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.
Fashion
Happy Larder — 296 Cecil Crescent
Opened in 2024 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
The Wide Depot — 213 Cecil Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Half Standard — 111 Station Street
One of Research’s best-kept secrets. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Homewares
Hazel — 11 Station Street
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Ash — 6 Cecil Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Kai’s — 350 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Books & Records
Ada’s — 276 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The High Room — 356 Cecil Crescent
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Black Larder — 295 William Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Food & Specialty
The New Union — 49 West Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Wide Depot — 182 West Avenue
Opened in 2025 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 8am-2:30pm.
Bellbird — 288 Cecil Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Markets
Luna — 188 Chapel Drive
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Green Place — 325 Station Street
One of Research’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Green Place — 212 Chapel Drive
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Research.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Research — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $70 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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