Cripps DT & JL Bakehouse

Cripps DT & JL Bakehouse is a busy takeaway bakery in Bellerive, Tasmania, and it's one of those spots where a queue at lunchtime is part of the deal. Locals will tell you it's worth it for the chips alone: seasoned salt chips that people grab and take down to the waterfront, a weekend habit for plenty of families around here.

The pies are what this bakery in Bellerive is best known for. We've heard they're generous on the meat and vegetables without leaning on thick gravy, and the sausage rolls get a good word too, with proper flaky pastry. Sweet things are a big part of the draw. Jam and custard donuts are enjoyed, along with a homemade vanilla slice and jelly slice. Coffee and breakfast are on offer as well, and there's hot food through the day, plus salad wraps and rolls. If something isn't in the warmer, the kitchen will often cook it up for you.

Prices have long been part of the appeal, with the donuts and pies known for being good value, though one longtime regular has noticed the chips creeping up lately and felt the portions hadn't kept pace. The hot deep-fried food is at its best fresh from the fryer, and a few people have found the chips heavy on the seasoning, so it's worth asking for a lighter hand if you're sensitive to salt. One local was also surprised to find seafood here, including prawn cutlets, squid rings and flathead, and rated it very highly for a bakehouse.

A couple of people have been let down by the custard tarts or by quiche that came out overdone, and service gets a mixed report: one customer has praised a friendly, unflustered crew even at the busiest time of day, while one person had a curt experience at the counter. Overall, though, the reputation around Bellerive is a warm one, and it's a good choice for a reason.

Practical bits: there's free street parking and a free car park, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park, and they take cards and mobile payments. Hours run across the whole week, but check them before you head in, particularly if you're after something at the quieter ends of the day.