Proserpina Bakehouse — Restaurant in Melbourne

I would not dare claim that I have seen and tasted all goods there are even within the humble abode that is the Commonwealth of Australia, or even the State of Victoria, but I do like to consider myself as an enthusiast and hobbyist when it comes to consuming baked goods and goods of that variety. With that disclaimer, I am confident to say that stuff I have tasted in this bakehouse absolutely is the best there is, by a long shot, certified by my tastebuds.

I have frequented this bakehouse back when it was still located in Sassafras, across the street from Miss Marple’s Tearoom. Their especially impressive meat pie, and other various assortment of baked products immediately captured my attention, and I was met with dismay at the news of their closure. Nonetheless, it’s back again, with a larger, more grandiose, and better location.

I have been back since for two or three times, likely many more in the future. My mother and I took some photos around the place last dining, which reminded me that I haven’t, in fact, written a much deserved review of this place, so here we are!

To start things off, the main attraction, at least for me: BEEF PIE! I tasted my fair share of pies, this, by far, is the most unique, and in my opinion, the best. I especially love the chunky beef and various pieces of carrot found inside, the outside shell is also well baked, crumbling within your mouth as you take a bite. The layer of poppy seeds also add that extra crunchiness and texture. It may eat a bit messier than your regular meat pie, it is far better than any of them though.

I haven’t actually tried the sausage roll before the last visit, and I regret not trying it earlier. The roll is gimornus, gigantasaurus, gimantast, bimantamorous, whatever the word is. The shell is equally crunchy, the ‘sausage’ part is quite delicious, cannot recommend more.

We also tried the lemon tart and lemon cheesecake. I didn’t get the opportunity to try the tart but I did get to devour the cake, it is the most lemon cheesecake lemon cheesecake I have ever tasted, the richness of the cheese and the sourness of the lemon blend perfectly, it is an exemplary cheesecake.

The most remarkable aspect of the place and all items mentioned however, is its hominess. I don’t know how to properly describe it, but the food, the decor, the atmosphere, and the overall vibe this place emanate suggest a close warmness and intimacy. The pie and sausage roll does not look like a standard and dime-a-dozen ‘product’, instead, each looks distinctly unique and obviously hand baked, the same energy reflect in every other aspect of the dining experience, down to even the tomato sauce. It is so easy to get the standard issued supermarket ketchup to side the dish, and nobody would probably bat an eye, but no, even the sauce has to be unique, and of course, it is uniquely delicious, as all other dish.

You’ve read a random review on the internet to the last paragraph, you clearly can commit to something, so what’s another 20 minutes drive, come here! You...

I LOVE the staff (who make the brilliantly inviting atmosphere) and coffee, ( this is consistenly excellent year after year) but having a sweet tooth I rarely buy any food because a few years ago I tried the Blackforest Cake and it was tasteless and had no icing on or in it. I decided to give the cakes another try recently but the Devils food cake, about two years on, suffers from the same puzzling affliction. I ordered it to take away, and at home ended up sprinkling sugar all over it and a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of vanilla essence ( I did this two years ago aswell) but even that didn't adress the overpowering nothingness lingering in my mouth.

I think the person who champions this recipe maybe suffered unrequited love for someone who was a great fan of cake. Maybe the cake is passive agression flavoured?

Please consider using icing or ganache and adding more sugar. The flavour (lessness) reminds me of being a kid at a friends house and, told to make a sandwich, but not wanting to be rude, you make a "bread sandwich" and eye the sugar bowl, longing to sprinkle some sugar in between the layers but decide against it, because doing so would just draw attention to how awkward you feel about making a sandwich in someone elses house and using all their stuff..

But it's like the recipe designer of this cake is afraid of sugar, and salt, frosting, chocolate and EVERYTHING THAT MAKES CAKE..................CAKE. It might as well be bread, only I've tried Prosperina bread and it is has way more flavour and is sweeter than the cake lol.

The "nothingness" lingering in my mouth makes me ponder too long and deeply about the indescribable disappointment of unfulfilled expectations in general, so I think a more accurate name for the Devils Food Cake would be Brown Existential Crisis Bread. (with glace cherries and unsweetened cream)

I ...don't know how cake can be this sad. I hope the recipe changes one day. I need Betty Crocker to come...

Postarani Bakehouse is a charming little gem nestled in the hills, and it’s quickly become a favourite spot for coffee, pastries, and the kind of comfort food that hits the spot every time. Whether you're after a slow morning with a warm croissant and a flat white, or just looking to grab a loaf of bread for home, this place never disappoints.

Their coffee is consistently great — smooth, rich, and well-balanced, made just the way you like it. The cakes and pastries are freshly baked and beautifully presented, with just the right balance of indulgence and finesse. From buttery croissants and pain au chocolat to seasonal specials, there’s always something tempting in the display cabinet.

One of the highlights for me is their bread. Whether it’s a crusty sourdough, seeded loaf, or something more classic, it’s always fresh and full of flavour. Perfect for dipping into soups, making sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a generous slab of butter at home.

Weekends can get very busy, and understandably so — it’s hard to resist the warm, inviting vibe and mouthwatering smell of baked goods wafting out the door. If you're planning to dine in, be prepared for a short wait, especially during peak times. But honestly, sitting there with a hot drink and a pastry, surrounded by the lush hills, is part of the experience. It’s a true hills café moment.

If you're short on time, takeaway is a great option too — everything is packed up nicely, and the quality holds up even when you’re on the go.

Postarani Bakehouse is the kind of place that feels like a weekend treat — whether you're dining in or taking it home, you're in for...