Brouwerij 't Ij Brewery / Drinking Activity / Pub / Tour

East / East Docks, Amsterdam –

Set under a classic, centuries-old Dutch windmill, the Brouwerij 't Ij is a Belgian-style craft beer brewery that has been serving suds enthusiasts a freshly-tapped assortment of rich, micro-brewed beers since 1985.

Just taking one step inside the door is enough to understand that it’s not just a simple windmill, but a brewery that’s steeped in its own product, from the sticky red floor to the beer-wet countertop of the long, standing-room-only bar.

The white-tiled walls are the only nod to the brewery’s past as a bathhouse, and those are mostly covered by photos of old friends and old windmills, as well as one of the largest collections of beer bottles in the city.

Beer is only sold at the very busy bar, so patrons should figure out their orders in advance. While they wait, they can also catch a glimpse of the beer-making process through the large window behind the bar before taking their order outside to the sunny, tree-lined terrace to join the good-natured clientele that gathers there.

Besides offering some of the best deals around for flavorful, fresh brews, Brouwerij 't Ij also provides a delightfully cozy Dutch atmosphere perfect for lazing away any sunny afternoon.