Charlie Bakery Grovedale

Charlie Bakery Grovedale is a small corner bakery in Grovedale that locals seem to hold a real fondness for. It's known for its sourdough, and we hear the loaves are well worth picking up alongside whatever else you're after. The pastry cabinet is where customers end up lingering, though. The croissants get a lot of love for their flaky, buttery layers, and the almond croissant has fans who say it isn't too sweet. The creme brulee donut and the lemon curd doughnuts come up often, along with generous fillings, a pesto focaccia, and egg and bacon brioche or rolls that people rave about.

Coffee is part of the draw too. The chai lattes and flat whites are on offer, and there's breakfast, so it suits a morning stop as much as a bread run. It's mostly a takeaway spot, with just a couple of stools inside while you wait for your order, though dining in is available. The bright, pastel-and-glass shopfront is easy to spot, and the free car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance make a quick visit simple. One local tip: your maps app may steer you round the back, so look for the small car park off Burdoor Drive instead. Cards and tap-to-pay are all accepted.

People often comment on the staff, and Ash, Coby, Kate and Kesh get friendly mentions for taking the time to explain the goodies and chat. Value gets a nod as well. As with any popular small bakery, the best items can sell out later in the day, and we've heard the odd comment that the pastries are quicker to go by late morning, so earlier is the safer bet if you have your heart set on something. Weekday hours are long, with shorter mornings on weekends, so check the hours before you head in.

If you're after a bakery in Grovedale for sourdough, croissants and a good coffee, this one is a sensible place to start.