The Williamsburg Community Board has no interest in welcoming an East Village barbershop that also doubles as a lounge. On Tuesday night, the board voted against a liquor license for the Blind Barber, a storefront barbershop with a bar space in the rear. Business in the front, party in the back. It's been present on 10th Street in Alphabet City for years, and was looking to set up shop on Lorimer and Ainslie Streets.
The Blind Barber treats partrons to a free drink with every haircuit or shave, but the space in the back is open to everyone. Neighbors feel that the area already has more than enough bars, and Blind Barber owner Jeff Lamb isn't too concerned with attempts to stop his expansion. According to Lamb, the Williamsburg Community Board "[doesn't] even know what they're protesting."
The final decision will be made by the State Liquor Authority later this summer.
[via Gothamist]
