La Bonne Bakery

La Bonne Bakery is a small boulangerie in Neutral Bay, and ask around the lower north shore and you'll find plenty of people who treat it as a regular stop. Some come once a week, others more often, and the list of what they pick up is long: baguettes, ciabatta, croissants, cookies, croque monsieurs and custard tarts.

The pretzels get the loudest praise. German-style, with a good chew, and locals suggest a smear of butter on top. The baguettes and the olive ciabatta also come up often, with a crisp crust and an airy inside. On the pastry side, the croissant dough has a following, and the almond and chocolate version and the apple custard treat are two that people single out. We've also heard waffles have joined the line-up. Baked goods are replenished through the day, so there's usually something new to try.

It's a snug, rustic little shop with wooden interiors, and you can take your order away or sit in with a coffee. Breakfast is part of the offer, and the coffee gets a good word too. People describe the staff as warm and friendly, and it's the kind of place where you're greeted with a smile first thing. Prices are seen as good value for the quality, and you can pay by card or phone.

To be fair, it isn't flawless. Locals are a little split on the odd pastry: we've heard of a croissant that was underbaked in the middle and a walnut tart that was uneven, so consistency can vary from day to day. Most people still come away happy, and the regulars keep returning.

If you're after a bakery in Neutral Bay for bread, pastries and a decent coffee, it's a friendly corner spot. Check the hours before you head in, as the weekend trading day is shorter than the rest of the week.