Part Barbershop, Part Retail Shop, Part Private Club

A cocktail book, a single barber chair and a Time Crisis II game hidden behind a bookshelf door.

That’s all you really ask for in life.

That, and maybe tons of other things.

As for those first three, you’ll find them at the Academy, a new Castro establishment that’s part retail shop, part barbershop and part private club. It’s now accepting new members for private club privileges with public retail and barbershop services not far behind. Check it out.

There are a few ways for you to get into this handsome leisure palace…

As a barbershop customer: Once their single-chair barbershop is open, you can make a reservation for services which will take place in the completely glass-enclosed area up front. Presumably so everyone can see your sweet new hair.

As a retail customer/event-goer: The Academy’s retail involves a curated, rotating selection of furniture, art and the occasional cocktail book for you to take home. They’ll also be partnering with locals like Sui Generis for some public events you can grab tickets for.

As a member: Currently offered on a recommendation-only basis, membership allows you anytime access, a gratis monthly barbershop appointment and access to all events. Not to mention use of the wet bar and discounts for renting out the space for your own events. Yes, this includes access to that hidden basement bar behind the bookshelf door.

Turns out, those are the best.