The best barbershops in Los Angeles

The name of this place doesn't exactly instill confidence, but have no fear: the barbers here mean business and have a passion for their art. But it’s not just hair they’ve mastered: this spot offers cocktails as impressive as their cuts, championing the original concept of the barbershop as a place for men to socialize and congregate. Founded in New York City’s East Village, the concept expanded west in 2012, bringing the bar-and-barbershop concept to Culver City. A service includes a drink, chosen from an extensive mixology menu, with aptly named offerings such as the Sweeney Ted (Jameson, lemon, honey, Pama liqueur, egg white and creole bitters). Don’t expect to walk out the door without must-have products from the Blind Barber line, featuring cocktail-inspired ingredients such as the juniper berry, found in gin, naturally.

Kick back at this old-school establishment, where founders Vinnie Morey (recognizable from season one of Tabatha’s Salon Takeover on Bravo) and Trent Magnano have combined their love of street culture and modern art with a traditional feel at this eclectic space on West Third Street. Movies, Xbox and beer are all on tap at this joint. The Proper is also available for group events, including birthdays, bachelor parties and wedding day needs—ensuring not a hair out of place for groom and co.

Top-notch service and quality reign supreme at this Echo Park grooming destination on Sunset Boulevard. A former musician, founder Brian Girgus now puts his creative chops to use cutting hair. Expect traditional barbershop offerings against the backdrop of this mid-century styled four-chair space, complete with a bright, mural-splashed wall of wind turbines. Don’t miss the adjoining General Store, featuring a handpicked mix of everything from vintage threads, and goods from cult hair and skincare line. Malin + Goetz. And ladies, rejoice! Tag along with your man on his grooming quest, and get your own snappy haircut, too.

It’s not all fun and games at Bolt Barbers, but that’s certainly part of the experience. Indulge in a game of shuffleboard at the Downtown location after you’ve been shorn and shaved smoother than a baby’s bottom by a member of the expertly trained staff. Choose from a wide array of menu options, and on Trojan Tuesdays, USC students holding a valid student ID can expect 20% off cuts. 

The oldest barbershop in Beverly Hills, Gornik and Drucker draws a serious fan base across generations. Harry Drucker established the original outpost in 1936, amassing a client base ranging from Ronald Regan to Frank Sinatra and Clark Gable. In 1989, the barbershop joined forces with rival master clipper William Gornik of Rothschild’s fame, who boasted an equally impressive roster, unifying under one name and roof. Past now meets present at this classic space, which commands a presence in the lower level of the Maybourne Beverly Hills and a newer Palisades Village location. Gornik continues to tame the follicles of his loyal clientele daily from the comforts of the shop’s elegant modern-day surroundings.