Three Little Bakers

Three Little Bakers is a neighbourhood bakery in Murrumbeena, Victoria, and the pies are popular. One visitor described the pastry as flaky on top and the right thickness, with a good balance of gravy and meat. One person noted a pie held together well enough to eat on the go. Cornish pasties and veggie pasties get a mention too, and there's a good spread of sausage rolls, scrolls and bread on the counter.

The sweet side is just as popular. A huge lamington, apple cakes, apple scrolls, and an almond croissant that one visitor called a must-try are on offer. If you've got a sweet tooth, you'll want to leave time to browse. The sourdough has a bit more bite than most, and the soft Vienna bread is a favourite for sandwiches.

They also take custom cake orders, and they cater. One office ordered a breakfast party pack and everyone loved it, and a sandwich platter went down well for its fresh, generous fillings. Dine-in and takeaway are both on offer, plus delivery, and there's coffee and breakfast if you're after something to start the day. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, and they take cards and tap-and-go payments.

The staff are friendly and welcoming. We've heard they remember coffee orders after a visit or two and greet you warmly, which counts for a lot when you're rolling in early. Prices are described as fair for what you get, so it's good value for a proper pie and a coffee. The doors open early on most mornings, handy for tradies and early starters, though it's worth checking the hours before you head in, as they close earlier on some days and don't open every day of the week.

One local was disappointed when a particular sandwich wasn't on offer late in the day, so it pays to ask about fillings if you've got something specific in mind. Most visitors speak warmly of fresh baking and friendly service, and some drive a fair way for the apple cakes. For a bakery in Murrumbeena, it has a loyal following.