The Flour House Bakery

The Flour House Bakery in Highett is built around grain. The team mills its own flour from Victorian farms, which is where the "House Milled, Hand Made" line comes from, and it shows in the bread. Sourdough and baguettes are what people talk about most, with a crisp crust and a lightly chewy crumb that gets mentioned again and again.

Pastries are a big part of the appeal too. We hear plenty about the croissants (almond and pain au chocolate are favourites), the danishes and the walnut and cinnamon scrolls. Pies and sausage rolls have their fans as well, and one local called it their favourite bakery they've ever been to, buying their weekly bread here and coming back for the pies. Everything is fresh from the oven, and the space is open enough that you can watch the bakers at work while you wait.

It's more than a grab-and-go counter. There's dine-in seating inside and out, with tables, couches and benches, and a breakfast and lunch menu that goes well beyond the usual bakery fare: toasties, galettes, a croque monsieur and a caprese pesto sandwich all get a mention. Coffee gets good words too. Takeaway and in-store pick-up are available, and custom cake orders are on offer if you're planning something for an occasion.

Locals also describe the staff as friendly and quick to help, even when the place is packed, and several say it's good value for what you get. One regular did find a recent menu change less to their taste, though most people leave happy.

The entrance, seating, toilet and car park are all wheelchair accessible, and they take cards and tap-and-pay. Parking out the front is limited and the surrounding streets fill up, so allow a few extra minutes at busy times. Check the hours before you head in, as they're closed one day a week.