I got a straight razor shave at The Art of Shaving today, thanks to a gift certification Michelle gave me (thanks Michelle!). The shave was a 30 minute process which included many hot towels, oils, the shave, and more.

Overall I was underwhelmed. First of all the person I spoke to for the reservation was very rude. Then when I arrived the facility itself didn't impress me. I guess I'm used to super modern, fancy spots. This was more old school.

I was to get a shave by a woman who was chatting on the phone when I walked in. When we started, she was also somewhat rude. About a quarter of the way in another guy took over. Turns out that was her father and they're both from Uzbekistan. The dude has been shaving people for 11 years. He was pretty cool.

The shave was good, but nothing spectacular. It's definitely closer than when I shave myself and my skin is soft and smooth, but it's also more cut up than usual so that's not good. Getting the shave was totally painless, but a little nerve racking when the blade was under my nose. Also note, don't wear a red shirt to a shave. Every time I saw the blade it looked like it was covered in blood.

Definitely not worth $35. The barber down the street from me shaves people for $8. I think if it was a special occasion and I wanted to splurge I would do this again for $8. Not for $35.