Picture the typical neighborhood barbershop, teeming with friendly barbers who ask questions about the customer’s life and truly become acquainted with the client as they cut, shave, and style to their liking.
Now combine this easygoing, comfortable scenario with the fun, adventurous, and energetic aspect of a speakeasy, along with eclectic drink mixes and delicious bar food that accompany such a setting.
Though a hybrid of these two scenes seems like a challenge to imagine, look no further than Blind Barber, a barbershop that has back doors to an unexpected world.
But fear not: this Culver City-based barbershop does not possess any kind of pretentiousness about its somewhat concealed bar and the fact that it holds another identity beyond hair services.
This unique transformation of sorts is naturally only common knowledge to the locals or to those familiar with the concept of the Blind Barber.
However, Justin Fix, the general manager of the Blind Barber, agreed that there was nothing exclusive about the bar behind the barbershop.
Though there is a hidden element to the spacious room that is reminiscent of a speakeasy, the bar is by no means a secret.
In fact, the beauty behind the marriage of the barbershop and the bar is a combination that should be introduced to as many guests as possible.
“The barbershop didn’t used to be just a place to get a haircut,” Fix said. “It used to be where people could get together, where people could socialize and share ideas. Men’s grooming was what a men’s hub was all about. Blind Barber was the result of trying to bring that back; it incorporates cocktails and conversation in a barbershop environment.”
Blind Barber has found much success in revitalizing this camaraderie and bringing it back to today’s neighborhoods.
Not only is the classy combination enticing, but customers can also enjoy a happy hour special by visiting the barbershop at 6 pm, which is also when the bar opens.
Beer, wine, and well drinks are specially priced at $4 to $6. There are also mouthwatering warmup and small plates at happy hour prices as well, and a drink of the week for $8.
“We’re known for our cocktails,” Fix said. “Living in California allows us the access to some of the best products. Our drinks are made from fresh fruit juices.”
From Batmans to Blackjacks, the house cocktails are partly why customers keep coming back.
Fix was gracious enough to demonstrate the making of a Strawberry Fields, which is a cocktail comprised of Russian Standard vodka, lime juice, honey, and of course, fresh strawberries.
“The bar provides the throwback of a 1920’s speakeasy,” Fix said.
But not only does the bar behind the barbershop incorporate the past into the present, it also combines some characteristic East Coast cuisine with the West Coast’s fresh seasonal products and locally sourced ingredients.
“There’s definitely a East Coast bar food vibe within our menu,” Fix said. “We have a list of 16 gourmet grilled cheeses that our chef created.”
From Spanish chorizo to heirloom tomatoes to Gouda cheese to bacon, there is definitely a variety of delicious elements utilized on the Blind Barber’s grilled cheese menu, which makes it well worth it to check it out.
The bar at the Blind Barber also features a DJ Wednesdays through Saturdays. Musical genres of all types can be heard blasting from the bar area, from R&B to funk.
Of course, it wouldn’t be appropriate if the cocktails and drinks weren’t incorporated into the haircuts and shaves somehow: there is a complimentary beverage included with every service. The Blind Barber is also a premier luxury brand that has crafted its own products, from hair wax to facial cleanser.
There isn’t much that the Blind Barber doesn’t have to offer. Whether it’s the quality hair service, the array of cocktails and grilled cheeses, or the top-notch music, the Blind Barber has flawlessly seamed together an ideal place to stop by for happy hour.
Take advantage of the happy hour special from 6 pm to 8 pm (the bar remains open through 2 am), Mondays through Saturdays (the bar is closed Sundays).
Blind Barber is located at 10797 W. Washington Blvd. in Culver City. For more information, visit blindbarber.com or call 310.841.6679.
