Pros 
Cons A Cut Above? Exploring the Buzz Around The Barberia
The Barberia, nestled on Crown Street in Surry Hills, boasts a solid 4.6-star rating, suggesting a generally positive experience for its clientele. However, digging deeper into the reviews reveals a more nuanced picture – a blend of enthusiastic praise and pointed disappointment. It appears The Barberia isn’t simply just a hairdresser; it's a community hub, a place where conversation flows as freely as the hairspray. But does the skill consistently match the charming atmosphere? Let’s break it down.
Here's a snapshot of what customers are saying about the services offered:
| Service | Recurring Themes |
|---|---|
| Haircuts | Exceptional skill (especially Matthew), tailored to individual needs, long-lasting results. Some reports of inconsistent quality. |
| Colouring | Highly rated, with Mel and Cheryl consistently receiving positive feedback for listening and delivering desired results. |
| Vibe/Atmosphere | Welcoming, vibrant, wholesome, friendly, a genuinely enjoyable experience. |
| Customer Service | Mostly positive, with many highlighting the friendliness of staff and regulars. However, a concerning number of reviews mention rudeness or a condescending attitude from one particular staff member (referred to as "the woman"). |
The positive reviews are brimming with superlatives. Customers frequently highlight Matthew as an “absolute master of his craft,” praising his ability to understand a client’s vision even when they struggle to articulate it. Many describe it as the “best haircut ever,” with compliments extending to his overall professional demeanor. This sentiment is echoed for colourists Mel and Cheryl, who are lauded for their attentive listening skills and satisfying results. The colourful shop itself is often mentioned, contributing to a happy and uplifting experience. Many regulars have a long-standing relationship with The Barberia (one customer reported 8 years!), reinforcing the idea of loyal clientele.
The Matthew Effect: Is He The Reason to Visit?
A striking theme emerges from the reviews: the significant impact of stylist Matthew. Over and over, customers specifically request him, citing his exceptional skill and attention to detail. He’s not just cutting hair; according to one reviewer, he is "far beyond" simply cutting hair. His ability to “analyse” hair and translate unsaid desires into a perfect style seems to be his hallmark.
- Skill & Precision: Repeated references to "exceptional skill", "brilliant stylist", and precise haircuts.
- Client Understanding: Matthew's ability to understand a client's needs without extensive explanation is repeatedly praised.
- Professionalism: Appreciated for his overall professional manner and contribution to a positive service experience.
However, it's important to note that not every experience at The Barberia involves Matthew. This leads us to the next section…
The Shadow Side: Where the Experience Falls Flat
While the majority of feedback is positive, a concerning number of reviews detail unsatisfactory experiences. The most common complaint revolves around inconsistent haircut quality when not seeing Matthew. One customer bluntly labeled a recent cut a “rip off,” highlighting a “casual attitude” from the hairdresser and an ultimately disappointing result.
Beyond haircut quality, customer service emerges as a significant issue. Several reviews specifically mention a staff member (described as "the woman") displaying rude or elitist behaviour, complaining about other customers, and generally creating a negative atmosphere. This is particularly jarring considering the overall warmth and friendliness described by other patrons.
"They give a good haircut, but the woman is not very nice. Complains about other customers while they're not there, is very elitist. Whole experience left a bad taste in my mouth. For the price you can get a haircut that is just as good elsewhere."
This suggests a need for The Barberia to address staff training and ensure consistent positive interactions with all clients. Taking into account the price point ($58 for a men's cut), customers understandably expect a higher level of service alongside a quality haircut.
Practicalities & Planning Your Visit
Before booking an appointment, here’s a rundown of the practical details you need to know:
- Location: 323 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
- Phone: +61 2 9360 3452
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10am – 1pm
- Wednesday: 10am – 1pm, 2:15pm – 6pm
- Thursday: 10am – 1pm, 2:15pm – 7:15pm
- Friday: 10am – 1pm, 2:15pm – 6pm
- Saturday: 10am – 4pm
- Sunday: Closed
- Payment Options: Credit cards and NFC mobile payments are accepted.
- Accessibility: Currently, no wheelchair-accessible car parking is available.
- Family Friendly: The Barberia is considered good for kids.
- Appointments: Appointments are highly recommended.
Considering the reviews, it's advisable to specifically request Matthew if feasible – particularly if you're seeking a complex style or are new to the salon. While the overall atmosphere appears positive, being aware of the potential for negative interactions with one staff member is worth noting. It is also worth noting the store is easily accessible and equipped for modern payment methods.