Downtown Anaheim's Retro-Resurgence
"Three is a magic number, yes it is, it's a magic number." Such is the case for the trifecta of man-shops that recently opened at Center Street in Downtown Anaheim.
I'm going to show my age here, but remember the scene in "A Hard Day's Night" where The Beatles enter their apartments through individual doors only to walk into a shared living space? Well, that's kind of what is going on with the wildly bro-tastic trio of Heart & Sole, Barbeer Shop and The Good Californian Haberdashery. This triad of interconnected shops offers a unique experience for men to actually enjoy shopping, get a haircut or shave and a beer before hitting the town.
Heart & Sole
Heart & Sole is an Americana-influenced shoe store with vintage-looking brands and bench-made footwear. No one will say "I'll be right back" when you ask for a specific size, as all the shoes (and shoe boxes) are in plain sight. Other products include shoe wax polish, leather soap and mink oil to help your boots and shoes last a lifetime - and don't forget to grab a pair of cedar shoetrees.
The Good Californian Haberdashery
I absolutely love this shop. Featuring a collection of good products and services geared specifically towards men, you'll find everything from clothing, accesories and caps ala "Caps for Sale" to grooming implements and vintage flasks and matchboxes. Check back frequently to see the new items that come in.
Barbeer Shop
This isn't your dad's barbershop, but then again, maybe it is. Though the shop is new, there is a very vintage feel to it; almost nostalgic. This is the type of place the Fab Four might have gone for a little cut off the mop top. The center of the three shops, this will easily be the milling place - the bar in the back of the room will almost guarantee that.
Don't let the Rockabilly look of barbers Kevin and Luis throw you, they'll cut just about any style you want. They even cut women's hair, though the shop's clientele is mainly men (no perms or coloring here). In fact, when I went in for a shave and haircut, the honorable Mayor of Anaheim, Tom Tait, had just finished getting his hair cut.
The haircuts are meticulous and the conversations genuine. Tunes by the likes of Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Credence Clearwater Revival were streaming though the sound-system via Pandora in lieu of LP's on a jukebox.
The shave consisted of an initial trim, followed by a hot lather and hot towel application. Next came the actual shave with a straight razor blade, a once-over with a safety razor then aftershave application. Time consuming? Sure, but like Luis said, "You don't rush a shave." Close shave with a single blade? Amen to that.
The entire “manpering” experience of shopping without stress, getting a haircut and a shave was relaxing yet exhilarating (especially when the aftershave was applied). Soon, the experience will be complemented with the enjoyment of a frosty beer from the nearby Anaheim Brewery. There's just something too cool for school about the whole thing.
I don't always get my hair cut at a barbershop. But when I do, I'll prefer the Barbeer Shop.
Stay classy my friends.
NOTE: Haircuts will be specially priced at $15 until Saturday, September 22 (normally $25, which includes a bottle of beer or glass of wine).
Tip: Get a haircut and show your receipt to The Good and Heart & Sole for a 15% discount off purchases.
Want to know how to talk shop? Check out this "manly" blog on how to talk to your barber.
Heart & Sole
171 Center St. Promenade
714-
Barbeer Shop
165 Center St. Promenade
714-533-2727
The Good Californian Haberdashery
161 W. Center Street Promenade
714-808-9671
