The Barber Shop — Restaurant in Rome

To start I want to highlight that our experience was probably an unfortunate one, but make no mistake Barbershop is a very good bar, it just failed to meet and exceed our expectations on the night.

We were prompt on arrival at 2200 and saw the iconic barbershop light on, we took a glance into the shop and followed the sign around to another door, we rang the bell and were promptly greeted by a friendly gent who invited us in alongside another group. We were taken down some stairs that probably need repaired.... but quirky and part of the charm, we were guided into a wonderful arched room with fantastic furniture and a well stocked bar with some incredible spirits, we were also the first to arrive. It was safe to say we were very excited. We were sat in a great spot and ready to go. It was then our disappointment started. We were informed there was no menu for the night (we hope and remain confident this isn't a regular trick...), for someone who has worked his whole career in the industry this was almost a deal breaker. Part of the identity and experience of a bar is the menu available. An expression of the bar and its Bartenders. This is why we dropped one star 🌟.

The service began promptly and we were brought a prosecco/aquavit combo I assume and some water, we were then consulted about our likes and dislikes so we could have our drinks tailored, it was fairly awkward and I'm not quite sure we were listened to, which became more obvious when most of the other guests sat with almost identical drinks.. I could be wrong. As it got busier the service got slower and slower as the consultation process droned on by one staff member *due to no menu. In fairness the solo bartender was absolutely killing it, making drink after drink, which were very well balanced and crafted. Looking around a fair few people looked awkward and unimpressed. Soon smoke clogged the air as we received our 2nd cocktail at 2330. We watched 3 or 4 tables request the bill after just 1 drink, this is where I would say they dropped the 2nd Star 🌟 We soon joined them and left somewhat disappointed. The bill however was very reasonable.

We cannot knock the attempt at good service and the quality of drinks. It just wasn't their night or ours.

My main feedback is this: for a bar that lies in a tourist location, that's guaranteed to get tourists, probably relies on tourism to stay open, it didn't feel tourist friendly, just my take on it.

Don't be off put, go and experience it. If they bring out this new menu, I'm sure it'll be a much better experience. And 10 years ago I would have lit up...

Atmosphere: 9/10 A true speakeasy in Rome’s Monti district. Ring the bell to enter this underground bar hidden in a former barber shop. The ambiance—plush chesterfields, brick arches, and candlelit décor—creates an intimate, late-night environment. Opens after 11 PM.

Drinks: 8.5/10 Recommendation: not applicable No menu is used—instead, guests fill out a preference card, and drinks are tailored accordingly. The result: creative and well-mixed cocktails. Above-average glassware and nice coasters, though presentation remains minimal with no garnish.

Service: 7/10 Water is served only on request. Bartender is professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. Reservation recommended if you want to sit at the bar - only 5 seats available. Prices are...

We waited almost an hour for our cocktails. Unfortunately, the server had to come back several times as she kept forgetting our order. When the drinks finally arrived, our food had been forgotten. After asking several times, we were later informed that the sauces were finished and that only the chips could be served.

The chips (€6) were unfortunately not fresh, soft and lacking crunch, as if they had been left open for some time. Additionally, there seemed to be only one bartender preparing drinks on a Saturday night, despite the restaurant being quite busy.

In the end, we just got 1 round of drinks since we know we would have to wait long for the second round.

Overall, the experience was disappointing given the long wait times and lack of...