When a man gets an exceptional cut, he’ll follow his barber anywhere.
And we’ve got a guy worth following: Jesselee Barrera, owner of Jesse’s Barber Shop, a new ‘30s-style den of premium trims, now taking appointments in Portage Park.
Jesse knows a good trim — he made his bones at good ol’ Belmont Barbershop.
After six years snippin’ with the city’s best, he’s decided to open up his own low-key joint.
There’s little by way of decor here. Think your grandpa’s barbershop. Candy-stripe pole. Antique vanities. Classic checkered floor. Vintage portraits on the walls.
Y’know: simple, old-school charm.
You’ll sit down and get the same kind of treatment: from cuts to beard trims to hot-towel shaves. Dude knows his classic cars, too. Ask ‘em about his ‘61 Chevy.
As for product, Jesse is slinging Suavecito. All appointments are booked by phone. And with just two ‘30s-era chairs in the shop, we highly recommend you do that.
Tell him we say hello.
Nota bene: After your cut, we suggest hitting up Leadbelly, another under-the-radar gem right down the street. Serious contenders for best burger in the city.
Photo credit: judsonnotjustin
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