New to Dutch Bros? You probably have a hundred questions before your first visit. This 2026 first-timer FAQ answers the 25 most-asked questions about Dutch Bros — from “what is it?” to “how do I order?” to “is it worth the hype?”
The Basics
What is Dutch Bros?
Dutch Bros is a drive-thru coffee chain founded in 1992 in Grants Pass, Oregon. It has expanded to 900+ locations across the western US. Famous for friendly “broistas,” fully customizable drinks, and a strong loyalty community.
Is Dutch Bros only drive-thru?
Almost — 95% of locations are drive-thru only, no indoor seating. A small number have walk-up windows but no cafe lounges. Dutch Bros built its brand around the drive-thru experience.
What does Dutch Bros mean?
The chain is named after the founding brothers Dane and Travis Boersma, who are of Dutch heritage. “Dutch Bros” is short for “Dutch Brothers.”
Where are Dutch Bros locations?
Mostly western US: California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Texas, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma. Expanding east. See our locations guide.
Menu & Drinks
What kind of drinks does Dutch Bros sell?
Coffee (lattes, mochas, cold brew, americano), Rebel energy drinks, lemonades, iced teas, smoothies, freezes, sodas, hot cocoa, and a secret menu with 50+ fan-invented drinks.
Does Dutch Bros sell food?
Limited — “Grab-n-Go” items like muffin tops, granola bars, and small snacks. No sandwiches, hot food, or full breakfasts. Coffee-first experience.
What is the most popular Dutch Bros drink?
The Golden Eagle (caramel-vanilla espresso) and Annihilator (chocolate macadamia mocha) are the top two. See most popular drinks list.
What is the secret menu?
A community-built list of 50+ fan-invented drinks not on the printed menu. Broistas can make them by name. See our full secret menu guide.
Sizes & Prices
What are Dutch Bros sizes?
Small (16 oz), Medium (24 oz), Large (32 oz), plus a Kid’s size (12 oz) for select drinks. See complete size guide.
How much does a Dutch Bros drink cost?
Range: $3-$9. Most drinks: Small $4-5, Medium $5-6, Large $6-7. Specialty drinks (Snickers Freeze, 911) cost more.
Is Dutch Bros expensive?
Comparable to Starbucks but with larger sizes. Roughly 10-25% cheaper than Starbucks per drink. See Dutch Bros vs Starbucks.
Rewards & App
Does Dutch Bros have a rewards program?
Yes — Dutch Rewards in the Dutch Bros app. Free to join. Earn points on every purchase. See rewards guide.
Is the Dutch Bros app free?
Yes — completely free on iOS and Android. Includes mobile ordering at select locations.
Do I get a free birthday drink?
Yes — free drink in ANY size on your birthday (valid 7 days). Sign up 14+ days before your birthday. See birthday drink guide.
Hours & Locations
What time does Dutch Bros open?
Most locations open at 5:00 AM. Some urban locations open at 4:30 AM.
What time does Dutch Bros close?
Most close at 10:00 PM Sun-Thu, 11:00 PM Fri-Sat. See complete hours guide.
Is Dutch Bros open on holidays?
Most holidays yes, but closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Reduced hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Health & Dietary
Does Dutch Bros have sugar-free options?
Yes — sugar-free versions of vanilla, caramel, chocolate, hazelnut, white chocolate, coconut, almond, raspberry, peach, and strawberry. See sugar-free flavors guide.
Does Dutch Bros have dairy-free milk?
Yes — oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and coconut water are all available. See vegan guide.
What is the healthiest Dutch Bros drink?
Iced Americano (5 cal) is the lowest-calorie. Sugar-free Vanilla Cold Brew with Almond Milk (~30 cal) is the most popular healthy pick. See healthiest drinks guide.
Customer Experience
Why are Dutch Bros workers called broistas?
“Broista” is Dutch Bros’ term for their baristas — a portmanteau of “barista” and “bro.” Reflects the friendly, casual brand culture.
Why is the line so long at Dutch Bros?
Broistas chat with every customer, which slows the line but builds the community brand experience. Slowest 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM; fastest 2-4 PM.
Do I tip at Dutch Bros?
Yes — tipping is appreciated. Broistas earn significant income from tips. Tip via the app (tracked) or cash at the window. Even $1 helps.
Is Dutch Bros worth the hype?
For West Coast residents, yes — fun experience, generous sizes, friendly service, big drink variety. For East Coast residents who don’t have a location nearby, it might not match the social media hype since the brand culture is a big part of the appeal.
Ready to order? Read our complete how-to-order guide and master ordering hacks.