Just off Main Street in downtown, you will find Evan Boling at his Barbershop and Shave Parlor. Men of all ages line up on the bench outside to wait their turn in the chair for a shave and haircut (though probably for more than “two bits.”) From the interesting memorabilia that hangs on the wall, to the precision haircuts he gives his customers, a trip to the barber shop is a rite of passage. Since so many locals come in for a cut, we wondered what he has learned about Visalia from those who sit in the chair. Here is what he was willing to share:
Q: What is your haircutting background?
April 1, 2021 will mark 10 years of being in business at the shop. I opened it after attending barber college and haven't looked back since.
Q: Why do you enjoy being in Downtown?
The feeling of community. The passing by of fellow business owners and employees, saying "hey" to each other and popping into each other's spots. I'm proud of our downtown. There's a lot of good people and strong businesses. I'd say we we have the best dining options in the valley, par none.
Q: What sort of experience are you looking to give your clients?
A fun conversation and a quality haircut, all tucked away in a funky little barbershop.
Q: What other locally owned businesses do you admire?
Velouria Records . . . Adam and Tawnya are a great couple that carry an awesome selection and care about what they are doing. Old Foxx Tattoo is a great group of talented artists. The shop is spotless and very professional, also just really nice guys. Taylor's Hot Dogs . . . that one is easy. It is just iconic downtown Visalia. I even have a painting of Taylor's in my shop.
Q: Hair salons are famous for the secrets passed between stylist and client. Any good secrets your clients have shared with you?
Definitely. But, I am not one to talk about it.
Q: When you aren’t making the men of Visalia look handsome, what do you like to do in your spare time?
For the last couple of years, I have been doing a lot of cycling. When the weather is decent, there's not many towns better that Visalia to ride. With our Visalia Biking Trails, you can darn near make it completely around the city, traffic free.
Q: Any off-the-beaten path places you would recommend?
Taco Don Tono - best al pastor tacos in town. Also, anywhere Taco Lucha is set up, which is usually at least twice a week at BarrelHouse Brewing.
Q: You are located a half a block from the Visitors Center. If a visitor wandered into your shop, what would recommend they see or do while visiting?
Walk Main Street and check out all the shops. Grab something good from a restaurant and roll out to Mooney Grove Park. Check out the log cabin, feed the ducks by the pond and enjoy a day in the sunshine.
Q: You are meeting friends after work. Where do you suggest you all meet?
Brewbakers Brewing Company's back patio is always nice with a group of friends. Pita Kabob Downtown Gastropub always has a killer beer lineup. For a slice and another great place for an extensive beer selection is The Planing Mill.
