Waack's Bakery Ararat — Restaurant in Victoria

Waack’s Bakery in Ararat gets a glowing five stars from me! Having already visited another Waack’s location, I was eager to see how this one stacked up, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The vanilla slice, their claim to fame, was as delicious here as ever—decadent and custardy, with that slightly tile-like icing I’ve come to appreciate. It’s a treat that walks the fine line between dessert and architectural marvel. The Ararat location, however, had a bit of an edge with its warm, friendly service and slightly larger seating area, making it a perfect spot to relax after a long drive.

The savory options were equally delightful—the pies had a golden crust that was just a touch more flaky than the other Waack’s I’ve been to. And the coffee? Spot on, with just the right kick to keep you going.

Comparing it to the other location, the Ararat Waack’s feels a little more vibrant, and perhaps that’s thanks to its unique charm in a smaller, picturesque town. It’s the kind of place that makes you think about how good it would be to have The Velvet Fedora—the bar I dream of opening—nearby. Imagine stopping by for a vanilla slice and then heading over for a martini or mojito. The two would be a match made in small-town heaven.

Ararat’s Waack’s is a standout, and while the differences between locations are subtle, this one just might take the cake—or the slice, as it...

I had a beautiful pastie yesterday (Sunday 11th) we were there about 2ish so hot choices were very limited to a couple of items. My wife decided to have her favourite sandwich freshly made so she stood behind a lady and was next in line. The other lady left and my wife stepped forward to be served. The assistant (possibly a twin) was fussing about sorting things behind the bar, no acknowledgement or eye contact. The assistant then started covering the beetroot and my wife said “don’t cover that I am just going to order beetroot” the assistants response was unimpressive, she grumpily displayed annoyance to my wife, it was obviously too much effort to make another sandwich, To the point my wife said don’t bother, turned around and exite It’s sad that the owners of this business try their hardest to make a go (we were in retail as well, it’s tough) and maybe in rural areas it’s difficult to find staff, but if your employees can’t come to work with a smile an their faces and greet customers (who pay THEIR wages) with respect, then don’t employ them, they do not add any value to your box or...

Original review from 2018: One would think it would be difficult to screw up a lemon slice. This bakery has managed it, though! Stopped in for a coffee and a slice, regretted it a few minutes later. Paid Melbourne prices for my flat white, but didn't get the quality. I've had better coffees from servos. The lemon slice was stale and dry, the icing was hard as a rock, and it didn't even taste of lemon! I couldn't finish it, it was inedible. Surely these two items are bakery/cafe staples.

Update: April 2019 Due to everything being closed for Good Friday, I once again stopped at this bakery on my way back to Melbourne, and I once again regret it. This time I went with a savoury choice, and the spinach ricotta roll failed to impress. Dense pastry, mono-textured filling, dominant flavours are salt and oil. It's disappointing to give a place a second chance, only to be let down again.

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