Barber shops have evolved over the years and a new crop of young barbers are taking over the Toronto scene, mixing old and new for the perfect amount of coolness. If you’re looking to sharpen your cuts, take a peek at View the VIBE’s top picks from across the city.
Do you remember the last time someone used the term “metrosexual”? We don’t either. No, no. Guys aren’t metrosexuals anymore – they’re dubbed hipster, well-tailored, or discerning. We credit this growth in totally more apropos terms with the resurgence of barbershop culture in Toronto. They never left… but for a while there they weren’t cool. As in, bragging rights weren’t afforded those who took their hair-taming seriously.
That’s all changed, and as a man, you’re only as rad as your hair situation is precise. So, to ensure you don’t become a total twonk (it’s British… look it up) here are the best barber shops/grooming studios for men in The 6ix…
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Here are the best Barbershops across Toronto near you right now
No need to look any further. Question is, which one is closest to you. 😉
Cadmen Barbershop
Often frequented by Toronto VIPs from athletes, like Raptors team members, and Canada Soccer team players like Jonathan Osorio, to actors, and even performing artists like Anders and more. Led by founding partner, and lead barber, Francis Alexander Jr. Paua, with locations across the GTA, and a new Cadmen Clinic led by his life and business partner, next door that offers clients services from fillers to minor cosmetic procedures and more. But it doesn’t end there, these Toronto barber shop legends also share a wealth of knowledge through their Cadmen Barber Academy too.
Throne Barber Shop
Led by master barber, Joshua Diamanté, Throne is known to be the go-to Barbershop for the Toronto Blue Jays (as seen here inside the Roger’s Centre), other athletes and Olympians like Andre Degrasse and actors alike. Offering a range of services including mobile cuts where they come to you offering VIP service (as per their website). Throne is not only a barbershop, it’s a community, housing a vintage shop, and home to many different music industry events and more.
Glassbox Barbershop
Boasting 5 locations across Canada (mostly in Ontario, but one in BC) including, its main location on the west end at 338 Harbord St., which is home to their neighbouring academy for new barbers entering the industry or looking to master the craft of the perfect fade and more. Glassbox is known for its full service, complete with face steam before shaving, nostril hair wax, and more.
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Nero Gentlemen’s Grooming Club
The Office Hair Studio
Led by the well-known master barber, Benson Hedges. Hedges is also a BabylissPRO Ambassador, and IYKYK that BabylissPRO is the ultimate barber tool (you’ve likely seen their viral golden shavers). The Office isn’t just a barbershop it’s a men’s grooming paradise. Resembling much like a bachelor pad of sorts, with a classic edge to it. Drop in, hang out, shoot some pool and get a cut, all under one place.
Axe & Hatchet
Open since 2014, Axe & Hatchet was once the only place to grab a cut in Yorkville that is dedicated solely to men, but has since then expanded with a second location in Liberty Village. With handmade barber stations and wood accents, the Grooming Club is perfectly styled, just like the heads that walk out the door. Don’t expect perfection for chump change though, because quality service comes at a cost.
Crows Nest Barber Shop
With several experts on hand plus a couple of apprentices learning the trade, Crow’s Nest on Kensington is where you should head for an old-school cut and shave in a new school setting. The perfect fade? Crows Nest offers one of the tops in the city.
Mankind Grooming Studio
Perhaps the reason why men care about their appearance became a la mode here in the city. Mankind Grooming Studios (three locations) offer every grooming service a guy could want. Best part? Their package deals. We can always get behind a good shave, massage, facial, and man-appropriate nail detailing – it’s a one-stop grooming solution.
Miami Fades
Been around since 2010 and now has multiple locations across the GTA. From Yorkville to the Beaches, uptown off Yonge St and more. Inspired by the owner’s visit to Cuba and Miami, where he says he loved the Art Deco vibe and how everyone likes to look and feel sexy all the time.
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Barber Theory
Located in the heart of East Chinatown Toronto, Barber Theory is both a barbershop and a men’s hair salon. Kevin is the owner and always makes sure his customers feel welcomed and comfortable at his barber shop. They provide a variety of services from haircuts, beard trimming, perms, and hair colour. Of course, prices vary depending on the barber’s experience and seniority.
What’s your favourite barber shop in Toronto? Let us know over at @ViewTheVibe, whether in the comments, or slip into our DMs.
