Every now and then, Judge Swagwire comes across an establishment in Baltimore that deserves to be noted as nothing less than “A Swagwire Experience.” A few months ago, I had a chance to visit The Quintessential Gentleman, an establishment in Baltimore known for providing fine grooming for men.  I would read about it occasionally, and wonder what it would be like to go. So after sitting for the Maryland Bar Exam, I decided to treat myself to going. I expected to spend a bit more money than I would at a typical barber shop. But, I was surprised to find that the level of service and treatment was worth far more. In all, I spent $180, but I left feeling and looking like $1 million. As picky as I am, I can say that the owner of this fine establishment left no stone unturned. I would like to walk you through my total experience, from the moment I made my reservation on the internet, to leaving this place looking and feeling great.

Making my reservation. I made my reservation on their website. From the site, I was able to schedule individual sessions with the staff I chose. Within the website, you can see all of the staff bios, and when you book your reservation, you will know exactly who will be your service provider. When selecting treatments, I was able to read about the particular service I was choosing. Within minutes, I received a confirmation email for my appointment, and even received a reminder email the day of.  I scheduled three services: a shoe shine with Levar; a Quinntessential Face Remedy with Jennifer; and a lineup with Sam.

The Experience. When I arrived, I was greeted by name, given a quick tour, and was introduced to the staff. Although it was my first time, and they had no idea that I was going to be writing this post, I got a taste of what it would feel like being Ray Lewis in Baltimore. I was offered a complementary beverage. I chose to have a beer, and requested a Yuengling Light and, sure enough, they had it.

My appointment started on time and went efficient. My shoes were shined while I received my facial and lineup. My esthetician, Jennifer, did a great job and explained everything she was doing. She made recommendations to help me improve my skin, and personally mixed a skin treatment mask for me to take with me. She was very knowledgeable, polite, and fun to be around. My barber, Sam, was a fellow former Navy man. Like Jennifer, he was great to work with. For me, the most impressive thing was his reaction to how I “grilled” him. One awkward question I asked him was how much experience he had cutting African American hair. Although a weird question, it is necessary because different hair textures require different cutting styles and techniques. To Sam’s credit, he spoke of his experience starting out at a primarily African American barber shop, but most importantly, he spoke of Craig (the owner)’s requirement that each barber be able to cut all types of hair, by demonstrating this ability before being allowed to work there. This not only means that this place has some of the best barbers in the city (because most barbers are stronger in 1 hair type), but also demonstrated Craig’s committment to providing services to a diverse customer base; the common customer bond seams to be luxury men’s treatment.

Summary. In all, this was a five star experience– hands down. I will be going back in a few weeks. This time, I plan to cement my relationship as “a regular” by leaving a bottle of Scotch that they will label, store, and offer to me during future visits (yes, they do this for everyone). In addition, I plan to hangout after my appointment and partake in a fine cigar from their well-maintained humidor (which they have on site).

You can find this establishment on the internet at http://www.baltimorebarbershop.com/. In addition, you can follow them on Twitter @theqg . I highly recommend you visit this oasis of luxury for Baltimore gentlemen. Please tell them that Judge Swagwire sent you and comment on this post to let me know what you think.

Judge D.S. Swagwire, International Court of Gentlemen

P.S. I have posted some pictures of a few of their “perks” below: