Banh Mi Bakery & Cafe

If you're after a banh mi in Clayton, this bakery is one a lot of people circle back to. It's a busy corner of Victoria for Vietnamese food, and Banh Mi Bakery & Cafe holds its own, with rolls baked on-site daily and a counter that keeps moving.

The crispy pork roll is the one regulars talk about most, and one local says the butter and pate aren't skimped on. The BBQ chicken banh mi gets plenty of love too, with juicy chicken and a crunchy loaf, and we've heard the roast pork with a side of fried rice is a weekly habit for at least one person. The pork belly crackling gets particular praise. Timing helps: one fan likes to land when the bread comes out of the oven around lunchtime, and says it makes a real difference.

There's a good spread beyond pork. Vegan options are a genuine part of the menu, and one regular who has worked through most of them calls them solid, fresh and filling. The kitchen also does rice and noodle bowls, pastries, Vietnamese iced coffee and cafe drinks, and you can order custom cakes or catering for a local gathering. Takeaway and delivery are both on offer, or you can dine in. One visitor also rates the apple slice, which isn't overly sweet.

Pricing gets described as competitive with decent portions, and the staff come across as friendly even when the orders keep coming. One person who turned up close to closing was still looked after with a freshly made roll.

One local found a cold-meat roll a bit dry and wanted more pate, and another wasn't won over by the freshness or the food handling, so it's worth knowing the signature hot rolls are where the praise gathers.

Parking in Clayton can be tricky, though the bakery has free street parking and a car park. Hours run early through to late afternoon most days, but check before you head in. It's an easy stop for a breakfast roll or a lunch run in Clayton.