Pros 
Cons A Liverpool Institution: The Allure of TA Andrew Hair Salon
TA Andrew Hair Salon in Liverpool has quietly established itself as a local favourite, boasting a solid 4.2-star rating and a loyal clientele spanning over two decades. Situated at 84 Moore St, this no-frills salon offers a surprisingly affordable haircut, frequently quoted at just $13. The most consistently praised aspect of TA Andrew Hair Salon is its speed and value. Customers routinely highlight Andrew’s years of experience, mentioning he's been a constant in the community for “20+ years, except during Covid.” Many appreciate his friendly demeanour and efficient service – some haircuts are completed in as little as 10 minutes! The salon also accommodates children, making it a convenient option for families.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what customers love:
- Price: Consistently cited as the most affordable option in Liverpool.
- Speed: Quick turnaround, ideal for those needing a fast trim.
- Experience: Andrew’s long-standing presence and skill are highly valued.
- Friendliness: He is described as a “true gentleman” who greets customers warmly.
- Family-Friendly: Welcomes young clients.
However, it's not without its quirks, which are worth noting before booking an appointment.
The Style vs. Cut Dichotomy: Managing Expectations
A recurring theme in customer feedback revolves around the difference between requesting a “haircut” and requesting a “style” at TA Andrew Hair Salon. Several reviewers explicitly advise potential customers to be very clear about their expectations. While Andrew is capable, several experiences suggest he tends to interpret requests through his own vision, potentially delivering a cut that doesn’t precisely match a provided photo or detailed description.
“Try to set the expectation right about your haircut… He has 2 different charges, one for haircut and other for style, but end up cutting not to the expectation… He will end up cutting the style he has in mind. So if you’re just going for a haircut and don’t worry about style, he is the one.”
This suggests that if you desire a precise style, it might be wise to consider a salon specializing in bespoke styling and prepared to devote more time to achieving the look. TA Andrew appears to excel at efficient, classic haircuts, but intricate or modern styles may be subject to his interpretation. Those looking for a simple, no-fuss trim are likely to be perfectly satisfied, especially given the value for money.
An Old-School Vibe: Authenticity and its Drawbacks
TA Andrew Hair Salon offers an undoubtedly old-school barbering experience. This extends beyond the pricing and service style – and it’s where some of the more divisive feedback arises. Several customers mention a noticeable smell of tobacco or cigarettes within the salon. While not necessarily a deal-breaker for everyone, it’s a sensory aspect potential clients should be aware of, particularly those with sensitivities.
Furthermore, one particularly concerning review details a negative experience involving a perceived lapse in hygiene and courtesy:. The reviewer recounts an incident of Andrew coughing and sneezing during the haircut and then splashing water on their head. While acknowledging Andrew’s age and attempting to be respectful, they expressed significant disappointment with the disregard for basic customer care and the resulting unsatisfactory cut requiring a cap to conceal an uneven section. This incident highlights a potential inconsistency in the level of service experienced.
| Feature | Positive Feedback | Potential Drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Traditional, friendly | Smell of tobacco |
| Hygiene | Generally acceptable | Reported incident of poor hygiene |
| Customer Service | Warm greeting, polite | Potential for discourtesy |
Wait Times and Customer Priority: A Matter of Perception
Reports on wait times at TA Andrew Hair Salon are somewhat conflicting. While some praise the speed, others have experienced frustrating situations regarding client priority. One customer shared an experience where they were told to wait "after the next person" only to have a new arrival, who entered after them, be seated before they were.
This perceived lack of adherence to a clear waiting list system, combined with Andrew’s apparently direct approach to managing appointments, can leave customers feeling overlooked. It's important to note that this is a single, albeit detailed, account, and it's possible it was an isolated incident. However, it underscores a potential inconvenience that customers should be prepared for: a less structured waiting process and a possibility of being superseded by more recent arrivals. It appears communication is key – being assertive (politely) about your expected wait time may be beneficial.