Little Birdy Bakery

If you're passing through the Adelaide Hills and want a proper bakery stop, Little Birdy Bakery in Nairne is easy to like. It sits on a corner in the township, with a bright yellow theme, cheerful crockery and enough indoor and outdoor seating that you can settle in rather than rush off.

It works as a co-op of sorts, with different artisan bakers showcasing their wares alongside what's made in house, so the display cabinets are well stocked. Pies are what locals bring up most: pepper pie, mince pie, cornish pasties and sausage rolls all get a good word, and one visitor from Queensland liked them so much they've made it their regular for the weeks they're in the area. The sourdough is worth knowing about, and things come out fresh from the oven.

On the sweet side, the Basque cheesecake is a highlight, along with vanilla slices, rhubarb danishes, cronuts, cannoli and caramel slice. If you eat gluten free or vegan, you'll find real choice here rather than a token item. Breakfast and brunch options such as an eggs Benny roll are on offer, and the coffee gets plenty of praise. One regular swears by it, and another says it's among the best they've had in Adelaide.

The staff come up again and again as friendly in that country-town way, and the owner has a reputation for it too. Most people feel the portions and prices are fair for what you get, though one local thought some items ran a little high for the quality. Not everything is a hit for everyone either; one visitor found a focaccia only so-so, so it pays to lean on the pies and pastries that people rave about.

Takeaway and dine-in are both available. Parking is easy, with free street spots, a car park behind, and a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park. Cards and mobile payments are accepted. Opening hours differ between weekdays and weekends, so check before you head in.

It draws Nairne locals and plenty of people from Mount Barker and Woodside, as well as walkers and travellers stopping off after a morning at Monarto Woodlands.