The 10 Spot: Top-notch Barbershops of El Dorado County
Gone are the days when barbers performed surgery and dentistry aside from cutting hair. Now barbershops are a place where men are not only groomed and pampered, but also feel a sense of camaraderie. Whether you’re looking for a crop or crew, thin or taper, you’ll find all that and more at these barbershops. In no particular order…
Idyll Hands Barbershop. Don’t let the name fool you; you’ll find very busy hands here. Offering traditional barbering services with classic and contemporary hairstyles, this veteran-owned barbershop sited in Granite Bay has an upscale industrial look with a vintage kegerator, an assortment of liquor, and rotating beers. They also sell pomades, hair tonics, and beard care products while offering the whole nine yards—hot towel treatment and all. 916-705-9170
Love’s Barbershop. Love’s in Placerville exudes good vibes with its bright interiors and knowledgeable staff. The friendly atmosphere and efficient service will leave you feeling fresh and looking well put together. They use hot towels, cut kids’ hair, and take their time in making each cut perfect. They also have sports memorabilia and a pool table for your amusement. 530-957-9452
The Barber Lounge. “Lounge” is the operative word at this welcoming location in Folsom that maintains the traditional barbershop concept in a modern atmosphere. Keeping the spirit of traditional barbering alive with haircuts, beard trims, and shaves, they provide a personalized experience and even throw in a beer while you wait and invite you to watch a game on their TV. They offer hair art, shaves, moustache waxes, and more. folsombarberlounge.com
Nine Sixteen (IX.XVI). The original location for IX.XVI in Folsom was found on September 16 and located within area code 916—hence the name. Owners Nick and Joe are locals who offer beard shaping, skin-tapered fades, and customized haircuts with designs. Their slick interiors complement the chill music and hand-painted artwork on the walls. 916-293-8104
Randy’s Barber-Stylist. We would be remiss not to include veteran barber, Randy Boxell in this list. With more than 50 years in the business and generations of satisfied customers, his seriousness for his craft, attention to detail, and friendly demeanor make his one-chair barbershop in Folsom a haircut destination. A stalwart of the community, everyone knows Randy for his stellar services and philanthropic efforts. 916-983-7251
Mugshot Barbershop. Whether it’s a hot shave, neck clean up, or beard trim you’re looking for, you can find it at Mugshot in Roseville. Their sleek, clean interiors bring a touch of modern to an age-old craft. Their great service (draft beer while you wait) and styles will leave you looking and feeling like a million bucks. “You deserve better than a cookie-cutter haircut,” they say…and they’re right. mugshotbarbershop.com
World Famous Barber Jon’s. Barber Jon is pretty famous—around here at least. The storyteller/showman has been described as part Mark Twain and part P.T. Barnum and his shop is filled with “oddities and curiosities.” Specializing in men’s haircuts and shaves, beard trimming, and more, Barber Jon’s is one of the pillars in the El Dorado Hills community. barberjons.com
Bowtie Barbershop. Bowtie, as he’s known, not only loves bowties but is passionate about his craft, too. His twist on a barbershop involves colorful bowties hanging from the ceiling, an antique jukebox, tunes from the ’50s, and memorabilia galore. Head to the shop on Placerville’s Main Street and step back in time to an atmosphere that’s entertaining for kids and adults alike. Between the TVs and the décor, you won’t be bored at Bowtie’s and will come away looking more dapper than ever. 530-344-7204
Hammer and Nails Grooming Shop for Guys. This sophisticated salon in Folsom hits the nail on the head every time. Not only do they do a great job of cutting hair and shaving you clean, but they also offer luxurious manicures and pedicures in a tranquil man cave. Slip into bison leather chairs, don a pair of Bose headphones, grab a beverage, and prepare for the experience of a lifetime. hammerandnailsgrooming.com/locations/folsom-ca
Diamond Barbershop. If you’re looking for meticulously done haircuts, the perfect shave, and straight razor and hot towel finishes, look no further than this locale in Diamond Springs. You’ll be pleasantly surprised after a visit here—both with the experience and your dashing good looks. It also doesn’t hurt that they have a pool table to keep you occupied and sometimes offer you a Bloody Mary, beer, or shoulder massages. 530-545-2727
By Tara Mendanha