Moranbah Bakery

For a bakery in Moranbah, Queensland, this is the one locals point you to, and from what we hear it earns its place. Pies are the main event. The chunky steak pie gets a good word, and cheese and bacon pie, pepper beef and potato pie all turn up in conversation. Sausage rolls are well liked too. One local did mention they put peas in their beef curry pies, which won't suit everyone, so ask at the counter if that matters to you.

Beyond the pie warmer, there's plenty behind the glass. Donuts are a real talking point here, from a choc iced one with caramel filling to a crunchy Dubai chocolate version, and one customer has mentioned the custard beesting bun and the jam and cream eclairs. Sandwiches and salads come with real fillings, and the chicken caesar salad has its own fans. Bread and pastries are baked fresh, and the coffee gets a nod as well. They also take custom cake orders if you have an occasion coming up.

The staff are a big part of why people come back. Friendly service comes up again and again, and one local said the welcome came with a big smile. One visitor made the trip all the way from Toowoomba and left happy. It's a roomy shop compared with most bakeries, though another local found it a little small, so it may depend on when you drop in. There's a park opposite where you can sit and eat, and you can dine in or take away.

Getting there is easy enough. It can be a little hard to spot if you're not from around here, but locals are happy to point you the right way. There's a free car park, and both the entrance and car park are wheelchair accessible. They take cards and tap-and-go payments. They open very early, so it suits a morning pie or breakfast run, but check the hours before you head in, especially on weekends when they close earlier.