Dean St Bakery

Dean St Bakery in Frenchville is the kind of busy suburban bakery where the cabinet is packed and the coffee machine rarely sits idle. It's open early every day of the week, which suits anyone grabbing breakfast on the way to work or doing a weekend bakery run, and there's a free car park with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park.

Pies are what the bakery is best known for. Locals mention the chunky steak and pepper varieties and the beef, bacon and cheese, and one person who tried both called them some of the best they'd found in the area, even if they run a little on the small side. We've heard the odd complaint about pastry-heavy fillings, and one visitor wasn't won over by their pies at all. On the whole, though, the pie case is what one customer said they would return for.

Beyond pies, customers mention the sausage rolls, cream buns and vanilla slice, and the almond croissant has a following of its own. One local called it the best they'd ever had, and a first-timer found it huge, flaky and moist inside. The apple slice gets a nod for being firm yet crumbly and not too sweet, and the variety across savoury and sweet is a drawcard for families. One parent said the kids get to try something new each weekend.

Coffee and breakfast are part of the appeal too, with one customer visiting regularly for their morning coffee and almond croissant. Staff come across as friendly and helpful, and Lorraine and the team have been singled out for going out of their way to help put together a thank-you gift. If you're after something special, they take custom cake orders, and both takeaway and delivery are available. Payment is easy with cards and tap-and-pay.

Value gets a mention as well, particularly given the size of the croissants. It's a popular spot, so expect a queue at peak times, and check the hours before you head in.