DO NOT GO HERE IF YOU ARE DISABLED, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE A SERVICE DOG. THIS BUSINESS IS NOT ACCESSIBLE AND DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE ADA. I was really excited to check out this place as it claimed to be a welcoming and friendly environment. However, when I walked in with my service dog, I was immediately on edge when I saw the business had an unleashed dog. My service dog is a medical alert and response dog that has gone through extensive training to help mitigate my disability. One simple search of "unleashed dog attacks service dog" in the news and you will find extensive stories of service dogs being attacked and suffering serious injuries, which undoes precious hours of training time. I have had several service dog teams I know personally be attacked recently as well. Naturally, I am fearful of loose dogs I do not know approaching my service dog. I inquired if their dog could be restrained and was assured by the staff that he was highly trained and knows not to approach. I was not entirely convinced and put my service dog in a protected corner of the salon out of eyesight from the loose dog. Immediately upon sitting down, their dog ran around the counter to approach mine. The entire salon management and reception staff did absolutely nothing as he ran over, and I had to jump up to block him from approaching my dog. I managed to body block the dog back to the reception area. I then went to approach the staff again to ask for the dog to be restrained. The staff did not acknowledge me and had their backs turned to me until I had to say "excuse me" several times to get their attention. After again explaining the situation to a second staff remember, the staff member then claimed that they had no way to restrain the dog, since they had no "cage" for it, nor a leash (who brings their dog without a leash?). This was an obviously dangerous situation for me, as my dog could miss essential medical alerts if distracted by this off-leash dog. California Penal Code 365.6 says that the interference, harassment, or obstruction of guide, signal, or service dog user, or mobility aid user is illegal. Furthermore, this is a potentially dangerous situation for my service dog if this untrained and unrestrained dog became aggressive. I had to leave the business within maybe 5 minutes of entering. As we left, their dog began barking at mine, further confirming that this dog is untrained and that I was correct in my decision to leave. It is safe to say that anyone with a service animal, or anyone who cares about supporting those with disabilities and service animals, should avoid this business. read more

Moved to San Diego half a year ago and was dreading having to find a new barber, especially one that specialized in my hair type. After a quick online search, I came across this barbershop and figured I'd give it a try. I booked my first haircut with Jovani and was amazed at the quality, precision and care in his work. He's super professional, consistent and I always look forward to my haircuts because I know he'll do a phenomenal job each and every time. I'm fact, the entire staff is amazing and the shop has done a great job of making me and everyone who enters feel special. 10/10 would highly recommend. read more

10! 10! 10! Across the board! Leo is such a talented and professional barber! I wouldn't go anywhere else! Zach - the manager - is attentive your needs and greets you whenever you come in for a cut! Great place to chill and relax! Thanks for having me and taking care of me! read more

My experience was *chef's kiss* I was very anxious about going to the barber shop on my own, but fortunately I brought my friend who would interpret for me because I wanted to communicate with Gigi aka Nicole, the barber. She's very informative and transparent, listening to my concerns about my thick hair, giving some suggestions, and making sure that I am happy with my haircut. I would definitely come back to this barber shop! read more

3 stars for a review that should be 1 star. The only reason I'll give it 3 is because I like the vibe in there and this could have been an oversight. I had a 1pm appointment with Christian, and I got there at 12:55 after finding parking. I walked in, was acknowledged by another worker, and told he was just finishing up and would be with me shortly, and to help myself to a drink. Hence why the ambiance and place is nice. However, after 15 minutes of waiting past my appointment time, he switched from doing his current clients fade to trimming the top, so clearly no where close to being done. I left after waiting for 25 minutes without a single communication besides for when I walked in initially. Hopefully others have a better experience, because waiting 25 minutes for a 30 minute haircut, especially without an update, is outrageous. On top of this, they urge you online to prepay, including tip. Glad I didn't prepay! UPDATE: 5 stars- They reached out to me after and got me in at another time, and were genuine and apologetic for the wait. Christian gave me a great cut, and I'll be happy to return after. read more

10/10 all around!!!! I had a wonderful time from start to finish. Nicole was able to give me the cut i've been dreaming of!! Affordable and great quality service. Would recommend!! read more

As a recent San Diego transplant, I was on the market for a good barber when a friend referred me to Brightside. The shop as well as the staff have a cool, yet unassuming vibe. The employees each have their own unique style that translates to a killer haircut. I became a customer after my first 2 cuts with Leo. While every haircut at Brightside is good, Leo takes his time perfecting even the smallest details and listening to his client's needs. He suggests new styles, double/triple checks his work, and still manages to maintain a busy schedule with return clients. He is friendly and easy to talk to, follows up on conversations from previous visits which is no small feat when you see so many clients on a monthly basis. Leo makes your time in his chair all about YOU, and making YOU look and feel like a million dollars. I say with confidence in my 30 years of haircuts, Leo is the best barber I've worked with to-date! Lastly, props to shop management. Leo as well as many others express their passion for working there and you can tell they feel valued as employees by taking care of the staff, keeping their barbers and clients both happy! To any first-time visitors, I recommend getting your hair cut by Leo. Their stylist are top notch and each bring something valuable to the table. No matter what, you will leave Brightside feeling like a new and improved person! ‍ read more

I was walking by this shop and decided to walk in. They were able to accommodate me right away. Annie was super personable and cut my hair exactly how I described. The whole experience was great! I am definitely coming back. read more

Hillside Barber - Brightside Haircut - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

After 29 years of being a hair virgin and a rough deployment, i decided it was time I dyed my hair. Even though I was late Britton still took me in and the experience was the best I could have imagined! He really made me felt comfortable and answered all my questions (cause duh I'm a hair virgin and have no idea what I'm doing). I showed him what kind of style I was going for and he took it from there. After a couple hours my hair went from no haircut in a year and stuck in a bun for 10 months to beautifully dyed hair. I would definitely recommend Britton to anyone! He is so talented and really passionate about his work. read more

Hillside Barber - After - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

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Great place. My stylist did a great job on my haircut. The atmosphere is great- very open and dogs are welcome.

I stopped in for a last minute haircut with Melissa. She spent a little over an hour on my fade, paying special attention to the areas I described as the most difficult to take care of. By the time she handed me the mirror, she had completed the best haircut I've had in over a year, with no tweaking needed. Thanks Melissa! read more

Hillside Barber - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

Set an appointment here to try out Brightside since it was close by. They are super friendly here. Very clean barber shop. My appointment was with Jen and she took care of me very well. Went in for a nice clean up on my fade and she knew exactly what I needed. Thanks the chat, the fresh fade and the cerveza! I was wondering at first what I was gonna do about getting a haircut with a 2 1/2yr old.....it's not kid friendly as in having a toy area but my son was pretty chill for the most part to last for the length of my hair. I'll definitely be recommending friends to come and check out Brightside! You guys are doing it right here. I feel like some places try too hard and when I walked in here it was just a chill open atmosphere. Until next time! read more

I was waiting for this place to open so I could give it a whirl - I was not disappointed! GREAT service the first time around. You walk in and it is clean, professional looking, and everyone was really friendly. I like that the space feels open and airy, especially because the front windows open to the sidewalk. This is a great business to add to the HUB in Hillcrest. I had an appointment with Joslyn and got a great haircut, good service, and nice conversation. They even allow one of the barbers to let their little dog stay. He is small and sleeps most of the time under a bench. Keep in mind that there is plenty of parking in the HUB but depending on the time of day it can be busy. read more

All I can say is: I look forward to coming here every two weeks. The haircut, the wash, the bourbon. Amazing experience every time. Hit up Britton for an exceptional cut. My buddy and I come here, sip some bourbon and get ready for the weekend. read more

Hillside Barber - Fade of the day - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is having their soft opening and the place looks really hip with a bar counter sitting area to enjoy your free drink while you wait. The staff are very welcoming and the owners are really friendly. I'm watching my friend get his haircut and honestly, I should have received my haircut here! His haircut looks really well done and his beard well trimmed! I would definitely come back to get my haircut so I can experience a great cut and also get a free massage shampoo wash! I like that you can also book your appointments online!!!...but they also welcomed us as we were just on a walk-in basis. Thanks for a truly wonderful and refreshing experience BRIGHTSIDE BARBER!!!! read more

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Had not had an actual haircut for about 3 years, save for a one inch trim once a year. REALLY tired of the ponytail etc. Called Brightside at 2pm, booked an appointment for 3pm with Sierra, and sat down in the chair. I wasn't sure what I wanted... she suggested that we start long and cut it down until I liked what she'd done. We did just that and in about 30 minutes, I got the best haircut I've had in at least 10 years, probably longer. Plus, I get to donate my ponytail to "Wigs for Kids." HIGHLY recommended, especially Sierra!!! read more

Nicole has officially made me a regular. Never have I been to a barber shop as much as I am now. Who knew a haircut and beard trim could be so relaxing! Highly recommend Nicole, she takes the extra time and makes sure I'm always comfortable and looking my best. Shop is clean and staff are very friendly, everyone makes you feel like your a regular and have been since the start. Keep up!! Cheers read more

Came for a mens haircut during their soft opening and recieved an excellent haircut from Leo. It took a little over 30 minutes and was quick and excellent. I'll definitely be back. read more

Jovoni was awesome! Did a great job on my side cut. Clean, efficient,and fast. Thank you for making me look fresh and getting me in so quickly. Clean shop, friendly shop. read more

I feel really comfortable coming into Brightside, particularly during these COVID times! It's great to have them back open. They're very welcoming in the shop and make for great conversation. Great deco, great people, and great experiences. I actually followed Britton to this location after he left a previous barbershop, and I must say I like this one better anyway! That and he's always making me look and feel fantastic and takes my thoughts and gives suggestions if I want to maybe switch things up a bit. Thanks for everything! read more

2 months and 6 stylists later (between me and my bf), and I think I've finally found my new go-to in San Diego. Strongly recommend both this salon and Nicole Y (@_gigi_thebarber), individually. She knows what she's doing and expertly cut my challenging (thick, straight, cowlick-y...) hair. Both listening to my experience and recommending what she thought best - and was right. Add in a drink and hair wash and I'm sold. Give her a shot among the dozens of salons and hundreds of stylists in Hillcrest and you won't be disappointed! read more

I decided to treat myself to a first-class experience for my birthday and Brightside came up on Yelp. Needless to say, Brightside did not disappoint. I left feeling refreshed. Jen was very welcoming and has a pleasant vibe. Lastly, props to shop management. The shop was clean and bright. Not many places have such a balance. To any first-time visitors, I recommend a five-minute early arrival to allow for parking. read more

Super happy with the cut, the place has just opened but they are doing everything right. They are giving 50% off your first cut and of course the standard free beverage of you want. Checking in on Yelp gives you an offer as well. I'm very pleased with my cut and will definitely be returning. Jouslan K, was my barber. I suggest you book with her. However, everyone is talented. It's best to make an appointment before you come. Great staff, and clean shop. read more

Hillside Barber - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

I've been coming to Brightside since the beginning, almost every week for over a year!!! I ABSOLUTELY love it here and would NOT trust my hair with any other barbers but the one's that show out their talent here!!! Every one of the barbers is FABULOUS...but LEO HAS DEFINITELY WON ME OVER!! His attention to detail and my needs for my hair have surpassed anything I could have ever asked for!! The shop has definitely set a standard in customer service from safety, friendliness, discounts/savings, products, and overall impeccable service!!! If you truly do want something magical for your hair PLEASE BOOK AN APPOINTMENT ASAP!! The owners and barbers will NOT disappoint you!! read more

Hillside Barber - Barbers Near Me - San Diego, California

Great place and location. It's spacious and clean with good customer service. Jovoni is an exceptional barber!

I've been getting my hair cut with Britton for a while now and it's gotten to the point that I just show up and there's no real need for me to tell him what I'm looking for. He's great at it, and always makes me laugh with his stories. I'm happy they're doing everything by the book during the pandemic and following the correct protocols. I want to stay safe, but also feel cute with a nice haircut. So this is the place :) read more

Great, clean, friendly barber shop! Would recommend Jovoni, he's detail oriented and cuts extremely well.

Jovani was very helpful, professional, and gives a great hair cut! Glad to find someone reliable close to home!

Brightside Barber definitely sets an example of what a comfortable, clean and trendy barber shop should be. Non-intimidating hip place to relax get taken care of and have a cocktail while you wait. Perfect customer service and knowledgeable staff. Leo keeps me looking fresh fresh, but everyone is great :D read more

I actually came here with my boyfriend so that he could get a haircut about 4 months ago. Everyone was so friendly, we were offered drinks as soon as we walked in and while I was waiting I could tell that all the barbers really trying to establish a relationship with their new clients. A couple of people came in and went to the barber of their choice. Seemed like a really cool environment and I keep pushing my boyfriend to go for another haircut. They did such a good job. ;) read more

I just got a haircut and beard trim. Not impressed at all! It was definitely not the pampering experience you get at Mr. Brown's in North Park. The haircut was ok. I had to ask him to blend the sides because it was super obvious where he used different sized trimmers. He didn't use a straight razor on my neck line. The beard trim was less than ok. It wasn't a hot shave, only shaving gel. My cheeks were very uneven! I had to ask him to fix it. My neckline was also lopsided. But by that point he seemed eager to be done. So I just fixed it myself when I got home. I don't know if the rushed service was because I came to close to closing. It was pretty cheap since they are still only soft open. They do offer drinks when you get there and the lady at the front desk was very nice. It wasn't the worst experience I've had at a barber but I highly doubt I'd ever go back. When I go to the barber I was to enjoy it, not feel rushed in and out. read more

Had the opportunity to check this place out, and was impressed by this new shop (new to me, because I haven't see it previously). Nicole (Gee Gee) was my barber, and she did a fantastic job. Think I might have found my new barber! From my perspective, the shop was clean, everyone was cool and professional, and I would totally recommend and frequent this business. read more

I came across the awesomeness of Brightside purely by chance one day as I was in between showings in Hillcrest and University Heights. My office being roughly five minutes away, on Park Blvd, I'd always see the hubbub around this new-ish place with people coming to and fro, so I told myself I had to check it out! I came back the following weekend as a walk-in, and it was easily the best decision I've ever made! Lyndsay W. was purely amazing from start to finish. When I first sat down I wasn't 100% sure on what exactly I wanted to have done, but she listened to exactly what I was thinking about, gave me her thoughts/tips, and she did an absolutely stellar job! Her stories are freaking hilarious and she'll brighten your day even before putting a finger on your head! Lyndsay will make you feel right at home and like a friend you've known for years, right from the very start. She's got a forever client in me now! Parking can be a bit tough at peak times & on the weekends, as they have some contenders around, like Trader Joe's and Ralph's. Nothing too crazy, though! The whole vibe inside is awesome. The other barbers have an amazing energy, always smiling and laughing, and it's easily shown that everyone here loves their job & their clients! Beer, sodas, and other libations are all up for grabs, too; freaking dope! Plus, their soundtrack is unbeatable. This place is for sure one to reckon with and 100% worth checking out! Thanks, Brightside! read more