If you're looking for experienced hairdressers for black hair, give Hair Gallery a try.
Needed to get my hair (locs) washed and twisted. Had a few other leads but stumbled on Hair Gallery online and realized this was my old salon. I live in Toronto and only spend the occasional summer in Ottawa, so I had lost contact with the Gallery. So glad I found them. THEIR NEW ADDRESS IS 421 MCARTHUR.
Carlene is an expert... I mean the girl KNOWS HAIR. Nothing phases her. She has seen me through bone straight pixie cuts to curly weaves, from perms to my current natural locs. The patronage spans from 2003 to present day!
This salon moved from Rideau to Montreal St. and is now on McArthur. The new shop needs work (still going through renovations I believe) and has fewer chairs. The atmosphere is casual (expect your usual salon banter and laughter), but the previous locations had radio, waiting areas. The receptionist/phone manners are really lacking but if you can see past that, you'll be happy with the service.
All of the above are why I can't quite give HG four stars, much as I would have in the past.
But there rates are comparable so if the frills don't matter, give them a try.
I RECOMMEND: Booking early.. Be prepared to wait two weeks for a slot, longer if you are only free on weekend.
Also I really recommend Carlene for short hair. She's got the touch.
EXTRA TIP: From outside, this doesn't look like a salon but it is. read more