Joanne Huang
Google
This was honestly one of the best boutique hotel experiences I’ve ever had, and I’m not just talking about within the Netherlands, but around the world. Everything from the room, service, breakfast, restaurant, staff, location, view, atmosphere, etc. It’s everything a boutique hotel should be: full of small-town charm, staffed by a genuinely warm and well-trained team, and offering impeccable, personalized service throughout.
Check-in was a breeze. Literally every staff we’ve encountered throughout our week-long stay was attentive, polite, high-spirited, and always eager to do anything in their power to make our stay as comfortable as possible.
The room design is understated, sleek yet functional. The bed was very comfortable, and the AC/heater works very well. The only issue we have with the room was the drainage system of the standing shower cubicle, which is too small and drains a bit slow, so water might flow out of the cubicle at times.
The breakfast was absolutely one of the highlights! During our very first breakfast, I casually asked for some sausages and mushrooms to go with my fried eggs, if they had any. They checked with the kitchen and said they had some tomatoes and onions, which I was totally fine with, and the result was delicious. What surprised me was the fact that one waiter came back to our table 5 minutes later and said that, since we’re staying for quite a few days, they’ll just make sure to order the sausages and mushrooms for rest of our stay. I mean, if that’s not good service, I dont know what is! Absolutely mind-blowing, better than any 5-star hotel you can find in Amsterdam for sure!
On the third day of our stay, they left us a note in the room to invite us to enjoy some bubblies and light bites at The Living (their lobby lounge area). We took up on their offer, and enjoyed some exquisite mocktails and bitterballen one afternoon (pictured below), while taking in the stunning view of the Deventer old town across the IJssel river.
During our stay, we also ordered from the hotel restaurant “IJssel Restobar” and have it delivered to our room. Every dish was carefully-crafted, well-presented and delicious!
Before our check-out, they even left us a thank-you note in the room with a little toiletry bag filled with a full set of Pillows bath products. What a sweet, lovely surprise!
To be honest, I would rate this hotel 10 stars if I could. For anyone visiting Deventer and wants to have the best hotel stay experience, look no further, Pillows is your best (and only) choice!