Crossings Bakery

Crossings Bakery is the kind of country bakery that makes a stop in Pemberton, Western Australia, feel worthwhile, and it's the pies that most people talk about. Steak and mushroom gets a lot of love, with tender meat and plenty of flavour, and the chunky potato pie is described as generously sized. Visitors passing through tend to try a few different pies over a stay and come away happy.

It isn't only a pie shop. Sausage rolls, quiche, lamingtons, a caramel eclair and a vanilla slice all get a mention, and there's a good spread of other sweet options. The bread is something locals rave about too, fresh and well made, and good enough that one group organised loaves here for a weekend event. For vegetarians, the tofu and mushroom pie has won over people who usually find vego pies a letdown, and there are vegan options as well.

You can eat in or take away, with plenty of seating inside and out, though food and drinks come out as takeaway packaging even when you stay. Coffee and breakfast are on offer, and the eggs Benedict has had a warm reception. Families like the little play corner for kids, and the atmosphere is easy going. We've also heard the team will try to accommodate special requests, and that free tomato sauce is a small touch people appreciate.

Staff are friendly and happy, and Kelly and the team get a name-check for their service. The bakery offers good value for the size and quality of what you get. Card and mobile payments are accepted, there's free parking on the street and in a car park, and the entrance and car park are wheelchair accessible.

It's worth being fair here: not everything lands for everyone, and one person found the chicken and leek pie and the sausage roll less to their taste. Stick with the steak and mushroom and you're on safe ground. Check the hours before you go, as they're closed one day a week.