If you don’t venture into Bayview much you probably wouldn’t know about one of the coolest spots to open it’s doors to Milwaukee in a minute. I’m talking about Stag Barbershop (3064 S Delaware Ave). Owned and operated since November of 2010 by our good friend Jess Stern, Stag has been cleaning up the city one man at a time.
Jess’ motto of ‘a little off the top, a little over the top’ is exactly what you will find here at Stag. Greeted by her friendly chair mate Sarah Everson, we were immediately checked in and offered an adult beverage. I was in awe of how well put together the whole place was. Hardwood floors, leather sofas, moose heads, and a plethora of antique mens barbershop paraphernalia were all placed perfectly. Keep in mind that this is a men’s only spot so other than ladies working here it reeks of masculinity. Just like MODA3 these ladies focus in on the details and realize they make for an overall experience. They did not waste anytime getting me into a chair realizing my luscious head of winter locks needed taming.
Upon my request Sarah got to work on my ’6 year old Cost Cutter’s’ special. It has been a minute since my locks had been pampered by these ladies and they needed attention desperately. Once the finishing touches of my cut were put in order by Jess herself who is a true perfectionist I was all set up for my first grown man straight razor shave. Anxious and a tad nervous I must confess Jess stomped that with a gentle neck message before beginning my shave. It is quite a detailed process that involves a serious of balms, lathers, hot towels, cold towels and powders. All in all it added up to complete euphoria for my face and is well worth the time and cost. These ladies are some of the best and brightest at what they do and they will make sure your cut is to specs.
Stag is closed Sunday and Monday but are in full swing Tuesday-Saturday and walk ins are even welcome if you don’t mind sitting around shooting the shit with other sophisticated gents around Milwaukee for a minute. They have that old school, neighborhood spot feel and embrace it. So the next time your head starts getting a tad nappy like mine take a short walk, bike ride or bus trip over to Stag and let Jess and Sarah make your follicle visions into a reality. I’m gonna go ahead and recommend picking up a bar of Stag’s signature soap ‘Woods Of Washington’ while you are there. You won’t be disappointed.
