Las Vegas Weekly

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From my seat inside Hi-Rollers Barber Shop, I have a perfect view of the Huntridge Theater as Martin the Barber meticulously shapes my unruly ’do into a classic pompadour. The now-decaying Huntridge is a fitting scene for this nostalgia-inspired parlor. What better represents vintage Vegas than this historic district?

But Hi-Rollers is more than just throwback schtick. The barbers at this Maryland Parkway shop have genuine admiration for old-school style and a real talent for re-creating the era’s looks. The shop is named for owner/barber Martin Corona’s rockabilly band, Will & the Hi-Rollers, and celebrates all things ’50s.

Hi-Rollers has three barbers on duty—Martin, Brad and Rob—and takes no appointments. It operates on a first-come, first-cut honor system, and the wait is part of the experience—sipping on complimentary PBR and soaking up Old Man Muppet-style commentary from the regulars about classic cars, the best type of pomade and upcoming shows. The clientele ranges from young greasers and scenesters to men who actually experienced the ’50s and never updated their hairstyles. As I watch customers hop into the chair, the pompadour is definitely the most popular request, but Martin tells me they also cut the Businessman, High and Tight, the Flat Top and just about anything else you might want.

The classic style carries over to the space itself, where walls are decked with vintage pinups, dice and Sailor Jerry-style tattoo art looking down on an overflowing liquor cabinet. “I haven’t bought one bottle of liquor since we opened. Those are all gifts from customers,” Martin says.

As I wait for my turn in the chair, a regular drops off a bottle of whiskey and shot glasses as a thank you for his recent cut. For just $15 you can get a perfect pomp and a free beer. As for getting your balls busted by way of barbershop banter, well, that’s priceless.