What started as a barbershop in downtown Baltimore, MD, has grown over the last 12 years into a multipurpose event space and luxury destination.
Located on the corner of S. Calvert Street and E. Lombart St., the “QG” has become a place for both men and women to relax and be pampered in this bustling business district. Whether stopping in for lunch, drinks, high-end clothing, spa services, haircuts, shaves or cigars, the QG has something for everyone and everyone can enjoy it.
On my first visit to the QG, I was greeted in the main lobby and taken on a tour. Yes, a tour because there’s that much to see! One almost has to plan out a route before embarking on the journey through the massive 6-story, fully renovated historic building.
1st Floor – Grooming
Whether you have an appointment or not, stylists at the QG are ready to consult and have you looking like you stepped straight off of the runway. Marrying the best of traditional techniques and nostalgia with the latest trends, style and technology, the barber staff takes great pride in old school techniques that many shops have strayed away from. And don’t worry about having your service and not being able to maintain your look, as all of the grooming products used in the barbershop are for sale on site. You can also have your shoes shined while you wait, a free benefit if you are a member.
Photo: Justin Harris
2nd Floor – Spa
Whether on the go or if you have a few hours to spare, the spa at the QG offers facials, massage, manicures, pedicures, and waxing services. Appointments for this area are required to ensure that each patron has a dedicated professional prepared to provide the escape you need after a long and trying week.
Photo: Justin Harris
3rd Floor – Cigar Lounge
Smoking jackets are not required, but they’re available if you’d like one. As a member, not only do you receive discounts on cigars and other services, you also have your very own jacket waiting on you upon arrival. For those passing through town but wanted to visit and enjoy a cigar, day memberships are available for $30 (cigars, drinks, food or services) and you can hideaway for the day in the classic, old school lounge. Equipped with large TVs, Xboxes, kitchenette and wall-to-wall lockers, there’s no reason to leave once you settle into the oversized leather chairs or couches. And if you don’t see your favorite cigar in the walk-in humidor, simply ask the knowledgeable staff to order it and you can expect it by your next visit.
Photo: Justin Harris
Photo: Justin Harris
4th & 5th Floor – Women’s & Men’s Retail
You’re relaxed, you’ve had your cigar and your hair looks like you’re ready for a magazine shoot, the next logical step is to bring it all together with the right outfit. With designer shirts, suits, shoes, belts and accessories, the last thing you have to worry about is the fit as a tailor is onsite to customize and solidify your look.
Photo: Justin Harris
6th Floor – Clubhouse/Bar/Speakeasy
A beautiful view of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor serves as the 180-degree backdrop as you enjoy one of the many hand-made craft cocktails and full menu at the Clock Restoration Bar. With a bar capacity of 50 and a game room that accommodates 60, after hours in downtown are anything but dull. Amenities in the Clubhouse include golf simulators, shuffleboard, pool, arcade games and wall-to-wall TVs to satisfy patron’s sports appetite while taking care of their physical one. Food and drinks an be ordered from Clock Restoration and enjoyed in the Cigar Lounge to ensure that guests and members never have to fight downtown traffic to find sustenance.
Photo: Justin Harris
Classifying the QG as a one-stop-shop would be an insult and understatement. This “department store” is a comprehensive experience and a must-visit locale when visiting Baltimore, MD. If you happen to be staying in Baltimore County and not able to venture downtown, QG also has a second location in Hunt Valley, MD.
The Quinntessential Gentleman
31 S Calvert Street
Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
www.theqg.com
Offers cigars: Yes
Offers alcoholic beverages: Yes
Offers food: Yes
Seating: 150