Peres' new "Rutgers Barber" brings old school flavor, modern style

For many readers, Highland Park’s Daren Peres is a man who needs no introduction.

After several years on Woodbridge Avenue, Peres has moved “The Barber Lounge” to 74 Raritan Avenue -- into the familiar storefront that has been known as “Rutgers Barbershop” for the last 15 years.

Out of respect for former owner Steve Gregus, who recently passed away, Daren has decided to keep the name of the shop the same. According to Peres, Steve was a well known and loved by his customers with long years running another barber shop that has been a pillar of the Highland Park community.

“This town has welcomed me with open arms,” says Peres. Walking into his store you notice that the look and feel of the place seems to match Daren’s personality. You don’t hear techno music blaring the way you do when you walk into a SuperCuts. The only sound you hear is the gentle tone of Daren’s voice, sometimes little more than a whisper, and the announcers from the football game on TV.

Like Daren’s unique approach to cutting and styling hair (he uses a straight razor), the shop is a mix of things old and new. On the shelves you’ll find antique razors on display next to American Crew products. The hardwood floors have been recently renovated, but the leather barber chairs were built to last in the ‘60s -- they still have ashtrays on the armrests. An inconspicuous razor strap that has been in the shop for at least fifteen years, hangs next to a poster of Muhammad Ali standing over Sonny Liston.

When I asked what sets him apart from the other four barbershops in town, Daren just laughed and turned to the customer who was sitting in his chair. “Do you want to answer that for me?” The customer launched into a five minute explanation of nothing but praise.

One gets the feeling that every one of Daren’s customers leaves his shop feeling completely satisfied with their haircut, which is why many become regulars or repeat customers. If you walk into his shop he will be the one cutting your hair, which is what makes going to the “Rutgers Barbershop” a more special experience than going to a big name hair salon.

Daren is sponsored by the clipper company Andis; he travels as a trainer in men’s clipper cutting techniques, including a few recent conventions held at the Javits Convention Center.

During my visit, Daren cut three people’s hair, all of whom he was on a first name basis with. His customers know where he is from and that is the only thing that matters. “You would be shocked by the wide range of clientele that comes into this shop,” he said. “I guess that’s why I chose Highland Park. It’s the closest you can get around here to the diversity you find in New York.”

The new Rutgers Barber Shop specializes in classic cuts, fades, faux hawks and mo-hawk. Try the hot towel shave (by appointment only) for something truly special! Daren also does women’s shorter haircuts. College students, senior citizens, or combinations of services receive a 10% discount.

- James P. Corsini