Joyce Is Not Here
A venue that plays host to regular poetry readings, intimate musical performances, and film screenings, Joyce Is Not Here doubles as a drinking hole and a rare meeting point for a multi-generational arty crowd, from young hipsters to veteran libertines. Its welcoming and rather blue space is filled with books, paintings and random furniture, as well as a few deliberate attempts at peculiarity, like the silver human legs masquerading as table stands and its ‘sad hour’ in place of the usual happy one. And while you’re here, ask for Joyce. She may or may not be around… 38-44 Peel St, Central, 2851 2999; www.joycebakerdesign.com. Sad Hour 4pm-8pm.

Club 71
With its politically loaded name, this new incarnation of the much-loved Club 64 is a den for thinkers, its partly hidden location perhaps doubling as an intelligence test for entry. Eclectic in its design, this laidback bar features vibrant paintings (including a sky ceiling mural), guitars on the walls and politics titles on offer. ‘71’ has become one of the mainstay hangouts for the socially aware crowd (Long Hair has been known to sup here) with discussions commonly focusing on music, art, or the derision of political leaders. For a bit of fun, pull up a seat at the bar, start chatting with the regulars and tell them that you’re a Republican. B/F, 67 Hollywood Rd, Soho, 2858 7071. H/H 6-9pm

Gecko
Not the easiest bar for novices to locate (head up Pottinger Street and turn right into the alleyway opposite Mrs Jones; you’ll know you’ve arrived by the crowd spilling out onto the lane), Gecko is the definition of bijou. The narrow doorway opens up into an only slightly less narrow drinking area, with a couch stuffed into one corner, a piano in another, and buyable art on the walls. Wednesday and Thursday nights here are particularly popular for the jazz jam sessions (DJs play on other nights), and the joint is a magnet for musos and artists, possibly because of the absinthe that’s on sale. On live music nights you’ll have to do your level best not to trip over the bassist or get elbowed by a drummer as you make your way to the bar. LG/F, Ezra Lane, Lower Hollywood Rd, Central, 2537 4680; www.gecko.hk. H/H Mon-Sat 4pm-9pm. Closed Sundays.

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See also:
Blasts from the past