Haru Bakery House

Haru Bakery House is a small, bright Korean-style bakery in Blackburn, Victoria. The shelves are full of soft breads, and the sea salt bun has been tried and enjoyed. The melon bread and a range of other buns sit alongside it, and there's sourdough for anyone who wants something that suits plain butter.

The pastry and cake side is just as worth a look. The earl grey mango cake, the almond croissant, and the basque cheesecake have been tried and described as rich and decadent. Custom cakes are available if you're planning something for an occasion, so it's worth asking the team about timing. Everything has a freshly baked feel, and the packaged goods are neatly presented, which makes them easy to take away as a gift.

Coffee and drinks are part of the draw too. One local rated the coffee among the best they'd had in Melbourne, and the matcha lattes have been praised for being smooth and not too sweet. You can sit in, takeaway or have it delivered, and there's breakfast on offer as well. The space is warm and relaxed, a comfortable spot to catch up with a friend over a long drink, and the staff are consistently described as friendly. One visitor was touched by how kindly a team member looked after a child who'd spilled a drink.

One visitor had a disappointing first go at the cakes and didn't find the welcome as warm as others have. That's the exception, though, and most people leave happy and value it as a local find.

On the practical side, there is an accessible entrance and free street parking plus a car park. They take cards and tap-to-pay, and the bakery is LGBTQ+ friendly. Hours vary a little across the week, so check before you head in.