NK Cocktail
Het beste bartendingtalent van Nederland op het hoogste podium.
In January 2026, the official Dutch Championship Cocktail will return to where it all began: Horecava. A vibrant spectacle where craftmanship, flair, and creativity come together. The Dutch Cocktail Championship is the ultimate battle between the best bartenders in the Netherlands. The bar is set high, because only the very best can represent the Netherlands on the world stage.
What can you expect?
Cocktail shaking is a craft, and this is evident every year during the Dutch Cocktail Championships. This official national championship, organized by the Dutch Bartenders Club (NBC), puts the passion, creativity, and professional standards of the profession in the spotlight.
“We not only highlight the craftmanship, but also the rich history of our club” – Richard Zijlstra, Chairman of the NBC.
Professional bartenders compete against each other during Horecava in two exciting days of competition. Under the watchful eye of professional judges, they are assessed on presentation, technique, neatness, garnish, taste, and balance. The winners will represent the Netherlands later that year at the IBA World Cup Championship. In addition to titles, there are cash prizes and prestigious NBC challenge trophies to be won.
About the Dutch Bartending Club
The NBC has been the official bartenders’ association of the Netherlands since 1949 and is a co-founder of the International Bartenders Association (IBA). They are an established name in the international bartending world. NBC organizes competition and training courses, offers masterclasses, workshops, networking events, and connects bartenders with brands, colleagues and opportunities. Visit their website for more information or to become a member.
You don't want to miss this
“Cocktails and bartending are an important part of the modern hospitality landscape. With these competitions, we give the profession the stage it deserves.” – Florentine Rijkmans, Director Horecava
Whether you are a bartender, hospitality entrepreneur, or cocktail enthusiast, the Dutch Cocktail Competition gives you a glimpse into the Dutch bar scene. Be inspired by technique, passion, and innovation.