Old Fernvale Bakery & Cafe

Old Fernvale Bakery & Cafe is a bakery in Fernvale, Queensland that works as a proper pie stop, and it's easy to pull in for a quick bite and end up lingering. It's a bigger set-up than first-timers expect: the bakery building is on the right as you face it from the road, where you order and buy on the spot with no indoor seating. The cafe is the building on the left, with indoor seating, a cafe menu and the bakery items on offer too. You can order from either and find a spot to sit, including outdoor seating between the two buildings and out the back.

Pies are what locals tell you to come for. The range runs from the classics through to a vegetarian pie and a curry pie, plus sausage rolls, and the more adventurous can try crocodile, camel or kangaroo. One local called the veggie pie tasty and a bit different from the usual, and another rated the cheeseburger pie a standout. They're baked fresh, and the popular flavours can sell out, so getting there early makes sense. The odd grumble comes about a dry crust or a loose filling, though one customer left full and happy. One described a pie packed with meat right to the top, and a custard tart as a generous size.

Beyond the pies there are cakes, desserts and pastries, plus coffee and breakfast, which makes it handy for a longer break. The vintage furniture gives the cafe a relaxed feel, and people tend to mention the staff as friendly and welcoming. Value comes up often too, with generous portions and fair prices for what you get, though a couple of visitors found the cafe meals only average.

It's a popular pitstop for anyone heading out to Wivenhoe Dam, and it can get busy, so expect a bit of a queue at peak times. Takeaway and dine-in are both available, and payment is easy with cards and mobile payments. Parking is free, with a car park and street parking, and the entrance, car park and toilet are wheelchair-accessible. It's open daily, but check the hours before you head out.