Mooloolah Valley Bakehouse

If you're driving through the hinterland and a pie is on your mind, Mooloolah Valley Bakehouse is the stop locals point people towards. This bakery in Mooloolah Valley, Queensland, has a name for pies, and it's easy to see why.

The chunky beef pie gets plenty of talk, along with steak, bacon and cheese, and a steak and jalapeno with cheese that tends to sell out. Folks who've tried it describe big pieces of tender steak in a gravy that holds together, with pastry that's cooked right through and doesn't fall apart in your hand. One Kiwi on the coast reckons the mince and double cheese tastes just like home, and there's a cheeseburger pie that people compare to the fast-food original, only with proper chunky steak.

Pies aren't the whole story. The sausage rolls come in for praise too, with one local saying the cheese and bacon version is properly meaty rather than bready. There's vanilla slice, strudel and cream doughnuts on the cabinet as well, and rolls are made fresh. We've heard that if the cabinets are running low, the staff will happily whip up a fresh roll or sandwich while you wait. Everything has that fresh-from-the-oven feel people look for in a country bakery.

It also works as a sit-down stop. There's dine-in with indoor and outdoor seating, coffee, and breakfast, brunch and lunch options, so it suits a family break or a catch-up as much as a quick takeaway. It's good for kids, and there's a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park. Cards are accepted.

People mention friendly, welcoming staff again and again, and the prices get a nod for being fair for what you get. The cabinet empties as the day goes on, so if you've got your heart set on a particular pie, earlier is the safer bet. Hours vary a little across the week, so check before you head in.