Camera Stylo, the Hutong Bar Shaping Our Beijing Lives
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I think we can all agree that it is no small feat to stay put for long in Beijing. Take Camera Stylo at 64 Dongsishiyitiao, for example. This quaint space near Zhangzizhong Road was once a meetup point for indie film fans and has since survived many waves of urban transformation to become a significant backdrop to a tight-knit community.
From vintage markets to silent mixers, writing meet ups and monthly Spittoon events, if those maroon walls with their vintage film posters and shelves full of tchotchkes could talk, the stories would flow.The counter where magic happens and friendly elbows rub in joyful conversation
A staircase to a wonderful evening
Many gatherings have taken place here
"Camera Stylo has been a literary haven for me on account of being the host of the wonderful Spittoon events! Thursday evenings entering that door in the corner with its welcoming energy; ordering a hot toddy; and heading upstairs to the intimate room with its stage and seeing writers, poets, musicians, creatives bring their art alive...there’s no place quite like it in Beijing!" Rianka M., writer and Spittoon member
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A happy memory from last Christmas
"Stylo's one of the last outposts of what was cool about Beijing back before the Bricking Up. As the city's old culture scenes have dried up, the film circles, the roof drinking, even Johnny —who was bartender at Amilal in the old days— have all trickled down to this one bar on Dongsi Shiyitiao. Here's to refusing to change." David Cohen, lately of Beijing
Rooftop of your (warmer) hutong dreams
"Camera Stylo has changed my life in Beijing. Thanks to this place I have watched many movies and met many film directors and friends. For me, it is a meeting place of sorts where I can breathe and feel like myself. I think many of us feel that way and would be saddened if this place ever disappeared." Guille Bravo, writer
It's been crowded when Spittoon Fiction nights roll in
Camera Stylo (摄影笔)
64 Dongsi Shiyi Tiao, Dongcheng District
东城区东四十一条64号
READ: Icebreakers for Introverts: Pen & Paper Replace Small Talk at Silent Mixer
Images: Dianping, courtesy of Camera Stylo and Spittoon Collective
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