Good guys and they gave my a good haircut. That's about all one could ask for - - Thanks guys!

Worst haircut I've ever gotten. Didn't listen to a single thing I said and just cut off all of my hair. Stole my hair and money

Scheduled a 7:30 am appt/ I was told about the place by a friend. I scheduled online and was told straight razor shaves are offered. I recently had my first in Phoenix on vacation and loved it. Put that in my notes for the appt. Got there at 7:30 and had to wait. Was asked if I was the appt. I said yes - barber doesn't do straight razor and I can cancel and reschedule. Since I had taken time out of my day just a cut. 35 dollars for the basic buzzed deputy army cut..I asked not to much off the top and no skin on the sides. Got skin on the sides and look balding up top because it's basically a buzz cut like military. Yeah I won't be back. Barbers in DM are not what they could be. 60 bucks cash in phoneix for a straight razor shave, haircut, hair wash, hot towel facial, the Ortiz special was legit a great experience.. back to great clips in Iowa - scissors and scotch was not for me either read more

Franklin Plaza Barber Shop - Not what I was wanting ... but what I got - Barbers Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

At times I enjoy going out of my way across town for services that I could easily get at a franchise located just a stone's throw from my home. This place does not make that list of places I will support. Upon walking into the store, you are greeted by what should have been a sign of what was to come. A poster of a grotesque man giving you the finger in no uncertain terms. As the stench of stale air and body odor begin to settle into my nostrils, I quickly look for a place to sit since I have arrived 20 minutes early to my appointment. As I look around, I can see there has been some thought put into the decor. A little confused if they were going for a zombie apocalyptic theme or what the basement of a questionable family member would look like, the shop is filled with old stuff, because I guess that's cool. What seems to be missing on this trip down memory lane is the time when barber shops used to be clean and focused on good customer service. After the time of my appointment came and went, I quickly looked for a reason to jump ship and escape. Asking my son to call me so that I could escape and not have to waste my hard earned money...all of a sudden, out of nowhere, interest in my existence bears its ugly head and the hipster barber follows me outside and asks if I am there for a haircut. The escape was nearly successful, I got as far as sitting in my truck, but in the end the manners that were passed down to me by my parents took over and I reluctantly walked back in. I ended up with an entry level haircut that I would get from a student that recently graduated from an online barber school. Of course, I was forced to sit in the pile of hair from previous customers as I got said haircut. If you are a glutton for punishment and don't mind sitting in filth while you get an economy haircut at solon prices this place is for you. For the rest of you who are exhausted in trying to support local businesses but keep hitting that proverbial brick wall of bad customer experience, download the sports clips app and book your appointment at a location near you. read more

They cut hair okay but and you get tude for free. I can hear the guy saying to me as I poked my head in last time, "nah man - we closing early". I got my hair cut 1 time here and beard trimmed twice but the service and attitude(tude) was not worth it. Always seemed like two guys there and their friends waiting for them to go hit the bar or something. I was almost convinced for a while this was a scam or undercover biz read more

A great old school barber shop Nice friendly atmosphere. All about barbers are equally talented. It's a first-come-first-serve place.... I would recommend to any guy that wants an old school hair cut or somebody that wants a good beard trim as well. read more

Franklin Plaza Barber Shop - Barbers Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Still my favorite spot to get a chop in town! I have been here a couple times now since my first review! I have had a different barber every time and every time I have walked away feeling fresh, smooth, and all the other things you want to feel as you walk out of a barber shop! Still got all the fun stuff like bad movies playing, beer in the fridge, and that glorious Tom Jones bathroom! Truly one of a kind.. A must for any dude wanting a great cut and the chance to talk shop with the best of them! read more

Visited 3/17/2021 @ 4 p.m. Never got my son's hair cut there because my 8 year old son went in with his Dad to get his hair cut and my son came back out because there was a calendar of topless women and my son felt very uncomfortable seeing that. They covered the pictures up, but at that point my son was embarrassed. (I found out afterwards this: that when my husband yelled out to me, while I was in the car with my son that they apologize and covered it up, and they laughed at him and said we didn't apologize)They said I still had to pay the $25 for cancelling. If you have pornographic images in your business you SHOULD NOT be allowing children in there. It's also poor business ethics to charge someone for cancelling when your establishment was inappropriate for a child to be in. Pretty sure that's not even legal to do...you might want to rethink how you handle your business. read more

These guys know what they're doing. It's a cool funky shop and you just feel a great vibe when you walk in there. Haircut was excellent. Somebody else mentioned yes, though, and I think they're right. One of the barbers gave off a real dick-ish vibe. He did come across like he had an attitude. But the guy who cut my hair was great. read more

I don't let just anyone touch my beard let alone take scissors to but after another night of way too much of this and even more of that, trimming my beard on my own was not the best idea in the world. Nova even said "I'm not touching it cause you'll blame me for what you screwed up" I guess I got a little aggressive on one side and now it was about as symmetrical as our current political parties. I'd heard of this place but I hadn't been to a barber since I was a kid in Carthage Missouri. This place is cool as shit. Retro decor, Tom Jones themed bathroom and they were playing Forrest Gump when I got there. That, and they have beer. I didn't get the dudes name who saved my beard but I'll throw one back in his honor. Great place. Cash only read more

Great local barber shop. The shop itself has been around for a while but has some new owners that have brought a lot of life into the classic barber shop scene. It's a great place for a quality haircut at a good price. They also do straight razor shaves. My haircut was $18. It may be too lively for people with sensitive ears; you do hear the occasional f-bomb but it's all in good fun. In the summer, they have special events called Recovery Sunday from 12-4. $30 gets you a haircut or shave, catered BBQ lunch from Guru BBQ (local BBQ company), and a tall boy brew. There is also music provided. Good times! read more

Franklin Plaza Barber Shop - Hanging out and waiting for a haircut - Barbers Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Now its a few years later and I'm still going here. Some of the faces have changed with the addition of a few very talented barbers. The OG crew is still there too. I've come to know these guys well. More than ever it has become a place I look forward going every 4-6 weeks. The vibe is super chill. Don't be in a hurry. Come in to gain a sense of community. They've got old coffee, Peace Tree Brewing beverages and some random beers in the fridge. There are risqué reading materials laying around if that is your jam. Your kids can play with vintage wrestling figurines while they get an education in manhood. You'll also be sure to encounter some Baywatch or other 70's-90's cinematic excellence. If you don't like this place, we probably can't be friends. read more

Probably had one of the worst experiences ever trying to get my haircut. I walked into about two people ahead of me, and it's about 10 on the dot. There's only two barbers on, and more people come in. With the flow of customers people started to leave. As soon as I was the next one available one of the barbers left to take a phone call, so there's only 1 on the floor, and the on the phone takes about a solid 15 minutes, or more to get back. Once he was done he stepped up back to the floor, and was ready for me to get my haircut. I showed my barber a picture of a haircut that I had previously from last summer, and using it was easier to explain what I wanted. So, the haircut didn't necessarily come out the way I wanted it upon taking a second look at it when I got to my car, and went back inside. The barber that just did my hair was on the phone, and had left his chair. I went back in and got really flustered, so I decided to leave again. I was going to go to a Great Clips because I've never had so much frustration over this. One of the barbers ended up calling me back from the parking lot claiming the one on the phone was going to be done, and once I got back in it only took an upwards of 2 minutes to get me seated. Here's why I'm writing this though: The employees only care about what' program they are watching on their tv, their personal drama, the salaries the staff of the Price Is Right is making, and Playboy shots of women from the 1900's. The barbers have one track minds, and don't really care about the quality of their work-maybe that's harsh, but it'll connect with my point in the end. I know the place has credibility to a degree, but they are the opposite of attentive, and they only are until you throw a fit. Took me a whole hour and half to get everything straighten out, and I was ahead of a lot of people. If you want to act like you don't exist and get a shitty haircut go here. I dead ass look more like a 13 year old than I already did. Thanks guys. Gg. read more

Went looking for a barber, found a great one. Personable staff, and interesting decor. I'm from out of state and usually get a nice skin high fade with a line up. I asked for the same and Paul cut it as good as my barber back home. Not many barbers can do good fades. They do all cuts here. No complaints. Highly recommend this place. read more

Franklin Plaza Barber Shop - Front of the shop - Barbers Near Me - Des Moines, Iowa

Great cuts, funky place. This is THE place to go for a classic barber cut. You can get a hip haircut, while still avoiding hipsters. They don't take reservations, but the the conversations and the wait are part of the experience. Now in a new larger location on Beaver Avenue, the decor reminds me of my grandma's basement if she had cheesy 80s movie posters on the walls. read more

This place is awesome! Probably one of the best haircuts I have ever had. They do the full on hot shave razor on the back of the neck. The barbers all take their time on your hair. Not a 10 min cheap haircut. A full on killer barber experience! read more

The price they list on their Facebook is not accurate. They charge $25 for a haircut; not $20. How is it that the barbers in Des Moines are more expensive than in Boston? I wasn't told the price until after the cut, so I really had no choice but to pay it. Pretty frustrating given that it was the sole reason for my choosing this shop. Still, the cut itself was fine. read more

They did an amazing job with my 2 year olds hair. Super patient and his hair looked AMAZING!!!

My first visit was sweet, I'll be back. No frills, awesome cut, and inexpensive. Bring cash! But if you forget these fellas are trusting and will let ya run to an ATM. Don't f*ck that up!! Oh and side-note for my bearded compadres, they make and sell a homemade beard oil that's brilliant! It smells great and works even better. Buy it! read more

Felt so great about this place that I'm compelled to give a review days later! Paul sat me down, precisely listened to what I wanted and delivered. I highly encourage speaking up about what you want! Paul had two customers in and out while I waited and the latter asked for what the first guy got. My first thought was oh no, everyone comes out with same cut. He finished in 5-10 mins. But when you ask for precision he gives it. Finished off with a straight razor neck shave and line up. Flawless!!!! read more

In a world full of Great Clips, and Sports Clips, and all the other chains it's good to see a place that still does it old school and takes the time to do it right. Franklin Plaza is just that. Classic, cool, and a little bit raunchiness all balled into one. There are four barbers in the shop, depending on what day and what time of day you go there might be just one working or they all might be there. They play by their own rules, so don't be shocked if you walk in and they tell you to come back another day if they have too many in line. And if you go on a Saturday morning, be prepared to wait a couple of hours. But that's where the cool factor comes in. You're not going to be sitting there dinking around on your phone the whole time. You're going to be listening and participating in barber shop talk. And it does get "R" rated. And it doesn't go "PG" just because there are kids waiting there. That's what makes this place cool. And if barber shop talk doesn't interest you (I advise you to check your pulse if that's true), then maybe the old campy 80's movies playing on the LaserDisc player will get your attention. Thirsty? Grab a water or beer from the fridge. That's the kind of place this is. One warning however, if you are sitting by the phone when it rings you are expected to answer it. Just be warned. ***One more thing. CASH ONLY!!! If you can't pay afterwards they have you go to the ATM*** As for the cuts, these guys do it right. Fade, high and tight, pompadour, whatever. I've been going for two years now and haven't been disappointed. They listen to what you want and if they think they can make a suggestion they chime in. But in the end, you're the customer and they do what's asked. You're not getting a haircut from somebody fresh out of beauty school. These guys are experienced and dedicated to their craft. This is a gem in the Des Moines area. And like how food is trending away from chain restaurants, beer is trending away from mass produced beer, this barber shop is trending away from the quick and easy hair spots. read more

Absolutely the best men's hair cut in town for the money, with a super cool environment and good group of guys. Same price as great clips, but 50x the quality. read more

An extremely unique and hip barber shop. Unlike any other you'll find in the Des Moines area. Excellent music, cool films always showing, really talent barbers. If you're looking for a really classic cut or something that will set you apart, this is the place. Here's a little peak into what you can expect: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYPPi1AIYBU read more

Although the atmosphere was nice, I couldn't help but feel like the haircut I got for the wait was subpar. I don't mind waiting if I know I'll get a phenomenal haircut, but this is among the worst I've had. Choppy, uneven and not at all what I wanted. Maybe it's just me, but I won't be going back. read more

If you're in a hurry this isn't the place for you. If you need your own TV channel and to be spoonfed sports gossip just to get a haircut, this place isn't for you. Hanging out and joking around is all part of what makes this a great place. If you need a quality haircut or shave - they have you covered. If you ask for a beer, they will tell you to help yourself! On your second visit be kind and bring in a six pack for you and your five newest friends. read more

The best in the business. More than a barber shop...fast becoming an icon in our city. Fast, fair and a lot of fun.

I've been going here for my haircuts for years. I was a little concerned when the previous owner retired, and sold the business to someone new, but they're just as good as he was. Thankfully, I won't have to go looking for someplace else. read more

These guys are great! My new spot. Fun place to get your haircut and you can tell they really love what they do.

Moved to Des Moines and needed a new barbershop. Ended up getting recommended Franklin Barber Shop so I gave them a shot. That was 5 months ago and I continue to go back. Enjoy the laid back atmosphere and actually look forward to getting my hair cut. The guys are a great time and do a great job with their cuts. Sometimes there can be a little wait, but trust me it is worth it. Just grab a beer and enjoy a cheesy horror film until it's your turn. read more

Great service, nice dudes who made me feel really welcome and comfortable. Fun atmosphere with movies, posters and collectibles all over the place. Would definitely be back if I lived closer! read more

Great place for a haircut. The staff is super friendly and waiting around for your haircut is great waiting listening to the banter between staff. The only draw back the place is so great sometimes you gotta wait awhile. But it's worth it for the quality you get. read more

Great shop full of character and guys who know how to cut some hair. They are busy for a reason! Tell them Dr. Chad sent ya!

Great atmosphere, great cut and straight razor shave. Make sure you have plenty of time, because you'll probably wait, but I feel it's totally worth it. Been to a few places in the area for a cut, and this is by far the best. Don't go if you don't like salty language and adult situations or are easily offended...Probably why I like it! read more

I stopped in today to get my 3 year old's hair cut and when we walked in we were not greeted or acknowledged so I felt kind of awkward sitting and waiting until the 1 barber working was finished with his client. We waited about 45 minutes. It was nice they had a box of wrestlers for my son to play with while we waited. They need to do a better job of cleaning the floor. Hair everywhere and there was food on the floor. Kind of gross. The guy that cut my son's hair seemed a bit uncomfortable cutting a child's hair, but did a good job. This place came highly recommended by my guy friends and we will probably go back. read more

Best barbershop in Iowa. Period. Chuck is my go to go guy, great cuts and beard trims. Very thorough and dependable. They offer drinks (coffee/beer/liquor), new and vintage playboys, lots of magazine selection, good music and movies playing, and awesome artwork. The conversation is top notch, but if you don't care to join in you can sit back and enjoy plus get a ton of laughs in the meantime. If you want a quality cut for a good price, check this place out. You won't regret it. read more

Relaxed environment. Professional cuts and shaves. Free beer. Laser Disc player. Be a man and get your hair cut where men go. Socialize. Drink. Relax. Plus the bathroom pays homage to Tom Jones. Go see these dudes. read more

Killer cuts. Would never go to a chain place again. Felt like a million bucks. Great times and great hair dos!

Boyfriend loves this place. Thank you! He goes during the week because Saturday's can get busy but well worth checking out!

I took my son here, he was 5, bc I thought it would be fun to take him to the barber, you know a little father/son time. These guys were all A-holes, impatient, dropped a 100 F-bombs in his ear and just had attitude. I get it's a barber shop, but c'mon, wouldn't kill them to tone it down just a notch. My son was nervous and scared being at a barber and these guys only made it worse. If my son wasn't sitting there with half a haircut I would have walked out. If you like being treated like s*%t and waiting 2 hours for a cut, these are your guys. Don't like that, like I didn't, switch and never go back, you won't regret it. Oh and too boot, the haircuts they gave sucked. read more

First off, the haircut cut looks fine. If that is all you care about than I don't think you'll be disappointed. Unfortunately, the language and conversations that were had are definitely not what everyone would prefer/enjoy. Language was very vulgar and not professional. Sexually oriented conversations about girls having "strap-ons" and having sex with a male partner is not what I expected/wanted to hear while going to have a haircut. Adult magazines were present and on the table for people to look at as well if they so preferred. However, if you are okay with the conversations and the atmosphere, then it may be an option for you. Also, I had to wait 2 hours before getting a cut but because I needed a haircut before having an important business meeting the following day, I elected to stay (poor judgement in my part). Otherwise, I would have left without their service. Also, they made fun of customers after they turned them away because they were closing in an hour and half. They literally said, "Can't they read? The sign says "F*** off, we're closed." Not really what I expected, nor prefer. But to each their own and I am sure they provide service to a population that enjoys that atmosphere. read more