The dairy cows and tanneries of yesteryear have made way for seriously creative brains in Stafford.

Fusing the past with the present just eight kilometres north of Brisbane, sleepy Stafford has evolved into a suburban superstar. Artisanal crafts, brewhouses and exceptional international cuisine have all migrated to Happy Valley, as it’s lovingly referred to by locals, resulting in an energised space that inspires creativity. Retaining its pretty rural surroundings while nurturing a new era of imagination, Stafford is flourishing and fabulous. Here, we map out the best bits.

1. Treat your tastebuds at Oh Boy, Bok Choy!

Secure your spot early at Oh Boy, Bok Choy! — it’s the hottest eatery in town. Renowned by locals and savvy Brisbanites from all over, the Stafford restaurant and bar fuses Vietnamese, Chinese, Malaysian and Thai food for a smashing taste sensation.

Casual and loud, the vibe is infectious as laser-focused passion pours into everything coming out of that kitchen. Choose from finessed South-East Asian classics like honey prawns, prawn toast and bao buns but save room for the headline acts. Curries, noodles and perfected meats always make their mark.

Address: 264 Stafford Road, Stafford

2. Sample stellar brews at Happy Valley Brewing Company

Brisbane’s love affair with home brew knows no bounds, extending its list of the most exceptional breweries to Stafford. Enter Happy Valley Brewing Company, a killer spot to sink a pint and chow down on outstanding barbecue.

Pair the team’s popular core range with low and slow share plates featuring beef brisket, wings, bratwurst and fries. There are also melt-in-your-mouth burgers, loaded fries and bitsy tuckshop classics. A good time, every time.

Address: 34 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford

3. Reconnect with nature at The Soul Pantry

Some spaces make your heart sing. This light-filled suburban oasis started as a florist but expanded into a haven of plant life. Stocked with unique gifts and homewares, and offering workshops in making terrariums and Kokedama (you know those Japanese-spurred, moss-covered soil balls?), it’s a serene spot to get your hands dirty.

There’s also a delightful selection of books for take-away home and garden inspiration, plus the on-site cafe is dog-friendly. The Stafford institution also houses a very popular pre-loved fashion market (more on that below), plus other creative endeavours.

Address: 31 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford

4. Get serious about coffee at Q Roasters

Caffeine is no joke to these guys. Q Roasters, a roaster, wholesaler and cafe, is the brainchild of Lee Mary and Lachlan Hosking, with Lachlan serving as a registered Australian Q Grader (Q as in quality) and international coffee judge. The team know their stuff (Lee was born in a coffee-growing region in the Papua New Guinean Highlands) and brings their knowledge to each unique blend. Part of the Stafford landscape since 2014, Q Roasters values sustainability, choosing to source every bean from producers who care for the land and people who work on it. Additionally, they sell baked goods, which earns instant must-visit points in our book.

Address: 44 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford

5. Find the day’s next cuppa at Elixir HQ Cafe

While we’re still dreaming of creamy AM gold, consider a pit stop at Elixir HQ Cafe. The award-winning roasters, led by brother duo Jason and David Narciso, are obsessed with delivering you the silkiest of drops, expanding to multiple locations and providing wholesale beans to cafes far and wide.

The menu is seasonal, filled with abundant dishes that attract a steady stream of locals. Indulge in the Churros Waffle and other sweet treats as well as breakfast favourites spanning flavour-packed hash, eggs done your way and fritters.

Address: 12 Hayward Street, Staffor

6. Treat yourself at The Creative Collective

A retail treat with its sights firmly set on supporting local artisans, The Creative Collective showcases artwork, jewellery and handcrafted works from dozens of different brands. Just add bits of furniture, home decor, ceramics and gifts you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a great spot to source talent to help you commission a project or simply marvel at the creativity brimming in this corner of the world. Regular exhibitions and special events are also staged.

Address: 31A Hayward Street, Stafford

7. Mingle with the locals at Flat Lizard Brewing

Live music, a revolving door of food trucks and masterfully crafted, independently produced brews — Flat Lizard Brewing in Stafford is widely adored. Located in the suburb’s trendy industrial zone, the brewery nails its core range of lagers, ales and stouts while offering hearty feeds and, if the game’s on, live streaming of your favourite sports. It’s relaxed and full of locals, with dishes like woodfired pizza and internationally inspired street food providing the ultimate accompaniments to some of the region’s finest beer.

Address: 18 Harvton Street, Stafford

8. Stuff yourself senseless at King of the Wings

King of the Wings is renowned for winning the hearts of foodies right across the country. What started as a beloved food truck finally set up its own permanent digs right here in Stafford, gifting locals with sensational Buffalo wings, slow cooked ribs, burgers, fries and even a range of desserts. While the truck travels right throughout the state (lucky Queensland), the brick-and-mortar eatery is always worth the hike given the on-site bar that’s pouring up cocktails, wine and beer daily.

Address: 1/240 Stafford Road, Stafford

9. Sit back and unwind at Pod Espresso

This neighbourhood hero combines your caffeine hit with wholesome organic food choices including nourishing bowls, flavour-packed salads and wraps. Enjoy your Pod Espresso poisons of choice inside under the changing gallery of artwork by local kids and adults or pull up a pew outside to soak up the sun. There are also homemade cookies and sweet gifts to take home with you.

Address: Corner Stafford Road and Crawford Avenue, Stafford

10. Find buttery, flaky perfection at Bella & Tortie

Can’t resist a baked good when you’re on tour? We feel you. Bella & Tortie is Stafford’s hottest ticket, cooking up next-level sweets with extreme flair. Think classic cakes (like their ever-popular canales) jazzed to new heights thanks to seasonal fruits and ingredients. Past winners include their Banoffee Cruller, Stout and Ginger Cake and their classic custard tarts but whatever takes your fancy is guaranteed to melt you. The savoury menu is crafted with equal measures of love.

Address: 12/240 Stafford Road, Stafford Central, Stafford

11. Stay hydrated at The Royal Tea — Bubble Tea and Dessert Bar

From the crew behind King of the Wings, The Royal Tea is a delicious destination to chase a savoury fix with some high-quality sweets. Milky, jelly favourites span the entire spectrum of fruit, plus there’s a constant rotation of sodas and frappes to indulge in. Sweet tooths will also appreciate the homemade desserts on offer including glazed donuts, sweet pies, cheesecakes and more.

Address: 3/240 Stafford Road, Stafford

12. Piece together a new look at Love Me Again Market

More than 25 stalls selling seriously epic pre-loved clothing attract a fashionable crowd every Sunday. The Love Me Again Market, located inside The Soul Pantry, is the place to score a bargain. You’ll need to pay $3 to enter but once you’re in, expect familiar, adored labels no matter your sartorial signature. Spacious change rooms, on-site parking and, of course, treats from the much-loved on-site eatery provide everything your morning out in Stafford needs.

Address: Inside The Soul Pantry, 31 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford

Read our ultimate guide to things to do in Brisbane.