Akkerman & Dyer Bakery

Akkerman & Dyer Bakery in Blackwood, South Australia is the sort of place locals drive a little out of their way for. Everything is baked fresh on site in a wood oven, and that shapes the whole experience. Inside there's radiant warmth from the oven, long wooden communal tables, and more seating outside for a good day.

The sourdough is what one customer came for. Loaves have a crisp crust and that chewy, slightly sour crumb. Pies are the other big drawcard, from beef, bacon and cheese to a pepper pie that gets recommended by name, along with a cheese pie that's a touch smaller than some bakeries' but generously filled. Sausage rolls are part of the menu too. Pasties, a spinach roll, toasties and sweet treats fill out the display case, and there's wood oven pizza as well. One local says the pizza bases are excellent and the toppings interesting, with the 'Salty Bastard' on offer.

Coffee is made on site and gets a good word, with a long black and a smooth, rich brew both mentioned. It's a takeaway-friendly bakery, but you can also settle in for lunch. Paying is easy with cards and tap-and-go, and the street and car park are both free, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park.

The word around is that quality stays consistent, and that the staff are friendly and the shop spotlessly clean, bathroom included. Dylan, the baker, gets thanked by name more than once.

To be fair, it can get busy at peak times, so expect a short wait. One long-time regular found a recent visit a bit average, with a mix-up over whether the loaf was sliced and a pricing difference for ordering in store compared with ordering ahead, so it's worth asking how ordering works. Hours vary through the week and the bakery is closed one day, so check before heading in, especially if you're after a loaf for dinner.