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.
Best WiFi
Depot — 246 William Terrace
One of Research’s best-kept secrets. The team 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 — 33 Station Street
Opened in early 2026 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
The Honest Kitchen — 263 Station Street
Opened in early 2026 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Most Spacious
Stella — 50 Cecil Crescent
One of Research’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The New Place — 80 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Ivy’s — 263 West Avenue
One of Research’s hidden gems. 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.
Quietest
Table — 252 Chapel Drive
Opened in 2024 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Society — 161 West Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Press — 294 William Terrace
One of Research’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Best Coffee While Working
Cellar — 152 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Happy Quarter — 91 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-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.
Canvas — 352 Station Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Co-Working Nearby
Rex’s — 342 Chapel Drive
One of Research’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
The Half Local — 333 Chapel Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Golden Cellar — 92 Cecil Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. 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 7:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Research.
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring Research — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $83 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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