The Hot & Crusty Country Bakery — Restaurant in Victoria

I visited mid-week and about an hour before closing. I had a bee sting slice. I am visiting from Qld and hadn't seen a bee sting served in slice format, only the family sized buns or the individual serving buns. This slice really impressed me.

The main issue with filled buns is that the eater can never tell if the baker has been stingy with the filling, or if all the filling has gone to one side, until a few bites have been taken. Having it in slice format is simultaneously honest, and seductive. I could see exactly the bun-to-filling ratio I was going to get. This bakery uses layers of custard and cream instead of the pastry cream I am used to, and it still tastes great.

They don't have much onsite seating but there is a nice park a short walk away. I also liked the art deco plaster motif above the shop window....

I was strolling the streets of castlemaine and decided i was a tad peckish, as it was nice and close i went into hot and crusty to give it a try. As soon as i entered i was greeted with a rather un savoury look by an older man who couldn’t be less interested in helping me. When he eventually did however i was waiting for my order on the seating nearest the coffee area and was witness to a woman who im guessing must either be the owner or manager speaking absolutely astonishingly awful to a poor employee. this is unacceptable! when i think of a country bakery i think of a family owned business with a friendly and warm atmosphere, this however was appalling to say the least. the food was mediocre and i wouldn’t go back after witnessing the disgusting treatment to staff. shame on you...

Love this bakery! Recommended by a local. Fabulous selection of both savoury & sweet delights!

All home made, excellent variety including cakes, yo yo's, brownies, custard tarts, zucchini slice, egg & bacon pies, sausage rolls & a variety of sandwiches & rolls, fresh bread, cold drinks, coffee etc etc.

Loads of thing's to choose from & old fashioned, respectful service.

Many locals there as well & that says a lot in itself.

It was so good to see so much love in one place,

Grandparent's with their grandchildren, young mum's &/or Dad's, everyone.

SO glad I went here....