Didn't blend my hair well at all. Had it fixed at another shop (Golden Scissors is incredible for value). For rhe price, it's incredibly disingenuous. Showed photos of what I wanted and everything, and I still didn't get what I want - but for a reversible side part that I didn't ask for in the first place. I know how I part my hair. There's no need to be extra if it's not asked for. They don't wash your hair, or dry it. I had so many flecks of hair on my face I had to excuse myself afterward to wipe it myself. My barber was friendly at least but I cant recommended this place in good faith if you care about your hair. read more

My partner came here for a hair cut this week and Larissa took care of him and got a pretty darn good cut for him! She was super friendly and welcoming, and my partner made it a point to support a LGBTQ+ owned business where one feels welcomed and safe going in here. There's often too much testosterone in other barber shops and not everyone wants to be apart of that energy, but we both felt very comfortable walking into this space. Prices start for typical men's hair cuts at $40, so definitely on the pricier end, but given the clean space, friendly staff, and good hair cuts, it's worth it! They also have a store dog that comes and greets you! We love it! read more

Larissa is the best barber. I've been going to her for about 3 years now and I will continue to follow her to whatever shop she goes to. This shop is pretty great. Non of the toxic masculinity or sexism talk that you normally hear in a barber shop. They're very inclusive and the pricing is fair. read more

My barber moved out of town. I had been having quite a bit of trouble finding the shop with talented barbers and the right vibe. I am relieved to have finally found The Public Barber. Excellent haircut. Great vibe. Highly Recommend. read more

My detailed review was deleted, no doubt because the owner pays Yelp handsomely for such censorship privileges. However, I will have my voice heard if I have to repost every day and/or create new accounts to do it. People reading this should be made aware that all these 5 star reviews are NOT an accurate representation of this shop. Any dissenting opinions are filtered out or deleted like mine was. My real world experience here is from an impartial (out of town) customer. I was is town for a restaurant trade show and my hometown barber couldn't get me in before I left. I ducked in here for a quick trim because it was close, and I was looking shaggy. Unfortunately, Larissa was the first available. When I sat down in her chair little did I know that I'd be cut with a full blade, TWICE, have the worst cut I've had in years, and be talked at like I was a criminal because I didn't share her extremest political views. I asked for square back but rounded corners. Larissa not only did the opposite but also went about half an inch into my hairline! She was also talking with a man who appeared to be homeless while scissor cutting the top, not paying any attention, so there was multiple lengths and was completely uneven. The entire experience was dreadful, and people need to know what COULD happen if they visit; it's not all sunshine and rainbows like these highly curated reviews make it seem. read more

Im absolutely speechless. I've been shaving my head for years and recently decided to experiment with growing it out. I haven't been to a barbershop in 8 years. The Public Barber is just down the street so i figured I'd give them a shot. I've had 3 cuts with them. Just a fade on the sides while letting the top grow. The shop is cool and comfortable. The first two cuts I got were with John and Jesse. Nice fades and exactly what I was looking for. Couldn't have been happier with my first haircuts in8yrs. The last cut was Michael S. Um... it is single handedly THE best fade I've ever gotten!!! Period! Hands down... no question!!! Seriously this is the place to go! Thanks Michael for getting looking good for my Wife's work party! Ps - seriously the best fade EVER!!!! read more

Rhett my barber, now for the foreseeable future did a 5 star job! Friendly, experienced and end results that look great and receive my praise! Well worth the price they charge! Remember to wear your mask when you go! Great friendly environment with people that respect all! A truly diverse and awesome place to go get your haircut! I follow the path Mr. Spock laid out when it comes to how to treat people, which is Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations! As someone who is Neurodivergent I love these guys! Fantastic job and I'll be back for sure! You have a client for life! read more

The Public Barber - My haircut - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

After doing some research, I decided to make an appointment here. I was looking for a barbershop for my first hair cut since getting out of the Navy. I didn't really know what I wanted besides not looking like a recruit. So, I booked an appointment with Michael. The shop has a nice retro vibe. The waiting area chairs were comfy. Michael was awesome. I told him what I knew I wanted and left the rest to his judgment-I wanted easy to maintain, not look like a recruit, and would look good. He delivered. He was very friendly, professional, and gave me the best hair cut/style that I've ever had. This is now my barbershop and will be making my next appointment shortly (I like getting haircuts every 3-4 weI like the appointment system (easy to book online), so I'm not waiting 45mins for a haircut. The shop is easy to get to via the L. Update: I've been back for my second haircut and scheduled my third. Final update: I've been coming here for nearly a year. Everything that I've said before still applies. I'll keep coming here until either they close or I move to an apartment where they are a challenge to get to from. Bonus for COVID edition: they've adapted well! They check your temperature when you get there, masks are required, hand sanitizer is provided, and they limit the number of people allowed in the shop. read more

My partner recently moved to the Uptown area, and I just so happened to be in the market for a new barber! As a queer person it was extremely important to me to find a barber that is LGBT+-friendly, where I felt comfortable enough to go in. I found that at The Public Barber. I did a little research before hand and decided to book with Donald, who was very kind, conversational, and forgiving even though I was a little late to my appointment. They have a lot of open appointments now since their regulars are getting haircuts further in between than normal due to COVID, so now is a good time to book! They have a small waiting area outside of the shop and take your temperature before you come in, with a hand sanitizer pump at the front table. They have about two barbers working at a time, and it is required for everyone to wear a mask. Because of this, only cuts and shaves are being offered at the moment. Another really important thing to mention is that they take cash only. Overall, the environment of the shop is wonderful, the barbers are friendly and great at what they do, and I think The Public Barber will be a regular visit for me in the coming years! read more

The Public Barber - My haircut after! - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I'm a transmasc nonbinary person, and I never got the cut I wanted at the salons I've been to. I grew my hair out during quarantine but I recently decided it was time to try going short again. I really appreciated that this shop was overtly trans friendly, and still requires masks, so I made an appointment with Donald for a transformation cut. It was a big change but super reasonably priced, in my opinion. He listened carefully to what I wanted and collaborated with me throughout. I was nervous for the result given my history but it turned out beautifully. He didn't force products on me but gave thoughtful recommendations for my hair type and style at my request. Overall I had a great experience and will definitely be back regularly! Thanks Donald! read more

The Public Barber is the most incredible barbershop experience you'll ever find in Chicago! It's truly that special and unique. Firstly, you'll discover that it's a beautifully curated, midcentury modern and vintage-style barbershop that provides the most calming, relaxing environment for the services provided by its barbers. And secondly, about the barbers here? Well, they're the most talented pool of licensed barbers you'll EVER find! From shop proprietor Michael to Garfield, David, Donald, and Jon--this group of guys can do it all, and their skills and talents are unsurpassed. To top it off, they're ridiculously gregarious and so friendly and welcoming each and every time. This shop has such an incredibly and fervently loyal clientele for a reason: they're the best shop in the entire city. With regards to Covid precautions, you won't find a more Covid-compliant shop. They take it very seriously and care very much about the safety, health, and well-being of their clients. Make sure to wear your mask! You can go to the Public Barber and feel that they genuinely care about your safety during this unprecedented pandemic. The Public Barber welcomes EVERYONE to their shop, and it's already well-known as a safe space for the LGBTQIA community and everyone in between. Supporting local, independently-owned establishments is crucial right now in our country. Make your appointment online, go to the Public Barber, and feel confident that you're getting an amazing haircut in a safe and welcoming environment. Thanks, Public Barber! read more

a damn good haircut! i made an appointment because i'm about to move to chicago and wanted to find a barber within walking distance of my new place. i ended up with rhett, who was pleasantly chatty, listened to exactly what i wanted, and gave me an excellent haircut. my hair dried perfectly and looked fantastic. also, the vibe inside is wonderful. it's super clean and light inside, all of the barbers are still masked, and it feels very safe and non-judgemental. i 100% enjoyed my experience at the public barber and i can't wait for my next cut! read more

Corona Cut with David, love this place, online booking is awesome for my hectic unorganized life right now, these guys are taking safety serious, checking temps, wearing mask, changing smocks for each person, feels good to feel the wind on my ears again. read more

The Public Barber - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I've been going to the public barber for years now, and every time it's a great experience and I walk out with a great haircut, feeling good. And I literally swear, every time I ask someone with a great haircut where they got it done, they tell me "The Public Barber!" read more

The public barber employs some of the most talented barbers in Chicago. I have had my hair cut their several times over the last few years. Freddie is my current hair guru and honestly I highly recommend. Gives clients incredible fades and is great conversationalist too. read more

Donald does really fantastic work. He listens well, he's friendly & low-key & his skills are excellent. Their space is small with a relaxed atmosphere. (I'm sure the other barbers are fantastic, too.). Cash only & reserve online. read more

Freddie is a king! Sharpest fade I've ever had and affordable too! I can't wait to come back!

Definitely love getting my hair cut at this place. It's got that perfect retro vibe that you would expect in a barber shop, but you can tell that the owner puts an effort into keeping the place up. My haircuts have always been well above average, regardless of which barber I go to, but I have to say that Michael is my favorite. You can tell the staff at this place really enjoys their jobs. Even early in the morning they are quite chatty, with both each other and their clients. It makes for a pleasant experience you don't always find. My one and ONLY problem with this place is that it's so incredibly busy. I can't always plan my haircuts in advance because of my work schedule, and getting a last minute appointment here is damn near impossible. As such, I've gone far longer between cuts than I'd like but still didn't go anywhere else because I wanted it done right! read more

John was terrific! One of the nicest man I have ever met. Great conversationalist, non assuming and very funny. Gives great head as well!! Both my partner and I just moved into the neighborhood and will definitely be back. Thanks for providing a great place for a haircut where doggies are welcome. Next time we'll bring our Frenchies so we can all get crazy and get no work done!!!! John Hartmann & Christopher Sears read more

Since first walking into the Public Barber over three years ago I haven't had my hair cut anywhere else-- not a single cut. It's impossible to trust anyone else once you've found the best. The service, the space, the cuts, and especially the people. Stop looking, this is the place. read more

Just had my first appointment here, and it definitely won't be my last. The space is beautifully thought out - very inviting, open and stylish. My favorite design item was the old fashion barber chairs which were very comfortable. Service prices are very reasonable. I didn't feel rushed or pressured at all - my barber really listened to me and gave me exactly the haircut I wanted/asked for. Can't wait to return. read more

The Public Barber - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Visited the shop for the first time and I was greeted by Dominic, immediately he made me feel welcome. I was introduced to Christopher Abair. I got my haircut and beard trimmed and wow he made me look like a million dollar man. His passion and professionalism shows on the end results. I was very impressed with his technique, in the meanwhile he carry on my experience with a very a friendly conversation. Extremely happy with his expertise, every cut was perfect and my beard look 100% better. Loved the warm towel scented with peppermint, wow took me out of this world. The place has a very unique atmosphere and mid-century design. Great taste for details, love the bottle of scotch waiting to be share with a guest on the coffee table. Thank you Christopher great experience and definitely I'll go back.....200% recommended. read more

The Public Barber - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I really like this place. It's a no-frills, appointment-only barbershop that offers complimentary whiskey upon arrival. I've had my hair cut by Domenic and Donald, and they both did an excellent job. I always appreciate it when barbers spend time on a fade and ensure all the other nuances in your hair are taken care of. This level of attention is what separates the pros from the amateurs. Be sure to make an appointment in advance and bring cash with you! read more

An excellent group of talented barbers here at Public Barber. Such a clean and aesthetically pleasing spot with really cool touches that make you feel right at home. I'd recommend anyone here if you're in the neighborhood! read more

Patron for 2+ years. Shout out to David for the best fades I've ever had. And to everyone else in the shop - they all do a great job. Place is very clean, comfortable and convivial - everything you'd want a barber shop to be. read more

I've been getting my haircut here for just under a year and can't recommend it enough! I've gotten fades to medium-length cuts, and I've walked out always happy. As a guy whose more particular about his hair, every barber is patient, friendly, and does a great job. No need to pick a specific barber, they're all going to cut your hair well. Not to mention, the place is a cool vibe! read more

Jon is the man! Needed a barber when I moved to Chicago. This location was recommended to me and I luckily met Jon. He gives great cuts, pays attention to detail, and creates a very welcoming environment. read more

Best haircut ever!! Will deff be back and also recommend all my friends and family too. Great atmosphere great barbers and overall best barbershop in my area! Thanx again Jon for the hook up. read more

Have been here a few times now and have been extremely pleased each time. Highly recommend. Very friendly, well-kept, and enjoyable experience. Have gotten cuts from both Michael and Jon, both of which very skilled and professional. Thanks again, will see you next time. read more

First time at a barber and had an amazing experience. Jon was the best and gorgeous af!

The only place I will get a haircut. Everyone's chair yield great hair. David is my go to. Be sure to make a reservation in advance this place is reservation only. Also if you want don't want to look like a fool bring cash... your plastic card won't work here. Have a shot of whatever they have in their decanter and enjoy some tunes while you wait for your glorious haircut or shave. Great guys. Great place. read more

These guys are awesome. For the low-$30s price range, they blow away the competition. A detailed haircut with an observant, pleasant barber. Man, I'm glad I found this place! read more

I was excited to see "The Public Barber" when I moved to Chicago this past spring. It's a nice space, but like most Millennial businesses they tried to hard to make it look like they didn't try. I went to The Public Barber 2 times. The staff was very nice to people they already knew. I told the guy I was new to HCiacgo and had never visited. I asked him if he could recommend a business for something. His response was, I'm here to cut your hair. The cut was OK but the beard too short. I told him, I'm 50 I don't want to look like a Millennial, maybe I shouldn't have said that to a Millennial. read more

As a new resident of Chicago, I had to find a great barber as soon as possible. Due to a recommendation from my previous barber in Indianapolis, I scheduled a visit to The Public Barber. My first visit ended in entertaining conversation, great vibes, and a great haircut from Dominic! Thanks! read more

Jon did a brilliant job. I'd never expect to have one of my favorite hair cuts during a pandemic, but it is so! These guys are pro and the atmosphere is, as you can see from the photos others have posted, really cool. It's definitely worth the wait for an appointment. The Public Barber place has 5 stars for a reason -- it's legit. The safety procedures were also quite good. A total of two people in the whole place (me and the barber), contactless temperature taken at the door, hand sanitizer, and masks worn the entire time. read more

Yes, I'm a girlfriend who cares about their mans hair. I actually view it as my own- in all seriousness he is SUPER particular about his mane. He booked an appointment based solely on the reviews and came out from his appointment feeling himself. The haircut was the best I've seen on him! He had no idea what style he wanted or even how short. His barber hooked him up :) These guys are true barbers/stylist read more

I must admit, as a man of color we take our hair very serious. I was very sceptic that a white guy knows black hair. Usually black barbers can't cut white hair and vise versa. I've been very curious of the work these guys do. Today I walked in and was treated sooooo well. And received I must admit one of the best haircuts I've ever had by Dominic. He was funny, comfortable and he listened. I WILL be going back and will recommend lots of people. read more

The Public Barber - The best haircut by a white boy ;) - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great hair cut and great addition to the community. I opted for a hair cut and beard trim (45 minutes?) for $35. Michael has created a welcoming atmosphere complete with a nice bourbon in the waiting room when I visited. The haircut itself was very nice. Hip, stylish, and not cookie cutter at all. read more

I've been going here for a few years. The owner Michael is extremely passionate, and every other Barber represents his joy and dedication, especially Domenic and David. Please frequent these wonderful guys! read more

Recently received a job offer after a final-round, in-person interview, and I contribute this success 99% to the amazing haircut I received from Garfield the previous week (only marginal hyperbole). The shop has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a very old-timey, Americana feel. Michael and Garfield were working when I walked in for my appointment, and I thoroughly enjoyed the pleasant conversations with both of them and their other clients. Garfield accomplished everything I had asked for and more! I fully intend to return as a regular in the near future. read more