More Men's Club than just a barber with a masseuse The Refined Grooming Lounge is a new concept start up helmed by Noel, a Canadian/ Filipino expat who had a similar concept in Canada and decided Manila was ripe for just such a place.
Located on the second floor of a rather nondescript,shabby strip mall with minimal signage The Refined garners members by word of mouth and networking solely so location was by design to remain somewhat exclusive and fly under the radar so to speak.
Open the scarred door and you're surprised at what is on the other side. You enter a minimalist showroom hung with hand tailored men's suits,haberdashery,casual wear and shoes with a suited brand manager to guide you through the selection. Black leather,raw wood,mirrors and commercial piping dominated this open and surprisingly bright loft space.
Walk further and you have a classic mirrored bar with stools replete with all top shelf liquors and a most amiable and accommodating bartender. Black leather tufted couches make up several conversation pits and poker tables line the large floor to ceiling windows.
Barber chairs line the far wall and heavy black curtains hide the conference room,foot spa with gaming consoles and cool,dark massage spaces.
There are packages available that have a set price for services so while I opted for a foot spa and full body massage,my nephew had a gentleman's haircut and my first of an excellent G&T in a tall glass served by a delightful young lady.
Foot spa was next and Baby, my masseuse was deft,professional with surprisingly strong thumbs that left my poor aching feet feeling like 20 again . I don't do video games so now was a perfect time to catch up with my nephew and polish off my second G&T.
With the massage spaces right behind the foot spa Baby got to work and after an excellent massage and a relaxing nap I emerged a new man!.....well maybe not so much new as revived.
Noel was there to ask how was our experience and thank us for our business. Like any shrewd business owner he is interested in what we think of his concept and eager to entertain constructive criticism.
I for one loved this place, with fewer and fewer venues where men can truly relax,have a few, dress and groom themselves,network with like minded individuals, play some cards and have a place to call their own ...... The Refined Grooming Lodge is truly welcomed. read more