I moved to the Alewife/North Cambridge area in September 2016, and have had 4 hair cuts since then. Two of them were with the lovely Harold and the other two were at the horrid franchise known as SuperCuts (Porter Square and Central Square locations) (it happened to be later in the night and I was in desperate need of a hair cut and Super Cuts was the only place open). Well this is not a review about Super Cuts, but let me talk about the *artist* Harold. Of the two times he has cut my hair and shaped/trimmed my beard, it was brilliantly done. Harold is a very old school guy who knows his way around the machine, scissors, and combs. If I tell him I want a 1.5 or 2 on the sides, he doesn't just go willy nilly changing the blade and running it through my hair on the sides (note metal and plastic guards make a difference, and Harold knows his stuff!). He'll use his machines and comb and work his way down to your desired length. Then he'll blend in with the top with scissors (I wanted to leave the length/volume on the top of my head). He'll then go around the edges with the Wahl Peanut trimmer. My favorite thing is he'll *rarely* ask you to adjust your lip or chin when working on the edges of your mustache, soul patch areas, or below the nose. Lastly, he does what is one of the hardest things to find in this area, a straight razor shave *with* hot foam from a machine. Coming from New York City, you'll find a Hispanic, Italian, or African barber who'll do this on pretty much every street corner, but it's been tough for me in this area. The straight razor shave is done right, where he'll bring out the head rest, and push your seat back, so he can get under your chin and get an accurate shave. The foam is also nice and warm and Harold lathers it up well. The reason I describe Harold as an artist is because I feel his work is like that of a painter working on a blank canvas. Halfway through, you might be really confused where this is going, and why did Harold do that. But relax! He's been doing this for years. At the end, you see his masterpiece come to life, and you'll look in the mirror and tell yourself, "Hot damn, that's one sexy motherf**ker in the mirror!". My favorite part about this barber shop is it has a very homely and friendly feel to it. It feels like one of those TV shows that takes place in the 70s/80s and everyone knows each other in the neighborhood (almost like Cambridge has this suburban community vibe rather than a city vibe). The other lady working there, I believe Rose is her name, was updating her address book for a guy who looked to be a regular. This was so she can send him their annual Christmas cards. She said she likes buying ethnic cards (i.e. ones where you see other cultures on the cards, and goes to a store in Davis Sq to pick them up). I love that! Just a general feel good, gives your heart the warm fuzzies kind of place! Unfortunately I'm not a regular here, so I won't be getting one, but I'll definitely be a regular soon. N.B.: They are a *cash* only place, so head to the ATM before you come over here. The prices are very fair. I always give Harold $25 including tip and he hooks me up good. (it's $17 for a regular hair cut and since I got the beard shaped and trimmed, it came out $20 total and I added the $5 tip). I believe kids 12 and under get a haircut for $10. I believe a lot of the businesses on the block have the same landlord, so their rent went up. As a result, Prices have gone up, to $20 a haircut, but still worth it. I now pay $28 for my haircut and beard adjustment. read more

I went there for the first time today to get rid of my heavy and thick full beard grown during my prolonged illness and also to trim my hair. The owner, Harold, took care of me so meticulously that I was completely amazed. He probably worked on me for about an hour (may be more) and charged me so little. I strongly recommend Elite Barber Shop on 2354 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA (near Greek Corner restaurant) who is looking for a good barber shop with very reasonable pricing. God bless you Harold. read more

Harold is a master barber! I only needed a beard trim but he took his time with me and the result was just what I wanted

Harold is one of a kind! Excellent person and very friendly spot. My personal favorite barber shop in Massachusetts! read more

This lil barbershop ran by husband and wife is something special. Great haircuts for excellent prices and good conversation while you're there. read more

Elite Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Favorite barbershop along Mass Ave with very friendly husband and wife duo. Sometimes the queue of waiting patrons is a little long so I like to call ahead and ask for a chair at a certain time. Nice way to catch up with neighbors and learn a little about what's happening in town. read more

Harold is a great barber! Very kind and attentive, and felt I was in good hands as a young woman who'd done my big chop before needing a new local barber. Def going back for my next trim. read more

I had no idea that I would recieve this level of service for an haircut and a straight razor shave. Lets just say, I was happy to tip because I felt safe , and the pricing was more affirdable than many places. read more

Harold and Roseanne for the win. Great couple who owns the shop. Roseanne said to me, you don't need to worry, I know just what to do. And she was right. Great cut for my often hard to cut hair. Be warned, she is extremely opinionated and loves to talk. For me this is a plus, but for some people, perhaps not. Either way, I had a great experience. $17 for my cut and neck shave. Will definitely be going there again. read more

The best. I live upstairs from Harold and Roseanne but usually got my hair cut near my office in Kendall. I was in desperate need- and they gave me the perfect barber triple threat: - great cut - hot shave - unbeatable banter and gossip I will never get my hair cut elsewhere as long as Im in Cambridge. read more

I love this place. David J is right, the haircuts are great. I moved to Cambridge in July and shopped around a couple places that were okay, but not great. These barbers truly are elite. I described to them what I wanted and it's like they saw what was in my head. However, I disagree with David J. in his review of Rosanne, who is totally sweet. David J. must be shy or have a sensitive bladder. Harold and Rosanne both are so nice and they make you feel right at home. The first time I went in I was a little surprised by Rosanne's rambunctiousness also, but once we got to talking I realized she was really sweet. Besides, if you don't want to deal with opinionated people, what are you doing in Cambridge anyways? I have been been back four more times since, and every time she remembers my name, where I work, what my girlfriend does and most importantly HOW I LIKE MY HAIR CUT. She also helped me find a new bartending job. As a new resident of Camrbidge, she always makes me feel like a real member of the community when I go in. I highly recommend this barber shop for all reasons read more

Barbers here are very chatty - fun place to get a hair cut and listen to gossip. It's almost a performance in itself! I've gotten good haircuts here - barbers seem to know what they're doing. Pictures of Tip O'Neill staring at you while you get a trim! read more

I walked in and had a specific haircut in mind. I described it, had a photo pulled up on my phone, and asked her to cut my hair in a similar manner. Instead though, she just buzzed my hair off. Its very short now, and I could now go join the military with this cut. It seems there was no need to listen to what I actually wanted, because regardless I was going to end up with a Boston Bro buzz cut. The ranting wasn't so bad. We were kind of in a hurry, so it was a little much, but mostly just entertaining. read more

The haircuts here are five stars. Some of the best haircuts I have ever had. I've been here three or four times and even though the haircuts are great, the woman doing the hair cutting is too much for me. People have said she is opinionated and they are beyond right, in fact she borders on crazy. She ruins the experience with her ranting and raving. It sounds strange, but it is true. It really has to be experienced to be believed. I won't be returning despite the amazing haircuts. I go to the barber for a haircut, not a loudly voiced politically laced diatribe shouted down my throat by a scissor waving barber. I also suggest you look at the filtered reviews, especially one particularly poignant one by Amy from Cambridge. I could easily picture the situation she describes having played out. Go at your own risk. read more

I asked for one thing, a haircut that's worked for ME for the past 15 years. What I got was totally different. Harold starts talking and cutting and cutting and next thing you know there's no going back. It took several weeks for the ridiculously short areas to grow back. Nice guy but he needs to LISTEN! read more

The guy is crazy and dangerous! I asked for number 2' cut but he did a number 1' instead. When I asked why, he said I give you what I want not what you asked for! Then, he threatened cutting my ears if I didn't let him to do his jobIt was traumatic experience and I really consider filling a report to DPH. read more

14 years ago I wandered into Elite looking for a quick cut and have been going back ever since. Is this place opinionated, you betcha but that is part of the atmosphere. Want to get into a debate about the Celtics or who is running for office WHILE getting a great cut come on down. Want a barbershop that plays elevator music while everyone quietly reads the latest issue of GQ this isn't your place. On another note, ten years ago I started taking my now 15 year old autistic son to Elite. Watching Harold and Rose keep him calm while cutting his hair is nothing short of amazing. For my son and I going to Elite is more than getting a haircut; it's visiting old friends. How many places of business, regardless of product can you say that about. read more

Never a dull moment or a dull blade. I consistently get great haircuts and beard trimming/shaves. I will go here especially to clean up for a special occasion, and the barbers will bring their A-game. While the haircuts are reliably good, part of the charm is the "neighborhood, old barber shop" feel. The business is built on walkins, and people will chat about the local politics and happenstances. I can't forget to mention the hot lather shaves that finish up the haircut, best part of the experience. Highly recommended. read more

Rudest barber I have ever seen. All I asked was for an estimated wait time. When he couldn't give it to me I went to leave because I had the wife and kids on the car. I was serenaded with f-bombs and told to get out. I guess asking how long a wait for a cut in HH is really asking for the barber to verbally insult you. read more

Horrible experience with the woman barber! I sat in her chair showed her picture of what I'd like for a hair cut then ask her advice should I cut a little shorter she became enraged jumping around screaming at me telling me if I don't know what I want then get out of her chair I smiled thinking she playing but she wasn't she screaming at top of her lungs saying I'm serious and if you plan on changing your hair style after next time you come in then get the f out of my chair now!! I said why you insulting me she pull off my cape threw things at me screaming violently to get out of her chair! Beside me her husband whom was cutting an 8 year old boys hair whom parent just drop him there was looking terrified from woman flipping out I look at her husband he hung his head down. I left crying my eyes out Iam disabled and had a severe panic attack How can she get away with this??? She looks like an addict !! I'm calling better business. Please don't support them the poor child beside me so sad!!!i had to give a star to post but no way they deserve any stars I'm still crying read more

Harold and Roseanne are fantastic. They know how to cut my hair, and they take their time: I never feel rushed in and out. Also, they always know what's going on in North Cambridge. It's a good place to go to feel like part of the community. read more

Great cut for sure! Good price and one of the better cuts I have been able to find in the area. I'll definitely go back and recommend it to any friends who ask where to get your hair cut. read more

The service is VERY competent and VERY friendly !! The prices are EXTREMELY reasonable !!! They REALLY make me feel RECOGNIZED !! They ALWAYS remember my name and who I am with a REAL spirit of community !!!! read more

Took me a year to find a decent place to get a haircut in the neighborhood. I tried all the other neighborhood places, but once I met Harold and Roseanne, I knew I had found the right place. It's everything a local barbershop should be. read more

Honestly, just having my first experience there today (after years of suggestions from my brother), I don't think I'll go anywhere else. I am overly satisfied with my haircut and beard trim. This is a real barber shop that does a REAL good job. read more

Best barber shop in Cambridge. They do a great job on your hair and your soul. If you want a slice of what made Cambridge unique..you need to come to Elite. Great conversation, old style hot shaves. You will leave feeling like a million bucks. read more

Terrible service. Extremely rude lady barber there, who was mad because we moved into the neighborhood. Tip O'Neill used to go here before these barbers were there. Must have been nicer people in the old days. read more

I've been a loyal customer of Elite Barber Shop for over five years now. I highly recommend this establishment to men and boys looking for a good haircut and shave, who don't need the gleam and glitz of some of the other establishments. Harold and Roseanne are former teachers at a barber college, so they know what they're doing. Harold is an absolute sculptor of beards. Impeccable! read more

Based on the gleaming reviews I stopped by this seeming local favorite. I had grown out my hair 3-4 month and ready for a decent cleanup and reviewers recommended shave. Decent standard Men's "Cop" haircut and attention to detail but honestly much shorter than I hoped especially since I had grown it out 4mos a lot to work with.... Shave was rushed, due to a phone call or appointment, and I was left with uneven stumble and bled from nicks on cheek and chin. No hot towel, just warmed foam, decent for neck shave but at home with a Gillette I give myself a better shave. Nice folks and decent place for a good standard mens/boys cut, not 4-5 star. read more

Harold has been my barber for over a decade. He always gives me a perfect cut and trim. I am over 65 and hairy, so I especially appreciate the care he lavishes on my beard/mustache, nose, and ears. When Harold is busy, Roseanne does an equjally good cut/trim. The lively, friendly atmosphere of the shop adds to the experience. read more

Always a great cut. People constantly ask where I get my hair cut and I'm happy to say Elite!

This place is awesome. The people are fun to talk to and the haircuts can't be beat. Every haircut is perfect and I always get complimented on my hair after I go here. If I ever move, I don't know what i'll do. read more

I have been getting my haircut from Roseanne since 2007. Not only are they great barbers but they are very community minded. They have been supporting my Walk for Hunger since 2009! I always have a lively discussions with Harold and Roseanne about community issues! read more

This is consistently the best spot to get a haircut in the area. These guys are authentic professionals, and they knock it out of the park everytime. Under twenty for a men's cut, a few extra for beard and the conversation is always lively! read more

I have been a regular here predating Harold and Roseann when it was Frank's. It's doesn't get any better that a fresh cut from this shop. After just a couple of visits they will remember your name and exactly how you like your hair cut. Hot lather shaves, pfff. That's what I'm talking about! read more

Harold and Roseanne are incredible barbers with friendly dispositions and an unparalleled understanding of the art and craft of the trade. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the shop, coupled with the fact that they both still wield a straight razor, will have me coming back for as long as I'm in the Boston area. Additionally, Roseanne's expertise is fantastic - a teacher as well as a barber - and you'll leave learning a few things about your hair, the barber's trade, and, well, life in general. A+ read more

Rose and Harold are the best. Great haircut at great price every time. Friendly, North Cambridge location. Used to live around corner but even though I'm in LA now I always get a haircut here during visit home. read more

Something about this place keeps me going back. Maybe its the friendly atmosphere that it humble and real. Or maybe its because the lady is a specialist in straight hair and knows just what to do for you every time you go. This is what the barber experience should be and I've stuck with them for about 4 years...Now if only they would do a head/neck massage that would be old school... read more

Our company recently moved our HQ a few miles near Elite. I needed to find a new, close and convenient barber shop to go to during work hours. Roseanne is friendly, fantastic and funny with some local and entertaining Beantown conversation! She truly does a great job cutting hair too. I'll be back and will tell my co-workers looking for a haircut during working hours! read more

Don't be surprised by the stellar reviews for Elite Barber Shop in Cambridge. I saw another side of the barber Roseanne today on my third trip to her shop. Witnessing her blow up at a Middle Eastern man, I discovered that she is extremely anti-immigrant and bad-tempered. She treated this Middle Eastern man (and by association his family, including 2 young kids, who were there) ABOMINABLY when I went into her shop today. Halfway through his cut, the man quietly told her that the haircut wasn't short enough and could she take a little more off - not an unheard-of request in a barber shop. She totally flipped out and told him she wasn't going to cut his hair "a second time," that he was "wasting her time" and she wasn't going to "play games" with him. She proceeded to bark at him that "we don't do this kind of thing in OUR country" and leaned down toward him and told him in a vicious tone that she could "SMELL how new he was to the U.S." She said more, too and repeated these insults. His children looked scared and stunned; the man remained calm and let her finish the cut and wash his hair. His poor wife said nothing. It was unbelievably offensive, and I ended up walking out. I wish I had said something to defend the family or correct the barber for her behavior, but I felt intimidated by her vicious manner. I never had a problem with Roseanne cutting my son's hair before, but I can tell you that I will NEVER, EVER take my son into that barber shop again. Go the extra distance to Fast Phil's - same price, nice atmosphere, and progressive and accepting barbers. read more