Kapunda Bakehouse

Kapunda Bakehouse is the sort of country-town bakery that gets busy and stays that way, which is usually a good sign. The bakery in Kapunda, South Australia, serves takeaway and dine-in, takes custom cake orders, and does a proper breakfast and coffee trade alongside the cabinet.

Pies are what people talk about first. Locals mention the chunky steak and the chicken, and one regular's usual is a pie and a cheese kransky. Pasties and sausage rolls get a good word too, along with mini pasties to take home. Then there's the sweet side: donuts that come out fluffy and fresh, hot cross buns, a vanilla slice, and a fair few fans of the fresh-made rolls. The salad bar also gets a mention for building a sandwich, and the bread comes across as fresh and generously filled.

The place has history. Folks who knew the bakery under its previous owners say the new people have kept the standard up, and the coffee gets plenty of praise, along with spice chai and hot chocolate. Staff are described as friendly, and service stays quick even when the shop is packed, though we've heard it can be a little unclear who's next in the queue at the busiest times. One local mentioned a slightly off experience, but said the owners sorted it out quickly.

Value is a recurring comment. People talk about a good feed, a couple of pies, cakes and a coffee, without it costing much, and some say it's worth a drive from a fair way off. There's a decked outdoor area, plenty of indoor seating, and a long window bench. Free street parking and a car park are close by, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance, and cards and tap payments are accepted.

It's open every day, with slightly later starts and earlier finishes on weekends, so check the hours before you head in. It makes an easy morning tea stop if you're passing through the Barossa side of the Mid North.