Ferguson Plarre's Bakehouse

Ferguson Plarre's Bakehouse is a bakery and cafe in Rowville, Victoria, part of a Melbourne-based family of shops that also trades in Geelong and Ballarat. This one works as both a grab-and-go bakery and a place to sit down, with a display of cakes, pastries, pies, sandwiches and gift packs, plus coffee and breakfast.

The cakes are what people talk about most. Custom celebration cakes and cupcakes are on offer, and we hear the sponge goes down especially well, light and soft rather than heavy. One local was won over by the "Sponge on the Run", and the slice of the day gets a mention as a good match for a morning coffee. Donuts, savouries and catering platters are also part of the range, and there's an online ordering option for delivery or collection if you'd rather not queue.

For pies, there are vegan and vegetable options, which suits mixed groups. Opinions on the classic meat pie are a little split. Some are happy with it, while others found it plain for the money, so it may suit you better to try one and judge for yourself. The friendly counter staff come up often, and one local singled out Hira for going out of her way on a pie order.

There's talk of new management at the shop, and people mention the cafe side feeling more welcoming and offering more choice than before. That said, we've heard the odd grumble about slow drink orders at busy times and tables that could do with a wipe, so patience helps at peak periods.

Practical details are good. There's a free car park and free street parking, and both the car park and the entrance are wheelchair accessible. They take cards and mobile payments, and takeaway is available. The shop opens early and runs through the afternoon every day of the week, but check the hours before you head in, particularly around holidays. If you're after a birthday or celebration cake, it's worth asking about a custom order well ahead of time.