Bonjour Patisserie

Bonjour Patisserie is a French-style patisserie in Wahroonga village, a short walk from the train station, and it's the sort of place people stop at on purpose, even when they're only passing through. Locals describe a busy little shop with plenty to choose from, and a counter that does most of the talking.

The croissants are what come up most. People rave about a crisp outside and soft middle that doesn't leave your fingers greasy, and there's a following for the hazelnut cinnamon rolls when they appear as a special. Danish, éclairs, quiche and pies round out what folks mention, and we've heard the pecan pie impressed even a visitor from Texas. One local put it simply: the pastries are what make up for an average coffee. If you're picky about pies, know that one person found a steak and mushroom pie's base a bit soggy after sitting in the warmer, so a fresh-from-the-oven timing may help.

The setup is easygoing. You order at the counter, take a number, pay by cash or card, and your food comes to the table. There's indoor seating and a few outdoor street tables, with free street parking nearby and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Breakfast, coffee and dessert are all on offer, and takeaway works well if you're heading for the train. Staff are friendly, and the shop and display get plenty of admiring comments. The coffee draws mixed opinions (some like a darker roast, others find it ordinary), so treat it as a bonus rather than the reason to come.

Beyond the daily counter, Bonjour takes custom cake orders and does catering. Their cakes, tarts and pastries are handcrafted for celebrations, with designs from classic French styles to more contemporary flavours. Many cakes need several days' notice, so it pays to ask early. Value is another thing locals mention, with a date scone and coffee combo getting a nod as a good-value light treat.

They open early most mornings, so it suits a pre-work pastry or a relaxed morning tea. Check the hours before you go. For a French-style bakery in Wahroonga, it's a dependable stop for a croissant, a sweet treat or a special-occasion cake.