Have a nice cup
of coffee, a solid shot of whisky, or a clean haircut—whichever tickles your fancy.
Let’s call it what it is—the arrival of the gentleman’s grooming space is probably a significant local opening for 2017.
Of course, there’s the hole-in-the-wall or at the mall for an instant buzzcut.
And there’s 22 Thatcher Barbershop challenging men’s cut and style in the city, among others, but the opening of the barbershop and café in Cebu’s
upscale Streetscape symbolizes something else entirely.
The rapid rise of men’s style and grooming culture has created a platform and market that is cogent and stable enough to take root.
Like every man’s daily staple.
For owners Charles Gosingtan, Kenny Go, Ken Ngo and Michael Uy, there was no question about coming up with the business idea of drink and style in the city.
In the end, the team matched the quality and flavor expected of their shop.
“The partners have this quest in looking for the perfect grooming experience. We’ve went to different places and tried different services, but we’ve never really found what we’re looking for and decided to make something ourselves,” Michael said.
So it’s a choice of starting with a drink. Vintage feels of the 1920s with turntable by the entrance, distressed brick walls, monochromatic floors,
polished wood shelving as soft jazz permeates in the background.
It is no standard issue as their process takes awhile, their crew would know what style suits you once you sink into their chair.
Either way, just let the cold towel zone you in, cutting and styling all with a distinct purpose.
Then the massage. Little did you know a pomade is then applied to your hair for that look. Uniquely old school in a modern London warehouse feels.
Yes it doesn’t kill to have another round of those drinks.
22 Thatcher’s beverage selection is unique in its own. Hard drinks are abound along with single malt whiskies like palate cleansers.
They do take pride in their third wave coffee which is sourced meticulously and prepared accurately. And there’s tea, of course.
True to form a true gentleman always favors the high road.
“We actually believe that our biggest competition is ourselves. We believe in consistent improvement and we keep finding ways to improve our craft, be it the barbershop or the café. This translates to how we treat our staff, we really take care of them like how we take care of our customers and guests,” Uy said.
Like most of its customers who are businessmen, yuppies, expats, with most men striving for excellence in their chosen field, sleep and rest have
become secondary, almost a luxury even.
Many reward themselves with good food, nice clothes, expensive timepieces, and then there are the wise ones who prioritize good grooming.
Before it was just about comfort and satisfaction, but now a lot has changed since 22 Thatcher addresses every need of its customers.
It’s the careful attention to details that what counts. Definitely, the 22 Thatcher experience is you walk in for a reason, and walk out with a purpose.
Reservations recommended.
