NT Bakery Alice Springs

NT Bakery Alice Springs is the kind of place you'd drive past if you weren't looking for it. It sits in the industrial zone, not easily seen from the road, so searching the name before you head out is the smart move. Locals say it's worth the small effort, and one traveller passing through Alice Springs in the Northern Territory ended up planning a stop here on purpose.

Pies are popular. We hear the bacon and egg pie is made the proper way, with real egg rather than mince, and there are other fillings too, from beef and beef chilli to kidney. One visitor called the meat pie among the best they'd eaten, and the pie here is often described as the bestseller. Pasties and sausage rolls sit alongside them, and the salad rolls get a regular mention for being fresh and tasty.

Beyond the pies, the cabinet holds donuts, vanilla slice, custard, fruit tart, sandwiches and bread. The coffee gets a thumbs up too, and breakfast is part of the appeal, with the doors open early. There's an occasional cheap donut day, though one visitor found it a touch pricey overall.

The staff are what regulars notice. They're described as friendly and patient, including with excited kids trying to decide, and Kate gets a specific shout-out for her warmth. Not every visit is perfect: one regular mentioned a quiet, short exchange at the counter on a couple of mornings, but even they said the food and the rest of the team are lovely.

You can dine in at the outdoor seating, grab takeaway, or ask about catering. There's free parking, a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park, and cards and mobile payments are accepted. Check the hours before you go, as they open early and don't trade every day of the week.