In the mood for a Sunday drive (or a drive any day of the week, for that matter)? Take the short but enjoyable trip to Sutton and head to Victoria Street for great coffee and fresh goods, baked daily, says dining reviewer WENDY JOHNSON.
LITTLE Sutton Bakehouse made an immediate impact on this tiny town, with its recipe for success.
Bright, modern and welcoming, the bakery is usually packed with loyal locals and visitors from Canberra and beyond. Even the Sunday car, motorcycle and cycle clubs have tweaked to its winning formula.
Previously The Baker, the new owners have upped the ante with a more artisan offering, including high-quality breads, beautiful baguettes, super-stuffed sandwiches, granola and chia puddings.
Local and regional produce is used where possible, with Little Sutton Bakehouse having established solid relationships with quality growers and suppliers.
The mouth-watering pies are a main attraction, including the gluten-free chicken and leek version ($8.50). The flaky pastry was packed with well-balanced ingredients and Little Sutton Bakehouse does not skimp on the chicken. Other gluten-free pies include vegetable curry, spinach and feta, and chunky steak (all $12.50).
Gourmet sandwiches are delish. My friend opted for the chicken stuffed in two slices of fresh bread ($12.50). The oven-roasted, free-range chicken breast married well with house-made mayonnaise and was stacked with spinach leaves.
Baguettes feature hand-carved prosciutto with peppery rocket and vibrant basil pesto with parmesan. The other baguette available on our visit was created with quality smoked ham, Swiss cheese and mayo (both $12.50).
No decent bakery would be without a good old egg and bacon roll. Little Sutton’s is created with free-range eggs and house made relish (also $12.50).
Definitely leave room for a sweet ending. The delectable line-up of treats made choosing a challenge.
Our chocolate torte, dusted with cocoa on top, was divine and we appreciated that it was decadent but not overly sweet. The orange almond cake was super moist and packed a punch with citrus flavour (both $7.80).
Also great with a barista-made coffee are desserts such as strawberry tart, lemon meringue, carrot cake and blueberry cheesecake. Again, gluten-free options available.
Large loaves of daily-made bread are for sale, stacked neatly and attractively on metal trolley shelves near the cash register. While enjoying lunch we noticed people rocking in just to shop for bread and other goods.
Service is as swift as possible given Little Sutton Bakehouse starts hopping the minute its doors open daily at 7am. Dine indoors or outdoors on the large patio or take away.
Once we had nourished our souls, we walked around Sutton and popped into the neighbouring contemporary art gallery. Arts Sutton, which opened in 1980 and was renovated in 1992, is worth a visit. All visual and creative artists are Australian.
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