CALIFORNIA
Bill's Barber Shop 12012 Rosecrans Blvd., Norwalk CA
Hours: Tues-Fri 9 AM - 6 PM; Sat 7 AM - 4 PM Phone:
(562) 864-8407 This shop is located about 15 Miles southeast
of downtown Los Angeles off the 5 Freeway. Been going
to this shop for years every couple of weeks. This shop
is about 40 years old 2 chair shop which is now owned
by Mike who was Bill's son ( now retired). Mike is in
his late 30's and sure has learn how to cut hair as
many will wait for hours to get in his chair. On Saturdays
the shop opens around 6:45am with a few early birds
outside the shop waiting to be the first in the chair.
Mike sure knows his haircuts, he will spend at least
20 to 30 minutes on each cut from tapercut to flattop
each cut is a comb over Oster clippers, comes out perfect
as guys will wait for him for as much as 2 to 3 hours.
The other barber is a younger Latino guy mid 20's also
a good barber, guys in a hurry will go to him, as his
clients are now bulding. Haircuts are 11 dollars. (Review
by Steve) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chuck's Old Fashioned Barber Shop 3514 W. Victory Blvd.,
Burbank, CA Open: Tues-Friday 8am - 5.30pm; Sat 8am-2pm
Phone: (818) 846-7537 Although Chuck has been the sole
proprietor for a number of years now, the shop is still
listed as Newt & Bob's Barber Shop in the phone book.
Be that as it may, Chuck's, located just W. of Hollywood
Way down the street from Burbank Airport, is one of
the neatest oldtime shops left in the area and lives
up to its name (gotta love those sturdy old chairs!).
They don't make them quite like this anymore! Chuck,
a friendly, low key kinda guy, is close to or past retirement
age and seems to cater to a mostly older clientele who
come in for a trim and shoot the breeze, talking everything
from fishing to politics. Tuesday through Thursday,
Chuck gets help from another oldtimer, Gary, who had
his own one-chair shop down on Burbank Blvd. for close
to 40 years before semi-retiring and selling the place
to the business next door. Both barbers are good at
everything from regular taper cuts to crewcuts, and
Gary (chair closest to the door) especially isn't shy
about going short and taking it down to the skin for
a high and tight, but do not expect the 5-ought treatment.
Still, the overall shop atmosphere, slower pace, and
throw-back-to-another-era vibe make Chuck's worth a
visit for any barbershop enthusiast. Haircuts are $10.
(Review by HTH) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
El Toro Barber Shop 23789 El Toro Road, Lake Forest,
California Phone: (949) 768-4619 This shop has been
in the area since the sixties. The area is that of the
El Toro Marine Corps Air Station that closed last summer.
Got a new security job that a group of three retired
Marines owned. The ad in paper said Strict Military
appearance required. I was interviewed and hired with
the stipulation that I got a strict, maximum, High and
Tight Marine corps reg. cut. Tim even wrote out the
address on his former Corps engraved notes and put down
what i was to get haircut wise. I went here a little
nervous and showed the barber the note. He looked approvingly
and said that I would look great! I was also told no
facial hair allowed and had a mustache. I told the barber
that and the first thing he did was 0 clipper it off.
Next came the clippers to about 4 inches of hair all
over. It fell off in moments and i was surprised. The
finishing touches were done by the old fashion hot lather
machine and a straight razor!!! This is probably the
only Calif. shop that still uses it. He recommended
a closer facial shave and to get the mustache stubble
off. He also said the walls needed cleaning up!!! The
result was a hot lathered ,shaved cleanface, back and
sides of head, and then an extra precision, ultra short
top and front!!! The job is great, and my boss approves!!!
Three months now, and I have had about 10 high and tight
experiences since!!!! (Review by RH) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lincoln
Barbers 2208 Lincoln Ave. Santa Monica Phone: (310)
314-1719 Hours: Tues-Sat 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM This is an
awesome shop. The shop owner, Chino, last chair in the
back, did a superb job on my High 'n Tight Flattop.
Not only did he cut it short, he hot lathered and shaved
the sides and back. I also requested that the flattop
be taken very short. He took his time and not only is
the top flat and crisp, but I have a nice landing strip
showing. I only had to wait about 20 minutes, but it
was well worth the wait. The other barbers in the shop
also seem to know what they are doing. There is no shortage
of clipper action and each barber has a hot lather machine
and straight edge. It is one of the only shops in Los
Angeles that I have found that will actually shave the
back and sides or just edge it. (Review by HNT Recon)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gil's
Barber Shop 18146 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA Phone: (818)
705-9913 Hours: 7 days a week 8am-6pm Gil's Barber Shop,
just W. of Lindley Ave., has been voted 'Best Barbershop'
by the readers of the local 'Daily News' numerous times,
making it possibly the most high profile traditional
barber shop in the San Fernando Valley. Gil himself
does not cut hair anymore - he delegates waiting customers
to the next open chair and collects the money afterwards
- but he's got a small armada of barbers doing it for
him. This is a well-kept classic 6-chair shop, with
2 more chairs in an ajascent back room, making it a
very busy place indeed. Clipper cuts are the name of
the game here. Saturdays and Sundays are always bustling
with activity and chances are there will be a bit of
a wait - and a chance to see the hair fly and watch
the game on TV - with everyone from local jocks, to
dads and their kids, to seniors coming in for a cleanup.
The haircuts at Gil's are generally well executed -
lots of tight fades, tapers, crewcuts, high and tights,
and flattops, too - but with that many (rotating) barbers
(…and, yes, there is a lady barber in the bunch), some
are bound to be better than others. Haircuts are $9.
(Review by HTH) -----------------------------------------------Joe's
Barber Shop (different shop from the one listed below)
19801-B Vanowen St. Canoga Park, CA Phone: (818) 992-9871
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm; Sat 8am-5:00pm With the
recent retirement of longtime owner, Joe Mayer, another
local barbering institution looked like it might come
to an end late last year. Luckily, one of Joe's young
barbers, Luis, is keeping the tradition alive. He took
over this 4-chair shop when Joe decided to hang up the
clippers after six decades; incidentally, the shop still
carries his name. Although the slogan on Joe's old business
card, "you can't get a better haircut at any price",
may not be quite that accurate anymore since haircuts
are now $10 rather than eight dollars - still a good
bargain - this continues to be a great shop for a good
old fashioned haircut. Joe's, located one block W. of
Corbin Ave., attracts a good mix of young buzz heads,
middle aged blue-collar guys, and seniors, and short
cuts are very much the norm here. Frank, who has given
me most of my haircuts, is the lone holdover from the
old days and he knows how to give an authentic high
and tight. A friendly fellow who takes his time, he
first peels sides and back with his trusty Osters, then
scrapes those whitewalls clean with the edger, if so
desired, and will finish the cut with an outline razor
shave and a nice splash of aftershave lotion. Nothing
like that tingling sensation to get the cranial blood
circulation going! All the other barbers are equally
proficient and make Joe's one of the best places in
the San Fernando Valley for anyone in search of a traditional
barbershop experience.
Joe's
Barbershop (different shop from the one listed above)
681 West Arbor Vitae Street, Inglewood, CA Phone: (310)
674-3655 (Inglewood is near LAX on the border of Westchester,
Hawthorne, and Inglewood. This shop is located just
minutes off the 405 Freeway and La Cienaga.) This is
a great shop. I used to go to a barber near my house
only blocks away, but now I drive 15 minutes to get
one of the finest and best shave fades ever. Each of
the barbers takes at least 30-45 minutes to cut hair.
I go to Joe's every week, to get my shave fade tighten
up, and man do they ever do a wonderful job. The barbershop
is a house that was converted into a four-chair shop.
The shop reminds me of going to an old-timer's barber
shop. This shop has one of the largest pairs of scissors,
and comb hanging on the wall. I recommend going early
in the morning, around 8:30am, as there is a very long
wait otherwise. For $9.00 you get a fade shave with
razor, and a massage. After each haircut you'll get
about a 5 minute massage. No matter if you are a new
customer or old customer they will make conversation,
and make you feel at home. (Review by Wayne) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pat's Barber Shop 12437 1/2 Victory Blvd. North Hollywood,
CA Phone: (818) 769-8268 Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm; Sat
8am-5pm; Sunday 8am-4pm Another hidden treasure that's
not listed in the phone book - probably because they
have all the business they can handle and don't need
the phone ringing off the hook (so don't bug the fellas!).
This is a small, cozy 4-chair shop, located just E.
of Whitsett Ave., that's been churning out classic clipper
cuts for many years. Evenings, Saturdays and Sundays
are especially busy, and since the shop attracts a lot
of younger, mostly Hispanic guys from the area, along
with its fair share of oldtimers, short and shortest
cuts are all the rage. According to Pat, who no longer
cuts hair himself but comes in bright and early every
day (there's usually a barber on call as early as 7.15am),
skin cuts account for up to 3/4 of the business at the
shop. High and tights, bald fades, and tight flats are
definitely the specialty of the house. All the barbers
are very adept with the clippers and will go as short
as you ask them to, but from my own experience, John
is the best barber in the bunch (he will shave sides
and back at least part of the way up with a disposable
razor upon request; not sure if this is general shop
policy). I've been on the receiving end of some fantastic
high and tights - John is very precise and gets the
sides and back nice and tight, and his clipper-over-comb
work is superb. All haircuts are finished with an outline
razor shave, which many other shops won't do anymore.
At $8 (flattops are $10) a pop, haircuts are a bargain
- seniors pay $6.50 only! A great place to get buzzed.
(Review by HTH) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bills Barber Shop 12012 Rosecrans Blvd., Norwalk CA
Hours: Tues-Fri 9 AM - 6 PM; Sat 7 AM - 4 PM Phone:
(562) 864-8407 This Shop located about 15 Miles southeast
of downtown Los Angeles off the 5 Freeway. Been going
to this shop for years every couple of weeks. This shop
is about 40 years old 2 chair shop which is now owned
by Mike who was Bill's son ( now retired) Mike is in
his late 30's and sure has learn how to cut hair as
many will wait for hours to get in his chair. On Saturdays
the shop will open around 645am with a few early birds
outside the shop waiting to be the first in the chair
haircut. Mike sure knows his haircuts, he will spend
at least 20 to 30 minutes on each cut from tapercut
to flattop each cut is a comb over Oster clippers, comes
out perfect as guys will wait for him for as much as
2 to 3 hours. The other barber is a younger latino guy
mid 20's also a good barber, guys in a hurry will go
to him, as his clients are now bulding Haircuts are
11 dollars (Review by Steve) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maureene's Barbering for Men 1339 Pine Street #C Walnut
Creek, CA Phone: (925) 934-2002 This a very traditional
barbershop setting with vintage furnishings (maybe early
60s). It is a one-barber shop, with Maureene doing all
the cutting. I had been growing my hair out, so it was
a bit shaggy when I asked her to neaten it up a bit.
She took off a lot more than I expected, but the haircut
was great (a medium businessman's CUT). She uses a traditional
clippers-over-comb technique with the Oster 76's, and
is not shy about cutting with them. I dropped a hint
about my Summer flattop coming soon and she said, enthusiastically,
she loves to do them. If you don't mind a femal barber,
this is a great place! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rios Barbershop 10434 National Blvd., West Los Angeles,
CA Hours: Mon-Sat 8 AM - 6 PM Phoe: (310) 558-0189 Rios
is a 4 chair shop opened maybe 10 years now, I have
only gone to the owner as his work is the best of all
the other barbers in the shop. He also is a major Oster
clipper guy. Rios is work is super at good High n Tights
and Flattops or shaved heads. He gives a mean taper
as the Oster blades get switched as many 6 times in
one haircut. Give Rios a try but be prepared to wait
in line for him as the shop always has a line waiting
for this shop to open. (Reviewed by Steve) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S. Vincente's Barber and Hair Styling 13608 1/2 Victory
Blvd., Van Nuys, CA Phone: (818) 997-9656 Hours: Tues-Sat
10am-5:30pm Somewhat deceptively listed as 'Hairstyling
Barber Shop' in the phone book - if listed at all -
this place is a no frills traditional 3-chair shop,
situated across the parking lot from Circuit City near
the corner of Woodman Ave.. Vince, an older Latino,
and Mike, a balding white guy in his 30's, are the barbers;
a third barber works part time only on Thursdays and
Saturdays. I called in advance and inquired about getting
a high and tight and got an enthusiastic "Oh yes - we
do plenty of those!" over the phone. I knew I had definitely
set foot in the right place when upon entering I saw
skin cuts in progress in both chairs and that sweet
sound of the Osters filling the air. Both Vince and
Mike are very skilled with the clippers and love to
take it 'down to the wood'. Precision military haircutting!
Vince (chair by the door) was busy giving a guy a combable
HT while Mike finished up a great looking HT flat on
his customer. According to Mike, flats and bald fades/high
and tight crewcuts are by far the most popular cuts
among their clientele - "you can't tell who's a Marine
and who isn't anymore!" I ended up in Mike's chair and
he proceeded to give me one of the best HT crews I've
had in a long while. He was very meticulous and made
sure I got exactly what I wanted. About the only drawback
was that he did not finish the cut with an outline razor
shave. Haircuts, including flattops, are $10, and if
my personal experience at S. Vincente's is any indication
- this shop's the real deal and one of the best places
for short cuts in the L.A. area. Highly recommended.
(Review by HTH) CONNECTICUT Lafayette Barber Shop 1012
Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT (203) 334-9725 This shop
caters overwhelmingly to Bridgeport's large Latino community.
A lot of these guys seem to favor very tight haircuts,
and this is the place where they go for the best. It's
a huge shop, and employs least 8 barbers at a time;
I am only familiar with the work of the first five (male)
barbers on the right as you walk in, and they do exceptional
work with high and tights. If it's a great h&t you want,
with a GREAT blend, you can't do much better anywhere.
Most will take the sides down with the electric, and
go as high as you wish. My own barber, Freddy, is the
very first barber on the right as you walk in. I've
found him to be incredible: he'll do his best to give
me exactly the cut I want, and will take his time while
he goes as short as I like. He's the best barber I've
found since Ron's, at Parris Island, SC! (Review by
BuzzCT) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
''Mr. Flattop'' at The Barber's Nook Thompson, CT (860)
963-1099 REVIEW ONE: Mr. Flattop is a Master Barber
in his 32nd year this year (former USAF) and has a home-base
shop in Thompson, CT., that is better known as The Barber's
Nook. Mr. Flattop has clients that travel up to 2 hours
just to see him! He gives awesome military flattops,
as well as other great short cuts. Try him out --- you
won't be disappointed, TRUST ME! I am former USMC and
I know what I am talking about. REVIEW TWO: I've reviewed
a lot of shops here. Two stand out above all the others
I've been to over the years: Paul, in Ayer, Ma; and,
of course, the great barber in Beaufort, SC - home of
the USMA. Well, now there's one more: Mr Flattop, in
Thompson, CT. As already mentioned, he takes the utmost
care in giving all short cuts, and flats and brushcuts
are his specialty. His price is $10 for a flat, and
$3 extra for shaving the sides and back with a straight
razor. Adding to this is the fact that he's an exceptionally
nice guy, as well as an especially gifted barber! Right
now, Mr. Flattop works out of the Barber's Nook, based
in his home. For an appointment and directions, call
him at (860) 963-1099. Later this summer, he will also
be opening his own shop in Webster, MA, which is right
over the CT/MA line, of I-395. But I wouldn't wait that
long, if I were you: yes, he's THAT GOOD! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Professional Barber Shop 212 Trumbull Street (across
from Civic Center), Hartford, CT Phone: (860) 247-3795
This shop was recommended on The Buzz a while ago, and
I finally got to try it out; I'm sorry I waited! Sal
and Joseph are the recommended barbers; I got Joseph,
whom I found to be personable and professional. Armed
with pictures of the high-and-tight flattops featured
in the Buzztown Gallery, I showed them to Joe, who spent
some time with me discussing what he thought to be best
cut for me, and why, and he welcomed my input. He sounded
like he really knew his stuff, so I let him go ahead
and do it as he suggested. The results were, simply,
the best haircut I've ever gotten. He did a tremendous
job shaving the sides and back, and the blend to the
corners was perfect. I was so relaxed I felt as though
I'd been to a spa! I began to sweat the bill, expecting
it to be far more than the $11 I usually pay for a haircut.
The tab? $12, and worth twice that! I made an appointment
for the same time, next week before I left the shop.
And believe me, I'd recommend Joe to anyone; he's one
great barber! (Review by BuzzCT ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rocky's Barber Shop 878 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT
Phone: (203) 874-9602 For some reason, Milford boasts
a HUGE population of young people into very short hair,
and Rocky's is where they all seem to go. The shop is
BUSY. Two female barbers in the rear of the shop do
an excellent job on very short hair, but Rocky (owner,
first chair) and Ronnie (second chair) are outstanding.
Ronnie is usually a VERY long wait, but he really takes
his time and the results are excellent. Haircuts: $11.00.
(Review by BuzzCT ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Silver Lane Barber Shop 283 Silver Lane, East Hartford,
CT Phone: (860) 569-2042 Shop hours: Tues-Sat 9-5 Well,
I FINALLY have a new Connecticut barber shop to post,
and I'm really pleased with it! The shop is the Silver
Lane Barber Shop. Although it was recommended to me
here by another poster some time ago, I hadn't managed
to get there. Recently, however, while talking to a
Marine recruiter, he mentioned that the owner of the
shop, Sebastian, did a great Marine haircut. So, I HAD
to try it out this time. The results were great! Sebastian
somehow assumed I was military of some sort, and really
went to town. He made a point of telling me that he's
been cutting the hair of lots of the area Marines for
many years, and told me all about the new #00000 blade
he was using. The overall shape of the cut was great;
hadn't had one so "active" looking since the cut I'd
gotten at Parris Island last fall. Bottom line? A very
good Marine high and tight horseshoe flattop! The one
drawback might be that he doesn't shave the sides as
I like with the razor, but I felt that quality of the
overall cut was so good that I didn't mind at all! George,
the other barber, is just as good as the owner! So,
I'd rate BOTH barbers as A-1! If someone is looking
for a great high & tight, it would be hard to miss with
either George OR Sebastian! And they're both personable
and very accommodating. Haircuts: $10.00. (Review by
BuzzCT ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Village Barber 265 Main Street (CT Rt. 70), South
Meriden, CT Phone: (203) 235-4666 Shop open Tuesday-Saturday
This is a real, old-fashioned barber shop with a twist:
the owner is a guy in his 20's. All the equipment appears
to be original, and there are lots of old barbershop
pictures on the wall. Glenn, the owner, does an excellent
job with short hair, including great flattops and razor
shaves with high & tights (if requested) The wait might
be a bit long, but it is worth it, and the price of
a cut is reasonable. An older barber works there too,
sometimes, but I haven't seen him give any short cuts.
Update - April 2, 1998: Although this remains an old
fashioned shop at heart, it has been recently remodeled
in a beautiful, classic style, with lots of solid red
oak paneling and wainscoting. All of the fixtures are
still vintage and authentic, but the feeling one gets
now is that this must have been what a topnotch shop
looked like 50 or so years ago. Glenn, the owner, continues
to give great short cuts, and will shave the sides of
a high & tight if asked. His older partner, who formerly
owned the shop, also does a fine job with short hair.
This is a shop that is not to be missed if you're in
the area; it's a little out of the way, but well worth
finding! (Review by BuzzCT ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Village Barber Shop 107 Water Street, Stonington, CT
Phone: (860) 535-2241 This is a one-barber shop in the
center of a very beautiful, upscale town. Doug, the
owner, used to be a barber at the Coast Guard Academy.
He is very familiar with all military haircuts, and
does a GREAT job. He is not far from the sub base in
New London, and many Navy personnel go to him. It is
not unusual to watch four high-and-tights as you're
waiting. Doug is very personable. High and tights are
done with the edger, but Doug DOES have the Norelco
shaver, and will use it if asked to. Summary: I'd probably
rate Doug as the BEST flattop barber in Connecticut,
if you don't feel the need for having a straight razor
used. If you happen to be in the area to visit the casinos,
a visit here is a MUST! Haircuts: $11. (Review by BuzzCT
) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Y" Haircutting 49 High Street, New Haven, CT Phone:
(203) 562-5623 Having lived in the New Haven suburbs
for 5 years, I'd pretty much given up the idea of finding
a good flattop barber in the area; but, after getting
a great cut from a Massachusetts barber a few weeks
ago, I was determined to try again. I'd visited a few
"promising" shops with my hair almost in need of recutting,
and asked if they cut high and tight flattops. When
I got an enthusiastic "YES!" from Tony, the owner of
this shop, I decided to let him try it - and have been
really happy with the results! Tony (he's the oldest
barber, and his chair is the one nearest the door) doesn't
shave, but was not afraid to take the sides "to the
wood" with the edger; he cuts a table-flat deck, with
a very nice landing strip; and the blend with the corners
is perfect! He finishes the top with the scissors, but
his overall flattop skills are superb. In short, I'd
definitely recommend him! Also, while waiting, I noticed
that the other, younger barbers, also do GREAT ivy leagues.
I hadn't thought about it before, but this seems to
make perfect sense: the shop is located just off the
main Yale campus; what better place to get a REAL ivy
league! The shop is VERY popular; the sign says it has
been in business since 1909! Originally located in the
basement of the Yale Co-op, it was relocated - twice
- during the latest university reconstruction. The clientele
is a mixture of Yale students and "townies;" and the
waits can be fairly long - but the haircuts you see
are worth it. The posted haircut price is $14, but I
have been charged $12. (I usually give a $3 tip, which
seems to please Tony.) All the barbers are friendly,
and the atmosphere is very relaxed in the shop. (Review
by BuzzCT ) FLORIDA Art & Renovation 4545 Forest Hill
Blvd. (across from K-Mart), West Palm Beach, FL Phone:
(561) 642-7001 Open seven days a week Lots of hair on
the floor. I go just about every Sunday for at least
a shave. Jose gives a great shave, always seems busy
on Sundays. (Review by BUZZ~N~SHAVE) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boots Barbershop Six-Gun Plaza, Silver Springs Blvd.,
Ocala Florida Shop Hours: Mon-Sat 8:00am to 6:00pm This
barbershop is owned by Boots. His daughter and his grandson
are both barbers in the shop. It's a 6-chair shop with
a country setting. They specialize in high and tight
flattops, and they take the hair right down to nothing
on the sides and back, with the shortest landing strip
flattops I have ever seen. They cut hair for a lot of
the local police, and do allot of young peoples fades,
tapers shaved heads, etc. This barbershop is truly traditional,
and has been in business over 25 years. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carl's Barber Shop 13180 W. State Road, 84 Fort Lauderdale,
FL Phone: (954) 475-9277 Recently I visited a great
barbershop in Davie, Florida named Carl's Barber Shop
(Fort Lauderdale) which had over 15 barbers and a great
ambiance. They specialize in H&T, Flattops, Fades, Tapers
and Radical Cuts. Most of their clients are between
the ages of 16 to 30 years of age and the preference
is getting very short hair cuts. The most popular haircut
they give in this shop is the Davie Flattop, which is
great since I have been using this style for the last
3 weeks. (Review by Xavier S) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joe's Barber Shop 922 N. Fed Highway (Moving soon to
Hub Plaza), Ft. Lauderdale FL Phone: (954) 764-7960
Specializing in Fades - Flat Tops. Currently has four
barbers, all do great cuts. They also do H&T and will
shave the sides w/straight edge razor. They also do
facial shaves. This is a great shop his new shop which
I believe is going to be a 10-chair shop. Highly recommended.
(Review by BUZZ~N~SHAVE) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Larry's Barber Shop 517 Belcher Road, Clearwater, Fl
Phone: (727) 799-1861 This barbershop is located in
the Publix shopping plaza off of Belcher Road and Gulf-To-Bay
Blvd. There are six chairs in this shop. As of this
date, all six chairs are occupied. I have listed the
barber names in order from the first chair closest to
the door to the chair further away: Chair one - Larry
(owner); Chair two - forgot his name; Chair three -
Franco; Chair four - Chad; Chair five - Lady; Chair
six - new older guy (avoid him) All six barbers give
decent haircuts but if you are looking for something
particular certain barber specialize in certain cuts.
The first barber in chair one is Larry the owner. Larry
is older and gives the best tapered haircut. He cuts
the tightest taper around the ears and the nape of the
neck. It is not your usual blended fade as you can really
see the close taper. This type of cut reminds me of
a more traditional barber haircut. I personal love it.
Larry is not shy to use the clippers. If you tell him
you want a close tapered sides and back, you are going
to get it. He cuts fairly fast but if you want an authentic
looking barber cut, he is the guy to go to. Larry is
the best. He usually has a line but you can request
whatever barber you want. If this is your first cut
in this shop I highly recommend asking for Larry. For
the life of me, I can't remember the barber's name in
the 2nd chair. This barber takes the longest time out
of anybody. Most haircuts last almost 30 minutes. He
is also the only barber to use aftershave and applies
it with his hands after he straight razors the sides
and back of your neck. He also does a complete outline
shave. Most barbers just shave around around the sideburns
and barely the back of the neck. I wasn't as impressed
with this cutting style; but he gives a very relaxing
haircut experience. I still go to him occassionally
when I just want to enjoy my haircut. The third chair
is occupied by Franco. Franco gives great blended fades.
In fact he just cut my hair last week. His haircuts
are very trendy and he knows how to use the clippers
to fade the sides and than blend in the top with scissors.
Franco is probably the best barber in the shop if you
want your hair cut but not have it look like you just
got a major short haircut. I usually ask him to taper
the sides and back with a 1.5 and and keep the top about
1.5" long combed forward with the banges brushed up.
It is very popular cut these days; and Franco does a
great job. He also outline shaves the sideberns and
neck. He is a great conversationalist and will talk
to you through the entire haircut. Don't go to Franco
if you want to close your eyes and and not talk. He
is a talker. The fourth chair is occupied by the youngest
barber, Chad. Chad has cut my hair more than anybody.
He also sports a fairly closes Ivey League cut himself.
I also ask for a close 1.5 taper (keeping the taper
lower) and ask him to go over the nape of the neck and
the edges of the ears with a 1.0. This leaves me with
a nice tight taper but very blended. Chad just gives
a great haircut period. He takes his time and knows
how to use the clippers. I never worry about getting
a bad haircut with Chad. He also remembers your name
and the fact that he has cut your hair before. Something
that many barbers forget. A lot of the younger professional
guys go to Chad for their haircuts. I would consider
Chad my primary barber. The fifith chair has been recently
occupied by a female. I have never used her. I was quite
frankly disappointed that Larry allowed a female barber
in the shop. The six chair has been recently occupied
by an older barber. I can't remember his name; but I
have seen a few of his cuts. He usually squares the
back and raises the hairline too high. I would never
let him touch my hair. But you never know, maybe he
was having a bad day. (Review by TaperedTight) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nenes 1612 SW 8th Street (Calle Ocho), Miami, Florida
Shop Hours:Tues - Sat 3pm-7pm; Sun 12- 4pm; Closed Mon
Phone: (305) 643-9006 If you are visiting Miami, you
don’t have to go to Deerfield Buzz for a great buzzcut.
Roger, at Nenes in Little Havana, is a master of fades
and buzzcuts. I was in Little Havana several weeks ago
and saw a guy with a great high and tight walk out of
Roger’s shop. He told me Roger has cut his hair for
years, and cuts his teenager’s hair as well. Only one
small problem: Roger does not speak English! Since I
am from LA, I speak "haircut Spanish," and got the best
fade I have had for years. Highly recommended. I went
back the following week on a weekday, and Roger gave
me a face shave. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rick's Barbershop 2400 SE 36th Ave, Ocala FL Shop hours:
Mon-Fri 8-6; Sat until 1:00pm Phone: (352) 624-2577
The owner, Rick, has been cutting hair in Ocala for
years. 2 years ago, he opened his own 2-chair shop.
Usually it's just him working in the afternoons, when
you will find lots of high school students getting tightened
up — fades crewcuts, short tapers and even bowlcuts,
but his best and most popular cut is a high and tight
flattop. He takes pride in skinning the sides and back
of heads in his quest for the tightest flattop in the
Marion county area. Rick will razor-shave the sides
and back if asked, and I assure you it will be a great
haircut. Give him a try. (Review by a recruit) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Roberts Barbershop Mens Hairstylist 2692 North University
Drive, Sunrise, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Phone: (954)
746-8886 I like Robert. He gives a great haircut and
a shave, and is not in a rush. He does the word barber
a great justice. (Review by BUZZ~N~SHAVE) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stacy's 4626 26th St.West, Bradenton, FL Phone: 758-8601
This barber shop has been in this same location for
over 20 years! They must be doing something right. Stacy's
gone now, but his style of good, close haircuts lives
on. Flat-tops, Hi&Tites, Gentlemens cuts ... $7.00.
(Review by JC) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Walt's Barbershop 441 S. Belleview FL Shop hours: Mon-Fri
7am - 6pm; Sat 7am to 3pm. Walt's barbershop has been
located in the Belleview Shopping Center for 22 years
and is owned and operated by Walt Reeves, a belleview
resident. Walt employs two other barbers, Mack and Joe.
Both have been serving belleview residents old and young
for many years. Afternoons the shop is filled with teenage
boys getting tightly shaved cuts for football, basketball
or other sports. Saturdays the shop is full of dads
with sons needing to be tidyied up. Mornings the shop
is filled with the older Belleview residents, and the
gossip is thick. I've been getting my hair cut at Walt's
since Middle School, and I've had everything from a
bowlcut to a high and tight flattop to a recent head
shave. If you're looking for a fade, taper, flattop,
buzz or a basic trim in Belleview Florida, Walt's barbershop
is the place to go. HAWAII Michael's Barber Shop 1660
Wilikina Dr Wahiawa, Hawaii Phone: (808) 621-0052 This
shop is in the Kemoo strip area, almost directly across
the highway from the McComb Gate of the Schofield Barracks
army post. It is a walk-in, take-a-number shop that
cuts the locals' hair, but also caters to the Schofield
soldiers, and to those from adjoining Wheeler Army Air
Field. A good high-and-tight costs, last time I was
there, about $6.25 - I believe that was the military
rate though no one asked for my ID. There are both male
and female barbers - the owner is a man - but the majority
are female, some Asian and quite attractive. Language
accents can be a slight problem, but I've always found
THEY can understand what the customer says without difficulty.
They've always gone as short on an Army high-and-tight
as I'd like, which isn't as short as the Marines get
at Kaneohe across the island, but I didn't ask for that
either. At Michael's of Wahiawa I've seen them do a
full lather shaved white-wall flattop (don't know if
there was an extra charge). The shop has recently been
remodeled and looks more like a style shop than a barber
shop now, and the back chair has a very nice view of
an inland tropical lake up there in the center of Oahu.
This is the best off-post military cut I've found in
Hawaii, though others might have additional suggestions
to add or review. There's a shop called The Regulation
in Kailua/Kaneohe near the Marine Corps base that I
have not used. (Review by Keith) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation Barber Shop 25 Kaneohe Bay Dr.,131 Kailua,
Hawaii Phone: (808) 254-4111 This is apparently the
closest off-base barber shop to Kaneohe Marine Corps
Base Hawaii, and as its name implies it specializes
in military cuts. It's open full days daily - even for
short hours on Christmas - and, typical of a Marine
shop, with even longer than normal hours on Sundays.
There is absolutely no problem getting a short Marine-style
cut, and a lot of Kaneohe Marines do just that. Rates
are $7 for active duty military, $9 and up for Seniors,
$10 for civilians. Having said all of the above, I am
still not real wild about this place. It is an Asian-owned
shop, Korean I think, and while the barbers (many of
whom are female) can understand you, the language barrier
is evident. And when no one is waiting, they go into
an adjacent room and jabber in their native tongue and
play with their children. I've been there twice and
gotten a decent look both times, but they apparently
won't razor shave -- and as a result in order to get
the sides and backs down to a true Marine look they
get pretty direct and brutal with the clippers. That
may sound good to some of you, but I mean, REALLY STRONG!
And I have a mole or two on my head which I ALWAYS point
out in advance. On the last visit she nodded and took
care to avoid the largest of the moles on the first
few passes, and then with one last HARD set of strokes
to finish up the cut . . . WHAM! (and a soft Korean-accent
"oops sorry"). Yes, it's a true Marine-cut shop. But
Quantico it ain't. Elswehere on Oahu, try Michael's
of Wahiawa across from Schofield Barracks army post.
Also Asian women, but a better experience, in my opinion.
(Reviewed by Keith ) ILLINOIS Banana Joe's Barber Shop
718 N. Raynor Avenue Joliet, IL Phone: (815) 722-9851
Every Cop, State Trooper, Correctional Officer, Military
(Recruiter, Active Duty and Reserve), high school and
college athlete and coach in the Joliet and Southwest
Chicago area goes to Banana Joe's. This is an old fashioned,
no nonsense, man's-man kind of place. Banana Joe and
his brother Banana Bob are the two full time barbers
supplemented by one to two part-timers to handle the
crowds. Their official hours are 08:00 to 18:00 but
brother Bob usually opens up the shop at 05:30 to handle
the cops that are waiting out on the street for the
place to open up! While they will do any traditional
type of haircut, the short, military styles are their
stock in trade. And everyone who wants an absolutely
perfect flattop waits for Bob or Joe. Whether regular,
or high and tight, their flattops are perfect or you
don't walk out the door. Any regular haircut is $9.00
and this includes a hot lather straight razor shave
around the ears and neck. For an extra $3.00 they will
straight razor shave the entire back and sides of your
high and tight so that it gleams! They also do full
straight razor head shaves - again only $12.00 for the
full deal. Bob does several head shaves every day! Unfortunately,
the place is so busy that they don't have time to do
face shaves anymore. If you wear a flattop you must
go here and you must wait for either Joe or Bob. They
don't take appointments and the wait can sometimes be
more than an hour. The best times are very early any
morning (like before 08:30) or late on Tuesday or Wednesday
afternoons, (like around 17:00). (Review by Chicago
Cop) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Barrington Square Barber Shop Hoffman Estates, IL. Thought
I'd try a shop closer to home and found Barrington Square.
This is a three chair shop hidden in a strip mall behind
the Menard's store. I got a H&T flattop, and it's awesome.
The guy in the middle chair is the best. He freehands
it all the way with a nice landing strip. He commented
that Barrington Square gives a ton of this kind of haircuts.
A cut is $12 and you get a neck and outline shave too.
Well worth the trip for a great H&T flat!! (Review by
SLEUTH 70) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank's Barbershop 19 Spring St., Cary, IL Phone: (847)
516-9615 Frank's is a one chair shop that has been in
existance since 1993. Before that Frank barbered all
over downtown Chicago, and in some of the Northwestern
Suburbs for the past 30 years, so he has a lot of experience.
His specialities are flattops, crewcuts, and regular
haircuts. Prices are resonable for the area. $10.00
adults, $9.00 for Senior Citzens and Children 12 and
under. One of the most famous people that came into
the shop where he worked downtown Chicago was Richard
J. Daley, and another was Art Carney's father. Frank
is an easygoing type of a guy, who loves to talk with
people and makes everyone feel at ease. If you are ever
in downtown Cary stop by and visit with Frank. (Review
by kb9qap) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hair on Westmore REVIEW ONE of TWO Westmore Avenue (Just
South of the prairie path), Lombard, IL Phone: (630)
705-1230 Vince is the barber and he does great short
cuts from Ivy League's to HnT's. He takes time and has
pride in his work. He doesn't have a clock in the shop
because he believes people should enjoy the experience
and not be clock watchers that are in a hurry. If you
are looking for a good precision haircut, then Vince
in Lombard is your man. If you're ever in the West burbs
of Chicago, you should give him a try. it will be worth
the trip. (Review by a recruit.) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hair on Westmore REVIEW TWO of TWO Westmore Avenue (Just
South of the prairie path), Lombard, IL Phone: (630)
705-1230 I know this shop has been reviewed here before
but I have to tell you about the best experience I have
had in a barbershop in a long time. I was in the shop
one Saturday in July (I noticed it as I was driving
by on Westmore Ave. In Lombard). Needing a haircut,
I parked in the lot in the back and went in the shop
was busy four guys ahead of me. That's okay, this way
I got to see what kind of work the barbers did. Well,
there are two barbers there on Saturdays -- Vinnie &
Mark. They get along great, and keep the banter in the
shop going very well. Customers were entertained by
the barbers and the game on TV. Vinnie gave two of the
best flattops I have ever seen -- I mean they were FLAT.
He did it by eye. One had shaved sides while the other,
I would guess, was done with a 1 on the sides and back.
Mark, on the other hand, gave one of the best Ivy League
haircuts I had ever seen. He was meticulous in his work,
as both barbers were. He took a teen with shoulder length
hair down to very short tapered stylish businessmen's
cut that looked great. I myself wear an Ivy League.
When Mark was available, he greeted me and as he was
placing the cape around me said, "Ivy?" and I said "Yes!"
He began cutting and didn't say much unless I interjected
a comment, then he responded. When he was done with
the cut, he turned me around and it was the best Ivy
I had ever received. He finished up the cut by vacuuming
my neck and the giving me a neck shave with a hot lather
and a razor. This was the best barbershop experience
I have had in ages, and I will definitely be a regular
customer. Vinnie, the owner, and Mark are two friendly
barbers who make the atmosphere friendly. There's even
a play area for younger kids, to use while they are
waiting for cuts or Dad to get his haircut. Ig you're
in the vicinity of Lombard, IL and want to know the
best place to go to get a great haircut, from two of
the best barbers I have seen, you need to try Hair on
Westmore. (Review by a Recruit) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model Barber Shop Irving Park Road at Kimball Avenue,
Chicago, IL Phone: (773) 583-7834 Model Barber Shop
is a shop that specializes in strictly Military cuts.
The sign in the window states specifically "Crewcut,
Flattop, Roundtop, Fades, High and Tight, Marine cut,
Regulation cut." Jun is the barber, and his motto is
"Especially Flattop Style." He's very quick and efficient.
If you go there on a Saturday, it's busy so you have
to take a number. There are lots of young guys there
getting all kinds of very short buzzes. Prices are $12
for a cut. Lots of clipper action. If you're in Chicago
and want a good short cut, get over to the Northside
and check it out. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
(Review by Sleuth70) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mort's Barber Shop 214 West Washington Street, Ottawa,
IL Phone: (815) 434-5122 Mort Cooper's little one-chair
shop is located just off of Illinois 23 behind the Ottawa
Funeral Home. (No, this is not free advertising since
I am also a funeral director!!) I have been going to
Mort for haircuts now for over 10 years, and let me
say, he is the best in the area for flattops. When I
return home for visits, the first place I stop in is
Mort's. He is nicknamed the 'flattop king" because everyone
in town that I know that gets or wants a flattop, goes
to Mort. He usually starts out with a #1 blade, but
myself and most of my friends that go to him prefer
a #000 or shorter. He uses the Oster 76 clippers, and
is very precise with the flattop comb. His touch up
work is done free handed, followed by a hot lather and
razor shave around the ears, and neckline. I come from
a smaller town of about 17,000 people, so not seeing
Mort for longer periods of time is not uncommon, but
the service is great. I get called by name, and the
same question ... "short flattop?" I always respond
with a simple "You got it!!" His haircuts are reasonably
priced, $8 for adults and $7 for kids and seniors. Ottawa
is nestled in the heart of Starved Rock State Park,
so if you are ever visiting Starved Rock and want a
good flattop, drive on over to Ottawa and see Mort.
It is definitely worth your investment. And, better
yet, if you do that, e-mail me at SLEUTH70@aol.com and
I'll go with you!!! A good flattop is hard to find,
but this, I guarantee, is worth every buzzing moment!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plaza Barber Shop 700 W. Jefferson St., (Just off Rt.
52 & Rt. 59 outside Joliet), Shorewood, IL Awesome fades
and flats. 3 chairs, younger crowd, great cut for $9.
Beard trims too. No lather and razor shave however.
Friendly environment and there is a younger guy in his
20's who barbers there. Overall I was pleased with my
fade and by the 3rd time they knew my name! Tues-Fri.
8-5, Sat, 9-4. closed Sun./Mon. Worth the visit if you're
in the area. (Review by Sleuth70) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plaza Barber Shop (Another Review) 700 W. Jefferson
St., (Just off Rt. 52 & Rt. 59 outside Joliet), Shorewood,
IL I recently have become a customer of the Plaza Barber
Shop in Shorewood, Il. I just finished a four year stint
in the army, and throughout my time in the military
I saw a lot of barbers. The PBS has three barbers which
are all good, but Louie the barber gives the best fades
of the three, hands down. If you ask him, he’ll even
give you a neck shave with hot lather. I suggest getting
there by 9:30 am if you want Louie to cut your hair.
Before I left for the army, I thought Banana Joe's was
the only place in town, but I was wrong!!!! The PBS
charges $11.50 for an average haircut. (Review by DJ19)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sam's Haircut's 2951 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago, IL
A salon type atmosphere, but great clipper action. After
getting my flattop tightened up at another shop and
being dissatisfyed, I went to Sam. He did not hesitate
to see the mistakes that were made and correct them
with a haircut that was very short and flat. Only $7
for a haircut, and open Sundays!! Worth checking out
if you're in town. (Review by a recruit) INDIANA Alfie's
Barber Shop 3081 N. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN
Phone: (317) 329-9677 Open Mon-Sat 9-5 Haircuts $10
This is both a Barber and Beauty Shop, but the barbers
are right up front by the door. There are two lady barbers
but the best was Alice. She's been in the business awhile
and is in no way afraid to go short! She says she is
"the fastest barber in the Midwest" and I must agree!
She took my hair from your basic short layer cut to
a short businessman's in about eight minutes flat! And
the haircut is great! She also is very fun and "into"
cutting as a girlfriend of mine took me in under the
ploy that she wanted my hair cut short, Alice told me
(playfully) to "sit down and don't say a word" and proceeded
to plow her clippers right up the back of my head. Later
when my friend called her to thank her, Alice not only
suggested that next time we go into a "Princeton" but
then proceeded to try to talk my friend (whose hair
is gorgeous blonde, silky and to her shoulder blades)
into coming in and letting Alice cut HER hair into a
short cut, clippered up the back and sides!!! I'll definately
return! (Review by a recruit) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just Hair 133 East Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN Phone:
(317) 634-4737 A salon that can do short hair styles
as easily as longer styles — and do them well. Most
of the stylists are gay and will make helpful suggestions.
The atmosphere is upbeat and modern, but the service
is old-fashioned (and expensive). The best stylist is
the owner, Zach, who is very good looking (worth the
expense of a trip). Guaranteed to please the most fussy
hair fetisher. (Review by Indianapolis man) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mullins Barber Shop Otisco, Indiana Directions: Take
I-65 to the Henryville exit, turn right (if going north)
toward Stuckeys and Bigfoot Gas Stations. Follow road
to the bottom of the hill and a 4 way stop. Proceed
straight through the stop, cross the railroad tracks
and travel about a half mile until you reach Henryville-Otisco
Rd. turn left (Tallent Lumber is on the right side of
the road) onto Heryville-Otisco Rd. continue on Hen--Otis
Rd. about 2-3miles until you reach Zollman Rd. Turn
right onto Zollman Rd. go to top of hill. At the top
of the hill will be a small, short driveway to shop.
Shop Hours: Monday 7am-7pm; Tuesday 7am-7pm; Wednesday
7am-7pm Small one chair shop ran by "Dee" Mullins, he
is a gentleman in his late 50's or early 60's, a former
military barber that has been barbering over 30 years.
I have been going to his shop for the past two years
(amazing for me!) I have received perfect high and tights,
buzzes, burrs, butches, flattops, and near headshaves.
All of his haircuts are done to perfection and to your
satisfaction. His customer base rages from construction
workers to police officers and back so no one should
feel out of place. No haircut is ever rushed, and the
shop is very well kept. When asked he will straight
razor shave around ears and neckline. But, the ultimate
reason to go to his shop is that he is one of the few
Barbers in Indiana that still performs old fashioned
STRAIGHT RAZOR SHAVES-- Yes, You heard me right STRAIGHT
RAZOR SHAVES. I have received shaves from him on several
occasions and he is truly a master of this art, not
one nick ever, he gives the closest shaves I have ever
received followed by a very soothing facial massage.
You're probably thinking this kind of treatment costs
an arm and a leg... but no. Haircuts are just $6.00,
and shaves only $6.00. Dee is, hands down, the best
barber I have ever been to, and I have been to a lot.
(Review by Digital Shave) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wolf's Barber Shop 46 South, 700 East County L Road
Valparaiso, Indiana Phone: (219) 733-2764 www.wolfsbarbershop.homestead.com
As you may know, I (Chicago Cop) am an absolute PERFECTIONIST
about my high and tight flattop — and the cut I got
on my first visit to Wolf's was above my expectations.
I told him that I wanted it "high, tight and brutal"
and I didn't even have to ask him to razor shave the
back and sides of my head! Wolf is a newly licensed
barber who is already an instructor in the barber school
from which he graduated! Wolf has set up a first class
barber shop in a renovated former barn located on an
idyllic farm outside of Valparaiso which looks like
a Currier and Ives picture postcard, (rolling pasture,
white post and rail fence, horses in the paddock, the
works!). The view from Wolf's barber chair is truly
relaxing. Wolf will do any kind of haircut that you
can dream up but his personal specialty is in short,
military hairstyles. Wolf's hours are limited but he
will gladly spend a full hour on a high and tight flattop!
Wolf's farm and barber shop are located only three miles
away from Porter County municipal airport and only five
miles from Valparaiso University. Wolf is open Monday
and Wednesday evenings from 15:00 until 22:00 and on
Saturdays from 08:00 to 18:00. Haircuts are are only
$9 with price breaks for senior citizens and kids and
special deals for cops, etc. You can make your own appointments
by Internet. Just go to his website and follow directions.
(Review by Chicago Cop) KANSAS Bob's Barber Shop 3122
E. Harry St., Wichita, Kansas 67211 (no listed phone
that I could find) This is an interesting one. Bob Bain
opened the shop in 1964, and has been the sole proprietor
and operator of the shop for most of that time. From
the looks of the shop— the worn flooring, the taped
crack in the front window, etc.— there's been very little
done to the place since 1964. The portable TV is snowy
black and white, tuned to "Hollywood Squares" and "The
Rosie O'Donnell Show," and the phone is an old black
rotary-dial model, apparently with an unlisted number.
Bob is semi-retired now, on Social Security so deliberately
keeps his earned income down, works 2 p.m - 6 p.m. Tues
- Sat except when he chooses not to, and keeps the shop
closed at all other times. He charges only a flat $5
for a haircut, and I've never seen the place without
a significant line. Quite a conversationalist, he admits
he's not fast, that he averages about 20 min. on a cut,
and if there are four or five guys waiting, you might
well be there a couple of hours. Bring something to
read — the shop doesn't always draw the most conversation-inspiring
clientele, and the magazines are VERY old. I found the
shop by asking a Wichita cop with a very tight cut who
his barber was. I asked for a USMC-style high-and-tight
and got one - 000 on the sides and back, faded into
the top, top trimmed (he asked if I wanted the top shorter,
I said yes, and he obliged). He trimmed my eyebrows
and said he'd shave the outline (behind the ears) with
lather unless I objected. I didn't, so he proceeded
to do so. He made no offer to shave the entire back
and sides of the head, though - either to me or to another
customer who got basically the same cut. Wichita is
a metro area approaching a half a million people, but
I've found only about three shops other than the barber
school that will do a good military or police cut without
hesitation. This is one of them, and by far the cheapest
price I've found among the licensed shops. But the atmosphere
is old, cluttered and slow. If that doesn't bother you,
hop on in. (Review by Keith) KENTUCKY Hi-Acres Barber
Shop 1786 Bryan Station Road, Lexington, KY Phone: (606)
299-7066 Recently business took me to Bluegrass Country.
I had Saurday free, so I spent it enjoying the scenic
country roads and limestone-walled farms of throroughbred
country. Unfortunately, it was a drizzly gloomy day
so I could only do so much sight-seeing. How to spend
such a Saturday morning? As readers of this site need
not be told, there is but one place to be on such a
morning. And fortunately I found it --in a fading strip
mall on the outskirts of town: Hi-Acres Barber Shop.
The joint was packed. Standing room only. A full range
of guys: older locals getting a trim, kids with their
moms, and of course lots of the young crowd getting
buzzed. Three barbers that day: a 40-ish owner, and
two young dudes with tight crew cuts themselves. The
waiting actually went quickly, because I think some
of the oldsters were a little afraid of the buzzcut
barbers. So I got to skip ahead in line (Now THAT's
a change from when I was young ... the young folks wanting
radical short, the oldsters afraid of losing it...)
Anyway, the dude who cut my hair was precise and thorough.
It had only been a week since my last cut (basially
a tight crew) but he wasn't fazed at all. Told him to
take it down close on the edges, let the top grow in
some. Now some dudes will just do a quick buzz when
you go this short, but this dude took his time and did
an artistic fade. Bare blade. Tight graduation. Saw
some great flats and regular short cuts in progress
all around. Cost was $9. Only drawback: no lather neck
shave, and the other two barbers had vacuum clippers.
Hate those. Like to see it fall on the cape. Anyway,
a great shop and a great cut on a lazy gray Saturday
morning in Bluegrass country. (Review by Henry Z) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Way Barber Shop (Frank's) 1200 S Broadway,Lexington,
KY Phone: (606) 254-8322 His health hasn't been good
of late, but Frank is one of the Greats. Gives everyone
a close taper, and one of the best lathered neck shaves
around. A huge Wildcats fan, Frank used to do a lot
of the UK athletes and coaches. The shop itself is a
bit jumbled (his wife runs a tailoring and alteration
service out of one side), but Frank still attracts a
lot of cops, college guys, and long time regulars. He
is committed to the classic ways, and does SHORT with
the best of them. Back in the day, when I had a regular
taper, he used to taper me tight and THEN finish off
the haircut by wetting me down and plastering the top
in place with tonic. (And then the "vibrating" shoulder
massager, but I haven't seen that lately...) Recently
I went back for a flattop. I was just planning on a
regular flattop, but Frank asked me if I wanted it high
and tight. Who was I to refuse? So he went to work.
It was tight, it was high, and it was flat. But then
it got better. He fired up the lather machine AND LATHERED
UP MY WHOLE HEAD! And then massaged the scalp. I was
thinking he would straight razor all the way UP, but
he proceeded to do the standard outline shave only (though
he may have gone higher had I asked...) A great experience
and a great haircut. GO NOW, I don't know how much longer
until he retires. (Review by HenryZ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zandale Barber Shop 2220 Nicholasville Road, Lexington,
Kentucky (606) 277-9022 Shop Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm
This place has been open since the sixties, and they
know how to buzz heads! If you say "skin it," you won't
have a hair in sight. The shop is usually packed, and
there is a long wait. The guy in the back of the shop
(Billy) is great. Very friendly, and will do whatever
cut you want. You can't see the mirror while in his
chair so you also have the surprise factor going. The
other guys give great cuts as well, I've seen great
H&Ts, flattops and crewcuts, as well as longer business
cuts being done. They razor shave your neck and around
the ears before you go. If you are in the Bluegrass
this place is worth a visit. I received my first H&T
there and loved it. (Review by JS) LOUISIANA Carl's
Barber Shop 1102 Main Street, Pineville, Louisiana Phone:
(318) 449-1331 Shop Hours: Tue-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm, Sat
8:00am-12:00pm A one-man barbershop. Carl is ex-military.
He does all kinds of cuts. If you want a short "High
& Tight," or a shaved head ( he uses hot lather and
a razor), he is the one for you. His shop is about one
mile from Louisiana College. Young and old use him!!!!!
(Review by Cen32080) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don's Barber Shop 773 Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy, Shreveport,
La. Phone: (318) 861-2453 Shop hours: 8:00am - 6:00pm,
Monday-Saturday. A one-barber shop. This an excellent
shop for a short haircut, H&T, flattop,crewcut, razor
shaved head, and all other cuts. Late appointments are
available. All haircuts are only $5.00. (Review by a
recruit) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Troy's Barbershop 2297 Hollydale Street (behind Bolton's
Drug Store near Perkins Road Overpass), Baton Rouge,
LA. Phone: (225) 383-5587 Shop hours: Tues-Fri 8:30-5:30;
Saturdays 8:30-Noon I've been going to Troy for years.
He's a great young barber in his mid-30s. Outstanding
short cuts...crewcuts, high & tights, flattops, and
yes, traditional haircuts. Tremendous traffic through
shop, particularly on Friday afternoons and Saturdays.
You see alot of reservist, police, fire, and state troopers
come through for their short cuts. His flattops are
the flattest...short or tall...does both the boxy and
the high & tight types. If you want a landing strip,
he'll peel the wood off. He listens to the customer.
No razor shaves, however, and the shortest blade he
uses is the 0000. You won't regret it! (Review by Jaime)
MARYLAND Hillendale Barbershop Hillendale Shopping Center
(off the corner of Loch Raven & Taylor Ave., next to
Salvo Auto Parts) Baltimore,MD Hours: Monday thru Saturday
8-5pm The first and second barbers do it all. H&T's,
Flats, Skin shaves with razor, the works. I have never
left this shop unsatisfied!!!!! The second barber, Paul,
has been cutting my hair for quite a while. I usually
get a Flattop with high clean razored sides and back.
That is considered my usual. He asked me if I wanted
the usual and recently I have declined just to do something
different. He will always respond with, "Well next time."
Recently I got a High & Tight crewcut, sort of long
on top. Before he skinned the sides he applied this
smooth shaving lotion from a short but wide white jar,
and then hot lather. Baby butt smooth!!! If you ever
get the chance to visit Baltimore, check this shop out.
You will not regret the decision!!! MASSACHUSETTS Bill's
Barber Shop 24 Rt. 134, So. Dennis, MA (Cape Cod) Phone:
(508) 398-3632 No appointments that I know of. Only
one barber. Bill is a flattop specialist. He's good
but quick. And he faces you away from the mirror. Be
specific when you give him instructions and pay attention.
I like him because he assumes short unless you tell
him otherwise. Edger is the shortest blade he has, I
believe, and no lather or razor. (Review by DR) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
City Barber Shop Taunton, MA Just $12.00 for regular
cut and $15.00 for a head shave. Yes, they go the extra
mile and do head shaves, as well as razor shaving the
sides and backs of cuts. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Erik's Barber Shop Main Street, Melrose, MA Melrose
Mass. is blessed with two outstanding barbershops, Mike’s
and Erik’s. Erik operates a 3 chair shop in a restored,
very traditional 1950s-era barbershop. All of the mirrors,
sinks and chairs are original, or are of the period
and some old barbershop paraphernalia decorate the walls.
Erik himself is 30-something and sports a shaved head
(so you know already you’re probably onto a good thing!).
One woman barber occupies the middle chair and a 20-something
guy occupies the last chair. All 3 pump out good work
and are pleasant to be around. At least on Saturdays,
a lot of young kids come with their parents and there
are lots of high school kids waiting as well. Following
a recommendation posted on this board, I have been to
Erik’s twice now and each time I have got a precision
cut, short flattop. The last time, (last weekend) he
asked if I wanted the back and sides shaved and proceeded
to do so first with a straight razor (fitted with a
disposable blade) and then used a regular Schick disposable
to repeat the process. Eriks’ cuts take about 30-40
minutes and while he cuts the first swathe of a flat
freehand (to create the landing strip) the rest of the
cut is done with clippers over comb. Erik is a perfectionist.
He uses several sprays and hair dryer as well as a traditional
wax stick to make the flat stand to attention. At the
end of my haircut, the top was billiard table-flat and
very smoothly blended into the back and sides. The only
request I will make the next time is to have him round
the edges slightly, as I prefer it this way to the more
“boxy” appearance that straight edges impart to a flat.
A week later, the flat is still looking good, which
I consider to be a good test of how well it was cut.
It cost $14, I left him $20. To sum up: if you want
precision cutting, go to Erik’s, if you want a real
extreme cut, visit Mike. Both are outstanding in different
ways. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Family Hair Care Barber Shop 210 West Main St., Ayer
MA I've been to barber shops from Quantico VA to Oceanside
CA but I had to come to Massachusetts, of all places,
to find the very best barber for us compulsive, scalp-shining,"down
to the wood" flattopped fanatics. Located directly outside
the Verbeck Gate of Fort Devens, a downsized military
base which still operates as a reserve training command,
Paul the barber works just a few days a week at this
shop owned by his older brother. All the barbers who
work here can give a decent high & tight, but Paul is
the very best and is worthwhile for devotees of this
web site. The shop is listed in the phone book as Family
Hair Care Barber Shop and has a painted sign atop its
strip mall site stating "Barber Shop Regular Cuts Hairstyling"
but these outward trappings are merely a throwback to
the '70s when certain Army wimps were afraid of the
typical PX haircut on base. I've never been in a shop
where standards are as high and only in the greater
DC area have I seen these standards equalled. The interior
of the shop is strictly "no frills" and utilitarian.
The clientele consist mostly of clean-cut military/law
enforcement types so if you have to wait more than a
half hour, you will probably see a few good haircuts.
No appointments are necessary and there is no problem
with the other barbers if you want to wait for Paul.
Paul likes to know who referred you to him so it is
easiest to tell him that you asked a Marine on the base
for a recommendation. When you ask Paul for "white walls",
you will not be disappointed- no #1 pussy fuzz masquerading
as white walls here. Paul will clip very patiently and
methodically and will follow up with a Norelco taken
carefully around until "baby butt" smooth. Paul has
several fanatical customers who come in twice a week
so he would not bat an eye at the extremists among us.
As my fellow extremists will know, the shortest haircuts
require more developed barbering skills and one of Paul's
best retorts to a customer who might underestimate the
degree of difficulty is that "it's harder to cut this
hair 'cuz I have to hunt them down and find them first".
His flattops are perfect—he'll take the airstrip right
down to the wood (even the airstrip will get a bit of
the Norelco treatment) and will wax and scissor cut
the remaining horseshoe until it looks just right. If
you want a regular high & tight without the flattop,
Paul still gets out the Norelco. Just in case he doesn't
get out the Norelco, don't be afraid to ask— his regulars
know that it is part of his usual routine so as long
as you have asked for it as short as it goes, you should
get the "Norelco short" treatment. Paul is not one of
those hair hating Nazi types so if you want to leave
some stubble on the sides, he will cut it as you have
requested. Paul is a retired cop and Army vet in his
mid-50s. He has an emotional and good-natured personality.
He's a tough Sicilian who would probably cry at a movie
about a golden retriever in peril. You may be better
served if you have a military or law enforcement background,
but Paul is good to everyone. His flattops are $12 and
other cuts are slightly less- I would suggest at least
a $3 tip. If you are as pleased as I would expect, hand
him a $20 for the first visit—that should help establish
your status as a memorable customer if you intend to
return. Currently, Paul works Tues., Wed., Fri. and
Sat., 9 to 2 on Saturday, 9 to 5 during the week—I will
update if his schedule changes. In a pinch, his brother
Phil is a good barber who uses the Norelco, too, but
his flattop skills are more inconsistent- his regular
high & tights, though, are as good as Paul's. By the
way, they have a phone but do not appreciate the disturbance
so, unfortunately, I wouldn't bother. Paul does not
like his whereabouts to be checked upon so calls are
treated suspiciously- it's an ex-cop thing. I know of
a few buzzboard contributors who are Paul's satisfied
customers so I am sure that this is a steer in the right
direction. I hope that all you jarheads don't rush right
over, though—I still want to be able to get through
the mob for the weekly maintenance of my big ugly gyrene
jughead. Trust me— your search for the perfect barber
will end here. In Massachusetts, of all places. (Review
by Scalper) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JT's Barber Shop 70 James St., Worcester, MA Phone:
(508) 752-6870 Appointments strongly recommended. Open
Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Be sure and ask for
Paul. He's a buzzcut specialist. He takes a lot of pride
in his work and doesn't ever want anyone to leave dissatisfied.
He does lots of flattops and is excellent. Patient and
painstaking. He will ask for lots of feedback from you
as he goes along, to make sure you get what you want.
He goes as short as 00000 or will use the Norelco Triple
Header if you like. No lather or razor. (Review by DR)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mike's Barber Shop Main Street, Melrose, MA Melrose
Mass. is blessed with two outstanding barbershops, Mike’s
and Erik’s. Each can give an extreme military cut, but
their approach and end result is rather different. I
learned about Mike’s shop on the internet, and Mike
gave me my first HnT with shaved sides and back (he
was the one to suggest the shaving). I was a faithful
customer for several years, and still return to him
occasionally. Mike’s approach is to clip short on top
and shave high on the back and sides, with little or
no blending. His idea of a “regular” HnT is what many
of us might consider to be a recon, you should see his
idea of a recon, now that’s one extreme cut! and I wore
it like that for one summer. Mike’s idea of a HnT flat
is to mow a tight landing strip down the center and
then buzz the rest of the top of the head. The top is
not flat, there is merely a very visible landing strip
on an a buzzed top. Mike does rather better with longer
flats as I noticed while waiting for my turn once, but
if I am going to wear a flat, it’s got to have skinned
sides and landing strip. Mike is in his 70s and has,
I believe, been in his traditional barbershop for many
years. He's a very courteous, gentle guy. Cost is $10,
and a bargain if you like your cuts extreme. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ricardo's Barber Shop 303 Huntington Avenue, #A, Boston,
MA Phone: (617) 247-7774 Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM – 5 PM
(Probably the only shop in Boston open on Mondays )
This "review" is more of a report. The information was
provided by another recruit ("John" on the Board); but
he told me he doesn’t object to my compiling it for
everyone’s benefit. I knew the original Ricardo, who
was doing HTs in the late 70’s and early ’80’s. As the
name suggests, he was an Italian-American. His shop
was always a home for jocks and ROTC guys from Northeastern
University. (The Symphony stop on the MBTA Green Line
is actually slightly closer.) It’s a small, traditional
looking shop. In the ‘90’s, it changed hands. It is
now staffed by a 40-something and a 20-something, both
of Middle Eastern or North African descent. They haven’t
changed the name. I’ll let John’s own words take over
here. He knew it both under the old proprietor and has
tried it under new management. "They still do lots of
extreme cuts cause they’re right on the Northeastern
campus and that's what most students want. Just about
everyone that goes there gets extreme haircuts and they
assume you want it very short unless you say otherwise.
Yes, I've seen them do straight razor shaving on the
back and sides of a high and tight (still 10 bucks —
a good deal!). They also do straight razor head shaves
for 10 bucks which is the best price I've come across."
Having a fair knowledge of what’s available in Boston,
this place sounds like almost a miracle – combining
traditional atmosphere, low price, extreme cuts, and
straight razor shaving. It's also the only shop that
does shaves in the Boston area that I know of which
would be readily accessible to a visitor staying at
a downtown hotel. (Review by Gunny) MICHIGAN Windgrens
Royal Oak, Michigan (It's on 11 Mile, just east of Main
street) An older guy in a one-chair shop who does mostly
face (but of course also head) shaves. I've never gotten
one from him but he does just fine with my neck shaves.
(Review by JA19) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bosco's Barbershop Inside Oakland Mall Troy, Michigan
They have 10 chairs and all of them are manned by high
quality barbers who are precise and have given me an
absolute perfect cut every single time. All but two
of the barbers give neck shaves with every haircut.
I once had the sides and back buzzed all the way up
with a 000 and I still got the neck shave. They do have
face and head shaves, but only one barber does them.
Luckily, he's there on a regular basis. These barbers
know how to cut hair short and aren't afraid to do so
because they see men with these cuts walking by their
window every day. Highly recommended. And all this for
just $9.50, no matter what the cut. (Review by JA19)
