St Marys Bakery

If you're passing through St Marys, this is the bakery locals point travellers to, a small-town shop where the pies get most of the attention. Meat pies, sausage rolls and pasties come up often, and folks who eat a lot of pies reckon theirs are among the best. There's a venison pepper pie that has its own fans, and we've heard one regular say it's always their first stop in town. Another local mentioned being handed a little extra pie because the bakery felt the filling was a touch light, which tells you something about the way they work.

The sweet side holds up too. People rave about the apple strudel, and the custard pie, doughnuts, slices and lamingtons all get a mention, including a pink lamington one visitor was still thinking about back in Melbourne. A hot cross bun straight from the oven earned its own enthusiastic recommendation. Fresh from the oven is the thread running through most of what we hear, and the prices are described as fair for what you get.

It's also a proper stop for a sit-down. They do takeaway and dine-in, with coffee and breakfast on offer, and one couple who pulled in early on their way through raved about the bacon and poached eggs and how quick the coffee came out. A home-made beef burger had a visitor planning to return daily while working in town. Another local says the dim sims are worth a try, and the toast gets a thumbs up as well.

The staff are a big part of the appeal. People describe the team as bright, kind and chatty.

One regular found the pies lukewarm on one visit, so if you like your pie piping hot, it's fair to ask for it heated through. Popular items like the pink lamington can also sell out.

Parking is easy, with a free car park and street parking, and the entrance and car park are wheelchair-accessible. They take cards and tap payments. Hours vary between weekdays and weekends, so check before you head in.