Research sits in Melbourne’s greater melbourne and runs affordable, diverse, developing. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Romantic Restaurants
Theo Depot — 255 West Avenue
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Luna’s — 151 Cecil Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
The Blue Cellar — 351 Cecil Crescent
One of Research’s hidden gems. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Wine Bars
The Blue Depot — 259 Chapel Drive
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Ava’s — 159 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Wagtail — 172 William Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Fun Activities
The Good Larder — 262 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Tall Standard — 56 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Nina’s — 213 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Budget Dates
Nell — 313 Cecil Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Mia Table — 363 William Terrace
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Otto — 338 West Avenue
One of Research’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Special Occasions
White Commons — 126 Chapel Drive
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Old Quarter — 282 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Pearl’s — 151 Cecil Crescent
One of Research’s hidden gems. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Research.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Research — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $105 per person.
Parking: Street parking on William Terrace is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Research at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Affordable, diverse, developing |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Research |
| Best for | Research local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Research Cafes
- Research Restaurants
- All Research Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Best Restaurants in Research
- Best Bars in Research
- Best Cocktail Bars in Research
- Things To Do in Research
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