I found Dave Polk on Yelp after searching for both salons and barbers that cut short, natural African American women's hair (much more challenging than I thought it would be). I don't usually get professional haircuts, but I had several events coming up and wanted my hair to look beyond good. When I saw the pictures of Dave's work, I decided to give him a chance and I am so glad I did! Definitely worth the long trek from MD to Arlington, VA. Not only are his skills on point, it's obvious he really loves what he does! He was so excited and passionate discussing options with me. He also checked in throughout the cut to make sure I liked what I saw. He did such an amazing job, I actually got a little emotional because I didn't know my hair could look that good. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for taking so much pride in your work and doing such a phenomenal job, Dave! You've earned yourself a repeat customer. read more

You could call me somewhat of a hair connoisseur, I've been to the best and also the worst. I am very particular about my hair, and I don't let just anyone cut my hair. I have been in DC for two months and the initial barbershop I journeyed to gave me a pretty bad experience. So I was set on the fact that I wasn't getting another haircut until I went back home, but then I stumbled across Dave. I'm from the south where I think we have some of the best barbers in the nation, but despite my beliefs, I knew I needed a haircut. Gave him a call and asked if I could come by a walk-in, and although he knew he was booked he still got me immediately in his chair. He was able to hold very uplifting conversation and still craft my hair to the T! You don't find many barbers that are genuine and actually elite at the skill. I will most certainly be going back to Dave, best haircut I've gotten in a long time! read more

I've always had a dope barber, master barbers at that, top of their game, well that's what I thought, until I sat in Dave's chair just about a year ago. It was instant, I recognized the difference the moment this young man greeted me; a very polite, respectful and intelligent man is about to cut my hair. Well to cut a long story short, I'm a middle aged professional, which means I've been cutting my hair for a mighty long time and I operate in an industry where appearance is key and I kid you not, ever since Dave started cutting my hair, once I walk into a room the conversation is different and most of that is attributed to the superb skill and professionalism of Dave. Hands down, the best barber to cut my hair and for that, much respect. read more

My 10 year old daughter has wanted an under cut like Shuri in Black Panther since we saw the movie. We were visiting DC for a couple of days, and after a lot of searching, I found Dave. Took a peek at his reviews and pictures of his work, and was very impressed. Luckily he was able to fit her in on a busy Friday! He welcomed us into the shop as if we were old friends. He treated my daughter as the client, and was very kind and patient with her. She is so happy with his work, and I am happy with her joy! On a side note, the whole shop was filled with positive energy. Everyone was kind, and took joy in each person. Good vibes! We wish we lived a little closer, but we will be back for sure! read more

When people say they have their best haircut with Dave, they are not lying. It is true for me. This is the first time ever I had to write a review for a barber because it was so damn good. I made an appointment a week ahead. Went in, waited a bit, and he asked me what I want to do with the hair. Showed him a pic, and he immediately analyzed what is wrong with my current hair and what needs to be done. To give a context, I wanted a side part with mid-fade, and for people like me who have Asian hair, this hairstyle is just so difficult to get. Guess what, Dave nailed it. So, when people say Dave can cut any kind of hair, believe them. Go to Dave's and see it for yourself. read more

I've tried a number of places in DC, and have never had a great haircut in the District. While I was hesitant about trying C. Alan because the price is lower than a number of other places I tried, I decided to book an appointment after reading the strong reviews. Dave made the experience was fantastic. Not only did he give me one of the best haircuts I've ever had, he was also incredibly (like incredibly incredibly) nice. I will absolutely be giong back, but I hope you don't, as it was really easy to get a time that fit my schedule and I'd hate for that to change ;) A+ for the haircut, atmosphere, and interesting conversation. read more

It's amazing when you meet people who are great at their jobs and who are also great people, well that's Dave. I've been to him twice already and I will return for a third time this week. In general, it's difficult for me to trust people with my hair but I had no problem trusting Dave. He made sure he knew exactly how I wanted my haircut, the final product far exceeded my expectations. You can tell by his demeanor that he takes pride in his work, and I definitely recommend him to any and all (especially women with short cuts). read more

After trying to find the best barber in DC, I came across Dave at Master Barber. I usually don't give anybody the full discretion on styling my hair, however I knew instantly that he knew what he was doing and was completely confident in his ability. I am extremely satisfied with my cut, and especially with my fade. Ill definitely be returning when I'm back on the East Coast. Highly suggest anybody who truly cares about their look to stop by. Much love from Chicago, and Ill bring the popcorn next time. -Malek read more

Most brothas know how difficult it is to jump barber chairs, but Dave makes such a challenging transition easy with his smooth "bedside" manner and exceptional professionalism. He is a great listener--making sure he provides you the styling and service that you want--and is generous with his knowledge about hair and skin care. My stumbling into Wanda's may have been serendipitous, but accepting Dave's invitation to his chair was the best decision I've made in a while. Highly recommended! read more

Dave is an incredible barber and a true gentleman. I have been searching for a barrier in the dc area for a while. I have 3 cowlicks and haven't found a barber to manage that. Dave has been able to cut a great fade and manage my cowlicks so well. Beyond being a master barber, he is always dress well, has a smile on his face, and is great to talk with. He is a servant leader for his community helping lead a non profit and find mentors for youth inn the dc area. read more

I found Dave doing some research online for a barber who could do a good women's undercut and pattern. I called on a Thursday and he fit me in on Friday morning! Dave had really great customer service skills. I showed him a few designs for inspiration and he did a really sweet design and took his time to do it right. Awesome personality, professional and good vibes all around. Dave knows what he's doing and listens to what customers want. read more

The cut and quality was amazing. My teenage son hates barbers, but Mr. Polk made him smile. When the custom cut was finished, my son could wait to brag to his cousin online. The whole way home to Maryland my son did not stop complimenting himself and telling me how fresh he looked. He has NEVER been this confident before Thanks, Mr. Polk! We'll be back. (*arrive early to find parking. That $10/$20 lot behind the building is a ripoff) read more

Dude can actually cut some hair! I've been in DC for a year and it has taken me up until this point to find someone who can actually cut hair correctly and care about his final product. I'm sorry it took me so long to discover this dude, but happy to finally find a guy who can give me a proper fade and can use some scissors. He's legit and also has vision if your looking to do something different or new. Highly recommended.... read more

First Yelp review in my life, but I had to get up here and give Dave 5 stars! Best barber in the DMV hands down! Dave is a true artist when it comes to his craft, he tailors his design to the customers liking and unique requirements. He is courteous, flexible, and always professional. Every time I get in the chair, I am confident that he will have me with the COLDEST fade, crisp lines, and me as a satisfied customer. read more

Dave is en elite barber in the DMV and can compete with anyone. He is right next to the Shaw metro with ample parking! Perfect location for dinner or happy hour after he provides you with the unique style you are looking for. I have seen Dave cater to new clients and make sure they are happy every single time. Style is part of his personality so you dont just get your hair cut or styled, you get..an experience. read more

The hospitality and atmosphere are amazing, but they pale in comparison to Dave's professionalism. Although he was only a few minutes behind, he went above and beyond to apologize and make sure I understood the situation. Now. The haircut. BOMB! I'm from the Deep South and we pride ourselves on having the best barbers in the nation. Dave surpassed expectations (he is from KY though). I highly recommend! read more

Dav is definitely the go-to barber in the DMV. He's new to the area, but definitely not to his skilled work. He knows what his customers desire. I've been in the DMV area for about 3 years and have never had a cut or so many compliments on my haircut ever since Dav has been cutting my hair! I highly suggest anyone to this man as he takes great pride in his work. You will not be disappointed! read more

Best kept secret in the DC area. Even better personality. I've been in the area for 5 months bouncing around different barbers looking for "the one" and after today it's settled. Came in with a battered cut from the last random shop I visited - Dave fixed it, restored my hairline, then gave me the best taper fade of my life. It's hard to find better than this - https://instagram.com/dav_polk/ read more

Dave is the only barber I trust with my hair, he knows his craft extremely well. Killer fades and signature designs that you might find in a designer magazine. Not to memtion he's a total sweetheart! He treats every cut like he's painting a masterpiece and his razor and scissors are his paintbrushes. Great service, great person, great experience. I give him my highest recommendations read more