I have been going to Dame and Dapper for over a year (both locations) and only have good things to say about this barbershop.
A bit of background, I moved to SD 6 years ago and was desperately looking for a barbershop that was consistent, professional, and clean. After jumping from barbershop to barbershop for 5 years, I was able to finally find a barbershop that I love to go to - Dame and Dapper.
As a whole, Dame and Dapper is the most professional barbershop that I have been to in San Diego. Every barber there is friendly, professional, and consistent with their haircuts (I people watch a lot, lol). The shop is always kept clean and you can always see someone cleaning up the freshly cut hair on the floor, often helping other barbers clean their area too if they are busy cutting someone's hair. The environment in the shop makes me feel completely comfortable and is completely judgement-free. Although this location is in Hillcrest (commonly known as the gay area in San Diego), all people from all walks of life go to Dame and Dapper, which is probably one of the most amazing qualities this barbershop has. I have often been to a barbershop and immediately felt uncomfortable with the "bro-talk" that happens between barbers where the client is often left there in awkward silence.
I have been getting a haircut with Joe (originally in the Mission Hills location) since my first visit at Dame and Dapper and have never looked for another barber since. Joe is by far the best barber I have ever had. He is always friendly, timely, and courteous. He always keeps his appointments and will always message me way ahead of time if he is running a bit late, which has only happened to be once and it was a 10 minute delay because he hadn't eaten lunch, lol. His haircuts are always consistent and often gives me recommendations on what I should do with my hair when I've given up on a certain hairstyle. He also educates you on your hair, the hair products you can use for different occasions, and how to style your hair. This information is absolutely invaluable for me as no one had ever told me what to use on my hair or how to even style it.
Additionally, Joe is the ONLY barber I will ever trust to even touch my beard. After a horrible experience years back at another barbershop, I've been hesitant to let any barber touch my beard. It took me a couple of months to finally convince myself to have Joe trim it. However, Joe listened to what exactly what it is I was wanting (even when I don't know exactly how to say it haha) and reassures you throughout the entire cut, trim, shave, or whatever. Now, I always get a full haircut and beard trim/lineup every time I book an appointment.
I have read some reviews that others have left about Dame and Dapper on 5th and am concerned about people's definition or expectations of a barbershop. First and foremost, Dame and Dapper on 5th is a barbershop. It is NOT a salon. People often think that they are one and the same, but they are two completely different services and experiences. Are you going to get the Beverly Hills salon and spa experience at Dame and Dapper (or any other barbershop for that matter)? Nope! And I don't come in to Dame and Dapper expecting that type of service - that would be an unfair misrepresentation of what a barbershop is as a business and a service provider. However, don't make that statement convince you that Dame and Dapper isn't professional, clean, or even classy because they are all 3 of those things and more.
If you are new to San Diego looking for a barbershop, or even a native San Diegan and want to find a new barbershop, I highly suggest you check Dame and Dapper out. I can guarantee that you won't be disappointed. read more