A Cut Above the Rest: The Timeless Appeal of Cam & Shah’s Barbershop in Bayside Mentone

Cam & Shah’s Barbershop. Tucked away at 15 Balcombe Road, this unassuming storefront has become more than just a place for a trim—it’s a cornerstone of community, a nod to tradition, and a testament to the artistry of the shave. For locals navigating the laid-back vibe of Victoria’s coastline, stepping inside feels like slipping into a well-worn leather armchair: comforting, reliable, and effortlessly stylish.

Mentone, with its Art Deco parades and family-friendly beaches, has long been a haven for those seeking respite from the city’s frenzy. Yet amid the surf shops and seaside cafes, Cam & Shah’s stands out as a bastion of masculine ritual. Opened its doors in its current form in 2021, the barbershop is the brainchild of two seasoned artisans, Cam and Shah, whose partnership has breathed fresh life into a craft as old as time itself. Cam, the shop’s original heartbeat, has been honing his scissors since at least 2016, when his eponymous venture first drew crowds for its precision fades and no-nonsense approach. Shah, a master of the blade with a flair for intricate beard work, brought his expertise to the fold that fateful year, merging their talents into a seamless synergy. “We’re excited to share with you our new venture,” read their jubilant Facebook announcement at the time, capturing the buzz of two barbers united by a shared passion for elevating the everyday haircut.

What sets Cam & Shah’s apart isn’t just the merger—it’s the ethos. In an era of fleeting trends and app-booked blow-dries, this duo clings to the classics while embracing the contemporary. Services are straightforward yet supremely executed: think crisp men’s haircuts starting from the short crop fade to the timeless flat top, each tailored to the client’s face and lifestyle. Beard trims are a house speciality, with Shah’s steady hand transforming scruff into sculpted perfection, often finished with a hot towel shave that leaves skin as smooth as Mentone’s glassy waves. For those seeking a full groom, blade work adds that extra edge—literally—ensuring every visit leaves you looking (and feeling) like a sharper version of yourself. Prices remain refreshingly accessible, reflecting the shop’s commitment to the working man: a standard haircut hovers around the $40 mark, with beard services adding just $20–$30 more. No upselling, no gimmicks—just quality that speaks for itself.

But beyond the clippers and combs, it’s the atmosphere that keeps punters coming back. Step through the door, and you’re greeted not by sterile silence but by the easy banter of mates catching up. The shop’s interior, with its exposed brick accents and rows of gleaming pomade jars, evokes the golden age of barbershops—think 1950s nostalgia meets millennial minimalism. A steady stream of classic rock or indie tunes plays softly in the background, mingling with the snip-snip of shears and the low hum of conversation. It’s a space where dads bring their lads for their first big-boy cut, where retirees swap yarns about the good old days, and where young professionals unwind after a long commute from the CBD.

The proof, as they say, is in the pudding—or in this case, the glowing testimonials. With a perfect 100% recommendation rate from over two dozen Facebook reviews, Cam & Shah’s has cultivated a loyal following that raves about its “outstanding service quality” and “welcoming atmosphere.” One punter, a local tradie named John-Anthony, summed it up succinctly: “These lads know their stuff—fades that last weeks, and a vibe that makes you want to linger.” Another reviewer highlighted the “strong sense of community,” noting how Cam and Shah remember not just your preferred style but the stories behind it. “It’s like family,” they wrote. Even on platforms like Fresha and Wheree, echoes of praise ring out for the skilled hands and genuine hospitality, with nary a complaint in sight. In a suburb where word-of-mouth travels faster than a southerly breeze, such acclaim is no small feat.

Of course, no feature on Cam & Shah’s would be complete without a nod to the men behind the mirrors. Cam, with his quiet confidence and eye for detail, embodies the steady reliability of the bayside life—meticulous yet approachable. Shah, meanwhile, infuses the space with infectious energy, his Instagram reels (@shah_the_barber) a whirlwind of before-and-after transformations that have garnered hundreds of followers. Together, they’ve not only preserved the barbershop’s role as a social hub but amplified it, hosting informal “chop and chat” sessions that draw in everyone from surfers to suits. In an age where isolation can creep in unnoticed, their shop serves as a reminder: a good haircut isn’t just about the hair—it’s about connection.

As Mentone evolves—new developments sprouting along the foreshore, young families flocking to its schools—Cam & Shah’s remains a constant. It’s the kind of place where time slows, where the outside world fades like an overgrown fringe. Whether you’re after a quick tidy-up before a beach barbecue or a full overhaul to impress at the next bayside bash, this is your spot.

Fancy booking in? Cam & Shah’s Barbershop is at 15 Balcombe Road, Mentone VIC 3194. Give them a bell on 0411 933 932 (phone bookings preferred), or slide into their socials for the latest: Facebook at Cam & Shah’s Barbershop or Instagram at @cam.shah.barbershop. Hours are typically Monday 9am–5pm, Tuesday–Friday 8am–5:30pm, and Saturday 8am–4pm—though a quick call never hurts. In the world of fades and friendships, Cam and Shah’s is cutting it just fine.