THE COMMON DITCH SOCIAL — Local services in New York

UPDATE: After 4 months of membership, I can safely say I will never use another salon in the city. The service has been exceptional, the stylists know how to TRIM a beard (not just shave the thing off), and the ability to keep a bottle lying around is a real treat. I also learned that they'll give you a bowl of popcorn if you want. The membership fee is steep, but well worth the cost if you regularly get groomed.

The only downside's I've found so far are intermittent responses on their web-booking form. Three separate times I've never gotten a response, so my appointment I was trying to make came and went. Now I book over the phone to avoid the issue. I've never had the beer there, but my coworker says it's a bit thin, yet still refreshing if you don't have a bottle in the back.

Recently became a member here, and have loved every second of it. Traditionally I had my hair cut either at a low-brow storefront barbershop ($15 per cut was the most I'd pay) or I'd splurge and go for a $40 haircut when I went upstate to visit family. A coworker pointed me to John Allan's, and could only rave about their quality.

My first visit, I was very pleased, if a little lost. When I first walked in, my coat was taken from me by a young man and I was given a black club jacket when I walked in that was similar to most hair-cutting gowns. They told me to wait in one of the chairs, as I was a walk-in, but was seen within 10 minutes. The process was quite thorough, from a long, pleasant shampooing to a hot-towel on my face to a haircut from the wonderfully pleasant Dawson. At the same time I was getting my hair cut, a woman came and gave me a hand massage and manicure, while somebody else came and placed a refreshing unsweetened iced tea near me.

Honestly, I've been to some fine spas before but even then I've never felt this pampered. I wanted to spend a little more time in the club room in the back, which had a bar, a billiards table, and a TV with the football game on, but was in a rush. Thankfully, I'm going back tomorrow for another trim, and this time will relax a little more.

I was recently informed as well that members could bring their own stiff beverages if they wanted, which would be kept behind the counter in the bar and served to you at your request. Will have to remember to bring a bottle of scotch. The other nice touch was a bevy of coupons for the same "full service" haircut/manicure/hot towel treatment to be given to my friends: they will make a nice treat when...

I always wait at least 6 months after starting at a new barber before submitting a review so I can give an honest opinion.

I've been going to the Common Ditch Social (CDS) for about 9 months now. I live a block away and I've tried almost every barber in the Financial District, each time I was totally disappointed.

The CDS was different from the beginning. I reached out to the owner, Marianna for information. She wrote back immediately and asked great follow up questions and ultimately, based on my needs, she paired me with Miguel and invited me to try them out.

The word 'social' isn't just in their name for no reason, this place is serious about being a social center of our community. Marianna invited me to one of their evening socials - complete with great entertainment - even before I booked with Miguel. Meeting the staff that night and the warm feeling I got from everyone there, and my neighbors, left me with no doubt that this place was different.

I scheduled with Miguel the next day. He was patient, and more importantly listened to what I wanted. Before he began they offered me a beverage of my choice, washed my hair, and offered me a hot towel and mini-neck and head massage - what service.

Miguel gave me a great haircut and I was convinced this was my place. I'm picky with my haircuts. I could tell immediately that Miguel was a great fit - thank you Marianna.

Fast forward 9 months later and I continue to be impressed. The hospitality has not waned, the quality standard is still there, and most of all I feel as if they are part of my community. I like getting my hair cut there.

I don't feel special, as they treat everyone this way. They simply just care about ALL their customers. I can't see going anywhere else.

Thanks to all the CDS staff that make my weekly...

Not a perfect haircut but the best haircut I gotten in a long time and at $140 for haircut, shave, manicure, scalp massage, shoe shine, and beer it’s a much better price than most other barbershops in the area. They also offer facials and pedicures. After giving detailed instructions the barber took her time taking a little off at a time until it was just right. Unlike most other expensive haircuts I have gotten recently which started off with an aggressive buzz cut. Haircut was a solid 9 out of 10. Same with the shave. But the overly friendly service and welcoming environment makes me want to come back and bring my friends. They serve beer and encourage you to bring your own bottle of whiskey. It’s set up to spend a few hours with the guys getting haircuts and shaves. The only thing it’s missing is being able to smoke cigars. It’s the first time in a long time I left happy about the...