields Chippendale is the kind of bakery you can smell before you see it. Sourdough is what it's known for, and the loaves and pastries are made on site. Bread is clearly the heart of it, but locals will also tell you the baguette is better than most, good enough that one regular uses it for homemade garlic bread.

The pastry cabinet offers croissants, danishes, tarts and almond croissants. Almond croissants come up for their flaky, not-greasy layers and well-judged filling. Berry tarts are talked about for being generous with the fruit, and the scones, strawberry danish, custard tart and poached pear tart all have their fans. If you're after something savoury, the sandwiches are big and generously filled. People rave about the beef brisket and mushroom melt, the roast chicken, the bacon sandwich and the ham baguette (which can sell out, so don't leave it too late). Quiches and soups are on offer too, and one local advises: bring your own spoon, as the small wooden one provided doesn't cope well.

It works as a proper cafe as well as a bakery. The coffee has a good name around here, and there's breakfast, with seating inside at the counter and a few spots outdoors. Takeaway and dine-in are both available, and they take custom cake orders if you've got an occasion coming up. The staff get plenty of praise for being friendly, from the baristas through to the counter team. One visitor found a latte arrived a touch cooler than they like, but that's the odd grumble in an otherwise warm reputation.

A few practical points: they take cards and mobile payments but not cash, and there's free street parking nearby. A weekend surcharge applies, so weekdays are a little easier on the wallet, and it's worth checking the hours before you head in. If you're in Chippendale and want a loaf, a pastry or a proper sandwich, this is an easy one to put on the list.