Shout out to Fatima for my awesome box braids! As a first timer, i had no idea what to expect, but there was barely any pain and i love them! All the ladies are friendly, talented, and professional. Ladies just be sure that your appointment gets confirmed the day before and if not call in to confirm. Luckily, Fatima was able to fit me in even though I didnt have a confirmed appointment. I really appreciated the way they fit me in and Fatima made sure that I got the exact size and color braids i wanted. I will definitely be coming back for maintenance and maybe to try some new styles. Thank you braid bar for a great experience! read more

The Braid Bar - Thanks Fatima and The Braid Bar for gorgeous box braids! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I Love my hair! Rika is Awesome and Lovely. Very professional and fast service. Location is convenient. Plus there is a beauty supply located inside the shop. read more

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Vivian did a beautiful job on my waist length singles. And it only took about 6 hours. She's sweet and seems to love braiding. The Braid Bar is relaxing and everyone was nice. They have a beauty supply too. I'll definitely be back! read more

The Braid Bar - I love my box braids by Vivian! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

This place is awesome. They were able to accommodate me with a last minute appointment. I came in a hot mess and left looking like a Kardashian. I had extensions and make-up done. I will definitely be a repeat client. Thanks Braid Bar! read more

Saw them online had a lot of positive reviews their pics of their braiding work was beautiful so I decided to book a appointment I called and spoke too Rika the owner of the shop she was nice wrote my appointment down and told me I have to pay a 25 dollar fee to save my appointment .... Ohhh okay I went to their website it states if your braider is late they'll refund you ... LIES So It's the day of my appointment I'm going to Atlanta the next day my appointment was for 2 I didn't get seen until 4:30 I was so angry they was unprofessional constant talking on the phone while. braiding hair music was loud playing sexual and degrading music I was ready to go My hair did come out beautiful but it wasn't enough to earn your tip I had to wait 90 mins plus constant talking on the phone never would go there again and i never got my 25 dollar refund I contacted Rika and no response SMH read more

Ms. Rika is amazing!! I feel so bad I never put in a review for the braid bar! I went in for box braids before my vacation to Maui in August 2016. Rika, who owns the shop did the braiding and she was PHENOMENAL. She managed to make the braids tight without pulling on my scalp at all. I was in Maui for one week and got in the ocean nearly every day, by the end of the trip, I still had a good month before needing a touch-up. She's extremely conscientious and courteous in making sure you get the style your looking for. Always checks in, even to see if you need a lunch break. The most amazing part- I got bra-length extensions, and I have fairly thick hair naturally. I was in at 11:00 and out by about 2:30, with the help of one of her braiders (Rikka would start, and the braider would finish). I've gotten braid installation in the past that took all day! One not so great thing I can comment on, Pauline did my touch up, obviously mostly around the edges. She was fairly rough, and I had to take some braids out, and rebraid for fear of losing my hair (I got follicle bumps near the nape of my neck). She also ate while braiding which was kinda gross :( I'm looking to get twists to continue growing my hair longer, and I'll ask for Rika, and don't even care how far booked out she is. One thing that is promising, however, is that everyone braids in the same style. You don't have to worry about touch ups that look different from the original installation. I maybe would've had a better touch up with someone less heavy handed Rika, ma'am. Keep doing what your doing! Expect my call and future business. Thank you for the past and the future visits! read more

The Braid Bar - My box braids AFTER my vacation to Maui - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

They did an excellent job on my daughter's box braids. Professional, clean, open, and welcoming studio. We will definitely be back.

I am so so so so happy with my hair from The Braid Bar. Fatima did my twists and I can't wait to go back and see her for a touch up. She was incredibly kind and listened to my previous braiding concerns. I called the salon to make an appointment and they got right back to me. They provided appropriate pricing and answered questions regarding hair type (which they provide for $20 on top of your style). Fatima was on time for the style and patient with me and my neurosis regarding my edges and how heavy the braids will be. I love this place. Thank you so much for making me look and feel great for the summer. read more

The Braid Bar - Love my twist. Fatima even put them up in a bun for me and offered me some free jewelry. - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

This review is for the stylist Ashley, rather than the establishment for I have not gotten my hair braided by any of the other girls. The establishment was actually quite nice. Where do I begin. I will try to keep this short, but no promises. Do not have your hair braided by Ashley. For the past year I have been getting my hair done in shoulder length boxbraids by a talented woman in Antioch however I live in SF and was looking for somewhere a little closer so I settled on the braid bar given the reviews. The establishment itself is welcoming and my hat goes off to the owner who is a young black woman who is attending grad school at the same time. Once again this review is not directed at her or her business... Into the review: After explaining multiple times the length I wanted as well as showing her a few pictures of my hair previously, and saying multiple times I did not want a bob; she did exactly what I didn't want and gave me a bob. Which if this was the only issue I would not be here writing a review. The front of my hair is fine but the back of my hair is so short she definitely burned my hair off shorter then the actual length of my real hair. When burning the ends she definitely did not pay attention to the length of my hair. That was problem #1 Problem #2: after running my fingers thru my braids feeling for the length I came across quite a few braids that had been singed almost to the top of the braid, so great not only has she cut my hair she's now burned it as well. Problem #3: After my hair took 6.5hrs to finish (normally takes others 4 to do my hair), I looked in the mirror unhappy with the length of my hair however I am not confrontational nor complain much so initially I decided to simply deal with it, that changed when I inspected my hair further. Once home I sent a text and emailed my concerns and asked that she fix the length of my hair. No response. I then called, no response. Ashley clearly is cowardly and unprofessional. My take at first was, things happen, people make mistakes, as long as she owns it and helps the situation Id be ok despite the damage done to my hair. Problem #4: They overcharge. I've never paid over $175 for my braids including the hair and they charged $200 including the hair. $25 for 4 packs of hair. Problem #5: it's now been a week and my hair is incredibly loose. One braid actually fell out today. My hair is as if I've had these braids in for well over a month. So if anyone is thinking about going to this establishment for braids and the receptionist says Ashely will be your stylist say HELLLLLLL NO, give me someone else. read more

Vivian did an excellent job on my single braids! I am very pleased!! Thank you so much for a great experience! I'm moving to New York for school, but when I come back to visit I'll definitely come back to The Braid Bar. read more

The Braid Bar - Single braids done by Vivian! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I had to dock a star simply because sometimes appointment dates/times aren't honored. I've made appointments and as I was headed to the shop, I've gotten requested to come on another day. Super last minute and unaccommodating to my schedule. That type of thing doesn't sit well with me and I feel anxious when making an appointment in fear they will cancel. Sadly this is common with black salons and I wish it wasn't. read more

Sharae is a very professional person warm nd kind person. she took her time with me nd braiding my hair. the conversation was nice and welcoming. she took her time nd explain to me different lengths nd nice nd sweet to my babies. i will be bk for a touch up. read more

The Braid Bar - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I went to the Braid Bar this weekend for a partial weave. Ashley did a PHENOMENAL job. I haven't had chance to snap photos yet but they took some on the day (I'll put them on here once they're posted by the Braid Bar). I'd give these ladies 10 stars if I could. Despite the 4 HOUR NEIGHBORHOOD BLACKOUT, everyone woman who came in that day still got their hair did. We used phones for music, flash lights to braid, and used the laundromat next door (who had power) to flat iron and boil water. The experience definitely bought everyone in the salon together and I have huge respect for the woman not being slowed down by things outta their control. They provided grade A experience without power, so I can't wait to go back when things are business as usual. read more

Loved this place. Just moved to the Bay Area and i've been looking for a place to get my hair done. My experiences at other salons in Oakland include a stylist who arrived 4 hours late, another place that butchered the hair I paid for, another who looked like she had done my hair in the dark. I was just about to give up on salons on the West Coast until I found The Braid Bar. The women were unbelievably professional- great customer service, adorable and clean shop, professional stylists who also create a fun and laid back environment. I dropped the ball on detangling and blow drying my hair beforehand and they still made it work for me. The fastest i've ever gotten my hair done, and i'm extremely critical of my hair: I can't find fault with this style. Absolutely love it, even the day after. I didn't bring enough hair so my stylist was forced to make my parts a little bigger than usual, but that's on me. Definitely found my hair salon- it's wonderful to see a hair braiding business done right read more

Today was a bitter, sweet experience for me and I thank "The Braid Bar" for making it a sweet one. I was inconvenience this morning from another hair Braider who took it upon herself to not show up for our confirmed appointment. I Called the Braid Bar at the last minute and they were able to fit me in right away due to someone canceling. The environment was welcoming, the customer service was excellent, and the overall experience was a great one. My braids are gorgeous and I would like to thank Ms. Vivian for that. This is a black owned business (owned by Rika Ward-Hunter) who delivers efficient service. Please book your next appointment here. Thank you "The Braid Bar" for saving me this morning. read more

I love the braid bar. I moved to Oakland last summer, and I finally found my protective style salon. I received next day appointments both times I called. Vivian braided my hair and did my touch up a month later. She was so sweet and worked super fast. My braids came out perfectly both times. She did exactly what I asked her to. The parts were perfect, and my braids stayed for longer than I expected. With a super clean and cute shop, fair prices, and amazing customer service, I would recommend the braid bar to anyone. read more

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I had an excellent experience from booking to completion of service. The appointment was set up via text and confirmed the day prior. The shop is clean and staff is professional. Pauline did an amazing job and finished my spring twists in only 4 hours. I love my hair and have already received several compliments. read more

Really great experience and Rika was super sweet and did a great job! Highly recommend

If I could give a ten star review I would! I have been getting my hair done by Paris for the past two years! From curls to flat irons, weaves to braids! She simply just knows exactly what to do to make you look AND feel beautiful! The fact that she's so skilled in so many different aspects of the hair game makes it easy for me to only allow one person in my head for all my different styles! I wish I had begun going to her much sooner because my previous hair stylist was pretty much ruining my hair and making it fall out and I can see the DRASTIC change since being a client of Paris! The atmosphere of the shop is very nice and conversation between us is always great! My appointments with Pairs are far beyond a simple hair appointment but a magical little experience! Def my stylist for life! I highly recommend her if you are looking for someone who can do it all! Sidenote: I love the fact that she's flexible always does her best to squeeze me in whenever I need! Def a plus for someone with a unpredictable schedule! read more

I had a box braids bob done by Rika, the owner of the shop. I've never had a braided style done that was this short before. But, I showed her a picture of what I wanted and it came out looking exactly like what I asked for! I am impressed... Excellent customer service, affordable prices, awesome results. Rika is a very nice young lady and a quick, efficient, and talented braider. The shop is clean, organized, and has very nice decorations. (The bathroom is clean as well -- which I can't say for a lot of places I've gotten my hair done! So that was a plus.) The shop is also a 2 minute walk to a nice little cafe. I was able to take a quick break from getting my hair done to grab a coffee and a bite to eat. She didn't mind at all. Would definitely go again, 5 stars! read more

Yes I to booked with Braids by Char and yes i got the same poor attitude and I actually made an appt with her but never confirmed so it being a couple days before my birthday I was in a panic!! I called around quickly and crying the braid bar owner tried to fit me in the next day!?! What!?! She even texted me that night to gave me choices when to come in that weekend oh and btw it was Labor Day weekend so that Sunday after 5hrs not 7 or 8 like usual I was done and off to Vegas for my birthday!! My braids are very neat and gorgeous.. I love this place and will be getting my braids done here from now on many many thanks and blessing to Pauline she is the sweetest lady read more

I've been coming to The Braid Bar for a little over 4 years. I'm either getting a wash and cut (I wear my hair natural) or singles. I've never been unsatisfied. I'm mostly writing this review (a little late sorry) because of the last time I got my hair done here in September. I would like to note that at this appointment I got singles with Vivian who is truly blessed with her hands! I was at the smaller shop for an early morning appointment and apparently the night before a pipe burst that obviously needed to be fixed ASAP. The shop had someone come out to fix it which just so happened to be in the middle of appointment that unfortunately required loud tools to fix. This didn't bother me at all because I understand that sometimes these things happen. But Rika was very willing to move me and another client to the larger shop and super apologetic. Like I said I wasn't horribly bothered by the sound and my hair was halfway done so I told her I could stay. The repair ended up being not too much longer and they even finished before we finished my hair so it was really no big deal. I just wanted to highlight this situation to say I really appreciate the people that work here!! Rika and others run a great place. If there is a bump in the road everyone rolls with the punches, try's their best to continue to taking care of clients, and still delivers amazing hairstyles. I've loved seeing this business/community grow over the years. I can't wait to see what else is in store and to get my hair done here again. I have more great experiences to write about but this is already so long so I'll just end it here lol. read more

Nice girl. Conversation was good. My braids were beautiful, however, they fell out during the first week. That was definitely not worth the $200+ I paid. A braider should know that braids need to be smaller in areas where the hair is shorter to prevent slippage. I took my braids out in the 2nd week because I was unable to hide the areas where the braids had fallen out. I would not recommend her to anyone with short hair. read more

I'm so glad I found this place! It's right around the corner from my house and definitely the best braid shop i've ever been to. The salon is so cute and always clean, and everyone that works there is super friendly. Rika is my girl and never gets frustrated with me and my crazy hair ideas :) She's the BEST. Definitely the place to go in the bay area for your braids. read more

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"A clean, beautiful establishment with great customer service and a quality product." I absolutely love The Braid Bar. I found this shop on IG and I've been going here for a good 3-4 years now. Ricka, the owner, is dope. She's friendly, very professional, and she goes far and beyond to provide you with five star service. I love that I can call and schedule an appointment with little to no issue. I hate playing phone tag, especially with a business and I can honestly say that there is none of that here. If I want my hair braided, it's usually within days so that fact that I can send her my availability and a picture of what I want and she'll return my call within a day with her availability and a price estimate is perfect for me. Not to mention, her work is some of the best quality I've ever seen and I've been getting my hair braided for a long time. My hair is always very neat and I always get compliments on it. The thing I love the most about the shop (besides the cleanliness, organization, and the décor) is I've gotten everything from twist to box braids from Ricka and I've never sat more than 6 hours. I highly recommend this shop. This is a clean, beautiful establishment with great customer service and a quality product. -- and she sells hair now too, so add "convenient". Now if she would just accept credit cards again. *hint, hint* ;) read more

RIKA!!!!!! Is the bomb.com!!!!! I had a hair emergency and she quickly accommodated us and hooked my daughter up! And we made an appt. for Saturday for a different style! read more

The Braid Bar - RIKA!!!!! Does amazing work! She is such a talented young lady! We will be her long term customers!!! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

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Malcolm - Their scheduler is awesome. I appreciate the initial call & confirmation calls. Reika - Awesome braider! Thank you for being so professional and my beautiful braids! I'll definitely be back! read more

I have gone here twice for braids by Rika, simply amazing! And then most recent I got a Ghana Braid Mohawk by Pauline that killed the competition. OMG! I got soooo many compliments!!! read more

The Braid Bar - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

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Awesome shop ! Clean ! Nice people! Please do yourself and your hair a favor and go see rika!!! I went to shop after shop for someone to do my hair mind you my hair is very short and rika was the only braider I had asked to braid it,she takes her time to grip my short hair it was nice and tight,and for $200 everyone else was asking $300 can't beat that! Sh also does sew ins. Please go get your hair done by rika y'all read more

The Braid Bar - Rhonda - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I was nervous coming in case I don't know what to expect but Rika was so friendly! Loved my box braids ! She was super nice !! Highly recommend this place ladies ! read more

The Braid Bar - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Thank you to my co-worker, Courtney for telling me about The Braid Bar! My daughter and I went in on a Saturday to make our appointments which was pretty smooth and quick. Rikka took her time and showed us braiding/twisting samples to choose the right size of your choice. I loved that! The day before I got an appointment reminder (I'm usually the one calling stylist to confirm so this was a plus). When I arrived, Rikka greeted me and said that another stylist would be doing my hair because of the style I wanted and the other stylist was an expert in the area. At first I was bummed because all of the reviews rave about Rikka and I wanted the "Rikka experience". I was seated in Pauline's chair and Pauline immediately began the prep for my hair. Hands down, Pauline is the best braider I have had ever! There were a couple of hiccups, but that is to be expected in hair salons, especially if they are popular and do great work. I will definitely be back! read more

I've come to the Braid Bar a few times now and I. Love. It. The shop is clean and Rika always asks exactly how you want your hair and checks in with you while braiding. She can talk and braid at the same time and doesn't scream or smack gum in your ear. She also braids neatly, but I don't have to worry about not having any edges. Coming here, I pay more than what I did at my previous braider, but for the cleanliness and time she takes brushing my (natural) hair out and just generally being pleasant, like she actually appreciates my business...I don't mind at all. read more

I brought two braided updos. After a lot of side chatter, it was clear that the stylist could not do my preferred braid style so I went with a simpler cornrow style with a big bun. However, the finished product was nothing like I requested as the rows were too small and the bun was tiny. I would've prefer that the stylist told me she could t do it. read more

I just got my hair braided about a week ago and this was my first time there. The Yelp reviews proved to be right and I am highly satisfied!!! Everyone was so warm & inviting. The shop was very professional & clean. My hair looks awesome and my braider was so fast! I've been getting compliments left & right. Needless to say, I'll definitely be going back. read more

My hair is on point and both me and my daughter out in 4 hours. Next time I will buy the hair there or figure out a better kind to get but overall great experience. read more

I highly recommend this place especially Vivian she's so nice she greeted me this morning @8am and made me feel comfortable because it was my first time I really didn't know what I wanted but I knew I wanted a new hair due something different I already have very long thick curly hair that's to the middle of my back Vivian and I decided I was going to go with single braids also wanted her to add a few inches to make it even longer it came out so beautiful I absolutely love it! read more

The Braid Bar - The Braid Bar Single braids done by Vivian - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I've been to this shop twice and both times I've been totally satisfied with my hair. The shop is clean and all the stylist are very professional. I chose to get crochet twist for my trip to the Philippines and I'm so glad I did. It was so hot and humid and the last thing I wanted to do was my hair... The twist made it easy. I got loads of compliments. The people there had never seen twist before! Hopefully I've started a new trend!.. Thanks to Fatima @braid bar. read more

The Braid Bar - Thank you to Fatima at Braid Bar for my beautiful crochet twist. Lots of compliments from the Philippines! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

It's probably been about 20 years since the last time I had my hair braided, and then I was by a relative doing my hair on their porch so the idea of a braid bar was foreign. I was delighted by the prompt response and reminder text that I received and it more satisfied by the final product. I was afraid to get braids, and now I love them. I highly recommend the Braid Bar read more

Hello everyone I'm just doing a update I just got my hair done again and it looks great I'm so excited I'm going to look my best for my resort I'm glad I didn't go to anyone else and go to the cheap way out is worth every dime of my money thanks again I appreciate you for keeping me cute and thanks for the last minute dread touch up for my girlfriend thanks again read more

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Verry pleased with service overall, this was a lost min apt and they were able to take me in no problem. On time and up front and super kind. I'll be coming back for sure read more