Nicky hires the best barbers. Which is what you would expect from the best barber in town. Manhattan Beach is lucky to have Svelte. I also like that this barbershop feels like a barber shop. Comfy chairs, classy wood layout and the place is always pristine. I don't ever feel like the blades and cutters aren't cleaned and sanitized. These things matter to me! And of course, the best cut in town. My wife is always happy. Thank you Nicky! read more

Terrible Haircut and Worse Customer Service at Svelte Barbershop & Essential AVOID! I had the worst haircut experience of my life at Svelte Barbershop & Essential in Manhattan Beach, and I am incredibly disappointed with the results and the owner's complete lack of accountability. The owner, Nicky, was my barber, and he totally butchered my haircut. As the pictures clearly show, he cut a literal hole in my hair above my ear, creating a completely uneven and unacceptable result. It's a shocking lack of skill for someone who owns a barbershop. This wasn't a minor mistake; it was a disaster that ruined my look. Zero Effort to Correct the Situation. Following this terrible experience, I sent the owner, Nicky, several emails asking how he planned to correct this situation, as the damage he did will take weeks to grow out. He has ignored every single one of my emails. This is not only terrible business practice but also shows a blatant disrespect for a customer whose hair he ruined. A professional should immediately try to rectify a mistake, but Svelte Barbershop, and Nicky specifically, have chosen to hide instead. If you are looking for a skilled barber and a shop with even basic customer service, do not go to Svelte Barbershop & Essential. The owner, Nicky, is clearly unskilled and unwilling to take responsibility for his terrible work. This was the worst haircut I have ever received, coupled with the worst customer service. Save your money and your hair, go somewhere else! I've attached photos from the horrible cut about a week or so after being butchered and now a new haircut at a different barber, where he attempted to even it out. You can still see the chunk that was taken out but at least the haircut actually flows now and is not a total dumpster fire. read more

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Gorky is a total pro. One of the best barbers around. I've been going to him for a few years now and when I come in for a cut, I trust and know that I'm going to be thrilled with the job he does. He listens to what I'm looking for and does a truly great custom cut every time. It never feels like I'm just another client. In fact, I trust Gorky so much with my hair that I started bringing my son in for haircuts as well, and he's done a fantastic job with his hair. Great at adult hair-cuts, great for kids, and an incredibly nice guy. Can't recommend him highly enough. read more

Nicky is the best barber around. He gives great fades, is detail oriented, and is always punctual.

Nicky is the best barber I have ever been to. Quality guy, very professional, technical and detailed haircuts. You're not gonna find a better spot in Los Angeles! read more

Great haircut, fantastic service. Just moved here from Nashville and have struggled to find a good barber shop. Tatiana is outstanding and I would highly recommend her! read more

I've been coming here to the Manhattan Beach location for years. There was a really cool older gentleman who gave me a perfect cut every time but sadly he left. Since then, they're packed with amateurs. One guy messed up my hair so badly. He gave me a bald spot, I freaked out. Instead of apologizing, The owner who was somewhat hostile to me, said what's going on? I stood up and showed him my hair mess and he offered to fix it.... For the most part but not quite. Horrible cut, last visit ever. I'm done with this place. read more

Thanks for making my boyfriend hot! LYLAS Hands down the best haircut he's had in LA. read more

Been going to Nicky the last several years. He's a great barber and an even better guy! Doesn't just cut your hair, but takes the time to do a quality job and get to know you. Always a good time at his shop. read more

If you are one of those guys who'd decided to try and cut your hair at home ever since Covid hit the world, you are not alone. I have been having bad hair for 2 years, it's time for a change! I chose to try Svelte and thought, "wow, this medium fade is the best I have ever had!" (Girlfriend agrees by the way ) My stylist was Clarissa, she gave the exact style I wanted and had a good conversation with her too. I strongly recommend this barbershop! Also, I love their hair products! It doesn't shine, has a strong hold and only cost $15. Each haircut costs $40, which was very reasonable given the quality of the haircut! I would strongly recommend this barbershop to any man! You will get your money's worth! read more

Svelte Barbershop & Essentials - Matte Hair Product - Barbers Near Me - Manhattan Beach, California

C(l)arissa, is fantastic! Great cuts and great chatter. Found my new barbershop. Cuts for mens and boys ***** read more

Tatiana is beyond professional! Amazing haircut with every input I request. Great atmosphere with top quality haircuts. Couldn't recommend more. read more

I've been driving by this place for many years and finally scheduled an appointment. It's got a great interior look and vibe, very different than other barbershops or salons, as it has kind of a down home country vibe with great tunes playing. It also has a family owned feeling to it. Brett was one of the kindest stylists I've ever met in addition to being one of the most talented. He gave me an epic haircut and a beard trim with zero attitude, and this guy has been in the business for a long time. I've spent three times as much on a haircut elsewhere for not even half the quality of what I got from Brett. Stoked on this place and we will be back asap. read more

Well, thinking it would be a relaxing evening. I booked my appointment with Paul. He's an amazing barber who really understands what the client needs all while executing there wants. I enjoying speaking to him and learning more about his life. Sadly the owner there Nicky was rude and unprofessional towards him. Telling him to work quicker and saying the most disrespectful things while I was in his presents. If he talks to his fellow workers this way in front of his clients then imagine how he must speak to them behind closed. I will not be coming here again. read more

Clarissa is the best! Love this place and beautiful Manhattan Beach. Even knowing that i had to put up with the owner's Boston memorabilia, I will be back. read more

Come as you are - the vibe is all chill. The fades are on point - thank you Clarissa!

Nicky was Awesome! Great experience at his Barbershop. Customer for life. Thank you Spencer read more

My barber of over 10 years moved from Manhatten Beach. A friend suggested that I try Brett Vail with Svelte in MB. I just had my first haircut with Britt and he is not only an excellent barber but a very friendly person. I look forward to returning to him often. read more

Brett was very nice and did my husband haircut perfect:) all of them at the shop where very welcoming pleasant experience and place

I'm a local and pretty picky about my haircuts. I've been to Svelte in the past, and had my hair cut recently by Clarissa. She was great, really listened and gave some good advice ... it'd been about 2 months and she cleaned up by beard and gave a great haircut!!!! read more

A very chill spot indeed. Jody has been cutting my hair for years now and i've been happy every single time! Definitely recommend getting your haircut by her any chance you can and you won't be disappointed! Thank you!! read more

Svelte Barbershop & Essentials - Barbers Near Me - Manhattan Beach, California

I moved out of the Beach Cities and still make the trip back to get my haircut Jody is awesome and always has me looking my best. My wife loves it when I come here read more

Jody did an amazing cut, listened to my requests and far exceeded them. Best cut/shave I've ever gotten, easily. A+ will def. go again read more

One of the best haircuts I've ever had. Nicky the owner was an awesome dude. Barely had to tell him what I wanted, and it came out perfect. Couldn't ask for a better cut/ experience. read more

Just had the best haircut of my life, I'm 42 Brian is the man, I live in Altadena but will be coming back for my next cut. Love the free beers also! read more

This is a great neighborhood barber shop. It feels like you're in a buddy's man cave at the beach. I've had cuts by both Nicky and Clarissa and have never been disappointed. read more

Moved from NYC 3 years ago and was looking for a great barbershop - this place is top notch. There is always a great vibe in the shop, and the barbers are all great people who enjoy what they do. Best barbershop in South Bay. read more

Went here today for a cut, and it's just the greatest local spot. Super friendly vibe coming in the door, great cut, they offered me something to drink - these guys know how to run a local business and it's great to see. This is my new local spot for a haircut for sure! read more

Clarissa did a great job on my son's haircut. He has very straight hair that is hard to fade. She took her time and he looks great. Definitely coming back! read more

Best barber shop you will go too. Nicky is the man and goes above and beyond for his clients. Also the best haircut I've ever gotten. I would recommend this place to anybody. This is the definition of white glove customer care. The customer is always the priority here. read more

Hey fellas... If you're look for an old school haircut, stylish look, or something that will get you noticed while you're walking down the street....you GOTTA check out this new spot 'Svelte Men' in Manhattan Beach!! Timmy and Danny are very welcoming and will DEFINITELY hook you up and take care of you! They also do an old fashion hot lather, straight edge razor shave that's nothing I have ever experienced before!! GREAT barber shop banter, and amazing atmosphere while I was here. Plus, they offer any type beverage that you chose to enjoy -no cost. C'mon down to Svelte and tell them Sully sent ya!! read more

Svelte Barbershop & Essentials - Barbers Near Me - Manhattan Beach, California

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Absolutely love this place. Super easy booking, great staff, and most importantly: fantastic haircuts. I always go to Jody. She does an awesome job and is great fun to chat with. If you go, try to book her! read more

My first clean cut hair style done by this barber shop! I love the place, love the service, quick and smooth hands! read more

Svelte Barbershop & Essentials - Barbers Near Me - Manhattan Beach, California

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This place is great! Finally, after three years of searching for the right feel, right cut, by the right guy, Svelte has solves the mystery! The shop smells like luxury personal care products, has a tailored vibe to it with cool signage, tunes are dope, and you're welcomed with an amalgamation of laid back yet down to business. They even offered me a beer! Thomas cut my hair, was ready for me at my scheduled appointment time, convo wasn't forced and it was a good cut with zero complaints. Will def be my spot now and would highly recommend these guys and girl! Thank you! read more

This place is right near the beach, charming, quaint and loved Jody. She cut my husbands hair, along with his beard and did an awesome job! She also cut my son's hair and I was in love with both cuts. She was super sweet, got us right in there as we were kinda in a rush, and took care of us. This is definitely our new go to spot for my boys cuts. read more

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I was in need of a good haircut and found this place along with Jody on Yelp. I was able to make a same day appointment and I am glad I did. This is definitely one of the best haircuts that I have ever had. The next time I am in town again, I will schedule another haircut with Jody. read more

Jody is a very talented barber, and has given me some of my best haircuts to date. Really appreciate the time and attention to detail. The conversations have always been great as well, and I look forward to the next cut. 100% would recommend. read more

Went there today after seeing while driving by. Great experience. Guys there are awesome. Atmosphere is the total "man cave" experience. Even offered a beer when I walked in. Nice to get some right coast folks in the neighborhood as well. Also, my dog was well received there for those wondering. Will definately be returning in a few weeks. read more

This is the place to go if you want a fresh cut. I've tried numerous other barbers around the South Bay Area and was always left disappointed until I came here. Timmy, Dan, and the guys know what they are doing when it comes to running a barber shop. It's got that old school and personable feel. This is now my go to place and whenever I'm in the area it's nice to just stop by and say what's up. I've referred a few friends here and they have all been just as stoked as me. Thanks guys you got a customer for life! read more

Svelte Barbershop & Essentials - Chet just throwing a chill on the nice cool floor on a hot summer day - Barbers Near Me - Manhattan Beach, California

I've written maybe 5 yelp reviews in 5 years. After visiting Svelte and more specifically, Jody, I felt obligated to give feedback. Incredibly impressed with my first visit to Jody and will 100% return! Thank you!! read more