A long-time fixture of Fitzroy North, family-owned Dench has been winning over northsiders with its natural artisan loaves for over 15 years. It's even opened up a bakehouse in Abbotsford to keep up with demand.

The bakery is known for its freshly baked cakes and popular pastries, including escargot, croissants and puffy Italian bomboloni. But the breads are the reason you'll want to go back again and again. Here, you'll find a bunch of organic sourdoughs, with everything  from light rye to white, seeded, olive and rosemary and a grain loaf. You can also pick up a baguette, raisin loaf, some brioche and ciabatta.

The onsite cafe is serving a selection of those freshly baked goodies, alongside coffee, brunch plates and sandwiches heroing the signature breads. And dietary issues aren't a drama thanks to Dench's swag of vegan and gluten-free options — it's even got a dedicated gluten-free room for whipping up coeliac-friendly fare.