Wilks in Bath marks the return of chef James Wilkins to the South West dining scene, bringing his refined modern European cooking to a cosy and intimate setting. Originally launched in Bristol in 2012, Wilks quickly gained a strong reputation for its creative menus before closing in 2020. Now reimagined in Bath, the restaurant offers a more personal and exclusive experience, with Wilkins himself at the helm of both the kitchen and the dining room.
Menus are driven by seasonality and artistry, showcasing the finest British produce alongside global influences. Expect hand-dived scallop tartare with mango and yuzu, wild turbot with black garlic and asparagus, or lobster served with nettle and Jersey Royal velouté. Each meal is elevated with thoughtful touches - canapés, amuse-bouche, freshly baked bread and petit fours - that create a sense of theatre. Desserts such as wild strawberry sorbet with elderflower or honey meringue domes bring the dining experience to a refined close.
The restaurant itself is small and intimate, designed to enhance the chef-led style of service. Dark green wood-panelled walls, soft mood lighting and leather booth seating create a warm, cocooning atmosphere, complemented by polished wooden floors. It’s a space that feels as personal as the food, with just enough elegance to mark an occasion while retaining an inviting, relaxed charm.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, celebrating a special occasion with friends, family or work colleagues or simply seeking some of the region’s most distinctive cooking, Wilks offers an experience where every detail is overseen by the chef himself. For Bath diners, this is a restaurant where intimate surroundings and exquisite food meet in perfect balance.