In a town that values authenticity as much as it does community, The Hillmont feels less like a new restaurant and more like a long-awaited gathering place. Located in a lovingly restored 1940s building in downtown Auburn, The Hillmont blends thoughtful design, confident flavors, and genuine hospitality into an experience that feels both elevated and deeply familiar.
From the moment you step inside, the ambiance sets the tone. High ceilings, exposed beams, warm lighting, and a striking circular bar anchor the room, creating an atmosphere that is vibrant yet relaxed. The bar itself seats about 30 guests and is intentionally walk-in friendly, making it an easy choice for an impromptu cocktail, a casual bite, or a lively night out. Snug seating areas are available by reservation, but much of The Hillmont’s charm lies in its first-come, first-served energy—organic, social, and welcoming.
Behind the concept are Jordan and Melinda Minyard, Auburn natives and longtime small-business owners whose fingerprints are all over the space. After more than a decade serving the community through The Pour Choice and Remedy Supply Co., the Minyards set out to create something deeply personal. Every inch of The Hillmont was designed and built by hand, with clear care and intention. This isn’t a restaurant chasing trends—it’s a reflection of its owners and the town they love.
That sense of purpose carries seamlessly into the cocktail program, which is one of the strongest surprises on the menu. The extensive list is creative, bold, and impeccably balanced—rivaling top cocktail bars in larger cities, yet refreshingly approachable in price. There’s also a well-curated selection of wine, beer, and cider, ensuring every kind of guest finds something to linger over. On Tuesdays, the mood shifts into Monty’s Hideaway, a tiki-inspired night featuring exotic cocktails and tropical small plates that add a playful, escapist twist to the week.
The food menu follows a tapas-style format, encouraging sharing and exploration, and nearly every dish hits its mark. The cultured butter board is a must-order standout. Housemade ciabatta arrives warm and fluffy, paired with a trio of butters so rich and nuanced they could easily steal the spotlight from the rest of the table. It’s the kind of dish that instantly signals you’re in good hands.
The Caesar salad, especially with shrimp added, elevates a familiar classic. Crisp little gem lettuce, generous shavings of pecorino pepato, and thoughtful, unexpected touches make it one of the best versions around. The wings are another highlight—not just for their flavor, but for the customization. Guests can choose between six or twelve wings, mix and match rubs and sauces, and select from a lineup of dipping sauces. The parmesan-garlic dry rub and bourbon pineapple sauce deliver big flavor, while the green goddess dip stands out as a favorite. Perfectly tender and deeply satisfying, they’re ideal for sharing—or not.
Adding to the experience is a small retail shop tucked into the back of the restaurant, featuring local pottery, glassware, wine, coffee, books, and other curated goods. It’s a subtle but meaningful extension of The Hillmont’s mission to support local makers and invite guests to take a piece of the experience home. Even the details feel intentional, from the textures of the materials to the charming touch of receiving the check tucked inside an old book.
At its core, The Hillmont is about slowing down, connecting, and being taken care of. Whether you’re stopping in for an afternoon bite, a cocktail at the bar, or a full night out with friends, it delivers a sense of place that feels undeniably Auburn. Grounded in small-town pride and powered by big-hearted hospitality, The Hillmont isn’t just a new restaurant—it’s a new cornerstone for the community.