The best barber shops in Chicago

This new-age shop puts the bar in barber. Up front, customers can enjoy a haircut ($45), hot shave ($50) or beard trim ($25) with a complimentary beverage. After the sun goes down, return to visit the Backroom, a hidden bar that offers a full cocktail menu and a robust selection of ooey-gooey grilled cheese sandwiches.

Sit down with Billy, Mike or Drew at this shop that's a blast from the past. It's the kind of place where everyone knows your name and the vinyl tunes are cranking. Cuts start at $18, and appointments are encouraged. Be sure to hit the ATM before you go—only old-school currency is accepted here.

This Logan Square favorite offers classic cuts (starting at $15), but the staff here really shines if you're looking for something different. From artistic mohawks to graphics, these guys know how to rock a razor.

This Colorado-born hipster emporium has a few locations in Chicago, and its clients are used to getting great cuts for a reasonable price. It's easy to pop in for a quick trim or shave. A little-known secret: They also cut kids' hair without the hoopla at some tots-only salons. 

This no-frills shop offers great, no-gimmicks cuts ($16), beard trims ($7) and shampoo service ($7). No straight-razor shaves, no appointments, no reservations—just five chairs, great tunes and old-school charm. There's also free WiFi, so you can get some work done while you wait.

Isaac Holmes opened this vintage outpost with a small team of fellow alums from Belmont Barber. Aside from an impeccable cut ($30) or beard trim ($15), guests can sit back and sip a brew while they wait. Appointments are encouraged—simply call the shop or book online.

If GQ were a barbershop, this would be it. The dapper North Side cuttery has throwback charm with its old-school decor and Bob Seger jams. Come for the vibe, five-star haircuts ($25) and cheap shaves. The shop is cash-only and doesn't take appointments, so plan accordingly. 

River North gentlemen, listen up. This cash-only barbershop inside Desdimi Gallery Salon offers a full-service experience. Precision haircuts start at $30, hot lather shea butter shaves for $55 and beard trims cost $25. You can also book appointments online and even select your barber.

Owners Sheree and Jeff Irwin love a good haircut. So much that they decided to open their own barbershop, ensuring that no Chicagoan is allowed to have a bad hair day. The shop serves beard trims ($18) and classic men's haircuts ($36) with complimentary shampoo, style and hot-lather neck shave. Bonus: It's open seven days a week.

Pete's barbers will be quick to tell you how to style your hair—all in good humor, of course. Services start at $20 for buzzcuts, $10 for beard trims and $30 for straight razor shaves. Walk-ins only—but rest assured, this place is well worth the wait. 

The attention to detail happening at this Uptown barbershop is unparalleled—from the minimalistic decor to the precise beard trims ($15) and cuts ($25) to the bourbon while you wait. Owner Michael Stejskal strives to bring the neighborhood feel back to the trade through friendly conversation, partnerships with local artists and great service. Helpful notes: Appointments are encouraged and cash is the only accepted method of payment.