Patisserie Petunia bakery and cafe

If you're after a bakery in Newtown that does proper bread, pies and pastries alongside a decent coffee, Patisserie Petunia bakery and cafe is worth a visit. It works as both a grab-and-go counter and a sit-down breakfast or lunch spot, with takeaway, dine-in and delivery all on offer.

Bread is a big part of the appeal here. One local who stumbled in after the gym raved about the weekend spelt sourdough, saying even a partner who only likes traditional wheat sourdough couldn't pick the difference. Another goes early to collect sourdough rolls for the family and says the bread is what keeps drawing them back, even with the rest of the cabinet to tempt them.

Then there are the pies and sausage rolls. People talk about chunky meat and chicken fillings, a butter chicken pie, and a spinach and ricotta roll. On the pastry side, the almond croissant is a standout, especially first thing when it's still warm. A chilli chorizo croissant has been getting attention too, and we've heard the cakes and macarons are worth a look. For custom cake orders, it's best to ask the bakery directly.

Coffee gets plenty of praise, and the staff come up just as often. The staff are warm, attentive and welcoming, and one customer was glad to find a left-behind wallet kept safe until they came back for it. A loyalty card gives you a reason to return. Locals also describe it as good value for what you get.

The breakfast menu is a draw in itself, though one visitor found the eggs benedict a touch salty. Even so, the overall mood is happy, and a visiting family said they'd make it a common choice while in town.

The practical side is easy. There's a wheelchair-accessible entrance, free street parking nearby, and card and tap payments are accepted. It's open daily from early, but check the hours before heading in.