Over east you will find one of the few (if only?) authentic windmills in the center of Amsterdam. Brouwerij t'IJ, located at Funenkade 7, is the local spot for homemade brew. Several varieties are on tap, including Columbus, the strongest at 9%, and most are strong- starting at 6% and up. Also available is a large selection of bottled beers. Recently having undergone an internal facelift, the Brouwerij is open rarely, and in the midst of last Thursday's sun I found myself there and luckily, a handful of people on the terrace. I like to order a selection of Dutch cheeses for 3.50, and they also have nice dried meats.

The official opening hours are Wednesday till Sunday from 3PM to 8PM, but I have found from experience that they also open seasonly and according to the weather.