Jay Joe's Classic Cuts now open on 3rd Street

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy 

Jay Joe's Classic Cuts debuted earlier last week at 256 E. Third St. between Avenue B and Avenue C. 

The business evolved from Raul's Barber Shop, which recently closed — courtesy of a rent increase — after decades on Avenue B. In addition, Raul Velez Sr., who ran the shop at 11 Avenue B between Houston and Second Street for 61 years, decided to retire at age 81. 

Edgar Joe Velez (pictured below) is one of three owners ... along with his brothers Benny Velez and Steven Velez Gonzalez. All three are Raul's nephews. (The new shop is named for Edgar Joe's 15-year-old son).

You can expect to see some familiar faces from Raul's here. Jay Joe's is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The phone: (718) 578-9559. And you can find the shop on Facebook.