Pros 
Cons A Buzz Around Eastwood: What Customers Are Saying About Hair by Choi
Hair by Choi, located upstairs at 217 Rowe St, Eastwood, NSW, is generating quite a bit of conversation amongst Sydney residents. Boasting a solid 4.6-star rating, this salon has become a go-to for many seeking a quality haircut. However, a closer look at the customer reviews reveals a more nuanced picture – one filled with glowing praise, alongside some concerning criticisms. Situated in a convenient location and offering services Tuesday to Sunday (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays), appointments are strongly recommended due to the salon's popularity. Facilities are basic but functional, offering a toilet for customers, and readily accepting card and NFC mobile payments. Notably, Hair by Choi welcomes children, making it a potentially good option for families.
The High Notes: Praise for Skill & Efficiency
Many customers consistently rave about Mr. Choi’s skill as a stylist. Several reviews highlight his efficiency and attention to detail.
- Precise Cuts: A recurring theme is the accuracy and quality of the haircuts, especially for men. Customers appreciate that Mr. Choi seems to intuitively understand hairstyle requests, even with minimal instruction.
- Keratin & Perm Expertise: Positive feedback extends beyond standard cuts; one customer specifically praised the excellent Keratin straightening treatment, noting a significant improvement in hair condition after previous damage from bleaching.
- Value for Money: Affordability is a significant draw. Men’s haircuts, including a wash, are reported to be around $30, considered very reasonable for the quality. A standard "just cut" service is $50.
- Safe Environment: During the pandemic, customers have felt secure due to the salon's safety protocols, including vaccination checks, mask-wearing, and ventilation.
- Regular Customer Loyalty: The presence of many regular customers is often mentioned, suggesting a degree of satisfaction and trust.
Here's a table summarising the frequently mentioned positives:
| Positive Aspect | Frequency of Mention |
|---|---|
| Skillful Cutting | Very High |
| Attention to Detail | High |
| Affordability | High |
| Efficiency | Medium |
| Safe Practices | Medium |
| Friendly Atmosphere | Medium |
The Shadow Side: Concerns about Consistency & Communication
Despite the overall positive rating, a worrying trend emerges when reviewing some of the less favourable experiences. Several customers have observed inconsistency in Mr. Choi's service.
“I feel compelled to write this update so as not to mislead potential customers…It’d appear that Choi has good days and bad.”
This quote encapsulates the core concern. Some report experiencing a rushed, distracted stylist who doesn't engage with clients or seems uninterested in fulfilling their requests. One customer had to return due to an unbalanced haircut and felt Mr. Choi was dismissive when the mistake was pointed out. Another experienced a lack of communication, with the stylist beginning the cut immediately after a quick glance at a reference photo, without discussing expectations. Some reported unsolicited opinions on chosen styles. It appears, according to one customer, that a cancellation in his schedule can directly affect the quality received.
Breaking Down the Mixed Experiences: A Closer Look
The reviews reveal two distinct "Choi" experiences. One prioritises speed and relies on intuitive styling, potentially favoured by long-term clients who have established a rapport. The other emphasizes a rushed experience with minimal client interaction, potentially impacting first-time or less-defined requests. This discrepancy is highlighted by one customer's experience:
“Booked this place as it has good google reviews…Felt he rushed through my cut for the first 15 min then he got the call as the next client canceled, he then started talking🙄”
This highlights the potential impact of scheduling and external factors on the client experience. The shop itself is described as a studio, suggesting it may be small, potentially contributing to a sense of being rushed. The need for appointments clearly underscores the importance of forward planning to avoid disappointment, particularly given the observed inconsistencies. Located at mob:0431399341, prospective customers can call ahead to secure a slot and perhaps clarify their expectations.