Booked same day, came in a little earlier for my cut (like 20 min early), got lucky and my barber (Riza) was free and got started immediately. We talked thoroughly about the style, the length, and whether I wanted a scissor or clipper cut (I chose scissor). I felt comfortable going into it. Riza absolutely killed it. Haircut looks great, was extremely fast (took all of 20 min!), and thorough. Riza cut wet hair first, dried it, and fixed up any little imperfections; something I never saw any other barber do! Finished it off with a neck shave with a straight razor. Very satisfied and highly recommend. I'm sure the other barbers are also amazing. read more

First time customer, couldn't be happier with my experience. Service and haircut are top notch. Worth the price to get a quality cut IMO. John took the time to understand what I was really looking for, pointed out how he needed to get there, checked in throughout the cut, which I really appreciate. Nothing worse than getting too much chopped off then being asked after, not really much you can do then! Just make sure to book an appointment in advance! read more

Riza delivered again!!! He's an excellent barber that is able to implement exactly what you're looking for through just general descriptions. Highly recommend the barber shop and would definitely book an appointment with Riza - I've booked with him two times and both have been my best haircuts I've ever had. read more

Nick and Al have both been great barbers for consistent, reliable, high quality haircuts over the years.

Love this place!! Used to live in NYC and when I moved here it was hard to find a barber that can cut with scissors and clippers. Eric is awesome! Al the owner is so chill, Cynthia is great and John is hilarious. All of them are great barbers. So glad to have found this place read more

Al and his shop are the real deal. I'm in town this weekend for a wedding and he was super accommodating and able to squeeze me in last minute after driving up from Maryland. Professional, detailed, friendly - all the things you want in your barber. The shop was well-kept and had the upscale barber shop feel. The casual banter between the barbers told me that this was a quintessential shop that you strive to find. The chair was comfortable and Al tended to his tools making sure they were clean and put back carefully. Truly a master at his craft. The cut was precise and just right. He made sure everything was done just as I wanted. Will return if ever back in the area. read more

Book Riza! Perfect haircut every time. Great service, professional and clean atmosphere. Make sure you book an appointment ahead of time online! read more

After trying out various shops around town, and several barbers--this has my vote! I like a short cut with skin fade style. My hair grows at different rates, and I have sensitive skin that's prone to irritation as well, so the right tools are key. Eric was easy to talk to, took a minute to have me describe what I like and all of my concerns i mentioned. Then he made recommendations based on my hair and what I have to work with. He also pointed out what clippers and (no razor) he planned to use. Results were spot on! If you need a new Barber in Jersey City, go see Eric @ Balkan B read more

Came here for the first time last minute on a Saturday. Booked a haircut with Cynthia as she thankfully had one open spot in the afternoon that worked for me. Nice and cool in the shop on a really hot day and sat for a few minutes when I got there as she wrapped up a cut for another client. I have very poor knowledge of my hair and how to describe how I like it cut and she was patient with me every step of the way - whether it was me not knowing how short I wanted my hair to be or inquiring about the tools being used, Cynthia explained and helped me figure out how I wanted my hair cut. I'm not great at conversation with haircuts but Cynthia even got me talking back and forth toward the end. Additionally, she was able to accommodate a beard trim that I asked for which was appreciated as I wasn't able to add it to the initial appointment. Haircuts make me anxious generally and Cynthia really helped make it a painless experience - and the haircut looked great. Looking forward to booking her for a cut in the future - thanks again for the nice experience. read more

This shop is always busy and I stopped in today without an appt hopeful of an opening, which I don't recommend. But I got lucky and met Eric, who is still one of the newer barbers (if there is such a thing here). Eric was awesome and did a great job cutting my hair. He took his time, was not easily distracted even though there was constant banter in the shop, and made pleasant conversation with me. You should def make a reservation (on their website) and be on time. Their good about keeping to appt times. Thanks to Eric, I'll be back. A much nicer experience than others in JC. read more

Amazing haircuts and very efficient! They're very attentive to the small touches, e.g. using a straight razor to finish up the neck, sides, and edges for that really clean look; texturizing with scissors; and rolling out cowlicks. Even with all of the finishing touches, you can get in and out super fast. Al and his crew are also very friendly. The only downside is that they're super popular, so it's best to book in advance for an appointment. read more

If you need a good barber look no further! This shop is conveniently located in Downtown JC and appointments can be booked easily online, with text reminders a plus. The interior is modern and very stylish with brick and wood accents throughout. Alex gave me a great cut, listening to my input, checking throughout and making final, precise adjustments. everyone was friendly and professional, a winning combination! read more

I recently moved to Jersey City and was looking for a new spot to get a cut. I stumbled upon Balkan Barber Shop via yelp and decided to give it a try. Alex took care of me and was meticulous to the T! He took no short cuts and made sure I was in tip top shape. I really appreciate his attention to detail and not trying to rush me in and out of the chair like many barbers do. For a standard hair cut the price was $35 cash or $40 with card. Very reasonable for the service you get. I'll most definitely be back! read more

John, YOU HAVE COMPROMISED MY LIVELIHOOD. Update, it is now 2 weeks since you massacred my hair. My friends ask me "WTF happened to your hair?" I am interviewing, and I can visibly tell my interviewers are looking at my spikey, unmanageable, messy hair. I wish I had just gone to Supercuts for a trim, I would not have to suffer this utter humiliation. Every morning I wake up, look at myself in the mirror, and cant believe that I look more ridiculous than the day before. You can can not fix that, but you can quit and find another career. Please, Please, do not do this to anyone else!!!! -JOHN Ruined my hair. I specifically asked John "3" times for a "JUST A TRIM". I could not have made it more clear. But John did NOT LISTEN. He cut my hair with scissors, down to the scalp! I walked out in shock, horror, and disbelief. My hair looks completely and utterly Ridiculous. It's a week later, and I am ashamed and embarrassed to walk out in public without a hat! I am terrified to go on Zoom calls. I am writing this a week later, because every day, my hair looks worse than the day before. But more importantly, I want to warn any prospective clients to not suffer through this needless utter humiliation JOHN, you took my hair from me. Find another career. You should not be allowed to have scissors. My next step will be investigating whether you even have a license to cut hair. I will make it my mission to ensure you never cut another person's hair, like you callously cut mine. read more

Awesome experience! First time there, had a beard trim with Nick. Website made it super easy to book an appointment (and reschedule too!). Very nice and clean spot, got that nostalgic barber shop feel to it without being pretentious. Quick and efficient consultation. He knew exactly what I wanted and NAILED IT! Trimmed it, did the hot towel and straight razor clean up, I felt and looked like a thousand bucks afterward. Will absolutely be back!! Thanks!!!! read more

Riza is a talented barber! I came in as a walk-in and I'm glad I waited the time that I did for Riza. He cut my hair to my specification. Very professional read more

Balkan Barber Shop has been amazing! My son was in need of haircut but I wanted someone that had experience with his style of hair so I took to Yelp. Saw this shop and did a walk in cut for him. Cynthia was extremely professional and made my son feel very comfortable. They are very meticulous with everything; which is VERY important when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the equipment and providing the perfect cut. I was so pleased that I personally have switched to Balkan Barbers after almost 14 years at my old shop. Both barbers are extremely skilled and friendly. You can book appointments online via their website (which is awesome). Cynthia seems to have more available slots at the time (not to say she isn't busy) but take advantage now, her talents will flood her schedule. Overall, I am very happy with my experience and I have received plenty of compliments on my haircuts. read more

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Al and the gang are truly top notch and wonderful people through and through. Coming out of the stay at home order here in NJ, the last time I had cut my hair was in early February, and my hair was longer compared to where it normally is (~4 on top and 3 inches on the sides). My barber of 10+ years had closed unfortunately in Jan as the owner of the building sold to a new Buyer, so I was looking for a new barber. I did alot of research on the boards, between Yelp and Google (and the Jersey City subreddit, ha). After going through, I decided on Balkan because it seemed to have universally positive reviews and was just a train stop away from JSQ where I lived. I booked an appointment for Thursday the 9th at 2pm and walked in thinking I'd have to wait 15-30 minutes like at other shops. Instead, I was brought in within 1 minute of arrival. The barbershop is a really unpretentious and modern shop. It's got a clean air conditioned feel, with the brick interior giving it that intimate touch. Alex and Reza (the two other barbers) and Al had such a great rapport. They were off on a Starbucks run and the three were joshing one another out the door. The minute I walked in Al greeted me amicably and asked me how I liked to cut my hair. I showed him 2 pictures (front and side view) of my normal classic tapered side part and he immediately understood. We took the temperature reading and had our masks and were on our way. Within 20 minutes he cut down my mop head down to a very professional and clean side part. I was personally blown away. Al blew away every one of my expectations. It was a truly wonderful experience for me. He's a virtuoso and a perfectionist when it comes to hair. As the haircut progressed, he always took 10 seconds to ensure that we were going in the right direction. He was also a very pleasant conversation with a love of life and a positive attitude which is much needed during these trying times. I'm very happy I've found a professional who I can return to in the coming months (and hopefully years) for my haircuts. For anyone who was in my position, or for anyone who is looking for a high quality haircut, I would give my full endorsement to Balkan. Thank you, Al! read more

I'm a bit older than I used to be, and I wasn't quite sure where to go for a cut, literally and literally, and liked the looks and sound of Balkan Barber on Barrow. I was lucky to meet John, who helped me figure out what I wanted - I was so afraid to get my hair cut it grew to near my shoulders, making the job more impossible. But he got it. And then gave me, well . . . the best haircut I ever had. Boom. At Balkan Barber. Thank you John. David read more

Al and his team are the best, and are doing a great job keeping everyone safe during COVID. I just moved to JC and needed a new barber. If you're looking for a barber, any barber at Balkan will do well by you. They're doing temperature checks, cleanings, wearing masks, keeping it real. Nice guys, great fades. read more

Before meeting Al, the quaint shop was a hairdresser that never seemed to be open. As soon as Al took over, the entire block of Barrow between Columbus and Newark seemed to be reinvigorated with new life and energy. He turned the spot around overnight and developed a sophisticated barbershop that caters to the much-needed market in-between the extremes of prices offered in the local Jersey City neighborhoods.  Since opening, I've brought my son, from infant to toddler, to hang out practically daily, and watched Balkan Barber grow. Over a couple years, Al added two new chairs and went through a few hair stylist professionals, all of whom dedicated their time to stay up-to-date with cutting techniques and education in their trade. With each friendly stylist having their own methods and styles, the Balkan Barbers (Al and, as of this review, Alex, Reza, Desiree) have earned my trust to cut my hair anytime.  And while I've seen some crazy situations at barbershops over the years, the other day, I've recently experienced probably the most impressive thing I will ever see, EVER.  I was in Al's chair getting cleaned and a fly the size of pea started flying right between myself and mirror... Al mumbles something about fly and quickly snaps his forward. The fly seemed to bounce in midair and I realized that Al actually hit the fly and managed to snip off the wing and practically cut the fly in half! I've only seen that done in the Karate Kid... my barber is officially Mr. Miyagi! read more

Took me a while to find good barber's in the JC area! First impression, job well done! Nick was able to do exactly what I asked! Highly recommend.. read more

I was slammed with back to back work travel recently including 24 hours in JC, where I had an hour to kill and walked past this stylish little shop. Popped on the website and was super lucky to grab an appointment with Cynthia, saving me from another two weeks of outta control bad hair days. Crew here is friendly, efficient, and skilled. Check 'em out! read more

Moved to Jersey City in October and needed a local Barber. I found this place after reading many reviews and can confirm the great reviews are accurate. Eric has been cutting my hair and he always does a great job. He's very good and is also very friendly. I would definitely recommend Eric to anyone looking for a new barber! read more

Al is the best. Good guy who is an amazing barber. Highly recommended him or any of his crew for a great cut!

I moved back to Jersey City and looking for a good barber. I am fortunate to found Balkan Barber Shop. The place was clean and felt homey. More importantly, I received a great haircut from Al. I will be definitely be a regular customer. read more

I have spent three years, going from barber to barber. In Manhattan and Jersey City Never returning to the same one, due to the cut being just ok, or the space being a mess. I walked by Balkan Barber shop a few weeks ago, and thought that it looked perfect. Today, I had a wonder up to see if I could get a hair cut. From the moment I walked in the door, i knew I was in a good place, its warm and welcoming. Clean and tidy. Al finished up with a client, and asked me to sit down. And took the time to really listen to what I wanted. Which was very much appreciated. He did a perfect job, so much so that I made my next appointment there and then. read more

Balkan Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Jersey City, New Jersey

I have been going to this Barber shop for the past 6 months and have been meaning to write a review for a while now! After having some hair nightmares at other barber shops, I was a little hesitant at first but after speaking with Al and checking all the other great reviews it soon became apparent that hwould be my guy. When it's comes to getting a fade I must say that Al is the ultimate pro. His attention to detail and professionalism is on the next level, so much so that I have a repeat appointment every 2 wks. If your living in Jersey city or the surrounding area and are looking for a great cut, I highly recommend this store. read more

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Cynthia was great she listened and made sure i was taken care of . Everyone was very friendly. Good place for a haircut.

I'd walked past this place 100 times before thinking to make an appointment. I was pleasantly surprised to find an open slot with Al (I think he's the owner) for the next day and a very reasonable price point of $40, which is almost $20 less than I've been paying. It's a nice little shop and everyone there is very friendly. Al gave me a quick consultation but also just seemed to know what would look best. The haircut was refreshingly quick - about 35 minutes rather than the hour I sometimes spend in the barber chair. I'm extremely happy with the haircut and considering it was cheaper, easier to schedule and took less time than other places, I will 100 percent be back. Highly recommend. read more

Recently moved to the area and scheduled a haircut with Nolan. Could not be happier with the cut and overall experience. Thank you - I'll be back! read more

Got a stylish cut from Cynthia. Thorough and clean work. Accommodating place. Good work and pleasant surroundings. Although this was a spur of the moment decision (needed an emergency cut), I'm not regretting it and may actually return for a follow-up cut. read more

Amazing barber shop. Friendly and competent staff. Also the place is gorgeous. Definitely recommend!

I am writing this review at the urging of my husband - in reply to "Karl C" below. This may be long so bear with me. My husband has been getting his hair cut by John for 5 years - he followed John to Balken as did many of my husbands staff at his local firm in Jersey City - I want to add my two college age sons also go to John for thier haircuts. We believe in John so much so - that my sons only get thier hair cut and travel home from Penn State where they both live on campus to see John ( who is often booked solid every day ) John has come early - several times as well as extended his shift for not just my husband and family but I'm sure many others. Jonhs skill is matched by his personality and I am questioning the validly of such a wildly emotional and purely entertaining review by Karl C. I am so thrown by this theatrical bad review that it prompted my husband to jump to his defense. I will say this - if you live in Jersey city and want the best haircut - trust John he is the Best - and buckle up because he is also funny as He?!! read more

I can't say much that hasn't already been said other than the reviews don't lie. I will admit that I haven't been to a barber in years and didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly greeted by Al who took the time to really understand exactly what I wanted. The nice thing about Al is that he does not take shortcuts. He listens to you, can provide suggestions and will make you feel comfortable. You can tell that he really takes pride in what he does. On my first visit, I only booked a haircut, but he was also able to squeeze in a beard trim, both of which came out fantastic. On my second visit, I had my hair and beard cut by Alexi. He too took no short cuts and paid careful attention to detail. I left the shop feeling like a new man! JC is flooded with barber shops and weeding through them all can be daunting. There is no need to look for another. Balkan Barber Shop should be your next stop! read more

The guys are chill and the location is pretty perfect for those in the jersey city area . I wish my haircut result was better - if it was, this deserves a 4-star! read more

This place is the absolute best! I never write reviews so the fact I put the time in should say it all. I've been coming pretty regularly for the past couple months to get my haircut by Riza and he never disappoints. The whole shops attention to detail and care for their customers really shows in the results they produce. By far the best barber shop in Jersey City. read more

Thoroughly upset from the haircut I just received. It seemed they didn't understand what a fade was, even from the multiple pictures on this very yelp page. Also the barber burned me on the side of the head with a blow dryer, which hurts really bad. You know it's bad when another barber steps in to try and fix your hair. At this point I have to get a buzzcut and regrow it. Avoiding this shop in the future. Not worth the premium price. read more

First time ever going to a barber shop, luckily this place was close by and they took my appointment even though it was pretty short notice. Cynthia Cut my hair so well she cleaned me up and made me look really sharp and listened to everything I requested and also helped me figure out what I wanted. I will definitely be coming back! read more

Just moved to JC and needed a haircut last minute and found Balkan on Yelp, so glad I did! Cynthia was meticulous and listened to exactly what I wanted. Nice atmosphere and definitely reasonably priced. read more