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.
Cafes
Hazel’s — 363 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s hidden gems. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Rex — 6 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Sol’s — 366 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s best-kept secrets. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Restaurants
High Quarter — 80 Cecil Crescent
Opened in early 2026 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 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Old Cellar — 373 Cecil Crescent
Opened in early 2026 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Lena Yard — 317 West Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Bars
Iris Works — 340 William Terrace
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Better than half the options in the CBD. 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.
Ivy Post — 14 Station Street
One of Research’s best-kept secrets. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Felix — 50 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Shops
Finn Store — 88 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Otto’s — 28 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Nico Union — 380 William Terrace
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Nina Cellar — 30 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Southern Social — 146 West Avenue
One of Research’s genuine highlights. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Ada Depot — 98 West Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Research.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Research — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $89 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
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