Discovering Netto Bar: A Local Gem in Willemstad

A short walk from the opulent tourist areas of Willemstad lies the realm of the locals. Shops and restaurants with cracked walls and faded signs line streets catering to the hard-working residents who keep Curaçao humming. Where the polish ends and the grit begins, you’ll find some of Willemstad’s true gems. Netto Bar is one such gem. It’s an establishment chock-full of local lore, founded by Ernesto “Netto” Koster, who used to sit in the corner gently sipping his green rum while patting the loaded revolver in his lap. In the ’60s, sidearms were necessary, but nowadays, they’re no longer required. Locals pack the place late on Friday nights, and pub crawls from cruise ships wash in and out with the tide. The party that started in 1954 hasn’t stopped since.

The History: A Fixture in Otrobanda Since 1954

Known as Chikí by his friends, Neto founded his namesake bar in 1954. Since then, Netto Bar has been a fixture in Otrobanda, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital. Otrobanda, meaning “the other side” in Papiamentu, the local language after Dutch, is located west of the famous Queen Emma Bridge and has long been known as the working-class heart of the city. While it may not have the polished look of Punda, its colorful houses, narrow roads, and vibrant street art give it an authentic charm. Netto Bar is about a 10-minute walk from the Queen Emma Bridge and is decidedly worth the trip to see the oldest bar in Willemstad.

A Glimpse Into the Past: Netto’s Favorite Spot

Back in the day, Netto had his favorite bar spot, sitting in the corner of the bar with his back to the wall, a revolver in his lap, and his best friend to his left. Times have changed since then. One no longer needs to keep the evening’s earnings in their pocket, but little else has changed—except maybe a few layers of paint and the pictures of Dutch royals hanging all around the place.

What is Green Rum? Curaçao’s Best-Kept Secret

While Curaçao is famous worldwide for its Blue Curaçao, a vibrant blue liqueur flavored with the dried peel of the bitter Laraha orange, Netto’s Bar offers another unique local flavor. Besides being the oldest bar in Willemstad, what sets Netto’s Bar apart is its famous Green Rum, known as Ròm Bèrdè. This unique concoction is a closely guarded secret that has been passed down through generations. Made with a blend of herbs and spices, the Green Rum at Netto’s is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere on the island—or anywhere, for that matter.

The Taste of Ròm Bèrdè: A Unique Experience

Some love it; some think it tastes like Nyquil. Count us in the camp that ordered another round, or two. The flavor of Netto’s Green Rum is a complex blend of sweetness and spice. The initial taste is smooth, with hints of fruit, but it quickly evolves into a more robust flavor profile with notes of cloves, anise, and a hint of bitterness from the herbs. The vibrant green color adds to its mystique. If you like the taste of licorice, Ròm Bèrdè is for you.

The Atmosphere

Photographs and memorabilia line the walls, telling the story of the neighborhood, the bar’s history, and the Dutch love for soccer—er, football. If you’re lucky, Sonny will be working the bar. The man is unbelievably friendly and a wealth of local knowledge. He’ll be more than happy to explain the history of Netto Bar, as well as the local neighborhoods and cuisine. Word has it he also likes to act as a guide, giving local tours to lucky visitors. The guy is a pleasure.

After Netto passed in 2004, his protégé, Jesus “Chu” Zimmerman, took over. Chu keeps Ròm Bèrdè flowing, preferring to drink it on the rocks mixed with coconut water. The bar’s décor remains simple and the vibe continues to be laid-back. Locals crowd the place late into the evenings on Fridays, and occasionally there’s live music.

An Authentic Slice of Curaçaoan Life

Netto’s Bar is not just another tourist spot—it’s an authentic slice of Curaçaoan life, giving you a true taste of the island’s city culture. Visiting this bar gives you the chance to experience the island from a local’s perspective, away from the usual tourist locales. It’s a place where you can unwind with a cold drink, enjoy some local snacks, and immerse yourself in the history of Curaçao. If you’re lucky, you’ll run into Chu or Sonny, who describes the bar as “the type of place you come and just want to chill all day.” He was right. Stepping into Netto’s Bar feels like stepping back in time. So, the next time you find yourself on this beautiful island, make sure to stop by Netto’s Bar for a true island experience.