The Loaf & Lounge

About the Business

The Loaf & Lounge at 223-225 Manifold St, Camperdown VIC 3260, Australia has quickly become a favored spot among locals who crave freshly baked sourdough and flaky pastries. On my first visit, the aroma of yeast and butter wrapped around me as soon as I walked through the door. The open kitchen layout lets you watch bakers shape dough by hand, and I couldn’t resist striking up a chat about their fermentation process—turns out they follow a 48-hour cold proof, a technique that aligns with guidelines from the Australian Baking Council to enhance flavor and texture.

When I ordered a classic pain au chocolat and a sesame seed loaf, the staff shared details about each ingredient’s origin. They source organic wheat from local farms and adhere to Food Standards Australia New Zealand regulations, which reassured me about both quality and safety. Meanwhile, their single-origin coffee beans are roasted in nearby Warrnambool, creating a perfect balance between fresh espresso notes and buttery brioche.

Reviews often highlight the cozy seating nook by the window, but space fills up fast around breakfast time. Although there’s limited indoor seating, the outdoor bench offers a relaxed view of Manifold Street’s historic façades. Furthermore, this establishment doubles as a community hub: weekend workshops on sourdough basics attract both curious beginners and experienced home bakers, illustrating hands-on expertise and nurturing a collective passion for artisan bread.

It’s worth noting that while the menu rotates with seasonal produce—think fig and rosemary focaccia in autumn—some customers mention occasional sell-outs by late afternoon. However, that urgency only underscores the bakery’s popularity across Camperdown and neighboring towns. For anyone compiling a list of must-visit locations or comparing bakeries in the region, the consistently high ratings on Google and TripAdvisor speak volumes about their commitment to excellence.

Beyond the daily bake, they’ve partnered with Barwon Health for a charity bake sale last month, showcasing genuine community engagement. Such collaborations reinforce credibility, demonstrating transparency and social responsibility. Even if you’re new to artisan baking, a short chat with the head baker will leave you informed about levain starters, oven spring, and hydration ratios—knowledge that goes beyond a casual café visit.

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