Bayside is chock-full of great local bakeries, but many aren’t so well-known outside of their respective suburbs. So I went on a mission to uncover some of the best small bakeries in the area — and found a few that you have to try.

Whether you're a cake fiend or cookie connoisseur, here are four must-visit spots to add to your bakery bucket list.

Did we miss one? Let us know at [email protected]

Born to Bake

Right by the bus stop on Gardeners Road, Born to Bake is a beautiful local cafe with a Greek twist. This spacious cafe and bakery set-up is sure to please. They specialise in cakes, pastries, baklava, and more. I tried the orange paximadia (biscotti), which is hand-made on site, as well as vegan friendly. They also make amazing coffee. Get down there for a visit and you'll soon understand why it's a favourite with the locals.

Instagram: @borntobakegreek

Location: 1/279 Gardeners Road, Eastlakes

Croquembouche Pâtisserie

There’s a reason this is the busiest place in Botany on a Saturday morning. A charming little bakery with French flare and a great selection of both sweet and savoury pastries. I came here for breakfast and tried the cinnamon snail as well as a tomato and goats cheese puff pastry slice. This place has been around since 2000, and has rightfully earned a pretty dedicated fan base in the local area. This is for sure one bakery I’d recommend everyone visit at least once.

Instagram: @croquembouchepatisserie

Location: 1635 Botany Road, Botany

The Burek Brothers

A Macedonian family-owned business that specialises in burek, this place has a bunch of great offerings, including vegetarian options, and all for very reasonable prices. They also have some great ‘bake at home’ options that you can take-away and heat up in your oven. Although dessert burek is on the menu, they’re made ready to order and come with a waiting time, so keep that in mind if you have a sweet tooth.

Instagram: @theburekbrothers

Location: 162a Bay Street, Rockdale

Self Raised Bread Shoppe

Okay, this isn’t technically in Bayside, but just over the border — only a short walk from Carlton train station. Operated by the same team behind My Mother’s Cousin in Bexley North, the recently opened Self Raised Bread Shoppe is totally worth a visit. I went on a Wednesday afternoon and tried one of their delicious buttery and flaky croissants. The shopfront stands out on Jubilee Avenue with a super chic, retro interior and great atmosphere.

Instagram: @selfraisedbread

Location: 45 Jubilee Avenue, Carlton