First time at Dutch Bros and feeling overwhelmed by the menu, the chatty broistas, or the customization choices? This 2026 beginner guide breaks down exactly how to order at Dutch Bros — what to say at the window, how to pick a size, how to customize, and how to use the app for faster service.

Quick Answer: How Do I Order at Dutch Bros?

Pull up to the drive-thru, smile at the broista, name a drink (or describe what you like), pick a size (Small/Medium/Large), confirm hot/iced/freeze, and pay with the Dutch Bros app for 2x rewards points. The whole interaction takes 60-90 seconds.

Step-by-Step: How to Order at Dutch Bros

  1. Pull up to the drive-thru — most Dutch Bros locations are drive-thru only with no indoor seating. Some have walk-up windows.
  2. Greet the broista — they are trained to be friendly and chatty. A simple “Hi! How are you?” works.
  3. Name a drink, OR describe what you want — see “What to Say” section below.
  4. Pick a size: Small (16 oz), Medium (24 oz), or Large (32 oz). See our Dutch Bros size guide.
  5. Pick a style: Hot, Iced, or Freeze (blended with ice).
  6. Customize — milk type, sugar level, extra shots, sugar-free flavors, etc.
  7. Pay — credit/debit, Apple Pay, or Dutch Bros card via app (2x rewards points).
  8. Tip — broistas earn tips; even $1 is appreciated.
  9. Scan your rewards barcode — open the Dutch Bros app and show the barcode to earn points.

What to Say When You Order

You have three ways to order:

Option 1: By Drink Name

If you already know what you want, just say the name: “Medium iced Golden Eagle” or “Small Caramelizer freeze.” This is the fastest way to order.

Option 2: By Ingredients

If you do not know drink names, describe what you like: “I want something chocolatey and not too sweet” or “Vanilla iced coffee with oat milk.” The broista will recommend something.

Option 3: Ask for Recommendations

Say “What’s your favorite drink?” or “I like sweet drinks — what do you recommend?” Broistas love this question and will introduce you to their personal favorites.

Top 5 Drinks to Order as a Beginner

  1. Golden Eagle — caramel-vanilla classic, crowd-pleaser
  2. Caramelizer — chocolate-caramel mocha
  3. Picture Perfect — chocolate-strawberry, Instagram-friendly
  4. Strawberry Lemonade — caffeine-free, refreshing
  5. Cotton Candy Rebel — viral fruity energy drink

Pro Tips for First-Timers

  • Download the app first — earn 2x points by paying with a loaded Dutch Bros card.
  • Try the secret menu — see our secret menu guide.
  • Half-sweet your drink — cuts sugar by 40-50% without losing flavor.
  • Get the small first — Dutch Bros’ “small” is 16 oz, plenty for a new try.
  • Birthday drink is FREE — sign up for the app at least 14 days before your birthday.
  • Ask for sugar-free — most flavors have sugar-free versions.
  • Be patient with the line — Dutch Bros chats with every customer; allow extra time during morning rush.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ordering “a coffee” — Dutch Bros has many coffee types; be specific (latte, mocha, cold brew, americano).
  • Skipping the rewards app — losing 2x points on every visit
  • Ordering a Large your first time — Dutch Bros sizes are huge; small is usually enough
  • Not customizing — Dutch Bros is built for custom orders; embrace it
  • Paying with credit — pay via app for 2x points instead

FAQ: Ordering at Dutch Bros

Is Dutch Bros all drive-thru?

Almost all Dutch Bros locations are drive-thru only. A small number have walk-up windows, but no indoor cafe seating.

Can I order on the app?

Mobile ordering is available at select locations. Check your local stand in the Dutch Bros app.

How long is the wait at Dutch Bros?

Average wait is 5-10 minutes. Morning rush (7-9 AM) can be 15-20 minutes. Off-peak (2-4 PM) is fastest.

Now that you know how to order, browse the full Dutch Bros menu and explore our secret menu guide.

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