There are plenty of cafés along King William Road, but By Blackbird stands out for its fine Frenchy pastries and super-efficient service. It’s a contemporary glass-and-concrete room, softened and humanised by antique stools and timber tables, retro leather couches, local art (for sale) and nostalgic ’80s hits on the stereo (when was the last time you heard ‘I Just Died In Your Arms’ by the Cutting Crew?). Line up and order at the central counter, where cakes glisten and beckon from inside a glass cabinet (the tarte citron is killer). Croissants are the house special, hitting that elusive sweet spot between flaky and buttery; savoury crêpes, pies and quiches follow not far behind. Coffee is punchy to boot.
