Tony’s

Once upon a time not so long ago I had a work meeting with the regional marketing manager of Vidal Sassoon. The meeting lasted about half an hour and she talked in detail about the science of hair and the «Hair academies» from which a conveyor belt of future Sassoon hair stylists graduated. I suppose in some way l thought credit was due to some random bloke 60 years ago who turned the very simple task of cutting excess hair into some kind of pseudo science. I also appreciate the fact there are variations in facial size/​shape and your lid is no different and thus certain styles suit some people more than others. But there was a nagging sense that they’d gone a tad too far with it? The salons felt empty of feeling at the expense of «chique» interior design, there was a coldness, a seriousness about it all.
I remember the first time I went to Tony’s and told him this particular story. His retort was too expletive ridden for me to repeat here but the narrative carried some weight not to mention incredible comedy value. That particular random visit turned into a bit of a defining moment in my hair grooming life story and I’ve returned monthly ever since.
The barbershop really is one of kind with memorabilia all over the walls relating to Tony’s passions, namely cars, football and old school comic strips. It’s a film maker’s dream and I’ve suggested it as a location to few friends.
There is something deeply addictive about Italian culture and its profound humanism. Tony wears his heart on his sleeve and boy is it a good’un. His stories are both legendary and hilarious. He treats each customer as if they’re family but I’d like to think I’m one of his favourites. The cappuccino he makes is sublime and he’s a very good listener and hugger. He might not be a graduate from some high end hairstyling academy, but getting your hair cut from Tony’s will leave you feeling a million bucks. I can’t recommend it highly enough.