Best old-school barber
In an era when "queer-eyeing" and day-spa makeovers are touted as de rigueur for male grooming, it's comforting to find that the old-school barbershop is alive and well.

Tucked away in the North End, Barberia Italia Gaetano & Rocco Barber Shop isn't the barbershop from your childhood (the one where a half-blind 80-year-old struggled not to draw blood). Rather, it's the place to head for a simple, quality, timeless haircut from one of two Italian craftsmen. It's also where you'll want to splurge on a special hot-towel, straight-razor shave.

With Boston sports memorabilia on the walls and copies of men's magazines ranging from Details and Maxim to the latest Playboy, you'll also feel far, far away from SuperCuts.

Barberia Italia Gaetano & Rocco Barber Shop, 167 Salem Street, Boston, (617) 227-2128.