Waikerie Bakery

If you're passing through the Riverland and want a proper country bakery, Waikerie Bakery is the kind of stop that rewards a detour. It sits right in the centre of Waikerie, South Australia, in a building with a fair bit of character, and locals will tell you it's a friendly, easygoing spot.

Pies are what people talk about most. The chunky steak and Shiraz pie gets particular praise, with big pieces of beef in the filling, and we've heard the curry pie is one of the better ones going. Cornish pasties, sausage rolls and cheese kranskies come up too, and one visitor raved about the soft, buttery pastry on that kransky. One person found a pie crust and a sausage roll on the dry side, so it may depend on how long things have been sitting in the warmer, and baked goods are heated for each customer, which can mean a short wait when it's busy.

On the sweet side, the cherry pie, apple crumble, cinnamon rolls, vanilla slice and pecan pie are all worth a try, and the vege slice appeals to some. They also make custom cakes if you have an occasion coming up. Coffee gets good mentions, so a flat white alongside a pie is an easy way to make it a full stop.

You can dine in or take away. Seating is limited, but some grab their order and wander down to the river, which makes for a pleasant lunch. Breakfast is on offer, and the staff have a name for being friendly and welcoming even when the place is humming. Prices are fair, and one local reckoned two pies with a side salad made for a very reasonable lunch for two.

There's free street parking nearby plus a free car park with wheelchair-accessible spaces, and they take cards and tap-and-go payments. It's worth checking the opening hours before you head in, particularly if you're planning a weekend visit.