I lived in the Bay for 20 years, and crossed the bridge countless times to have Nick cut my hair. I live in NYC now, and *finally* found a good stylist here, but I still wish I could clone Nick and import him to the east coast. I lost all my hair to chemo in 2014, and growing it out took forever, because of the damage to my hair follicles. My hair also came back differently textured for the first 6-9 months, with lots of grey that wasn't there before. Nick got me through that wretched period, with so much kindness and patience, as well as creative ideas for making the look work while I awaited growth. So grateful for your talent and care for all those years. Thanks, Nick. You're the best. read more

Nick Meinzer is a seasoned stylist, who is well versed. He is punctual, inquisitive , and knowledgeable. Milo is an added bonus! read more

Have been going to Nick for about 6 months. Very happy with his work on my unruly, wavy short/medium length hair. The salon has a relaxed, low pressure vibe. No product hard sell. Always does his best to make you look and feel great. Booking system works well. His dog Milo is an added bonus. read more

Just gave me a friendly, affordable, and stylish haircut. Thanks Nick! Milo the dog was a great bonus too :)

I needed a new hairdresser when I moved to Berkeley. Nick did an excellent job fixing my last haircut and turning into possibly the best haircut I've ever had. For $80 a pop, going with Nick is an absolute no brainer -- he delivers quality at the value of super luxury $150+ haircuts. Plus he's a really nice guy, very easy to talk to. read more

I LOVE MY HAIR! He's great with a razor and really listened!! The only thing that would make my experience better is if he would bring his dog to work! Next time, Nick, next time!!! Thank you! read more

Nick Meinzer - Hair Stylists Near Me - Oakland, California

I am awfully glad that Nick now books appointments in the East Bay very near where I live and work in Emeryville. His cuts are simply the best and he possesses the perfect mix of talent, skills, knowledge, and intuition. He immediately understood my concerns about my hair--fine, wavy (which I like to encourage), somewhat wiry-graying, and my desire to look pretty with as little effort as possible--and he makes great suggestions without even a hint of pushiness/upsell-ishness. In addition, Nick gives my fella quite a handsome cut and is a seasoned pro with customers of any gender. And one more thing, the salon is located inside an adorable vintage shop, which is great for browsing around if you arrive early. read more

YEP- Nick is an amazing hair dresser. I reviewed him on Yelp.... and I'm gonna promote him here too! He's humble and not a big self promoter, (as you may know), but he has a TON of experience. He's been doing hair for 17+ years. He cuts/colors both the menzez and the ladies, queer, straight, trans, whatever, he's your guy. He's got a great eye for shape & texture. He'll steer you right, if you listen to his soft spoken advice and he really listens to what you want. Come with clear direction or pictures this really helps. Long hair, layers, curly hair, fades, short and choppy, point cutting, razor cuts, color, split end treatments, you name it he does it! He loves rockabilly cuts. He's damned CHEAP by industry standards. $55.00 Cut $60.00-175.00 Color/Highlight/Creative color. My hair looks great, healthier than it's looked in years and everyone seems to notice too. I'm get tons of compliments daily, people even stop me in the street! Nick Meinzer in the Castro, San Francisco Check him out! www.hairbynicky.com What I love even more is you can now schedule yourself!!! Schedule yourself at: http://www.schedulicity.com/MakeReservation.aspx?business=NM7JGP read more

Nick is super friendly and awesome at cutting hair. I brought a few ideas with me and he executed perfectly! So grateful to have found Nick, and looking forward to many more haircuts in the future. read more

**Got my cut from Nick in SF, so now that he is in the EAST BAY I thought I would share my feelings with you folks!!** my review for Nick from 7/3/12: LOOOOOVE LOVE LOOOOVE my cut. But even beyond the awesome cut, Nick was a pleasure to sit in a chair for an hour with - which is arguably as important as the result!!! I showed him a couple pictures on my TINY iphone screen, and gave some vague info about the texture/behavior of my hair and VOILA! exactly what I wanted. Maybe he is secretly a mind-reader and that's how he does it? Bottom Line: After 1 visit, I'm sold for life (or at least until distance do us part). Thanks Nick, you rock. read more

I drive to San Francisco every six weeks to have Nicky cut my hair. He nails it right every time. Yes, there are hair dressers in San Jose but only he is able to work with the fine texture and bizarre grain of my particular head--CONSISTENTLY. I look awesome everytime I leave his chair. He takes his time to make each appointment one that leaves me looking my best. He is worth the drive. I wouldn't go anywhere else. read more

Nick has been cutting my hair for over 3 years now, and he's an awesome stylist. He's gotten me through the super short, the in-between, and the longer hair I now wear... talk about patience. He's no non-sense (he will not be pushing product on you) but knows his stuff (so if you want a product recommendation, he can make one). Nick's prices are extremely reasonable for the high level of service you receive. Nick really is the best! read more

Nick earns a five star rating because he's one of the few stylists who have cut my hair perfectly on the first try. I described what I love (close crop, texturized, clean around the nape of my neck and around the ears, but leaving some sideburns), and what I hate (scalp showing, bangs, over razoring so that my hair sticks up and out) - and he cut it exactly like I wanted. I define a perfect cut by not having to rewash, restyle, or trim afterwards. I left and went about the rest of my day in high spirits. I love the studio space he works in too - really bright and airy and it smelled good - it was like I walked into a spa and not a barbershop. The two other stylists who were working were also really nice and welcoming. I loved my experience here. It was truly perfect and I'll definitely be back for more haircuts. Thank you Nick! read more

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If I could give Nick Meinzer 10, 20, 1000000 stars, I would. I had my first appointment with him this past Wednesday. I had to call last minute to reschedule my appointment, and he went out of his way to make sure I got in on the same day, before my Cafe du Nord gig. When I finally got in his chair, he listened to what I wanted, gave me his honest input, then gave me the best haircut of my life. He proceeded to actually TELL me how to style my hair the way he had, which was exactly what I wanted. That was a very exciting first for me. I get so tired of stylists that will do your hair and send you on your way, off into the cruel, cold world wherein you can never reproduce what they'd created, don't you? Nick is nothing short of a hair genius. I've never in my life had a stylist that I returned to on a regular basis, but Nick has my business for as long as he keeps cutting hair. read more

I went into see Nick after more than 6 months of hiding my hair under various hats. I walked into his salon feeling like an imposter, and I walked out feeling like myself again. He absolutely nailed the style I was going for, which was impressive, considering he didn't know my personality at all. He asked simplifying questions to better understand the style I wanted, and he really listed to my answers. I showed him some photos on my phone, and he recreated what I wanted perfectly. He's clearly skilled and stylish. I'll definitely be back for more. read more

Nick is the best hairs guy ever! I am extremely picky about who does my hair. From the very first moment I sat in Nick's chair, I was impressed. He is not only professional and exceptional at what he does, he's also just a great guy to hang out with during the whole process. Most recently, he did my hairs for my wedding and even made himself available day-of if I needed anything else! Bottom line...I couldn't be happier with a hairs guy than I am with Nick! read more

I booked with Nick because I won a free haircut at a raffle with him, and thought the Yelp reviews sounded good. I got exactly the style I wanted, adjusted to my hair and face shape. Nick is a great listener and highly skilled, and I had a great time chatting with him. I felt he really cared about the cut and looked at it as if it were his own art piece. He wanted everything just right and I felt like I was a priority to him. Already booked my second cut. Very happy. Logistically, the shop is easily accessible and parking isn't hard to find. read more

Nick is an amazing hair stylist.. he is open to anything you want to try and also tells you if it will look crap.. which is great!! He is the most kindest and sweetest man and I will die if he ever leaves the city!! I am straight gal and I like my hair short and he has NEVER given me a boyish haircut - it is always very feminine and flattering.. Yeh Nick! read more

Nick put up with, not just willingly but cheerfully, a completely undue amount of "I dunno... should I do this? What if we did that? Maybe something else entirely?" regarding the rat's nest I waltzed in with. The result was waltzing back out with a slight spring in my step from the fun conversation, the pleasant view I had enjoyed of Twin Peaks and the circus at 18th and Castro, and of course, 10 lbs less hair (the remaining hair being, as might be vaguely relevant to a review, styled even better than I had hoped when coming in). Highly recommend. read more

Well, I though I should post this review for all those trying to find the right salon/stylist. I have not had any work done by Nick but was one of the few places/people I contacted him via eimail to figure out where might be a good place for me. He clearly explained his specialties for my hair type and my requests. But aside from offering me his service, Nick also referred me some other salons I might want to hit up to find the right place for a picky guy like me. I would say everyone could agree that this kind of professionalism is always appreciated and helpful. Even though it is tempting to try out the places Nick recommended me, I'm pretty sure I will be hitting him up pretty soon. read more

Nick color corrected my hair before my wedding back to a beautiful natural blonde with subtle highlights. This was after I made it bright red myself. I have an incessant tendency to do crazy things to my hair and Nick is always there to bail me out. He has color corrected my hair more times than I can remember and he always gives an amazing haircut. Nick has been doing my hair for longer than I can remember... twelve years?? Anyway. People often ask me who cuts my hair, it's Nick! I recommend Nick to everyone because I believe he really can do anything! read more

I have to say I disagree with Jennifer V. I've seen a lot of Nick's feminine cuts on friends of mine (though obviously, I prefer the manly look myself) and they are definitely not of the "boyish" variety. And of course he's a total sweetheart. read more

For about a year and a half I have been coming to see Nick. He's so damn awesome that I followed him from the city to across the bridge into Oakland when he moved. He's highly skilled, super patient, and will listen to exactly how you want your hair cut. He always makes sure that you are happy with your cut, and it shows. I have short hair, so there's not a lot of room for mistakes, but no worries because he will double check with you as he cuts. Did I mention that he offers a free neck trim in between cuts? Amazing! I will gladly make the drive to see Nick. Thanks for keeping me fresh Nick! Remember to tip him well! read more

I am a *picky* kid when it comes to my hair, mostly I suppose because I want to be lazy with it AND have it look good easily. I've been getting my haircut by Nick for at least 6 years now and never been disappointed. He's taken me through everything from short, tousled, and punkish to razor-sharp a-line with a fade all the way to my current long, layered, with bangs look and everything in-between. I've never been unhappy (and remember, picky kid here); even during those inevitably awkward points of growing hair out, he always managed to make it look sassy, fabulous, and intentional. He maintains this crazy main of mine fabulously, and girls always want to know what my secret {brush-product-tool} is that makes my hair look good, and all I can say is 'I had nothing to do with it!' I have referred many friends to him, & they always come back to me saying that FINALLY, they have found the stylist they always wanted. read more

Nick was referred to me by a friend at work, and I am grateful to this day! Nick gives me a great haircut every time. He listens to what I ask for and pays attention to my weird, curly hair growth pattern. In addition he is fun to chat with during the process. What more could you ask for? He is not the cheapest stylist in the city, but he is not even close to the most expensive. And he's worth every penny! Do yourself a favor and give Nick a try. I know you'll be happy with the results. read more

I got my first hair cut this week and I am very happy with the results. I have been looking for someone new for a bit, and it's always a little scary to figure out if my idea of short is the same as the stylist's idea of short. We discussed my concerns and what I didn't like about a previous cut, and then Nick went to work. The salon is in a convenient location looking out on the Castro. read more

This review is long-overdue, as I have been a satisfied customer of Nick's for several years. I have never gotten a bad cut from Nick, and I am fairly picky. He attentively listens to your ideas and also follows his creative instinct. I receive frequent compliments on my hair cut from total strangers. Look at all these 5-star reviews! read more

I came in a week ago for my second visit, and I just have to say that Nick did not disappoint. My hair looks fantastic. I'm growing it out, and he gave it shape and volume without losing length. I couldn't be more pleased! Thank you, Nick!! read more

Excellent haircut. We spoke about general ideas since I was going to change things up and Nick totally came through! Super talented and easy to talk to. Highly recommend read more

I recommend Nick as a hairdresser, It's been almost a month and my hair looks great and is growing out really well. Nick is pleasant company and a great stylist. gh read more

To all of you who've been looking for a talented stylist and great conversationalist who's honest about what looks good on you - look no further. I found Nick on here and decided to take a chance (i'm usually anal when it comes to my hair - no comments please).... Anyways, I went in Drab/lame - Still came out Drab/lame but with a fabulous "hairdid" Moral of the story - For a haircut that's sick ( in a good way of course)- Go to Nick read more

My hair looks fantastic. Nick is a great listener, especially when we start talking the specifics of my temperamental hair. He gives great advice on how to style it, wash it, and play with it. Every time I leave the place I look fantastic. Thank you, Nick! Ingrid read more

Nick is amaaaazing!! Not only is he the sweetest person and so much fun, but does amazing hair on top of that! He listens, he goes above and beyond to make sure you are happy with your haircut. I have had long hair my entire life and Nick was the first stylist that I trusted to cut it short. Now it's short and I loooove it. Anyone looking for a talented, sweet and phenomenal hair stylist - Nick is your man!!!!! read more

Nick Meinzer - My fab haircut from Nick!!!!! Thank you Nick!!! - Hair Stylists Near Me - Oakland, California

The first time I sat in Nick's chair, I knew it was going to be a good experience. He played with my hair, bending it this way and that, for several minutes without speaking. My hair is a nightmare for most stylists, but I could tell Nicky was into it. Since then, I've followed Nick to three different locations. The last cut he gave me works in almost any direction I brush it. It's fantastic! He's an artist. Unfortunately, he's so good tht you have to book way in advance, especially around holidays like Gay Pride and Folsom Street Fair. It's worth it. Just make your next appointment before you leave. read more

whether you are new in town and looking for a great cut, your hairdresser has run away with his new husband, or you have broken up with your current stylist.... you are encouraged to give Nick a try - you will be glad you did. i found him when i first moved to san francisco six years ago... and after just one cut, i was sold and became one of his regulars. his east bay location in amazing.... so if gettin' to the castro is a challenge - get yer butt in his down at lulu's chair.... you will be glad you did. read more

Nick does my mom's hair. A veteran in the field herself, having worked with Vidal himself, my eclectic mum has been looking for a stylist for some time. Thanks to a referral she found Nick. Not only was the location in Oakland awesome, as she lives in Marin, but the site was adorable, located in a vintage clothing store. The cut is amazing, Nick was charming and professional. A GEM he is!!! read more

About 7 years ago my stylist at a very expensive salon in Berkeley quit. To be honest, I was never thrilled with the price or the haircut; I used this opportunity to search for a new stylist. That's when I found Nick. Now, he's the only one who will ever cut my hair! Nick is great. He puts up with my indecisiveness. In the last 7 years, I've had everything from super short hair to long hair. I'll often go in and say "I want something different" and he'll help me figure out what that is. He gets that I don't have the time to spend doing my hair in the mornings and gives me a cut that I can manage on my own. No matter the style, the cut is always great. And, 6 weeks after a cut, my hair still maintains its shape. More than that, Nick just makes me feel comfortable. He's a great conversationalist who has a clear sense of what his customers want. You're not going to find a better, more affordable cut in the Bay Area. For years I've driven into San Francisco to have him cut my hair. So happy he's working in Oakland now. read more

Every time I go my cut is better than the last time. Complete trust is an awesome thing to have with your hair stylist. Can't recommend Nick enough. read more

I originally found Nick to help my girlfriend tame her short thick Asian hair (so she wouldn't look like a Manchichi or have helmet head) and he did such an amazing job, I wanted an appointment too. So I made one and left feeling beautiful and still had money left in my checking account. My hair is fine and wavy; I usually like to play with color but keep it conservative. I've been to the salons that push the products and/or the attitude; Nick does neither. The twinkle in his blue green eyes tells you he's a playful person who is very inclusive and doesn't need to hide behind posh chairs. Book in advance! His "dance card" fills up quick. In the past I have found that people are either great with color or great with cuts but it is hard to find both; Now I can say that I have found such person and his name is Nick. read more

just going to update with the types of cuts I've gotten from Nick. He has given me a choppy layered bob, and sharp A-line, a 20's (Louise Brooks style) bob with bangs, and a rockin pompadour style that I could slick back for rockabilly hard femme looks or leave down for a softer feminine look. I stand by his haircuts being awesome. read more