Envie French Bakery

Envie French Bakery is a bakery in Alexandra Headland that takes its French roots seriously. The shop is run by husband-and-wife team Florian and Michelle Guillemard, who bake daily using traditional French techniques and open seven days a week. The tagline, "Ça donne envie!", sums up the idea: it makes you want to come in.

The baguettes, croissants and viennoiserie are the heart of it. People who've spent time in France tell us it feels like the real thing, and the almond croissant is particularly good. One visitor called the chocolate almond croissant the best they'd ever had, and a Pistachio Snail that turned out larger than expected was finished to the last crumb. Quiche Lorraine is a regular order, and the baguettes and baguette sandwiches also have their fans.

It isn't only French pastry, either. We've heard the pies are worth a look, with a slow-cooked brisket pie and a pumpkin, spinach and feta roll both praised for generous filling and pastry that isn't too thick or burnt. Jam donuts and danishes sit alongside them, and one local reckoned prices were fair for the quality.

Custom cakes are on offer too. One local ordered a pistachio cake for a 70th birthday and said everyone raved about it, and when the name on the cake was spelt wrong, the staff caught it themselves and made a new sign on the spot. Friendly service comes up often, with a cheerful "Bonjour" at the door and staff happy to chat about their craft. Paloma and Morgane get a special mention from one regular.

You can dine in or take away, and there's coffee and breakfast. A few tables sit outside away from the busiest part of the street, handy for a break after the skate park or playground with the kids. Expect paper and cardboard rather than proper plates and cutlery. If you're after the pastries and desserts, ask staff about ingredients first, as one visitor found some contained pork gelatine or rum. Parking is free, and the entrance and car park are wheelchair accessible.

They're busy from the moment they open, so it's worth heading in early. Hours run mornings into early afternoon, but check before you go.