Sams a stand up guy and a stellar barber. This spot is famous, but still feels like a best-kept secret; I stumbled in here before work one morning and have never looked back. Sam takes the time to understand what you want, and he has the skills (you wont find scissor work like this in other barber shops) to really make you look clean. My only regret is that I didnt find this place sooner.

My favorite barber shop in the city. The atmosphere feels like home and the cuts are top notch. They do a great job even when tasked with a special assignment like cutting off 1.5 year long Covid hair.

Best haircut I’ve had. There are sections of my hair that’s a little harder to cut but Sam did a wonderful job of cutting them. Very friendly and great service!

If you want an authentic barber shop experience, Civic Opera Barber Shop is the best place in Chicago. Sam provides the complete package of services and takes the time to get to know every customer. He does great haircuts (complete with a straight razor neck trim) and Ive also had the privilege of getting a full straight razor shave from him (complete with a hot towel to start, hot foam brushed on, and a cold towel / aftershave to finish). I always leave looking professional and feeling great and would highly recommend visiting the shop.

The best haircut I’ve had in Chicago. After trying multiple spots in the loop & financial district I went to Sam. Haven’t looked for a new haircut since. The Princeton (haircut that was recommended for me) has been a favorite with the fiancé. Would recommend stopping in for a cut!

I am visiting Chicago for the weekend and needed a haircut. I read some reviews and asked a friend who lives in Chicago about where to go. Based on the recommendation, I called Civic Barber Shop - and I am happy I did. Sam told me that he could take me right away and I headed over there. The barber shop is located on the 15th floor. Once I arrived, Sam took the time to show me some examples of haircuts for my type of hair. Once we agreed on the style, he started cutting. He then gave me a shampoo and made sure everything looked perfect. He even offered me an espresso and cookies. I was very impressed with the whole experience would highly recommend.

I went ti Civic Opera Barber Shop today for the first time. First of all the shop is on the 15th floor of the historical Opera building, with marble finishes and a breadth-taking view. Sam welcomed me with an Italian style espresso after which he revealed some secret and fun episodes of the Chicago life in the 70-80s (he has been cutting hair to celebrities for 45+ years). We moved onto discussing haircuts at which point he gave me the first scissors-only haircut (no buzz except for finishes) I ever got since I moved here to Chicago. The haircut is perfect and exactly what I was hoping for, tailored to the shape of my head and the curve of my hair. Hands down amongst the very best barber experiences I had in my life, I will bring my friends there and I will be back at Sams every time I need a haircut. Go there no matter what, period.

Ive been going to Sam at the Opera Barber Shop for about 5 years and have never had a bad cut. Sam is always on time and extremely friendly. Most importantly, he always remembers me and how I like my hair cut. I highly recommend. Its the true classic barbershop experience!

Very professional, Sam knew exactly what cut to give me before I even sat down. Theyre open early and with the free shampoo I was able to head right to the office.

I had been going to these guys for years before the lockdown, and I’ve been really happy to be going back recently again. It’s a nice experience in general and all the guys there are great to talk with, but more importantly they also do great work. I can personally vouch for Sam and (should he ever come back out of early retirement) Leo too. A+

Found it via Google and I am so happy I did. Walked in and was greeted by Sam. He gave me a great haircut and an absolutely phenomenal shave. He is a wealth of Chicago knowledge as well. Definitely head over there and treat yourself to something real and not some fake new nonsense.

Fantastic cut. Sam did an excellent job providing and quick and clean cut, while also giving a full barber shop experience. Fully recommend

Sam did a great job. He took his time with my hair and even touched up my beard for free. Prices are very reasonable, would definitely recommend.

I’ve been going to this barber for 15 years and didn’t realize how much I missed it until WFH during covid. They are open for business and it has been great getting downtown and using them again. Fantastic service and quality and great people. Can’t recommend them highly enough.

Sam has been cutting my hair for years and can say with confidence that he is hands down the best in the business. Always consistent and exactly what I ask for at a reasonable price. Also, takes all COVID precautions so you always feel safe while you are in there. I highly recommend his signature cut, “the Princeton”.

I had a terrific experience at the Civic Opera Barber Shop. The cut, the atmosphere, and the espresso at the end were all excellent. Will be returning and highly recommend.

This is my new place to get my hair cut after 4 years in Chicago. Sam is old school and relies on the scissor cut, a lost art. I also learned the name of the haircut I get - The Princeton - for better or worse! I will be back and recommend this establishment.

The best place to get a great haircut in downtown Chicago. Sam is the best, and the shop is open and ready for business!

Great barber who pays attention to deals. Will be coming back.

I didnt know I was getting a hair cut by a legend. Reasonable waiting time as I showed up unannounced, lovely staff, and most importantly I got my moneys worth. I had a great experience, and will come again.

The BEST barber in Chicago -- Sam is very friendly and welcoming and sure knows hot to cut hair! A great value as well -- the haircut comes with cookies and espresso. You can NOT go wrong with Sam!

Ive been exclusively going to Joanne for 3+ years and couldnt be happier. She is very talented when it comes to mens haircuts and always welcomes friendly conversation. I would highly recommend Joanne if you are looking for a great haircut in the loop.

Stumbled upon the the Civic Opera House Barber Shop when I was downtown in a pinch for a haircut a few months ago, and Sam did a stellar job. I have been coming back ever since and enjoy the great conversation and stories.

Great cut, great espresso, great service, great views. Thanks Sam.

Tremendous barbershop! The entire team is professional and they give an excellent haircut. Felt safe during the visit as they have enacted strict COVID precautions including chair cleanings, social distance, and haircuts with your mask on but not in the way of the barber. Will return again and recommend to others.

Consistent, friendly, and reliable. Would give more than 5 stars if there was a way.

Been going to Sam for years now - he always does a great job. These guys didnt miss a beat when the pandemic came - every time Ive gone in the last year, everyone has been wearing a mask at all times and the shop is clean (as it always was). Do yourself a favor and pay these guys a visit.

After trying several barbers in Chicago, I can easily say that the Civic Opera Barbershop is the best in the city. This place is a true gentlemens barbershop with a real scissor cut, straight razor shave on the back of the neck and theres even a shoe shine man always available. Sam is the definition of professional and they take safety very seriously with the Covid virus. They use a special technique that allows for a perfect haircut without ever taking off your mask. I have been going here for 10 years now. Just tell them you want the Princeton cut and you will walk out a happy customer. If you are looking for a classy barbershop with real professionals that have been in the game for over 40 years, this is the only place in Chicago to consider when you need a haircut.

An excellent old school, high quality barbershop. Sam is a true professional, very detail-oriented, and also gives great suggestions if youre unsure of what type of cut you want. Highly recommended!

Got a great haircut today from Sam! As he likes to say, all done with the tip of a scissor. Fantastic old school barber shop located in the Civic Opera Building. Go to Sam to get your hair cut, Civic Opera Barber Shop is up and running (Google had mistakenly showed them as closed recently).

Sam did a really nice job. Great haircut! He also was able to keep my mask on the entire time and it overall felt like a very safe experience.

This is one of the best barbers in the city. I have been going here for years because it is easy to sneak away for a cut before work. Sam is excellent. He trained in Italy and the US, and very few can rival his experience. Ask to get a princeton with a scissor cut on the side and back. Using clippers on the side is just like painting with a rolling brush. However, Sams scissor cut is made with precision and is a masterpiece.They are open early and you can get your haircut before 7am. Due to covid, the hours have changed and they are only open during the mornings and early afternoon. But as the saying goes, early bird gets the worm. They also have an espresso machine to get your morning boost of caffeine.

Ive been coming here for years. Best haircut in Chicago. They have done a great job adapting to COVID and keeping the place clean/sanitized, all customers/employees wearing masks, etc. I will keep coming back!

Sam has been my barber since the summer, and he consistently done a great job (tried multiple different hair styles). Last time I showed him a photo of what haircut I wanted, and it turned out even better than the photo! He also will even explain his thoughts on how to give you the best cut. Highly recommend!

I cannot say enough good things about this wonderful barbershop. It is a real barbershop with real barbers who know what theyre doing.I have had cuts from Sam and Mike, and both are fantastic barbers. Their attention to detail is great, but they still get you in and out of the chair quickly.I have been coming here for about 3 years now and Ive never had a questionable haircut once. Sam takes the time to explain how to style the hair to work best for how he cuts it.Also, I love that I can get my shoes shined while Im getting a cut. If it wasnt for them, my shoes would never look good because I never can find time to get them shined separately.It works best if you make an appointment, but they do walk-ins as well, you just might have to wait.I cant recommend these guys enough!

Been coming here for years like many others. Highly recommended for the first return-to-office haircut. Before I looked like Id been shipwrecked on a desert island and now Im back to civilized again!

The crew at the Civic Opera Barbershop is terrific. With respect to getting a haircut during the COVID pandemic, they were able to do a full haircut and let me keep my mask on. (If you are worried about around your ears, they use a type of band so that they can remove the straps from around your ears, but then it bands the straps together around the back of your head). Of course, they are very respectful and are wearing masks themselves.

The Lyric Opera barbershop is a classic old school Italian barber with artisans manning the chairs. Sal cuts my hair way better than any “stylist-that costs more too”. Plus Sal shaves your neck with warmed shaving cream and straight blade for a finishing touch. Convenient location...great conversation. Plus you can get a shoe shine while you get your haircut.

Classic barber shop still open during COVID. Unfortunately my barber of 10 years Leo has retired, but Sam is also a great barber.

A very reasonable price for such good haircuts

Got a great Cut from Sam and he explained where the Ivy League got its name. awesome place and no long wait!

This is by far the best barber shop in the city of Chicago. Sam and his team give great haircuts and are always accommodating with your schedule. If want a real barber to cut your hair, go visit The Civic Opera Barber Shop.

Went to Sam for a cut a while ago because the shop is convenient, and havent been anywhere else since. Ive been back a dozen or so times, and had a perfect cut every time. Good guys at the shop, and fair prices. Cant recommend enough.

Sam is a true professional here. I’ve gotten my haircut in many places throughout the city and Sam really is the best. He’s knowledgeable, he listens to what you want, and makes appropriate recommendations to ensure that you get the best version of your haircut. His services are fairly priced and you definitely get your money’s worth.I highly recommend this place. Also, it’s located in one of the coolest, most historic buildings in the city...just another perk.

Sam is OPEN! He’s back after the stay-in-home order was lifted, better than ever!Sam has been my barber for 10 years, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else! He is courteous, respectful and a true professional.

Sals a cool dude making the best of a bad time. Very respectful and mindful of social distancing rules while still giving a fantastic cut!

Second to none !! Sam is an exceptional old school class act barber. An extreme eye for detail consistently delivering for his customers. I often visit w sam throughout the day. Its very impressive to witness between himself and the other barbers the relationship these barbers have w their clientele.A legendary establishment forged in consistency and professionalism ..

Great haircut, great service. Masks on the whole time.

Sam, Leo, and everyone do a phenomenal job cutting your hair. I have had my hair cut by everyone at the place at some point and have never been disappointed. Very affordable and quick to get you in for a same day appointment - Highly recommend!

I had grown annoyed by the amount of barbers that you could tell were uncomfortable using shears, and instead insisted on clippers. This led me to prefer salons, but the lack of experience with mens cuts left me looking for more. After one cut, I know I will be back. My haircut is exactly what I was looking for. It is more precise, and was quicker than most barbers. The straight razor neck shave really put the entire experience over the top. Until next time, CHEERS!

I’m not here to lower his star rating due to frustration. Disclaimer: I’ve never had a haircut here. The place looks standup. But the hours on google maps do NOT reflect the true hours of this establishment . I’ve been to this place 2 times now when google said it was open. One was near the holidays on a Friday and probably took off due to the holidays ( understandable ) and the other is a Monday ( which a lot of barbershop are closed then ) but idk why google is saying it’s open on a Monday. Please change this & look forward to a superb haircut here in the future.

Found this barber shop when looking for a classic simple place to get a great and consistent haircut. One of the most difficult things to find in any barber shop is consistency. Sam and team are awesome. I’m in and out quickly and always get a perfect haircut without looking like I just got a haircut.

I just started working across the street and decided to try this shop due to all the great reviews online. They did not disappoint. Sam gives a phenomenal haircut and shave. He took one look and knew exactly what to do. This place has that old school feel that you just do not see anymore. I highly recommend this barbershop and look forward to going back.

Great haircut for a very affordable price. Ive been coming here for a few months now and the service is just phenomenal. Would highly recommend!

Hands down, the best haircut in the city of Chicago!Traditional barbershop with guys who know how to cut hair. Sam gives the best Princeton cut in the country.Fast service, you can slip out of the office and be back in 30 minutes or less.The price is unbeatable and so is the quality. You’re not going to get a better haircut anywhere else.

Sam is the best. I started coming here after my barber retired and have found it to be a great fit. I’m able to get haircuts early before work or during my lunch breaks and they typically only take 20min. He has always made room for me to squeeze in around my schedule and after two haircuts, had what I liked down and to my liking.Great guy and great haircut...won’t get my haircut anywhere else.

Got a great hair cut today from Sam. He’s an expert with the scissors.

Pretty disappointed by a well-reviewed establishment. Please don’t give professional recommendations with amateur haircuts. Only quality part of the experience was the shoe shine. Wouldn’t expect such a bad result for over $30, won’t be returning.

Best haircut I’ve had in Chicago. Beard trim and scissors cut. Perfect. Old school barber shop and great complimentary Italian espresso.Tricky to find at first. Into the opera house lobby and then take elevator to the 15th floor.

Got lucky on a lunch walk-in to have Sam readily available for a cut. He was friendly, personable and got the job done quickly and better than my last barber. He pays great attention to detail and Id definitely go back for my next cut.

Really great old school shop in a convenient location. Reasonable price for a shop downtown. Stanley did an excellent job on my fade

NEW FEMALE BARBER JOANNE IS HERE!! 33 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. MENS HAIRCUT $35 Monday/FRIDAY 10/4pm

This place just exudes man and oozes of a time long since gone where men could go, feel comfortable, treated like a million bucks, not have it cost you a million bucks and get some of the best services a man could want! I was in from out of town and had my choice (had 4 hours to kill) of several places to choose from in the loop. I chose these gents because they were straight up honest and you could tell when I call them, they were appreciative of my business regardless of whether or not it was my first time or if I was a weekly regular. Being that Im from South Carolina, I dont get the luxury of a real shave, so I purposefully didnt shave that day, knowing that whomever I chose would be doing a shave too. These guys are the bomb. Ive had many man treatments before, and these guys are hands down the best value out there today. I may have had other shaves that lasted longer, or had more funky stuff put on my face, but in the end, they were no different in terms of quality and these guys were MUCH less expensive.I remember when I was a kid, going into the neighborhood barber every week or so on the weekend. The camaraderie, the stories and the overall being a man feeling you got from that, is exactly what it felt like at this place. For over 40 years this guy has been here doing this. Clearly doing something right. Keep up the great work!!

Sam and his team of Barbers are amazing! This is the best place to go in downtown Chicago to get a top notch hair cut- the full Barber experience! Sam gives the best Princeton mens cut in the City- and you can get your shoes shined while hes working! Amazing place! Thank you Sam!

Edit/Update. Sam and company are back open and better than ever! I.d been in desperate need of getting a haircut ever since COVID started, and boy did Sam come through as always. Gives a perfect Princeton cut and also practices safety as well. Wore a mask and was able to work around the mask I was wearing as well during the haircut.Best Ivy League / Princeton cut in town! Discovered Sam and the shop a few months ago trying to find said cut and they havent disappointed. My new regular spot and they cant be more accommodating. Also a nice perk are the shoe shines as well if you need them.

Just stopped by for a trim during lunch and it was more than what I asked for! Sam has a lot of history cutting hair and hes absolutely phenomenal! He cut my hair with care and precision and it didnt take longer than 20 minutes! Highly recommend if youre looking for a good haircut for a good price.

Fantastic barbershop and haircut. A great price too! Sam really knows his stuff when it comes to hair and hes never let me down. He does a mean Ivy League! I couldnt recommend this place any more. If youre looking for a great place to get a haircut with a knowledgeable barber then search no more, and head to this place.

These guys are great. Ive gotten a haircut from 4 of them now and Ive absolutely enjoyed each haircut! Also got the straight razor shave the other day and it looks/feels amazing. Highly recommend this experience to anyone. Great vibes and fair prices!

Im from D.C. and was stuck in Chicago due to a flight cancellation. I needed a good fade and trim before heading back to work. I was able to walk in on short notice and get an outstanding haircut at a good price. The team there is thorough, personable, and great at cutting hair. The owner has been doing this forever and it shows. They even offered to let me hang out until my flight, recommended a lunch spot, and helped me catch the train to the airport. I highly recommend this spot.

Ive been going to Sam for a while and he always greets me with a warm smile. He willingly listens to feedback and always remembers my preferences. Between cuts, my hair grows out in a good manner, which is a sign of a good cut.This is an old-school barbershop, with all the charm of an old-school barbershop. You go here because you are a guy, you want an experienced barber--not a hair stylist, but a true barber--and you want a good haircut. You wont be disappointed.

This place is the best! Sam CONSISTENTLY does a terrific job and always remembers my cut. Everyone else there is also great. Highly recommend the place for a great, quick, and efficient cut.

This was my first time at a legitimate barber shop. I wanted to look nice for my graduation and Sam exceeded my expectations! I was greeted by a welcoming staff and that always makes a difference. This is definitely a traditionalists barber shop. I never have experienced such care going into my cut; Sam gave me a shampoo not because I asked him to, but because he knew it would help him to control my hair. All in all, great atmosphere, better haircut. I will definitely be heading back soon!

Sam and the rest of the barbers are Great. Whenever I go to this place, I know I’ll leave looking great. If you’re looking for a great haircut, look no further, this is the place to go!

Sam, Leo, and Sal are living proof that you dont have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks! This place is a real treasure...a guys guy kind of place with real Italian barbers who take great pride in knowing that you are a walking billboard for their business. The ambiance and personal attention are throwbacks to an earlier time, and youll thoroughly enjoy yourself every minute your there. And dont forget to have Darnell (a.k.a. Coach) shine em up for you before you leave! Great place to chill out and talk sports, politics...whatever!

Best barber shop Ive ever been to, and it isnt even remotely close. Love the old school, guys place feel and the haircuts dont compare to anywhere else in the city. On top of that, youre paying half the price of other shops and getting twice the haircut. Sams the man, never gotten a bad haircut in the two years Ive been a customer. Ive recommended this to all my friends, and nobody gets haircuts from anywhere else anymore. Check these guys out!

Need a haircut in Chicago? Look no further. This is the spot. If I could describe it in one word I would use the word authentic. From the location in the Old Opera House, to the chairs, to the barbers themselves, everything is totally authentic. My coworker recommended the place to me and Im glad he did. Sam fixed me up real nice.Thanks guys.

I only go to the Civic Opera Barber Shop. Even when I lived in Cincinnati, I would try to get in a cut when I was traveling back to Chicago for work. These guys are the best. Knowledgeable, Experienced, and Welcoming. They also offer shoe shines, shaves, and a few other amenities that are rarely found in Chicago. Incredible old-school atmosphere, and the price is very reasonable compared to most places. Simply the best.

Ive be coming to the Civic Barber Shop for the past 6 months and can honestly say its the best haircut in the city. Ask for Sam and ask for the Princeton...you will not be disappointing! Great barber shop experience.

Ive been going here for a few years now and have never gotten such a consistently amazing haircut. On top of that, you cant beat the price. Sams my guy, but all the fellas in the shop are great. Sam always has me looking fresh with his Ivy League aka Princeton cut. Hes a real artist that Sam. Ill go here as long as I live in the state of IL.

Great barber shop staffed by great people. Quality service at a solid price, located conveniently within my office building. Highly recommended

I went for the first time and got a quick cut with Sam. Ive found my new regular barber shop! Its as simple as that. This place is the best of what youd expect in a barbershop thats kept its style over the last 40 years. Cuts, shaves and trims, shoe shines and good conversation with very reasonable prices and top-notch service. I recommend this place to anyone!

Great group of guys who do great work! The cut is top-notch and the atmosphere is comfortable and casual. Highly recommended!

Excellent barber. Sam makes it possible for me to keep long, curly hair but still look professional. Tell him what you want, and you will get it.

I dont like to tell anyone about hidden gems I find in the city because, well, then they wouldnt be hidden. But I had been looking all over Chicago for a quality, reasonably priced haircut and finally found the last barbership Ill ever need in the Civic Opera Barber Salon.The barbershop has everything I need to make me feel comfortable. Sam was my barber and did an absolutely fantastic job.For some perspective, Ive spent $125 for a haircut in the Loop, very recently. It was a great cut, but not some where I could rationalize going for every cut. The cut I got from Sam was the same, if not better quality for much, much less. I am very picky when it comes to haircuts and Sam met all my needs.Im thrilled that I found a new barber and cant wait to get a haircut again.

Giving one star hoping to bring the average down, because this place doesn’t deserve a 4.9 and it’s very misleading for first time customers.Come to this place only if you just want your hair to be “cut short” because there is no styling to their cut. Poor skills and below average attitude. (Even that, $30 is way too overpriced for the result.)I believe my barber has a heart of gold so I feel very sorry to give this one star. However, this place really, really does not deserve a 4.9. I was a victim and I hope there will be no next.

Rarely do you find a barber that provides a perfect haircut and a consistent haircut. Ive been going to Sam for 4 years now and Ill never go anywhere else.

I was recommended to come here from one of my coworkers and instantly loved it. Great place to go and get a great haircut. I always go during lunch and its always easy to get in there. Sam does an amazing job and its always quick. Everyone theres nice and the shop has a great atmosphere.

Recently moved to Chicago and was looking for a new barber. The Civic Opera Barber Shop is nearby my workplace, and I liked its old-school style and the fact its in a historic building. That said, I decided to try it out and I am very pleased that I did. Sam cut my hair, and he has been working there for 38 years. Although it was my first time there, he made me feel welcome and treated me like a regular.I recommend this shop to anyone seeking a new barber. Good environment, good service, and not outrageously expensive.

Hands down the best barber shop experience in Chicago. From the classic style chairs, to the care and attention to detail from Sam and the team, it will become your favorite barber shop very quickly. Throw in the convenience of a shoe shine while getting your haircut and shave, and youve just transported back in time. You wont be disappointed!

Great traditional Chicago barber shop. $28 for a standard cut as of 2018, which is comparable or below other shops in the loop. Includes a warm foam neck shave. Cash only (there’s an ATM in the shop). Ask for Leo—very nice guy and, more importantly, an excellent barber. It’s on the 15th floor of the Civic Opera building, so you won’t see it from the street. I will be coming back here for future cuts. Highly recommended. They’ll also shine your shoes during your cut if you need it.Update: raised their price to $30.

Great Princeton haircut from an awesome, traditional, welcoming old school barbershop. Sam, Leo, & Sal are gems. Good prices & great service!

Sam is a great guy and extremely talented! I have been getting my style of haircut for years in NYC and up until now I had no idea it had an actual name. Sam told me that the style I was looking for was called the Ivy League Cut. Sure enough I searched it on Google and that was exactly what I wanted. Its been a long time since I got such a great haircut and I will definitely come back next time Im in Chicago.

Great old school barbershop. Sam was great and very knowledgeable. I told him what I wanted and he made slight recommendations to make the haircut that much better. Will definitely be back again.

I was in town for business and needed to have my beard trimmed before my meetings. This place is awesome. Great price, great service. I highly recommend.

Sam knows what he is doing, very experienced and professional. The shop is in a great convenient location and it was a great experience overall.

Great service, good pricing & very convenient if you’re already in the building! The team definitely know what a traditional cut and shave is and they do it very well!

Sam is the best in the business. Great service, great haircut, genuine person who gets to know his customers right away.

One of the best haircuts I have recieved in my life. Sam does an outstanding job and has 44 years of experience which will be clearly displayed in your next cut. Perfect for the young professional who is looking for a cut that will make him standout in the workforce.Top quality customer care and great conversation can be found here for a relatively cost effective price.Perfect for a lunch time cut.

My man Sam did not disappoint. The high ratings at this place are no fluke - phenomenal haircut at a good price. Would highly recommend for any guy looking for a nice cut.

Have been going to The Civic Opera Barber Shop for 1.5 years and highly recommend! While the place wont wow you with modern amenities (massages/beer/loud music) The Civic Opera Barber Shop more than compensates with quality and consistency. Additionally, Sam has tamed my coarse asian hair like a pro. Bonus points for the straight edge trim that accompanies every cut!