The cut was awful, I gave him 2 tries. My cut was uneven and no care put into it. He was very aggressive getting me to get my hair cut there and the day I gave him a try I regretted it but decided to give him a second try. I wont do that again ever. He gave me really weird vibes by the way. He acted as if he really needed new customers so I felt a little bit sorry for him but the last time I was there he acted as though he didn't need my business and he was just sooo busy read more

This was my first time getting a cut here, I was lucky enough to get Tenzin. Great cut, great conversation, he got my beard perfect too. The shop had a super chill vibe and I felt very comfortable. 10 outta 10 will be a regular. read more

This has become my favorite barber shop. The barber is an amazing stylist and always gives me GREAT haircut- clean, fresh and exactly what I want every time. They also use the best hair paste that smells so good and works perfectly. I love their products, and I keep coming back because I am always happy with my haircut. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! read more

Great haircut, Barbara very personable, for the Bay Area prices reasonable.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Definitely recommend cutting with Mr Yang. Book now, tap in with him. He's the definitely the guy to cut your hair read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Wow, thank you for the haircut, Mr Yang. This is the before and after pictures that I took after getting cut. Yang definitely got me right - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

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Since my last review, I returned for all my haircuts. They all do an exceptional job! I highly recommend. I have not gone anywhere else.

We came here for the 1st time 2 days before Christmas. Called the same day and Michael took great care of my twins! The last time I got them haircuts the person cut their edges and they wound up looking like blockheads so I told Michael I wanted their natural hairline intact and he totally got me! He did a fantastic job with my boys! Not only is he a great listener as to what you want but he is also patient and treated my boys like gentlemen! Another bonus is there was FREE parking right outside!!!!! read more

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I just had a great time here so I wanted to write a quick review. This place has been here in this spot for almost 18 years and i've lived here for 23 but somehow this was my first visit. I came to get a cut with Micheal P but he got backed up a bit so Charles took me when he got back from lunch. Everything about this place is my vibe, they offered me a whisky when I arrived, the jazz music, the neighborhood dogs popping in for a treat, the decorations, it's just a cool shop. And Charles is super cool, fun to chat with, and if i'm being honest kinda like the mayor of the area, everyone knows him. Oh yeah plus he gave me a sweet cut. In general i'm like an in and out kind of guy and not very chatty, but here I felt like I could have hung out all day. Thanks Charles, look forward to coming back. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

Medium fade and beard trim by Yang. Come by for a great haircut experience at Charles blades barbershop. Chill music cold drink for our clients. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Haircut by Yang - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

This will be my boys first barber ever and we recently on Tuesday 3/11/25 and got my youngest sons hair cut for the first time he will be 3 on Saturday. My son was seen by Michael and it was awesome he is very friendly and just good vibes work speaks for itself the I love the jazz vibes they bring and the staff was even better they had so much patience with us and I loved how accommodating they are. Like I said we have found a barber home at Charles blades Highly recommend !!! read more

This place is awesome, last time I came here Mike took care of me. He had me looking fresh plus the Charles is an awesome Guy. Feels like a really barbershop for fancy folk to be honest but everyone there is down to earth. Service was great, music was great, and the atmosphere was great as well. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Wanted to gate keep this place but need to share it with people so they also have an awesome experience when they get they cut. read more

This is a really cool spot. The owner is chill and it's a just a good vibe good music everyone's cool. I was able to get in with Alex. He did a great job and it was last minute, so I'm really happy with that. It's located on the corner so if you go there, it's on the corner of the apartment complex first floor. Service was great at a reasonable price. read more

I used to to this shop before COVID and I was traveling too much. My regular barber was away so I booked a cut here. It was perfect! Always very good and friendly service! Great vibe! Check it out!! read more

I've been going here for over a year and I am thrilled to say that each time has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. The talented barbers, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service are impressive. The staff members were friendly, approachable, and attentive, making me feel right at home. The barbers at CBB by Charles Blades are true professionals. Their attention to detail and skillful technique ensure that I receive a haircut that not only met but exceeded my expectations. They listened attentively to my preferences and effortlessly translated them into a stylish and perfectly executed cut. I always leave the barber shop feeling confident and satisfied with my results. Shout to James for being the best barber I've ever had! read more

Had such a great experience! My boy James hooked it up, exceptional scissors game and near perfect fade. I'll definitely be back when I'm in town. Oh and they work in tandem with local businesses, walked out with a free beer! read more

First time I stepped into this hair oasis and I was blessed to be (respectfully) cut by the man himself. The atmosphere inside was so eclectic I felt excited to bring my 7yo in for him to experience the art & ambiance, the comfort, and the accessibility. Thank you Charles All love Jha bless read more

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James Lizotte is fantastic. My guy got a straight razor shave and a stylish hair cut. Special attempt was given to his mustache and brows. Great products. We bought the aftershave's/ smells yummy. read more

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My husband has gone here several times with great results, so when I saw that they offered long hair cuts, I booked! I asked for long layers and to cut off enough so it would be healthy, and they did an amazing job. The whole process took 30 minutes and I'm very happy with how the cut works with my natural texture. I will definitely be returning, and I would recommend this establishment for patrons with long hair. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

The service this time was definitely 5 stars. James ensured I was completely satisfied, giving me an amazing fade, a clean razor shave, and leaving my locs perfectly intact. This barbershop definitely has a good vibe, easy parking, and an adorable watchdog who is clearly clients and neighborhood favorite. They greet you with a smile and offer refreshments upon entering. If you don't want anything to drink and have a sweet tooth, they can accommodate that as well. Good spot! read more

Highly recommend this barber show come in and have me a great fade every time! Highly recommend Alejandro and James!

I've lived in San Francisco and Oakland for nearly 15 years always looking for that right place but always coming short. I found it today at Charles' Blades. I haven't had a haircut from anyone besides my wife since pre-Covid; haven't found a place yet in the Bay that felt like I was kicking it with a bunch of friends; and haven't found someone good enough to cut my awkward set of hair. I found all of that at Charles' place. My wife loved the haircut so much I'm writing this review and thanking Charles before I go get lucky right now. Thanks Charles. read more

POP QUIZ QUESTION: Name someone that can hold a conversation with an 11 year old, hold a conversation with that's kids mother and his little sister, say hello to every dog that walks by and every person that walks by all while cutting hair and looking fresh??? ANSWER: Charles Blades Mic drop!!! read more

Don't let the negative reviews deter you, as quite frankly those people don't know that they're talking about! I've been a regular customer at this barbershop over the past 3 years I've lived in the Jack London Square and implore you to strongly consider getting your haircuts here. The barbers are have a ton of experience cutting hair, are super welcoming and engaging (I usually get my haircuts from either Alex or James, depending on availability, who are both fantastic), and are especially meticulous. You won't regret it. :) read more

I've been coming here for a little over a year and this is the best place to get a cut in Oakland. James is a fantastic barber and always makes sure I leave looking good. All the barbers and the products they sell are great though. I use the clay of the bay which is a super strong hold clay that looks badass. read more

Hate to write this but I had such a poor experience. Set up an appointment with Alejandro, and sat there for 30 minutes with no kind of acknowledgement or update about how long I'd be waiting. He wasn't even close to being done with the person whose hair he was cutting. Only when I went up to get it cancelled did I get any kind of acknowledgment from him, which was to rebook. Cool cool cool. Totally understand if the previous person goes over time, but at least provide a bit of communication. What's the point in setting up an appointment if it won't be honored? Edit: Alejandro called and made a honest apology. I have to respect that, as my goal was not to get a free hair cut. Appreciate the professionalism and accountability. read more

Got a low taper/drop from MICHAEL POWELL about 3 weeks ago. Great cut!!! I used to see James on Sunday's but somehow he was off. Still got the same great quality haircut! I think Michael is my go to from now on. Sorry, James you still good though! read more

Came here for the first time with my son. Location is perfect on the corner, very easy to find, lots of street parking, and clean open space. The vibe at this barber is super positive, fun, and family friendly. They had very comfortable seating both inside and outside. The shop was super clean and very professional. Staff was very welcoming, went out of their way to welcome us and offer us water. Our barber was Shomari Ali and we loved him! He was super cool, very nice and easy going. He's very skilled and is officially our new barber. Thank you guys! read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Entrance - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

Let me start by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the Spa today. In my travels, I have come across some pretty good barber shops, but this was different. Not only was my haircut and parking better than I expected, the ambiance was great, the customer service was fantastic, and the conversation was thought provoking. It is a drive for me but I recommend Karen and Charles Blades Barber Shop to spend your cash. Keep up the good work and kudos to my namesake Charles read more

I finally convinced my 13 yo to get a much needed haircut, an activity he dreads more than anything. The minute we walked into the shop, I instantly felt relaxed. We were greeted warmly and offered a drink. The space has a very cool vibe and decorated with style and an artistic eye. My son's barber was Michael. He connected instantly with my son- no easy task- and I saw my son's dread turn to ease as Michael took his time to understand my son's challenges with his hair. After giving my son a fantastic haircut, Michael was so kind to let my son try out his bike. My son walked out with a big smile saying "This is our place now!". I can't recommend this place more highly! read more

After moving to the east bay a few months back, I was on the lookout for a good barber. As someone who had been growing my beard for over a year and wanting to grow it out, I have always been a bit apprehensive of who I allow to style it. A feeling of anxiety and the possible chance of a screw up that is quite palpable always overwhelms me. That feeling should resonate with most bearded men that I know of. I came across Charles Blades on yelp and after researching through a ton of other places and stylists, and chose Shomari Ali, and boy I wasn't disappointed. Typically, I give it a few tries before deciding to write a review, so this one is overdue. On my first visit, I was blown away by the professionalism and attention to detail that Shomari provides. He took his time understanding what I was going for and I didn't feel hushed at any point. He asked more questions when he needed clarifications which put my mind at ease. He was great with my hair and even more so with my beard trim. I thought I was very critical about myself and needed to be perfect in my work. That was until I met Shomari. He will work on you like an artist (He is one, ask him about it ) working on his painting and won't let you get off the chair until he's satisfied about his work ( I'm not kidding! You see the 2 strands of hair by your ears left over ? He will go for it ! ). Shomari's patience and attention to detail is simply impeccable, which keeps me going back to him. He's also a great conversationalist, which makes the time worth it. I have been to other places, often charging the price of a Bay Area apartment rental (That's an exaggeration of course, but if you struggle with that, you have bigger problems in your life to be concerned about ! ) , to come out and feel that it wasn't worth it, but Charles Blades has never disappointed me so far. @Charles You have a gem of a stylist in Shomari. @Bearded men, Try out Shomari and you won't be disappointed. read more

Excellent barbershop! Professionals are running this business. Great location, and the place is always very clean and staff is very friendly. All of the staff looks to know what they are doing, but my go to person is Alejandro. I've been coming to this spot for a over a year now, and definitely do not plan on changing my barber anytime soon. Alejandro always listens, and aims to give an excellent cut. He may offer suggestions, but ultimately wants to make sure he understands what kind of cut you want. Thank you! read more

Booked a haircut here while traveling.and very happy with it. Charles was awesome and I'll be planning my future haircuts around Oakland trips in the future. read more

Got my hair cut a week or two ago. I had pretty long hair, about a foot and a half, so I decided to cut my hair. I was attached to the length but I know I needed a cut. I wanted the top to remain long, a good 6-8 inches, and a mid fade undercut. He started talking about running a little late because he wanted to give the person before me a good hair cut. What I got in return was a taper side with an extra extra short top, 3 inches. The barber defended his actions, saying "I didnt even touch the top, just the sides". The barber initially was going to give me $5 dollars off, then decided to give me a free cut. I soon found out why it was free... I went home, washed my hair and realized that the top was super uneven. He didnt part the hair in the middle before he buzzed it off... I had to go back to the barber shop and pay for another haircut, from a different barber, just to fix the barber's mistakes. So in the end the free haircut wasn't free, and my hair is even shorter after correcting the mistakes. My hair will grow back, but dam... I gotta wait like 6 months or more. It's a crappy feeling leaving a barber shop not getting the hair cut you want. Especially when another hair cut won't fix the mistakes. read more

I just had a great experience with Bella and will certainly be returning here in the future. As others have mentioned, she is meticulous with her craft. It drives me nuts when I get a barber/stylist who moves through the cut as quickly as possible. Not Bella - she will give your hair the time it deserves to make sure it is just perfect. Just as important, she will talk through the haircut with you to make sure it is exactly what you were looking for. This time I wanted it a bit longer than I usually ask for and gave her some latitude for professional judgement. Not only did she make some good recommendations, but she kept me informed of the details. I love that. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

Bella is my date maker. Whenever I have an important event or a special date, I always go to her to make me look good! She is detailed and creative in her work. Plus she is so much fun to talk to! She shares such amazing stories about her life while she works her magic. I am very very grateful to have found this place. I went to multiple barber shops all over Oakland but they weren't up to par to Bella's craftsmanship. I highly highly recommend her and this shop! read more

Although all of the barbers/stylists are truly gifted, this review will focus on Bella and straight razor shaves. I have yet to find a practitioner as gifted. Bella listens, provides relevant feedback and takes her time to make your beard look perfect. She pays great attention to detail and leaves you looking and feeling like a million bucks. Her skills are impeccable. I've paid more for inferior services at a number of locations. Make an appointment for yourself, your dad or a friend. Trust me-you're gonna look amazing. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

Get your haircut from Charles not only is he a great barber but one of the nicest coolest humans you will ever meet. Found my new spot for as long I'm in Oakland. read more

This place is such a hidden gem in the Jack London area. Great place for men to get a good straight razor shave, manicure, kids cut, regular buzz/haircut and other specialties here. I came in with my boyfriend bc he needed a haircut, and was very impressed with this place. This place has a lot of charm, clean, tidy, great jazz music playing, friendly staff, & good location. I especially like their straight razor shave station, the guy is good! I haven't seen many good barber shops in the east bay, and this one hits the nail on the head. I think I'll take my 12 yr old nephew here for his first big boy haircut. read more

Charles Blades Barber Shop - About to get a straight razor shave. - Barbers Near Me - Oakland, California

I have been getting my haircut by Charles for years. he always does a very consistent job has great conversation and is a true professional that cares about his community. if you need a great cut this is the spot to go! read more

The shop has a welcoming vibe. Lots of activity happening. The owner Charles is a pivot point to it all. He makes you feel welcome and thanks you for your business as you leave. Shomari my barber was awesome. He paid attention to detail. Just a quality haircut. Quality person giving that haircut. I found my new barber long term. Well run and highly recommended read more