An electrochemical cell 10 is provided that includes first and second electrodes 13, 15, an electrolyte medium 17 in electrolytic communication with the first and second electrodes 13, 15, a chemical substance capable of undergoing an electrochemical reaction, and a voltage source 19 in electrolytic communication with the first and second electrodes 13, 15. The first electrode 13 includes a layer of an active catalyst material 25, and graphene coating 27 at least partially covering the layer of the active catalyst material 25. Methods for making and using the graphene coated electrode are further provided.