From gourmet meat pies to fancy desserts, these country bakeries are filling their menus with baked goods that are definitely worth pulling over for next time you're travelling past. Follow your nose to these little gems.
The humble country bakery has come a long way from just being the place where locals went to pick up their fresh bread. Today, in many instances, it’s an attraction in its own right, with talented bakers turning fresh local ingredients into a range of savoury and sweet treats. They make a great place to stop for a mid-road trip break, or just a great spot to get a delicious meal once you arrive.
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We asked our members to tell us which country bakeries in WA they thought were the best. After receiving almost 6,000 votes, the results are now in. Here are 10 of your favourites.
Bindoon Bakehaus
Previously known as the Bindoon Bakery, the new Bindoon Bakehaus was rebuilt next door to the old site as demand for their delicious baked goods continued to grow. The bakery now includes a café with an alfresco area and a ‘play kitchen’ for the kids. In 2015, Prince Harry famously dropped by to enjoy a banofee eclair. If you’re heading out to Avon Valley National Park for a hike, stop in and pick up some snacks for the trip or to refuel after you’ve conquered the tracks.
Mt Barker Country Bakery
This multi-award-winning bakery is taking the humble pie to a whole new level. Some of the star attractions include chicken, cranberry and camembert pie, prawn and scallop pie, and spicy Korean chicken pie. Sweet tooths are spoiled for choice too, with a mouthwatering range of cakes and pastries. It’s well worth a stop on your way to and from Albany.
Bakers Hill Pie Shop
In this small community located in the Shire of Northam, the Bakers Hill Pie Shop has become a local icon. On the menu are classics like steak and mushroom pie, chicken and veggie pie, along with a good selection of vegetarian pies and pasties. Their irresistible selection of cakes and pastries is also hard to walk away from. It’s on Great Eastern Highway, about halfway between Chidlow and Northam.
Pinjarra Bakery
This country bakery is so well-loved, they even have their own collection of Pinjarra Bakery merchandise. The pies are definitely the heroes here, with honey lamb and red wine pie, and garlic beef pie just two of many. Round off your pie feast with a classic vanilla slice and a barista-brewed coffee. Or take your bakery treats to a shady spot on the foreshore of the tranquil Murray River.
Dardanup Baker
Located in the heart of the Ferguson Valley, Dardanup is surrounded by wineries, boutique breweries and restaurants, and the well-loved local bakery, the Dardanup Baker, holds its own in this picturesque food and wine region. The locals will tell you their pies are legendary, with a great selection of cakes and pastries as well. Grab a table outside and enjoy a hearty lunch on your way to some local attractions.
Dunsborough Bakery
This local institution has been baking since 1941. Today, it’s a magnet for holidaymakers and locals alike. Apart from the mouthwatering pies, freshly baked breads and decadent sweet treats in the cake cabinet, you can pick up continental rolls, ready-to-go meals and a selection of other local produce.
Miami Bakehouse, various locations
One of WA’s best-known bakeries, Miami Bakehouse, has won a slew of both national and state baking awards. Their ‘bake everything from scratch’ ethos has ensured they’ve kept a legion of happy fans. The original bakery is in Falcon but there are also outlets in West Pinjarra, Myalup, and in the heart of Mandurah.
Denmark Bakery
Good food is a hallmark of the Great Southern region and even Denmark’s local bakery punches above its weight. The award-winning bakery also has a café with a warm, welcoming country atmosphere. Stop by for a wholesome breakfast or lunch before you head off to explore the region.
Toodyay Bakery
With a team of talented bakers and pastry chefs, Toodyay Bakery is giving the country bakery a high-end, gourmet twist. This artisan bakery has produced some recent national award-winners, including their gold medal-award-winning smoked brisket and jalapeño pie. It’s definitely one to put on the list if you’re road-tripping through the Avon Valley region.
Margaret River Bakery
Many of the freshly baked goodies on offer at the Margret River Bakery have been inspired by the great bakeries of Europe – think crème brulee and buttery croissants. If you’re keen on more classic bakery fare, there are plenty of old Aussie favourites, too. Their vibrant café on the main street in Margaret River is also a great place to sit and watch the world go by.
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