Daylesford Bakery

Pies are the thing to know about at Daylesford Bakery, a country-town bakery in Daylesford, Victoria. The cabinet runs to the familiar spread: pies, sausage rolls, salad rolls, vanilla slices, custard tarts and donuts, with chips and burgers for anyone after something hotter. Coffee and breakfast are on offer too, and you can take it away or sit down to eat.

There's seating inside and on the footpath outside. There's room inside, plus tables on the footpath where you can watch the town go by, and it copes with families well. One parent with a baby on the move said nobody batted an eyelid, and a staff member stopped to smile at the little one.

Staff come across in a positive way in what people mention. People describe a friendly greeting at the door, down-to-earth service, and salad rolls made fresh to order that even a fussy teenager rated. Busy periods keep the queue moving, though coffee can take a little longer than you'd hope, so allow time if you're not in a hurry.

On the food, it's honest bakery fare rather than anything fancy. We've heard the vanilla slice is a standout, the custard tarts are actually filled to the top, and the sausage rolls have their fans. Some enjoy the steak and pepper pie with its kick, while others find the pastry on the soft side and the fillings fairly plain. It works as a decent value option for a simple lunch or a quick pie and coffee on the run. One local did feel a pressed focaccia-style order was pricey for what arrived, so it pays to ask what you're getting.

Parking is easy, with free street spots and a free car park nearby, including wheelchair-accessible parking. Cards and tap-to-pay are accepted. It looks to be open every day, but check the hours before you head in.

If you're passing through Daylesford and want a pie, a vanilla slice and a coffee without fuss, this bakery does the job.