MEET MARIA
It oozes confidence and sophistication, with that slight rough-around-the-edges feel that’s always missing from unisex and women-only salons and spas. Chop Shop Barber & Brand is truly one of its kind, catering to that niche demand that is rarely – if ever – met.
For a year now, this barber shop’s suave masculinity has met with satisfaction and gratitude from clients who have been eager for quality upmarket shaves and haircuts in Goa. Owner couple Martin Prihoda and Tonia Clark recently celebrated the first anniversary of their hip barbers in Vagator with a lovely sunset cocktail doo sponsored by Arbor Beer and Strangers & Sons.
Goa’s ‘it’ crowd milled about the shop, taking in the beautiful edgy vintage feel – a combination of contemporary and 1920s style that turns the space into a sort of friendly ‘man cave’. While guests caught up in the casual rustic setting outdoors, 16 special invitees were treated to Chop Shop Goa’s fabulous grooming experience indoors, amid offbeat décor including gorgeous murals of engine detailing and grunge guru Kurt Cobain.
To add to that rugged vibe, 25 HOG riders pulled up on their beautiful Harley-Davidson bikes, a reflection of the owners’ passion for motorcycles. Among the many notable faces at the party were Goa’s Mixed Martial Arts King Nelson Paes, travel writer Nolan Mascarenhas, international DJ Johnny Deep and Highway On My Plate host Mayur Sharma.
Chop Shop Goa offers everything from classic cuts and on-the-go shaves to deeper hot towel pampering with cleanses and scrubs. There are also head massages, masks, children’s cuts for little boys, and the whole hog – premium cuts and shaves with cleanses and massages, using luxury creams from Europe.
There’s a reason Chop Shop Goa has done so well in its debut year. It’s really down to the details that Martin and Tonia have gotten it spot on. From the hand-picked décor to the impeccable cleanliness and even the chic uniforms – rugged jeans and sharp shirt with striped suspenders and bows, the salon hits the mark. The staff is skillful, polite and ever helpful, qualities that tend to make clients loyal.
Chop Shop Goa is definitely here to stay, and Goa is certainly glad for it.
