The customer service is less than desirable. The scheduling was an ordeal and the stylist Todd is unprofessional and arrogant.

Do not waste your money! I booked an appointment with a stylist that does pixie cuts, the day before my appointment I was called from the salon that a different person would be doing my hair cut. I let them know I was not comfortable with that and asked to cancel. I received a call back stating that original stylist would cut my hair but the time of the appointment changed. When I arrived I told this stylist I did not want any perm or chemicals and I plan to grow my hair out in the future. 5 hrs later the cut was terrible and she gave me a shag and said " since you want to grow your hair long!!l wtf?!?! 5 hrs under the dryer while she disappeared. By the time I left all customers were gone and it was night time! If this how you treat cancer patients with hair that's just growing back I'm scared how you cut regular customers hair. Save your money. This place doesn't know how to run a business. Surprise surprise! read more

I was in a desperate need to find someone that could give my girls a hair trim. One of my children had cut bangs, and the other just really needed a trim. I came across this place and figured I would try them out if they were able to do my children's hair. They immediately said they had openings and I was able to book a next appointment, which I feel like is someone heard of these days when it comes to getting your haircut. We were paired up with Victor, who worked on both my girls hair. He did a pretty great job with cutting their hair and styling it the way that they want it to have it styled. He was very relaxed and easy-going, and had great conversation, which is not really important when getting a haircut, but it was nice to just have the conversation. My girls are really happy with the results of the hair and if they're happy, then I'm happy. I love that this is a Salon that can do lots of type of hair. I shouldn't have to say this, but unfortunately, there are still a lot of salons out they're claiming to be salons, but unable to do all types of hair grade, and is super frustrating especially if you have to get a haircut for your children. I will add a caveat that I'm not quite sure if they are able to do curly haircut, versus just cutting hair. My girls have wavy hair that can be very loose curls as well. They have the haircut traditional way when you wet it in part it and trim. Would recommend calling to see if you can speak with someone and talk through what you're actually looking for. read more

My 90 year-old mother went to this shop twice to try to get her hair done and to no avail she was disappointed both times. Regrettably, black businesses seemingly fails to deliver effective and efficient customer service to its clients. To make matters worse, the beautician failed to show and my mother was told she was no longer work with for company. Then the owner rebooked my mother appointment a week later to another assigned beautician for 8a, then the owner shows up 2 hours later, to include no assigned operator, what a joke!! Bottom-line, this place is unprofessional, unmanaged, and this so called OWNER needs remedial customer service training and customer education training, to include obtaining a bonifide degree in business. BEWARE and Stay Away, period!!!!! read more

I wasn't expecting to get a haircut today but Bobbie at the front was so sweet I decided I came back about a minute later when I asked the price. Nicole did an excellent job on my hair, taking it first conservatively short but was happy to apply a close fade/blend. Very friendly as well. I don't know if this matters or is too be expected but I'm a white guy with fine hair and didn't feel out of place at all. read more

Not sure why I keep trying, but this was the last attempt to give them my business. Called to make an appointment, but that's a true joke. No one answers the phone. Went by in person, made an appointment, gave my # showed up on time only to be told the stylist left early! Why take my number if you won't call and tell me? And no she couldn't reschedule.... Not impressed at the lack of professionalism... won't go back! read more

Kim did an amazing job on my hair. I have my friend Q to thank for referring me to Center Stage. I've had my fair share of foolishness and fuckery with hairdressers in the East/South Bay, but l've finally found a home. Kim has done my hair twice and both times I am beyond pleased with her skills, technique and precision. I also really like the salon because they are professional and welcoming. There's no worse feeling than getting your hair done and being held hostage in the middle of crude, obnoxious conversation that you can't mute or un-hear! (On a petty note- jazz's salon in San Fran needs to take note) AnyWho, I love the salon and I can count on Kim to have my crown laid every time! read more

'bout time I reviewed Center Stage and supported my man Chuck, who is a superior barber and class individual. So let me break it down for you... Center Stage will take care of your hair, anybody's hair, male or female and definitely multi-ethnic, though it's mostly a Black thang. I see Chuck, who always gets my style right. A brotha was getting his dreads tightened up today, so they can hook up all kinds of looks for gents. And the ladies I see walking away with their hair relaxed or braided all look hella fine. I've come to dig having men and women together in one combo salon and barber shop. The humor is twice as nice. But of course, we fellas have to speak in hushed tones whenever we're talking about top secret male shxt. Make an appointment and check it out. The prices are entirely reasonable and they will take care of you. If you're headed in on a Saturday morning, leave extra time for parking because of farmers' market traffic. Bonus, they're open on Sunday's too! Maybe it's time you stepped up to Center Stage... read more

I agree with other reviews who rate this establishment poorly. I also really want to support this business. First, the owner is very pleasant and personable; second, it is a minority-owned business. But the inconsistency in their business and customer service practices makes it hard to tolerate. The problem is further compounded by confusion in their billing systems. Note: For readers who are thinking about going there, please know that they have multiple operators who seem to run independently. But it is not clear.) First, the charges: The first time I brought a relative there, the operator siad he only took Zelle. I just happened to have the Zelle app, but what would have happened had I not had the Zelle App ? It was not mentioned when the appointment was made that operators charge individually (so I thought until the next time I made an appointment). The second time, I made an appointment for myself and this time, the operator accepted a regular credit card. That was fine. But then when I returned, her rate had gone up. No reason except I tipped her well and she thought it was a good reason to charge me more the second time around. How's that for pricing consistency ? It happened to me again with a different operator but in this case, I tipped in the "normal" range. And yet, the operator's charge differed in between appointments. BTW: the charge went through the main salon's charge system this time ? The main point I want to make is that you will NOT be able to count on consistent charging. So hope your "pocketbook" allows for random, capricious charges. It is unclear to me if the owner cares about this or maybe their hair team are all independent operators. But the fact that it is inconsistent and no monitoring of it, should give pause to a customer considering this business. Second, customer service falls short: And just when you think you are adjusting to billing practices all over the map, try making an appointment and expect to be served at the time you have your appointment ! Calling to confirm doesn't matter. There is absolute no respect for the client's time. In one instance, I called in advance to confirm my appointment, came, waited in hopes that the operator would be finished - and there I was till sitting 15 minutes - 20 minutes later - and no word as to when he would be finished. What ?! So I felt I had been disrespected enough and left. If you thought the hairdresser called to profusely apologize - WRONG ! Still waiitng to hear from him. In all fairness, I can't speak to all of the operators behaving in this manner. But the fact that the receptionist was sitting there and didn't bother checking in with me given the obvious is a reason enough to call attention to the lack of attention to the quality of service. Rest assured, I will NOT be returning to Center Stage West. read more

Today, I went to have my undercut done here for the first time. They were very polite, and made a same-day appointment for me. I showed the barber/stylist a picture of what I wanted and explained it as well. For some reason, I received this really bad undercut that is not at all what I asked for. I paid for the cut and left feeling disappointed and depressed. Luckily, my hair is long on the top and I can wear it down for a month until by hair grows back underneath. I do not recommend this salon for undercuts. read more

Center Stage West - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

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Great environment and I loved my silk press! Ashley was a great stylist and I was able to get an appointment the day of!

I called at 10am this morning for a same day appointment on a Sunday. The receptionist was super nice as I was a bit panic and in need of an appointment. I explained that I have short hair and like an edgy hi fashion look. She scheduled me with Mr Todd. He was helpful with great suggestions and cleaning up my cut. Mr Todd thank you so much and I look forward to getting inn your chair again read more

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UNPROFESSIONAL! I had a scheduled 2:00PM appointment with James it was pushed 40mins up definitely an inconvenience and waste of my time especially when you have plans and you plan accordingly. I DO NOT RECOMMEND AT ALL read more

I frequent this shop when I'm in the area and I always get great service. Today Christa did my hair not only is she sweet, she did a wonderful job on my hair. Christa styled it effortlessly and conditioned it to make it look so much more healthy! Make sure you stop by this shop, you'll be glad you did. :-) read more

Center Stage West - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Always appreciate Center Stage West for being consistent with their service. I've been going to CSW sporadically for 20 years. Yes, 20 years. I typically follow the hair dresser when they leave CSW, but when that hair dresser is no longer avail, I return to CSW to find another. Whatever your hair needs are, CSW can get it done and done well. All the hair dressers are skilled. Regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, and hair type-I've seen everybody up in there- somebody at CSW will be able to hook you up. My favorite part about CSW is that I've always been able to get a last minute appointment or even walk-in without a long a wait. Yes, even on a Saturday! I don't know how they manage to swing that. Recently, I called on a Thursday late afternoon and was scheduled for a Saturday morning appointment, which went great. VICTOR hooked me up with color and a cut in 90-min. I gave him no direction, just sat in the chair and asked to look nice and neat. Lol he worked it out and I got compliments all day. Thanks much Victor. I love that the owners, two sisters, have been able to keep CSW open for so long and impressed that after all these years they are STILL running the place and sitting at the counter scheduling appointments. I enjoy seeing their faces. My only bit of criticism, and this is why I generally have anxiety surrounding hair salons, is that CSW does suffer from the "hair salon talk". Some people love that about hair salons and that's why they go; for the loud talk and gossip. I personally hate it. At CSW you may overhear some slightly inappropriate convo and gossip, and yes, some cussing which I cringe when there are kids around. But, you will walk out looking fly and have laughed about during the process read more

The salon has a great location. It has been a long standing business for over 30yrs. It's a upscale salon that is great for color men and woman's and children hair cuts. They have professionals of all speciality *Color *Styling *The Latest cuts Their newest addition to the team is Angie, she does *Dreadlocks Maintenance *Dreadlocks Styling and Color *Dreadlocks Repairs read more

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I am very pleased to give Centerstage a five star review. Having been a satisfied customer here for several years I was particularly pleased to get a great post covid haircut from Chuck after not having a professional cut for a year ! The sisters who run this business are always very kind, helpful and respectful as are all the stylists who work here. And the fact that they are open to people of all races and cultures is an added bonus for me as a multiracial person. Finally it is almost a sure bet that you will not have to wait long for an appointment. They are open every day of the week ! Thank you Centerstage team ! read more

I came in last Friday for my first appointment with Miss. Angela who does the locs at your salon. Everything was great with setting my appointment and her been vocal and helpful and letting me know what hair to get and where and talking about the style I wanted and also letting her know I didn't have much hair to work with, only on the top. When I came in I felt happy and comfortable that I finally found a stylist that was actually going to take care of me after having some bad situations with stylists in the past 2 years. Unfortunatley I ended up spending more money than intended as I got 10 packets of hair which was advised by Anegla, yet only 3 packets were used. What makes it worse is the way the hair was been done, there was rubberbands to hold my hair as it was really short so the locs could stay in place? The first day they were tight but I am used to braids so I figured the pain and itchiness would go away in a few days per usual. I got anti itch ointment and coconut oil thinking by the third day it would help but it only kept getting worse. By Wednesday of this week the itching became unbearable and I noticed my scalp was becoming more sensitive to the locs. I am not usre if I was having an allergic reaction but I also knew and felt the rubberbands were the cause of the pain and irritation. I texted Miss Angela yesterday asking if there was anything I could do to stop the irritation, she did tell me to get ointments which I had already bought and to go to her styleseat page where she has notes on what to do. During this time the itching got worse to a point I started crying because it was becoming incredibly painful. I told her I felt I just had to take them out which she didn't answer me for a good few hours until I texted if there was anyway I could get my money back. She didn't seem to care of the fact that I told her the rubberbands holding my hair were so tight that when I had to take off the locs, some of them literally pulled my hair out. I was left with no choice but to shave my head, this is when I unfortunatley had a breakdown because I have no hair anymore. Angela finally texted me back but there was no concern or care or even sympathy just, ' refunds cannot be returned once the work is done'. I am upset because someone did my hair and cause for me to shave my hair off because the way the hair was put into place. It was my first time getting faux locs so I put all of my trust in her thinking it will be okay, and it wasn't. What makes it worse is the stylist could care less, and that hurt even more because she caused me to not have anymore hair left on my head. I have attached a picture of what my head looks like now, I am left feeling insecure and embaressed and also upset as I invested $250 for the hair, which all of it didn't even get used and with the payment of the styling AND tippping. Sadly this is what I wrote to the owners and I STILL have yet to hear anythign back from them or the stylist Angela. I will be contacting the Dept of Consumer Affairs, from my knowledge, I am not the first of their clients to do this...pathetic read more

So I'm here at 9:30 and have been waiting for the person I had a appointment with for 10 and it is now 10:32 they where pushing me off to someone name Christy who refused to do my hair saying her client would be walking up any sec that was 15 minutes again so another person was assigned to do my hair and said he was scared to my hair because it was or fragile!! Never again read more

So my mom goes to this salon frequently and djuan usually does a good job on her hair and i was even thinking about going to him as well. Then a week ago my mom left the shop with a burn on the back of her neck. I asked her if she told him that her hair was burning and she sais yes but he was working on someone elses hair so she had to wait. Anyone who has a perm knows that ince it starts yo burn u need to get the product out of your hair and for him to disregard what my mom was saying is unprofessional and rude. He didn't even say he was sorry and only took 10 dollars off of the bill when he it should have been free since he did a horrible job. My mom will not be going back to this salon and I would advise others who are looking for a hair salon to not go there as well. read more

Center Stage West - This is the burn on the back of her neck - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I hate to give black owned business bad ratings...but this place has earned it. Center Stage claims to do it all, seven days a week. Impossible. No salon can be everything to everyone, that's just not how it works. Center Stage claims to have stylists that can maintain and style locs. They really don't. I made an appointment expecting to have my done by professional, especially considering what they charge. This woman clearly didn't know what she was doing. I could tell by the way she washed my hair (or didn't, rather) that she wasn't familiar with doing locs. She had no idea how much product to use, so she asked me. She was clueless when it came to styling... I could go on, but I don't think I need to, at the end of it all I spent almost 6 hours in a salon for something that should take 3, maybe 3 and half hours. She sucked. I left the shop with hair that wasn't very clean and had to be re-styled when I got home. Anyone that wears natural hair in the Bay Area understands that it's hard to find a salon that DOES natural hair well. This shop really should stop telling the poor, unsuspecting, citizens of Oakland that can do EVERYTHING...because they can't. By the way, I've had other services done at this shop over the past 12 years: relaxer (bad job), touch-up (half-way decent), flat iron (bad job)...I honestly tried to give them a chance; salons do change stylists from time to time. After that lady wasted my time and money "playing" with my locs...I'm officially done. Don't go here. You will be disappointed. Thanks for reading. read more

So...... I just got robbed! I mean literally! $110 for a f?@&in haircut? I called in to see if anyone could do my hair for a last minute appointment and I was glad that Dajuan could take me. I didn't ask how much it would be because he had cut my hair before and I never paid more than $50. Plus my hair is already a short cut... Like maybe four inches on the longest part. Which brings me to my next point. I was growing out a pixie cut and asked him to keep it long on the top and just shape it a little but no, of course, you have to completely butcher it. All those months of growing it out was lost with a few strokes of those scissors. Lastly, this is one of those salons that book ten people all at the same time and then have you waiting all day under the dryer, so if you like to be in and out, this is not the place for you. Anyway, obviously I won't be coming back. I guess it is the end of the month so someone had to pay his bills. You may have gotten me once, but you won't get me again. read more

I have been to MANY salons around downtown/North Oakland. I have not been able to commit to a hairstylist for more than 1 year in the 5 years I've lived in Oakland. Not sure why - I get bored with their styles, my hair doesn't seem to be getting more fabulous, they raise their prices, they make me wait an hour, etc. I've been to Center Stage a couple times over the last 5 years. Mainly, I found their prices too high. However, I needed an emergency appointment on a Sunday, and Natasha was able to accomodate me. SHE WAS FABULOUS (and I think their prices went down, too). My hair feels healthier, she's quick, love the style, and I've never had to wait because she is late or she needs to eat lunch. I feel like her specialty is longer-hair (ear length or longer) and I think I heard her say that. Nonetheless, I recommend her to anyone. I can't give 5 stars because I've only gone twice and she's never given me a hair cut, but as for now, I'm sticking with her. Hopefully, I will be able to commit! read more

I've been going to this salon and seeing the stylist, Djuan, for a few years. He does a great job every time (relaxed hair, blow dry and flat iron, weave, and cuts!). read more

Center Stage West - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Kinya is my stylist and I must say I really appreciate her and am thrilled with my hair. I have issues with alopecia and Kinya is working to save my hair with scalp treatments. She has given me a hairstyle that is truly my personality and has made a believer out of me. I've never worn a weave before and was not aware of my options. Kinya educated me and worked magic with a super short 'do that no one knows it's a weave. I must admit I had strong reservations, had a bumpy first time eith making an appt. I'm so glad I gave it a chance. It's been 2 months, 3 visits and my hair is fierce and my scalp it being treated to grow my hair. Thanks Kinya! read more

Dr. E. Alex Matthews smoothed my girls weave today and we are sooooo happy. Thank you so much Dr. E. Alex your expertise and kind manner settled my new 9th grader's nerves big time. We always know we are going to get the BEST SERVICE at Center Stage. Genial front desk, sweet and lively time had by all. Love the tunes and the company always. read more

Hi About one year ago I cut my hair to a very low afro because it was damaged. Growing my hair back was an eight month journey. When I took my braids down I went to Center Stage Hair Salon on Lakeshore and a hair stylist named Kenya cut and styled my hair and I loved it! Coming back to the hair salon after a year I was concerned about hair care and flexibility. Kenya addressed all my concerns. My hair is growing so fast I can barely enjoy my style before it grows into another style! Kenya is patient, flexible, respect your time and takes pride in her work. I get so many compliments on how healthy and shiny my hair is... Rarely do you find a stylist that demonstrates hair care and is equally stylish. I am a very pleased client and I highly recommend Kenya! Kenya Rocks! read more

My daughter and I are regulars at center stage, we usually go to Edith and she is quick fast and reliable we always leave the salon feeling like a million bucks, thanks for hooking us up Edith we will be back read more

Center Stage West - My daughter and I are regulars at center stage salon, Edith does our hair and she does a great job, she's quick and reliable - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

My regular hair stylist was booked and I needed a last minute appointment for a press. My hair is very thick and a little longer than shoulder length. (4b,c for reference) After damaging it years ago, I prefer to stick with who I know. (traumatized lmao) it's very risky trying a new salon... so naturally, I was skeptical. The receptionist was very pleasant upon booking. She scheduled a 10 am appointment with Victor. He was on time, and started immediately. He gave me a mini consultation before our wash and that's when I knew I was dealing with a professional. After a wash, deep condition, blow dry, press and trim, I was out in two hours. Victor was very nice and did an amazing job. If needed, I will be returning in the future! Thank you Victor! read more

Teresa Perry at Center Stage West hair salon is the best hair stylist in the business. She does extraordinary great weaves that last for 4 months. Teresa's weaves are infinity percent great and beyond. She does the best weaves in the business. She slays every hair strand . The weaves always look natural and perfect like the hair is growing out of your scalp. Teresa also does great relaxers. Her relaxers never burn and she does perfect edges. When she shampoos and conditions your hair,it feels like heaven and your hair feels so clean after she shampoos and conditions your day. read more

Great service. Great people. Very accommodating. Nice atmosphere. Generationally mixed in terms of the stylists, you have folks from the old school and younger stylists which gives for a well balanced environment. Might make this my regular spot. read more

It's amazing to read all these reviews. I am wondering has anyone notified or spoke with management. I am really laughing at Stacy B.z comment because Ms. Edith is my stylist. Very kind nd real! I've never had a problem or issue with her. And she was referring to me .She also does an excellent job with my daughter's hair. We all know how "21 yrz.oldz" hair must be on point. As they say! I have been going to that salon off nd on since 1990. Their salon, customer service nd stylist have A-1. However to each is on! At my next appointment I will post a picture nd u be the judge of botched or not! Stay tuned!! Congrats Ms. Edith..Stay Strong...Love you nd your work! Be blessed..See ya soon! read more

The stylists do good work, but it seems like every few months I have to switch stylists because my regular stylist has left the salon. I also usually have to wait quite a bit after my scheduled appointment time before they get started on my hair. This has even happened when I went in early in the morning as the first client of the day. I really don't like waiting around for 60-90 minutes after my scheduled appointment time. A little more attention to being on time and less stylist turn-over and this would be an excellent salon. Make sure you have all morning or all afternoon to get your hair done if you go to this salon because you might be waiting around awhile. read more

I walked in today and asked for a haircut. Rodson was available. There have been only two people in the last 200 years who've cut my very difficult hair to my satisfaction; Rodson is the third. He is a perfectionist. I immediately booked another appointment with him. Note: I would have given him 5 stars, because he is awesome. Still, let's see what he can do with my hair in the long run. read more

So I don't have much salon experience. Actually I haven't gotten my hair done at a salon in about 7 years. I decided I wanted a perm because my hair use to be curly and it just wouldn't curl anymore. I googled salons on lakeshore since I had to go to Trader Joes anyway. This was the 1st place I called and their prices seamed reasonable and they could fit me in same day on a Saturday which was cool. I didn't know anything about the salon and when I showed up I realized it was a salon of color. Being the only white person in there I was kind of worried since caucasian hair is so different and I was sure most there experience was on African American hair. Right away I was greeted by a friendly woman behind the counter and then the stylist, Natasha came over to discuss what I needed done. I told her wanted a perm and she asked me some questions to assure that I got the right kind of perm. I don't know much about this process or the different methods but I felt she knew what she was doing. While I waited I had a number of people come by to make sure I had been taken care of and they were all very friendly. Natasha was great through the entire process and she made my hair look exactly like the pictures I showed her when my hair was naturally curly. I was also able to get my eyebrows waxed after the perm by another woman. I wish I could remember her name but she did a great job as well. All in all it was a great experience and I would definitely go back. read more

I had an appointment with Theresa this morning on April 10, 2019 and the personality of this stylist was very un professional. First she did not greet me as a person or even speak a "hello." Second she said "I don't do short hair". Third she "flicked" her finger at me and walked away. I am not a homeless person nor un professional. I am very educated person who is a Registered Nurse and I also teach in college. I did not get a chance to respond to Theresa because she just turned her head and walked away. I would never recommend Theresa nor this Salon to anyone. I was understanding that when you are trained as a beautician you are trained to do all lengths of hair. I think Theresa is a ignorant person. read more

I don't like leaving bad reviews but I asked for one thing and left the salon with something else. Also, a random curl was (accidently) cut from my head, it just came out when I took my hair down..Yeah, maybe you should pay more attention. That was the cherry on top. read more

I should have reviewed them a long time ago. This is a very professional and accommodating salon. I have gone here for the past year. My guy is Charles. He does a excellent job each time I go here. The Staff is courteous and and nice. They start on time and are efficient in their task. They open early or by appointment as needed. Even on the weekend. My wife changed and goes here now. .........(Her last stylist was always late and canceled at the last moment. She went to her only cause they were a block from home)...... The rates are reasonable. Center Stage West is a top notch salon. The only minus is parking can be a bear. Its on Lakeshore Ave. There is street parking and 2 lots within walking distance though. So give them a try read more

Center Stage is an Oakland staple that always manages to recruit the best stylists in the Bay Area. I returned after a long absence to have my short style updated by D'Juan. He's professional, up to date and friendly (along with the rest of the staff)! See you at Center Stage! read more

I am updating my first review. They did end up finding someone else to do my hair and comping my style after cancelling very last minute.