by Breeanna Jent on 2013-09-12
Anyone looking for an old fashioned barber experience is going to get it at Gene’s Barber shop, located at 2194 Lugo Ave. in San Bernardino, where for 24 years owner Gene Chavez and his barbers have been providing haircuts, shaves and shampoos to male customers living in the Inland Empire.
With an emphasis on personal care that harks back to “the good ol’ days,” Gene’s Barber Shop aims to make customers feel comfortable and cared for, and prides itself on delivering hospitable service for fair prices.
“Each quality cut comes with a neck massage. My barber shop is old-fashioned barbering at its best,” said Chavez, who has been in the business for 40 years. Kids also get a free treat after each haircut—with parental approval, of course. Newspapers, magazines, cable TV, free coffee, and soft drink and candy vending machines also add to the welcoming atmosphere, Gene notes on his website, www.genesbarbershop.net.
Chavez began barbering at the age of 27, after he left the Navy after four years of service to his country. He found himself out of work, but finding inspiration from his father, who was also a barber, Gene took classes in barbering school and has been doing what he loves ever since.
“I love the business. My dad enjoyed it and I enjoy the camaraderie of the men who come in,” he said.
Chavez employs one other barber, Abel Garcilazo, who has been with him for nine months but has been barbering for a total of about 30 years.
“I like cutting hair,” said Garcilazo. “It’s an art. I like working with my hands and then seeing the work after.”
Gene’s Barber Shop is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and services only male customers.
Call Gene Chavez at 909-886-1312 to schedule an appointment.