Giving two stars instead of one is generous here. I also gave a 20% tip on a job, which deserved none, because I'm not a cheapo or rude. My son had overly long hair at this point in the pandemic, and he needed to get it cut for a reason. I made the website appointment for the "high school" option of 30 minutes. This is a $45 appointment. When we arrived on time, I was not greeted with a smile or friendly greeting. When we got to the barber's chair, I showed the barber two photos of my son's natural hair, which is wavy and thick, and mentioned that that was his natural hair. He assured us he could cut it back to that length. Getting to the end of the appointment duration, I notice from the lobby that both barbers are there, and someone else is working on his hair now -- if you have seen this, you know it's not a good sign. I let the barbers know that we had to leave to make another appointment on time. Time passes. I call the other appointment to let them know we're late. I tell the barbers again that we need to go. One of them tells me he's finishing up. I notice that both barbers had tried to force my son's hair into a shape that is never going to hold due to the aforementioned naturally wavy and thick hair. Also, they cut his hair with layers so long in back that it looks more like a girl's layered bob after they had seen the pictures. At this point, the head barber should have asked us to come back another time to rectify the haircut. He didn't respect our time limit after the first communication. If a simple high school appointment is going to take longer, then the website scheduler should reflect that and say 45 min-1 hour. I've taken kid to almost every barber in town now, and *nobody* has ever needed more than half an hour. Lack of communication and unfriendliness are unwise in any business setting where one is trying to increase local clientele from existing businesses in town. read more

My girlfriend kindly gave me a gift certificate with more than enough for a hair cut and beard trim. I was looking forward to this as I've never had my beard professionally trimmed. I was surprised when I got there that the 'back' area, where the pool table is, was being worked on. Part of experience is the atmosphere which was lacking at the time. It wasn't the finished space as shown in the pictures. Next is what will make me never support this business in the future. Below is how they advertise their $52 hair cut service which is what I paid for. "Once determining the best hair design for you we'll shear, shampoo and style your hair also address any excess hairs your ears, eyebrows and nose might have." What I expect and anyone should expect is to get what is paid for. I don't have any excess ear and nose hair so that wasn't an issue. What was an issue is my hair was not shampooed. Nor were my eyebrows trimmed. Every barber and stylist I've gone to before will shampoo at least once and trim your eyebrows. And since they advertise that as part of their service I expected no less. Also, he didn't even trim the hair on the back of my neck. When I've left a other barbers or stylists in the past they made sure I looked my best. When I left Swarthy's I was not presentable and needed a shower. The one star is for the moisture treatment which did help the dry ends. If the owner is reading you may ask "Why did you give me the remaining balance of the gift card to me as a tip." I did that because I know I will never spend another penny at your business and it may help pay for a working sink and some shampoo if the $97 already spent isn't enough. If my criticism seems unreasonable please feel free to reply. Thank you. read more

Finding a good beard barber is hard, so I had to go for the spot that had Beard in its name. Got my beard trimmed here almost a year ago, right before a big job interview. I wanted him to keep it long, and he managed to, despite totally giving it shape it never had. Great maintenance and style advice too. I got the job, moved to San Francisco for it, and wish I could come back to LA just to keep the look up. I'm actually writing this review after walking out of a different business up here. Awesome little shop. Very old school in the best way, and I was the only person in there during my cut. Give them some business! read more

I don't know what the hell to do with my beard and hair. So I came here for a hair and beard design and Carlos did an amazing job. He told me things about the shape of my skull using words I've never heard before. I trust he wasn't making it all up because in the end my hair looked great. read more

I had a very positive experience at Swarthy's Beard and Hair Design. Carlos is a true artist and is skilled at making you look your best. I went in for a haircut and beard trim and walked out feeling like a million bucks! He also used a straight razor to clean up my cheeks, around my ears and my neck under the beard. He is very detail oriented. I started receiving compliments from my coworkers the moment I walked in the door. I also enjoyed the atmosphere there at the shop. There was classic jazz music playing overhead, which I enjoyed since I listen to jazz too. There is also a pool table and foosball table there, which I imagine would be useful in case you happen to show up early for your appointment and need to hang out and wait for a bit. I would highly recommend Carlos to anyone who is looking for an excellent haircut, beard trim, and shave. High marks! Thanks again Carlos! read more

We recently moved to Pasadena, and I needed to find a new barber. I was driving on Fair Oaks and I saw Swarthy's, so I stopped in. It was close to closing time, but the owner, Carlos, never hesitated, and he took me in. Even though it was late in the day, Carlos spent a lot of time discussing my hair and options with me. He was meticulous with my haircut and paid attention to all the details. It was a true old-school, yet hip, experience. When I got home, my wife said, "That's your best haircut ever!" I agreed, and the key to a haircut is how does it look weeks later...it looked great! I've been back since, and I will continue to visit Carlos. He is personable, kind, and a terrific barber! Renovations at the shop are almost done. It's a super cool spot! read more

I've been going to Carlos for over a year and a half now and I couldn't be more satisfied. Not only are his skills top notch, he's a great guy. Every time I get my haircut, the conversation is great and I leave with a great haircut. If you're looking for a new barber, look no further than Carlos. read more

On my wife's request, decided to grow out the beard. Six weeks in and I wasn't liking how it looked since I knew nothing about growing/maintaining a beard, decided to look for a barber.Found Swarthy's down the street from me and after reading the great reviews, decided to give it a try. Carlos was awesome in providing suggestions on the best look for my face and how to maintain it. He went to work on me, he has a great eye and steady hands when using both a straight edge blade and a trimmer for my lines. Very happy with the overall result and am happier with a decision to keep the beard. read more

Carlos is a great craftsmen and artist. a superb is haircut is almost guaranteed. but are you willing to pay $40 or more for a haircut that takes about 30 minutes? not me. on a hourly rate he makes more than a healthcare professional who has a college education and state license. after a shower and grooming my hair still looks a great $19 haircut. read more

I never really write review but as a small business owner myself I appreciate good quality and hard working people. Carlos & Swarthy's Beard & Hair design are just that. Made an appointment after a few of my clients came to my business with some nice haircuts and beard trim. When I asked them where they went they told me "Swarthy's" Carlos is a true professional and took his time with my hair and I wasn't rushed at all. Swarthy's has a nice set up, pool table, television, lounge area. Definitely a place where a gentleman can lounge and not feel like he's disturbing these guys from their work or running their business. If you'd like a haircut that is second to none go to Swarthy's IF you want the same ol cut from your lady at FANTASTIC SAM'S, SUPERCUTS, SPORTS CLIPS, etc because you have a crush on the girl that cuts your hair keep going there. Sorry to tell you buddy but SHE AIN'T THAT INTO YOU!!! You get what you pay for here, QUALITY! If $40 is too much for you once a month for a haircut then you have bigger problems. read more

Carlos is a great guy, takes his time, and really wants to please. All that said, I got a shave and a haircut: the cut was a above average, but the shave was brutal. Lots of weepers and nicks. A barbershop shave is an absolute luxury, though knowing how to do it is a requirement for a California license. Carlos uses what's known as a "shavette," which is a straight-edge razor with a disposable blade. That's very sanitary, but it can't match the feel or closeness of a real straight-edge shave (or one using a similar, but more expensive cartridge system from Japan's feather.) I think Carlos is still on a bit of a learning curve - and he's got lotta of potential; he's local; so I'll likely be back at some point (though I'll skip the shave.) read more

Harold is an ARTIST. This guy spent so much time and effort to make sure my beard was lined up and proportioned. I've never had a better haircut. While a little more on the pricier side, this is a far more upscale place than most barber shops. I'll definitely be returning just because it almost feels like i'm being pampered. read more

You may want to update your online appointment scheduler due to the fact that it says you are open on Sunday's and let's you schedule appointments. My husband made a appointment for Sunday at 5:30 since we are traveling and thought you were open until 8. We get to the shop for the appointment and it's closed. Come to find in small print on the website you are not open Sundays at all, even though the appointment scheduler allows you to schedule. We would consider coming back but just stinks since everyone else closed at 5 that was open on Sunday. It was our fault for not calling and confirming. It was Sunday December 1st. He did get the confirmation we arrived around 5 and the doors were locked. read more

This was my first time at the shop. Carlos and his wife were extremely accomodating. Carlos is a true professional when it comes to beard care and trimming. My experience was GREAT. I highly reccomend this business. Awesome experience!! read more

Thank you Carlos for turning my man from a Neanderthaler into a gentleman! Best beard trim ever! He looked (and smelled) fabulous! Next time...I hope he also gets a haircut! read more

Went for haircut and beard trim. Usually am lazy and go to chain haircut places. But I am glad I went and spent a few extra bucks on the full treatment. Had same haircut for few years out of habit and glad got out of repetitious zone. Thanks for great cut and trim. read more

Was so looking forward to this experience. Had to wait ten days for a free slot. Made the appointment for Saturday 18th Aug at 10:45am using the only choice available: schedulicity. Very carefully considered the time and date. Felt impressed by the efficiency of it all. Excellent use of automation. No time wasted on phone calls or lost hair cutting time for the owner. Just checked the confirmation email from Schedulicity. It's down for September 1st. Three weeks later than booked. No way to call. No email. No recourse. I'm not even in the country. Would never have booked that. No way to see if there are cancellations. Ridiculous. read more

Came on a Monday: closed. Went by on a Tuesday only to discover a "Back at 1pm" sign on the door. I had lunch at Fiore (nom nom, pork belly sandwich) and came back at 1:30pm: still not back. $30 for a haircut, shave and powder. Admittedly, all these were pretty solid. The owner is apparently having a hard time drumming up business. Part of this is that the City of SP gave the owner a hard time with business licence (resulting him in having to leave 12 parking spaces ... at Fremont & Oxley, which is not even something he advertises, so far from the show are they. Though there are three chairs, one guy is currently working them. The pool and foosball tables are a plus, though they seem a little lonely with no clients. While there, the owner took two phone calls in the middle of my cut. Frustrated that the barber's teacher-buddy snapped photos of me as I sat there. I want this place to succeed. Their vision of creating an art-space, game-room and barber shop is cool, but I fear a little overly ambitious. read more

You can spend $35 at a walk-in and hope you get somebody decent or you can become a regular at a great place like Swarthy's with a much greater attention to detail. I like the old-school barbershop feel without having to deal with some 20 year old-hipster just trying to take advantage of current popularity. Somebody else on yelp mentioned the owner's attempt to make this an Art/Pool hall place and I really echo the hopes that this place becomes popular enough to make the vision a reality. read more

I caught this place out of the corner of my eye riding by. Stopped in, friendly straight to the point dudes. I appreciated their service and passion for what they do. Most importantly it was a good clean cut. Left me feeling sharp and pristine. Thank you guys ;) read more

Carlos is awesome! I like his willingness to give me his opinions on how I should style my hair and beard. So many folks are afraid to say anything, but I expect professionals to be honest with me. Carlos is always polite, honest, and is an all-around good guy. I look forward to seeing how he grows his business! He has great ideas and is working to bring them to fruition :-D read more

I stumbled upon this year to Swarthy's Beard & hair design and I must say this is the spot to go to! excellent dapper hairstyles as well as constellation with the barbers. Staff members Carlos and Chris are good people, knowledgeable with experience on hair designs as well providing great tips on beard care. Once entering you automatically fill nothing but good vibes. The decorations are art displays by local artists, they even have a pool table/Foosball while you wait, a very modern upscale overall feel to it. Chris is my barber and every time he does an outstanding job!!!!!! read more

Carlos is one of the best. A highly skilled artist. I'm so happy to have found him. He consistently gives me a great cut. I highly recommend him. read more

Carlos is awesome! I went to him for the first time today, for a haircut and beard shaping/styling. I was VERY happy with the final outcome and look. Plus, Carlos is a great guy who was glad to take the time to answer questions about beard maintenance and product use. The place itself is really nice too. Has that "comfortable guy" type look and atmosphere. I will definitely be going back! read more

Great beard trim and haircut! Best fade I've ever had. He makes his own hair products as well, and they smell and feel great.

I was not used to spending $45 on a haircut before moving to the LA market. So that was a hard bill (see what I did there) to swallow. That being said, you get what you pay for, and I have gone back to Carlos about every 3 weeks for a year now. The man gives flat out good haircuts and does solid beard work. I don't like having to use the app for appointments, but it is usually just Carlos in there, and I can see why he can't be answering the phone constantly. Long story short, easygoing guy, great haircut, my highest recommendation. read more

Haven't been to a Barber shop that has a Pool table and a Foos Ball table. It's great entertainment while you are waiting. Carlos always does a great job for the men. I always watch him do the warm towel single blade shave. Awesome! Too bad I'm only here for the men in the family. I wouldn't mind trying a hot towel single blade shave for my legs :) read more

Owls & Wolves - Entertainment! - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Carlos is great. By appointment only in most cases. Old school barber mentality for the modern man. Word. If you have a beard he can hook that up too. I'm not about the female salon and I'm not about the one hair cut barber shops that fade and fade only, where everyone comes out with the same haircut. Carlos will cut your hair the way your head and hair is suppose to be cut. He takes good direction and can take what you say or what you show him and make it happen. Easy Parking - in front on Fair Oaks. Price is realistic for the service Carlos provides. Great app for booking an appointment. No wait. Awesome. Holla... read more

Bought a gift card for a professional haircut and shave for my son. He was transformed to look amazing!! He was so happy with the service and the attention he got at this establishment. Top Notch!!! read more

Decided to go check it out after seeing them here on Yelp... Made a last-minute appointment for haircut and beard trim with no problem. Carlos has an exceptional attention to detail, throughout the haircut, beard trim and razor shave, and is a friendly conversationalist (and I'm the quiet type when getting my hair cut). No sticker-shock here, as I checked pricing on their website before heading in, and for an hour-and-a-half in the chair, and the level of quality (one of the better haircuts I've ever had), totally worth it. read more

Great new barber shop for men in South Pas. Carlos is great. Relaxed, calm atmosphere. Good haircuts and he even does old fashioned shaves. read more

Owls & Wolves - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Just walked in today last minute to get a haircut before mothers day. The store manager Brian was very friendly and helpful and was able to get me in with Carlos who is a genius with style. Thanks guys! You just earned a new customer. read more

The first time I came here I got a really good hair cut. Carlos seemed cool. He rinses your hair aftter the hair cut which I thought was a little strange. I have really course stiff hair that is hard to cut and Carlos did a really good job. The girl that normally cuts my hair does not use a clipper so I tried him out. I had a mullet/mohawk hybrid and it Carlos did a fantastic job. At the end he asked me what i used on my hair and I told him paste. Still he used pomade in my hair which does not work on course, stiff hair. It just makes it elastic so the cut was excellent but the styling was bad. I came back two weeks later and he did not remember me. Thats fine but my hair style was not normal and he did not have a lot of business but whatever. If i got the same cut I would be fine. This time he did not spend quite as much time on the smaller details and I got a very different haircut. Instead of getting the sides straight, there was more of a taper which I didn't like a lot but it wasn't horrible. Because of the inconsistency, I planned to go back to the other girl who cuts my hair but she was unavailable for several days. I made an appointment the day of an when i arrived, someone was in the middle of the hair cut. I waited 5-10 min after my appointment but right when i sat in the chair, two people showed up. He told the first guy, a walk in, that he was next. Soon after another guy walked in. He had called ahead but now would have to wait for two hiarcuts. I told Carlos the same thing regarding my hair but asked that he go a little tighter all the way up. Again, he didn't wash my hair first (which is supposed to be included in the cost of the "upgrade hair cut." Carlos seemed in a bit of a hurry and initially he cut it like the second hair cut which i wasn't crazy about. I reiterated that I would like it tighter all the way up but he went way to far and took the curve at the top of my head. He didn't face me in front of the mirror for the remainder of the haircut. I thought it would be bad and it was. i looked like a pineapple. I told him that it was bad, he apogized and charged me $20. He didn't even offer me a wash this time. I was going to tell him to shave my head but I was so flabbergasted that I just left and shaved my head myself. At this price point ($40) I expect a little more. I really don't care about the price given my hair is hard to cut. I won't be going back again. read more

Carlos is great! Very nice guy and gives you a real personal expierence. Price point is a little high but if you go here your no really looking for cheap and quick. read more

Awesome place for a beard trim! This was my first time growing a beard and it was getting pretty crazy. I was a little skeptical at first to have it done but I decided to give this place a shot and it paid off! Carlos trimmed up my beard nicely and took all the worry out of it. Highly recommend this place to anyone with a beard. Word of advice, don't wear a nice T-shirt since you're probably gonna end up getting it a little stretched in the neck from the towel. Overall, great place and I'll definitely be back read more

I finally found a beard guy. First of all, the atmosphere is great. Pool table, comfortable chairs, and good music. The barber is amazing. He takes great pride in his work and does the best to make sure you walk out satisfied in your cut. Definitely going to be a regular here. read more

If you need a beard trim/shaping this is the place to go. Carlos asks lots of questions to make sure you get what you want. The place is pretty large for a barber shop. I made an appointment and was seen immediately after entering the door. I was only there for my beard and it was 40, but the yelp coupon made it 30. Will definitely be back. read more

Carlos gives great haircuts and designs, on top of that, he's a cool guy and fun to talk to. I was very pleased with the way I looked walking out of there. Definitely recommend. read more

If you need your beard trimmed, a hot shave or a top of the line haircut and haven't gone here I do not know what you are thinking. This is my go to place if I need to look my best. Easily the best barber in South Pasadena. Check it out. read more

Get your hair cut by Carlos! The owner! Whoo! You will not find a barber who cares more about his craft and customers. Reunited and my look feels so good! read more