The Hills are Alive.

Edit 25. Still & Social, Monbulk.

The Hills are very much alive, with the fused flavours of Asia and a dining experience unlike any other. @stillandsocialdining is an evolution of the much‑loved Mountain High Thai restaurant, a staple of Monbulk’s Main Road. Mel, together with partner Matt, embraced a humble family business and transformed a local favourite into an elevated dining experience rivalling any inner‑city hot spot.

Mel grew up in the Dandenong Ranges and Matt in a suburb at the base of the hill just before you begin the winding climb through gum trees and ferns. For both, the Dandenong Ranges is a place of abundant beauty and community. But after studying, they landed dream jobs in the corporate world, taking them into Melbourne’s CBD each day. It wasn’t long before they realised that the 9‑to‑5 world wasn’t for them, the dreaded commute and long workdays left them uninspired. “We wanted something a bit more meaningful. ”We love hospitality, we love the Hills, and we wanted to try and bring a new concept to the area.”

So when the time came for Mel’s parents to retire, an opportunity presented itself to revitalise the existing restaurant, shifting the dining experience customers had become accustomed to into an eating ritual abundant in small gestures that connect guests to their environment. As you enter the venue, you’re greeted with warm customer service, offered complimentary teas throughout your visit, a carefully considered menu influenced by Mel’s mum’s recipes, and hot towels to finish with after dinner

In a time where QR codes and zero contact have become the norm, Still & Social focuses on the little things that add value to a dining experience. “A lot of what we’re doing here is around wellness, human‑first connection, and the experience as a whole.” In their own words: “Come as you are and leave a little bit more whole.”

Still & Social is open four nights a week. To view their menu or reserve a table, visit www.stillandsocial.com or find them at 138 Main Road, Monbulk.

📷 provided by @stillandsocialdining