Wild Bakery

Anyone who's walked the South Beach stretch of South Fremantle early in the morning has probably been tempted by the smell coming out of Wild Bakery. It's an artisanal bakery baking sourdough bread and pastries on site every day, and the loaves are slow-fermented, made with simple ingredients and no commercial yeasts or additives. That approach shows up in the bread, which one local called the best ciabatta they'd ever had, and another described as miles removed from supermarket fare.

Sourdough is the headline, but the pies and pastries get plenty of attention too. We hear the almond croissant and the ham and cheese croissant are favourites, and people also rave about the bee sting and a salted caramel chocolate tart. There's a pizza side to the cabinet as well, with the mushroom and chorizo versions praised, though it's wise to get in before lunch if you have your heart set on a particular slice, as popular ones can sell out for the day. Custom cake orders are on offer too.

Wild also works as a proper breakfast stop. There's coffee, a breakfast menu, and takeaway or in-store pick-up if you're heading to the beach. The line for food moves quickly, though coffee can take a little longer when it's busy, and seating fills up by lunchtime, so be ready to eat on the go. Delivery is available, and the entrance is wheelchair-accessible, with free street parking nearby. Staff come across as friendly, and one local told of a worker offering a loaf at half price after it was sliced unevenly.

We've heard the odd grumble too. A long-time regular felt a couple of recent savoury items had changed in flavour, and one visitor found a loaf underbaked. Most opinion, though, is warm, with people calling it a favourite in Freo and a good stop on the way down towards Margaret River.

It opens early every day of the week, but check the hours before you head in. Wild Bakery in South Fremantle is a solid pick for a sourdough loaf, a pie or an almond croissant with your coffee.