About Julian Hills

NAVI TWO HATS SINCE 2023

‘Local’ in Cherokee, Navi is a nod to Chef and Owner Julian Hills’ American heritage. 

Navi is Julian’s dream. From foraging for ingredients to the hand-made ceramics and the final product, each element is imagined and brought to life through the creative process and expertise of the Chef.

An intimate setting with space for just 32 diners, the menu reflects Hills’s creativity and passion for showcasing local ingredients and producers, innovative techniques and unique pairings, as well as his tendency towards a cohesive journey of small dishes.   

At the end of 2021, Navi expanded its offering to include Navi Lounge next door. As well as being the perfect spot for an after-work cocktail for locals, the lounge features its own standalone menu of elevated snacks.

Julian grew up in country Victoria, always exploring and questioning his surrounds.

His inquisitive nature has led to a successful career in fine dining with his ultimate aim, to create food that resonates with diners. Julian has adapted his Bachelor in Fine Arts (Ceramics) to the kitchen and is constantly experimenting with techniques and flavours.

He recalls foraging with his family as a child. Picking and preserving wild fruits and mushrooms established an important connection to the land.

Julian has also learnt from Indigenous foragers to source native seasonal produce and is incorporating these flavours to his menu.  Sustainable and ethical farming is important to Julian and he has spent time nurturing relationships with like-minded farmers and producers to bring the best food to the table at Navi.

In 2023, Julian was named Good Food Guide’s Chef of the Year, and Navi has maintained its Two Hat-status as of 2024.