The Modern Man, Portland

Fifty years ago, the barber shop was a refuge where men could go to spin tales, relax, catch up on the town news, and enjoy a cigar. They got their hair cut too, usually, or sometimes treated their cheeks to a close straight-razor shave, but the real draw was the social aspect that surrounded the grooming. Fast-forward to today, and it would seem as though the pace of life has extinguished this refuge. But at The Modern Man Barber Shop ten chairs fill with stories while men get their hair cut and whiskers shaved—just like the good ole days.

Cuts typically last 30 minutes—straight-razor shaves about the same—granting plenty of time for men to talk about sports and news without reaching into their pocket for their conversation cue cards. On their way out the door, they can purchase an imported cigar to light up on the street.