Clontarf Hot Bread

Clontarf Hot Bread is the kind of neighbourhood bakery people stumble on and then keep coming back to. If you're after a bakery in Clontarf, Queensland, the pies and the Vietnamese pork rolls are the usual reasons to stop in.

Everything is baked fresh, and the pies get most of the attention. We've heard good things about the pepper steak and the feta and spinach, and there's a curry mince and the usual sausage roll for those who like the classics. One local mentioned that the pastry was on the thin side at first but has since been sorted, which says something about a place that listens. Another regular said the pastry could sometimes use a little more colour, so it's a bakery with fans and the odd opinion, as any good one has.

The banh mi is the other big draw. People rave about the crispy pork belly version and the traditional pork roll, with its crunchy pickled veg, fresh coriander and a chilli kick you can add as you like. Locals say the rolls are fresh and well balanced, and the bread itself has a proper crunch.

The cabinet goes well beyond pies. Vanilla slice, caramel tart, croissants, scones, apple slice and a caramel slice one person called the best they'd found on this side of town all get a mention, and the sweets are known for not being sickly sweet. Prices are described as very reasonable, so it's good value for a morning stop.

The staff are a big part of why people return. Owners and counter staff are described as warm, genuine and quick with a smile, even early in the morning, and Dave and Mae get a special nod for keeping everything fresh and running smoothly. It's a busy spot, so expect a bit of a queue at peak times.

You can take your order away or eat on site, and coffee and breakfast are on offer. There's free parking nearby, including a car park, and they take cards and mobile payments. Dine-in space is limited, with a bench outside for those who want to eat on the spot. It's best to check the hours before you head in, as they're closed one day a week.