Black Toque Patisserie

Black Toque Patisserie is the kind of bakery in Putney, New South Wales, that regulars know about and first-timers tend to stumble on. It sits on a busy road, easy to drive past, and people who pull in often end up making it a habit.

The pies are a big part of that. Locals talk about the chunky steak and mushroom pie in particular, with slow-cooked, tender meat, and they come out fresh from the oven. The pastry cabinet gets just as much attention. The almond croissant is the one people rave about, crisp outside with plenty of filling, and the danish, vanilla slice and fruit flans all have their followers. We've also heard good things about the hot cross buns at Easter and a cinnamon donut that gets the sweetness just right.

There's a decent selection of cakes and cupcakes, and custom cake orders are available if you've got an occasion coming up. Gluten-free options are on offer too, so it's worth asking at the counter what's available that day. If you want to stay a while, you can eat in, inside or out, or take it away. You order and pay at the counter, and if you're having a coffee in, it gets brought to your table. Coffee and breakfast are part of the offering, and one local called it an ideal spot for a coffee date.

Staff come up again and again in what people say. They're described as warm, quick and attentive, and the owner gets a mention for being friendly too. The space has been freshened up recently, and it's wheelchair accessible, takes cards and tap-and-go, and has free street parking and a car park. People also reckon the prices are fair, especially compared with other cafes nearby.

One local felt the coffee had slipped for a stretch, though most are happy with it. Locals say the doors are open on public holidays, including Easter, but check the hours before you head in.