Simply Mike's

If you're after a scroll worth travelling for, this Brunswick bakery is the one people keep naming. Simply Mike's is a small, busy spot in Brunswick, Victoria, and the cinnamon scroll is the headline act. Locals will tell you it's soft, buttery and light, finished with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting, and on the less sweet side than most. The Biscoff scroll gets a loyal following too, and we've heard of people making the trip across Melbourne, and even down from Sydney, just to try them.

The scrolls aren't the whole story. Croissants are a big part of the appeal: the almond croissant has been compared to one eaten in Paris, and the pandan croissant is praised for its fragrant flavour. There's a French baking influence running through it all. On the savoury side, the ham and cheese and the chicken and leek quiches come with buttery, flaky pastry and fillings people describe as creamy and generous. The Vegemite scroll is an unusual one that has its fans. Sourdough bread is part of the range as well, and daily-baked items are fresh from the oven.

It's a compact shop, with small tables and the option to grab and go. Coffee and breakfast are on offer, and the caramel latte gets a mention for not being too sweet. If you'd rather skip the queue, you can pre-order online or by phone and choose your own pickup time. Delivery and takeaway are both available, and custom cake orders are taken too. The staff have a reputation for being friendly, which counts for a lot when it's busy, and weekends can get packed.

Some people find the scrolls are at their best warm, so ask for them heated or give them a short blast in the microwave at home. A visitor or two found the portions a touch small, and there's no toilet for customers, so plan ahead if you've come a long way. There's free street parking and a free car park, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entry, and cards and tap payments are accepted. Check the opening hours before you head in.