CRUZ The Bakehouse

CRUZ The Bakehouse is a bakery in Bundaberg Central that locals seem to know for its pies first, and you can see why when you hear what people order. The lamb and rosemary pie gets a good wrap, and one local called it a crowd favourite. Cheese and bacon, pepper, apple and curry pies have all been picked out too, and sausage rolls are mentioned often. One person went as far as calling them the best in Bundy. One person found the pastry a little soggy on the bottom, though they're known for pies.

Beyond the pie warmer, there's a proper spread of baked goods. The custard tart is a classic here, and we've heard good things about the croissants, which one local described as huge, flaky and buttery. There are danishes, a walnut loaf, French baked custard bread, fresh white loaves and lamingtons. Custom cakes are part of the offering as well, and sandwiches get a mention for being fresh and full of flavour. Things come across as fresh from the oven, which is what you want from a bakehouse.

It's also somewhere you can sit down. Dine-in is available alongside takeaway and delivery, and the coffee, thick shakes and iced coffee all get a nod, with breakfast on the menu too. One visitor mentioned a lovely outlook while they sat.

The staff are a big part of the appeal. People talk about friendly service at the counter, a good chat with the team, and a bakery that honoured a half-forgotten coffee card months later. We've heard of one unhappy phone call about dessert freshness, so if you have a question, popping in is probably the easiest way to get a friendly answer.

Getting there is simple. There's free street parking and a free car park, plus a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance. Cards and tap-and-pay are accepted. The doors open early on weekdays and a little later on weekends, but check the hours before you head in.

If you're in Bundaberg and want a pie, a sausage roll or a decent croissant with your coffee, this one is worth a stop.