Walking down busy York St on a steamy summers night, we’re not really sure what we’re looking for -an actual barber shop or a new bar called The Barber Shop? When we see a queue outside what appears to be a barber shop snaking down the street 15 people deep we realise it’s actually both.
The queue moves quickly and we walk past a man getting a clean shave in the chair. We’re ushered up the stairs and through a large metal sliding door that quickly slams behind us.

The darkened bar and live jazz band quickly set the scene, like we’ve stepped back in time to a bygone era. To our right a lady is having her shoes shined while we make our way to the large wooden bar where an abundance of of top shelf liquor awaits.
Opening the menu there is a more than impressive list of spirits, however, it is clear that with over 40 different types the specialty here is gin. The list starts with standard Tanqueray and Beefeater ($9), and moves up from there to Jensens ($15),  Monkey 47 ($17). Then there is a vintage collection that boasts a Plymouth 1970’s Edition ($32) and a Seagers of London 1960’s edition ($33).

The proprietor Mikey Enright (ex Merivale) has also installed a Plymouth gin tap. His recommendation is the Gimlet cocktail; Plymouth Gin and Roses Lime Cordial – very refreshing.  If gin is not your thing my favourite cocktail is the Peach Creek Sour; Knob Creek Bourbon, Peach, Apricot, Lemon and Agave ($18) or for something that really packs a punch try the Mr Peterson a blend of Knob Creek Bourbon, Amer Picon, Marashino and Bitters ($18).

Compared to the drinks list the food choice is easy with a short menu of Mixed Olives ($6), Charcuterie Board; Jamon Serrano, Bresaola and Chorizo ($16) or Mixed Cheese; Brie, Manchego and Gorgonzola Picante ($16) all of which are the perfect accompaniment to our cocktails.

Whether you are getting a shave with a complimentary ale or sitting inside the bar enjoying a cocktail, The Barber Shop is a great place to fraternise with friends and chew the fat. It’s the kind of place you can really multitask- get a haircut – tick. Get a shave- tick. Get boozed- tick. I’ll be back again- tick!
The Barber Shop has just launched their live music Thursday sessions happening every Thursday night. Doors open at 2pm with live Jazz music from 6pm.