FOREST HILLS — A new barber shop that offers up classic hot towel shaves in a modern décor with a "loungy feel" just opened on Austin Street, the owners said.
Hills Barber Shop, at 7223 Austin St., opened last week, replacing Uncle Louie G, an ice cream store that closed months ago.
The barbers, who hail from Uzbekistan, said they favor an old-school shaving method.
“We specialize in hot towel shaves, we specialize in beards and we specialize in all types of men’s haircuts,” said Al Rubenov, 29, one of the barbers, adding that the shop has a hairstylist who specializes in cutting women's hair as well.
During a shave, a hot towel is put on customer’s face twice for about a minute each time "to open up the pores," said Alex Khaimov, 36, who co-owns the shop with Vlad Kazakov, 31.
It also comes with a soothing pre-shave cream and patrons have their face massaged with a cucumber balm, Khaimov said. A moisturizing cream is applied after shaving followed by a cold compress to close the pores.
Rubenov said the shop offers all types of haircuts and trims. "We’ve seen hair and people from all walks of life when we cut hair in Queens," he said.
(Credit: Hills Barber Shop/Facebook)
The owners said their intention was to give the shop a ‘loungy vibe’ by installing several TV sets, bright lights and modern furniture.
Haircuts and shaves cost $15 each.
