Discover The Best Of Stafford, Queensland With Our Guide

Brisbane’s 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 changed a lot since I was a kid. Artisanal crafts, brewhouses and international cuisine have all migrated to Happy Valley (how it’s known locally, nodding to Stafford’s historic roots), resulting in an energised space that pleasantly surprised me. Retaining its pretty rural surroundings while nurturing culinary and artisanal imagination, Stafford is flourishing and fabulous. Let me shine a light on the best bits.

In short

If you only do one thing in Stafford, make it a visit to Happy Valley Brewing Company. It’s one of the best spots in the city for a schooner of craft brew and the vibe is always dialled up.

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

south-east Asian classics at Oh Boy, Bok Choy! — Tuck into finessed south-east Asian classics. (Image: Oh Boy, Bok Choy!)

Friends told me to secure my spot early at Oh Boy, Bok Choy!  and I’m glad I did because the place is pumping when I arrive. Loved by locals and Brisbane foodies from all over, the Stafford restaurant 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 the kitchen. Choose from finessed south-east Asian classics like crispy prawn toast and bao buns done three ways, but save room for the headline acts: curries, noodles and deliciously sizzled and dressed meats make their mark.

Address: 264 Stafford Rd, Stafford

2. Sample stellar brews at Happy Valley Brewing Company

a glass of beer with food at Happy Valley Brewing Company, Stafford — Hop over to Happy Valley Brewing Company for fantastic fare that will give you a guaranteed good time.

Brisbane’s love affair with home brew knows no bounds, extending its exceptional operations to Stafford. Happy Valley Brewing Company is a top spot to sink a pint and line the tummy in style, a fact I only discover one afternoon in mid-2025 despite this hot spot drawing crowds since 2020. Don’t miss the team’s core range, perhaps with a few share plates spanning crumbed mac n cheese bars (exactly what they sound like), loaded fries with whiskey beef brisket, and a collection of tacos. There are also melt-in-your-mouth burgers and a dedicated kids’ menu that throws in colouring-in packs. A guaranteed good time for the entire clan.

Address: 34 Wolverhampton St, Stafford

3. Soak up community spirit at the Happy Lane Market

a look inside Happy Jane Cafe, Stafford — Find joy in every cup at Happy Jane Cafe.

A space once occupied by the Love Me Again Markets is now home to the Happy Lane Markets , found inside the charming Stafford cafe, Happy Jane Cafe . Staged on the second Sunday of each month, the Brisbane market only launched in September 2025 so you can expect large crowds sussing out the newish retail fix. Entry is free and you’ll always find vintage collectables and fashion, chic homewares, live music and entertainment, on-site parking and, of course, treats from the cafe for everything your morning out in Stafford needs.

Address: 31 Wolverhampton St, Stafford

4. Take a scenic route along the Kedron Book Bikeway

Jumping on two wheels gave me a solid stickybeak through Stafford as I hit a portion of the 20-kilometre Kedron Book Bikeway. It runs all the way from Mitchelton to Toombul, through Stafford and Stafford Heights, and the path is made up of both clearly marked street bike lanes and shared paths. I went from Kedron Brook bus station to Stafford City shopping centre, but the entire stretch is dotted with picnic areas, parks and even barbecues if you plan on making a day of it. Here’s a map to help you plan a journey.

Address: Access it from the Brookside Shopping Centre in Mitchelton, or Toombul train station to ride the entire length.

5. Uncover true coffee artistry 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 bring their knowledge to each unique blend. Part of the Stafford landscape since 2014, Q Roasters values sustainability, sourcing every bean from producers who care for the land and people who work on it. Additionally, the retail section sells baked goods, which is just as strong a pull in my book.

Address: 44 Wolverhampton St, Stafford

6. Lean into more of Stafford’s exception cafe culture

breakfast and coffee at Elixir HQ Cafe, Stafford — Make a pit stop at Elixir HQ Cafe.

While Q Roasters remain laser-focused on roasting perfection, I also love Stafford for the many awesome proximity cafes to choose from. Elixir HQ Cafe also roasts its own award-winning blend, but I like dropping in for its food menu and chilled vibes, too. The dishes invite serious indulgence – think tiramisu waffles, truffle mushrooms and an apple crumble porridge. There’s also bustling The Colour Nine in Stafford Heights, which is pet-friendly and nails breakfast classics with a Thai twist.

Address: Elixir HQ Cafe, 12 Hayward Street, Stafford; and The Colour Nine, Shop 2, 85 Mawson St, Stafford Heights

7. Mingle with thirsty locals at Flat Lizard Brewing

a hand holding a glass of Flat Lizard beer in front of Yebisu Catering food truck — Pair your Flat Lizard beer with chicken karaage from Yebisu Catering.

Live music, a revolving door of food trucks and masterfully crafted, independently produced brews – Flat Lizard Brewing in Stafford is another one of my favourite Brisbane breweries. 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, pet-friendly 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 St, Stafford

8. Stuff yourself senseless at King of the Wings

buffalo wings at King of the Wings, Stafford — Ignite your tastebuds with sensational buffalo wings. (Image: King of the Wings)

Look, it’s not ultra-refined dining but when you’re craving comfort food done to perfection, King of the Wings  is a local foodie stalwart that always hits the spot. Doesn’t the name say it all? What started as a beloved Brisbane 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 still travels throughout the state, this 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 Rd, Stafford

9. Find buttery, flaky perfection at Bella & Tortie

a stuffed pie at Bella & Tortie, Stafford — Indulge in an array of next-level sweets at Bella & Tortie.

Can’t resist a baked good on tour? Same. Bella & Tortie  is Stafford’s hottest ticket, cooking up next-level sweets with extreme flair. It underwent a brief renovation in October 2025 and won’t reopen its doors until November, but when they’re back, make a beeline to find traditional European cakes (like their cult favourite canales) and clever contemporary creations jazzed with seasonal fruits and ingredients. Past winners included their Banoffee Cruller, Stout and Ginger Cake and macadamia, coconut and mango trifle, plus the savoury menu is crafted with equal measures of out-of-the-box genius.

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

10. Catch a game of AFLW at Hickey Park

A beautiful Aussie Rules football stadium in Stafford, Hickey Park plays host to many AFLW games each season as the Brisbane Lions draw big crowds. It holds about 4,000 guests in total and the vibe is high-energy when it needs to be, but relaxed before and after the whistle’s blown. A bar and grandstand bring game-day atmosphere, and when it’s not footy season, you’ll find locals jogging laps around the oval plus kids rolling down the grassy hills.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

Here’s why Stafford is Brisbane’s hottest locale