Netto Bar

In the heart of the colorful Otrobanda district of Willemstad lies a true legend — Netto Bar. This establishment holds the honorary title of the oldest bar on the island of Curaçao, preserving its unique atmosphere since it first opened. Located at 143 Breedestraat, it is a classic "dive bar" with an antique interior where every object on the wall has a story to tell.

Netto Bar. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main magnet for travelers and locals alike is the famous green rum (Rom Berde). This bright green drink, prepared according to a secret family recipe with added anise, has become a true symbol of the establishment. It tastes like a cross between classic rum and absinthe with light notes of liquorice.

Despite its worldwide fame, the bar remains a simple and welcoming place where casual tourists, workers from neighboring blocks, and even famous politicians can sit at the same table. It is the perfect location for those who want to see the authentic life of Curaçao away from the polished tourist trails.

For those who want to clarify details or book a table for a large group, it's worth checking the establishment's official social media page. Netto Bar maintains active communication with guests through Facebook.

The main ritual here is tasting the famous Rom Berde. Start your acquaintance with it neat (as a shot) to appreciate the warming effect and anise aftertaste. If straight rum seems too strong, ask the bartender to prepare a refreshing cocktail with coconut water, lemon syrup, or apple juice — these are favorites among the local regulars.

Be sure to take some time to explore the interior. The bar's walls are an impromptu museum: old photographs, newspaper clippings, and quirky artifacts create a unique backdrop for photos. Don't hesitate to chat with the bartenders; the legendary Bilu and his colleagues are always ready to share tales about the bar's past and give a few tips for exploring the city.

In the afternoon, the bar transforms into the social hub of Otrobanda. This is the best time to chat with the locals, listen to Caribbean rhythms, and perhaps even dance right at the entrance. If you get hungry, traditional snacks like local goat stew can be found nearby, perfectly complementing your authentic experience.

The establishment's location is extremely convenient for travelers: Netto Bar is situated in the historic Otrobanda district, right behind the cruise terminal and the Renaissance Hotel. If you arrived on the island by cruise ship, the walk to the bar will take only 5–10 minutes — just walk behind the casino and sports bar building.

From the city center, it is easy to reach on foot. After crossing the famous Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, you will find yourself just a few minutes' walk from Breedestraat. The area is quite compact, so the stroll from the main central attractions will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

For those coming from Queen Beatrix International Airport, the optimal option is a taxi. The trip will take about 20–30 minutes, costing approximately 20–30 Antillean guilders. If you have rented a car, you can usually find parking near the bar, though Otrobanda's narrow streets can get crowded during peak hours.

The history of this establishment is inextricably linked to the founder's family. Netto Bar is the oldest bar on the island and was named after the current owners' grandfather. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule: the walls, densely covered with old photographs and memorabilia, tell the story of decades of island life and the changing generations of its inhabitants.

The bar's main pride and historical heritage is the legendary green rum, Rom Berde. Its recipe is a strictly guarded family secret passed down through generations. The drink is made with a rum base and added anise right on the premises, preserving the same taste that visitors knew back in the last century.

Over its long existence, the bar has become a cult spot not only for ordinary workers or sailors but also for prominent politicians and public figures of Curaçao. Despite its popularity, the owners have a principle of not undergoing radical modernization, thus preserving the authentic interior and the unique spirit of the old Caribbean.

To truly feel the atmosphere of the island's oldest bar, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most guests. This is plenty of time to slowly enjoy a shot or a cocktail based on the green rum, examine the many artifacts on the walls, and exchange a few words with the charismatic bartenders.

However, if you arrive in the evening when the bar fills with locals and the music starts playing, you will likely want to stay longer. Many tourists use this place as a starting point for evening bar-hopping through Otrobanda, enjoying the relaxed conversation and Caribbean hospitality.

The bar's schedule may vary, so it is recommended to check their social media before visiting. Usually, the doors are open from lunch until late evening: from Monday to Thursday, the establishment is open until 10:00 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the fun continues until midnight.

Interestingly, on some days the bar opens quite early, sometimes as early as 8–10 AM, becoming a spot for locals to relax during the day. To ensure you don't miss the chance to try the green rum, it's best to plan your visit for the afternoon or early evening.

A visit to Netto Bar can easily be combined with exploring other iconic spots in the Otrobanda district and the city center. The surrounding area is rich in architectural monuments and museums that allow for a deeper dive into the region's culture.