Dutch Courage isn’t just a common phrase, but a centuries-old tradition rooted in bravery, boldness, and a good drink. If you want to experience this storied tradition for yourself, Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar in Amsterdam is the place to go. Located on the northern edge of the Red Light District, it offers 150 types of genever, inventive cocktails, and even the city’s first kopstootjes-automatiek, a unique vending machine for enjoying the classic Dutch pairing of genever and beer.

What Is Dutch Courage, Anyway?

Before we get to the drinks, let’s talk about the name. “Dutch courage” wasn’t originally a cocktail, but a phrase with centuries of history behind it. Today, it usually means taking a quick drink (or two) to steady your nerves before doing something bold, like giving a speech or asking someone out.

But the origins of the term are way more interesting:

• Dutch soldiers in the 1600s were known for taking swigs of genever (the juniper-infused spirit that predates gin) before heading into battle. The English soldiers fighting alongside them noticed and started calling it “Dutch courage.”
• Another legend links it to the plague of 1665, when Dutch sailors were brave enough to deliver supplies to England while other countries refused to risk infection.
• And then there’s the story of Francois de la Boe Sylvius, the Dutch chemist who invented genever in the 17th century. What started as medicine quickly became a favourite drink for calming the nerves—and getting the party started.

Whichever version you believe, one thing is certain: Dutch courage has always been about boldness, bravery, and a good drink to back it up.

Welcome to Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar

At Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar, owner Timo Janse has brought this history back to life, but with a modern twist. Here, you’ll find 150 different genevers from the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany, plus an impressive selection of old-Dutch liqueurs and cocktails that will make you rethink everything you know about spirits.

At Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar, you’ll try cocktails rooted in centuries of Dutch distilling tradition, or sample genever straight, just like they did back in the day.

And if you’re wondering why this place is on Zeedijk street, it’s no coincidence. This historic Amsterdam street is where ships used to unload spices, herbs, and exotic goods from around the world. It’s the perfect backdrop for a bar dedicated to rediscovering Dutch spirits.

The Kopstootjes-Automatiek Experience

Here’s something you won’t find anywhere else in the world: at Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar, you can experience the first-ever “kopstootjes-automatiek.”

A kopstootje (literally translated as a “little headbutt”) is a classic Dutch drinking ritual where you enjoy a small glass of genever alongside a cold beer. Traditionally, it’s ordered from the bartender. But at Dutch Courage, there’s a twist: you can grab one straight from the wall.

Inspired by the famous Dutch snack automat, the kopstootjes-automatiek is a cooled vending machine, specially designed to serve three different types of genever and beer pairings, handpicked by owner Timo Janse. You simply pull a miniature clay jug of young, old, or 100% maltwine genever from the machine, alongside a chilled beer.

It’s nostalgic for locals, novel for tourists, and a fun way to enjoy this iconic Dutch duo. Of course, if you prefer the traditional approach, the bartenders are more than happy to pour your kopstootje at the bar too.

No Reservations, No Fuss

One of the best things about Dutch Courage Cocktail Bar is how relaxed and welcoming it is. You don’t need to be a cocktail expert to enjoy yourself here. Just walk in, grab a seat, and let the bartenders guide you through the world of genever.

Dutch Courage is open seven days a week, so whether it’s a lazy Tuesday evening or a Saturday night out, you’ll always find the lights on and the glasses clinking.

• Sunday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Friday & Saturday: 3:00 PM – 3:00 AM

The Bottom Line

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and skip out on trying Dutch courage, you’re missing out on a piece of Dutch history. Whether you come for the genever cocktails, the “kopstootjes-automatiek,” or just the chance to experience something truly local, this spot belongs on your Amsterdam itinerary.

So go ahead and grab some Dutch courage. Literally.

Safe travels,

Carina

One Girl and the Big World is a travel blog dedicated to sharing inspiring adventures, practical tips, and unique experiences from around the globe—all available for free to readers.

The site is a passion project committed to bringing fresh content to travel enthusiasts everywhere. Donations are welcome to keep the blog running smoothly and cover the maintenance costs. Every contribution, whether big or small, directly supports the continuation of this journey, ensuring that the blog remains a valuable resource for fellow travellers.

Thank you for being a part of this global adventure!