Grist Artisan Bakers

Grist Artisan Bakers is a bakery in Kyneton, Victoria, set inside a historic old steam mill, and that building does a lot of the talking. Locals describe it as nostalgic, with a unique charm and a steady stream of regulars coming through the door.

Pies are what it's known for. We've heard the meat pie praised for its pastry and filling, and one visitor on a drive through town called the pie, sausage roll and carrot cake the best they'd ever eaten. Another local summed up the pies as "solid tasty crunch." Pasties, spinach pastries, almond croissants and a generous vanilla slice (big enough to share, apparently) round out the cabinet, and the custard tart and fruit tart both get a mention. The fruit tart, packed with apricot and berries, drew particular praise. The rye bread gets a nod too. Everything is talked about as fresh from the oven and good value, with servings on the generous side.

A couple of locals found the custard tart or the spanakopita less impressive, and there's the odd grumble about prices not being clearly displayed with the products. It's worth asking at the counter if you want to know what you're paying.

Staff come in for plenty of kind words, and one visitor singled out an older woman at the counter as a real asset to the place. It's a friendly spot, and you can have a good coffee and breakfast here as well as grabbing takeaway to enjoy at home.

You can dine in or take away. Payment is easy with cards and mobile payments, and there's free street parking and a free car park nearby. It's open seven days, with slightly longer hours on weekends, but check before you head in so you're not caught out.

If you're passing through Kyneton, this is a bakery in the town worth a proper stop.