Ramsgate Cakery

If you're after a bakery in Ramsgate, New South Wales, Ramsgate Cakery is the kind of small suburban spot people tend to recommend to their friends. Everything is made from scratch in small batches, and locals will tell you that shows in the flavour. The cakes taste richer and more balanced than the bulk-made kind, and the custard tarts, pastries and baked ricotta cheesecake have a loyal following.

Custom cakes are a big part of the trade. People have ordered birthday cakes here, including 3D designs that came out just as imagined, and one local raved about a tiramisu cake that looked as good as it tasted. The watermelon cake gets plenty of attention, and the ricotta cheesecake and basque cheesecake come up too. If you want something specific for an occasion, it's best to ask about timing with the bakery well ahead.

The Portuguese tart is the one people keep coming back for. Crunchy pastry, a smooth centre and just the right sweetness: one local called it one of the best they'd ever had, and another popped in for a single tart and left a fan. There are also savoury pastries, such as a beef pastry, plus red velvet cookies that one regular looks forward to every visit.

It's not only a cake shop. They serve good coffee and all-day breakfast, and you can dine in, take away, pick up in store, or have things delivered. Gluten-free options are available, which is handy if you're buying for a mixed crowd. Free street parking nearby makes a quick stop easy, and card and mobile payments are accepted.

What really seems to win people over is the welcome. The owner and staff are described as friendly and patient, the sort who'll talk you through your options and make a first visit feel like your hundredth. Value gets a mention too, with good quality for fair prices. They're open most of the week, including weekends, but check the hours before you head in.