Wils Restaurant

If you’re looking for a special night out in Amsterdam, Wils is one of the few places that’ll make you feel like you’re dining at the top of the food game. I know because my coworker Anna took her parents there for their 35th anniversary, and her dad—this guy who’s seen a lot and rarely gets impressed—called her the next morning just to talk about the food. He’s brought it up at every family dinner since. That’s how good it is.

Wils is on Stadionplein in Oud-Zuid, and it’s not just fancy—it’s intense. Chef Joris Bijdendijk cooks almost everything over an open flame. There’s a custom-built wood-fired grill in the open kitchen, so you get to watch the chefs work, the smoke curl up, the meat sizzle and char. My friend who’s a food photographer said it’s the most photogenic kitchen in Amsterdam, and I believe her. The menu changes with the seasons, but the fire is always there—giving everything a deep, smoky flavor that makes vegetables taste like they’ve never been cooked before. One dish that’s stuck with me is a piece of celery root that was so perfectly charred and sweet, it was like eating a flavor revelation.

The tasting menu is the way to go, and it’s around 100 to 150 euros per person with wine pairing. It’s not cheap, but if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime meal, this is it. It’s also a good idea to book weeks ahead, especially on weekends. I tried going on a Thursday, and it was still packed, so don’t wait until the last minute.

The vibe is intimate, elegant, and definitely date-night material. The open kitchen adds to the experience—it’s like being part of the show. If you’re not into the full splurge, there’s a bakery next door, Wils Bakery, that’s run by the same team. It opens for breakfast and lunch and serves croissants, sourdough, and pastries that taste like they’re from the same kitchen. It’s a great way to get a taste of Wils without the full price tag.

I know it’s not for everyone—this is a place where you’re paying for quality, and it shows. It’s also not cheap, and reservations are a must. But if you’re planning a special night, or you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to try one of the city’s best, Wils is worth it. I’ve heard the food is so good that even people who don’t usually eat out will remember it for years.

If you’re thinking about going, check if that deal’s still on—though honestly, it’s worth the price. You’ll want to go for the experience, not just the food. The fire, the flavors, the atmosphere—it’s all part of something bigger. And if you’re lucky, you might even get a story like Anna’s dad’s to tell your own family.