The Goomeri Bakery

The Goomeri Bakery & Coffee Shop draws visitors passing through Queensland, and it's easy to see why. It's a proper country bakery with a wide counter, and locals say choosing is the hardest part of the visit.

Pies are a big part of the story. We hear the fillings are generous, with big chunks of chicken in one and plenty of meat in another, and the pastry is described as thin and flaky without falling apart. Lamb and rosemary gets a mention, as do pepper and spicy pork varieties. Sausage rolls have their fans too, including a Texan BBQ version one visitor called the best they'd ever had, though another found a bit of gristle in theirs, so tastes vary.

The bread has a name for itself, sourdough in particular, and the French-style pastry side is a draw. People talk about the croissants and danishes more than almost anything else, with one local going as far as calling the croissant the best they've eaten. There are cakes as well, and one family were delighted with the birthday cake the team made for their mum's 90th.

The coffee gets plenty of praise, and you can sit in or take away. There are indoor and outdoor spots, which suits a relaxed brunch stop. It's open seven days a week and starts early, though it's smart to look up the hours.

On cost, the general feeling is that quality baked goods are good value and fairly priced, although one visitor felt prices were on the high side and was caught out by a card surcharge, so keep a bit of cash handy if that bothers you. The staff are mostly described as friendly, and a large group who ordered a bit of everything left impressed.

Getting in is easy, with free parking nearby, a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park, and card and mobile payments accepted.

If you're driving through Goomeri, call in for a pie, a croissant and a coffee.