Bread Local

Slow baking is the idea behind Bread Local, and it shows in what comes out of the oven. This bakery in Pink Lake, Western Australia, is a real local favourite, the sort of place people drive a little out of their way for and then plan to revisit.

The sourdough and pies come up often in word of mouth. A brisket pie has won over at least one traveller who wished he could stock up on frozen ones, and a pork and fennel sausage roll was good enough that one visitor went straight back for a beef one. The cinnamon and pistachio scrolls get plenty of love too. One local was stunned by the vanilla slice, with thick, flaky pastry, a proper custard middle and a tangy passionfruit icing. Sandwiches, cheese toasties and generous portions round out the savoury side, and the coffee gets just as many good words.

Part of the draw is the setting. There's a shaded grassy area with seating, room for kids to run around, and a fire pit that people are happy to find on a cold morning. It's a relaxed, easygoing place to settle in for breakfast or a coffee, and plenty of visitors have come back day after day while in town. Staff are friendly, and we've heard of a very small helper calling out names at the counter. One visitor felt the table-clearing wasn't as welcoming as the rest of the experience, though the food and coffee still impressed.

You can eat in or take away. The bakery offers breakfast, and there's free parking with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance and toilet. Cards and mobile payments are accepted.

The main bakery runs a short week with a garden setting, while the downtown Little Local branch opens more days with a smaller range of breads, sandwiches and pastries. Check the hours before you go, since the main bakery is closed for part of the week.