Joachim Jung is by far the best hair stylist my wife and I have ever had. He has been cutting and styling our haid for 20 years now. He is the best! read more

Have been going to Joachim for many years and he is amazing! He is skilled and knowledgeable about hair, very reliable and keeps his appointments on schedule and on time! Highly recommend! read more

I always end up having bangs despite getting frustrated with them thanks to random unruliness, the weather, wind, or sweat. I already have a stylist that does beautiful, amazing layers but one day she could not fit me in for a bangs cut. So I searched and thus found Seth. I went to Seth with this photo of Nicole Scherzinger http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/2607238365_c6fb0ef003_o.jpg . He examined it, and described the bangs as being textured, heavy, sexy bangs. Seth makes me think about cheating on my stylist since he gave me the most awesome, sexy bangs in my entire LIFE. What he did was exactly in that photo, maybe even better. Best of all my bangs could easy swoop to the side as well on days I felt too lazy to make them perfectly straight. It's okay to switch back and forth between stylists sometimes right? Because I am fiending to get my bangs cut by Seth again. Next time I'm going to get a hair cut in addition to the bangs though, because if he can do what he did with my bangs to the rest of my head, oooh damn. I'm going to look smokin. read more

Seth is the best! Seth has been cutting my hair for about 7 years now and I only strayed once, only to come crawling back on hands and knees begging for forgiveness. I have very difficult hair to work with--it's thick and prefers to be in out of control waves instead of curly/straight, yet Seth manages to layer it perfectly so that it is easy to style, low maintenance, and most importantly, grows out beautifully. My most recent cut was a short bob (my charitable side decided to make a rare appearance and I donated 10 inches), and despite my natural frizz, Seth layered my hair so well that I can still go out in public without blow drying or straightening my hair. It truly is a miracle. Like everyone else said, he's also cool to hang out/chat with for an hour and gives great neck massages when shampooing. read more

I get to see Alicia this week and once again can't wait for the results! To say Alicia is skilled at coloring is an understatement. She's an artist. Alicia is extremely talented at coloring and has (LOL) made me a critic of hair color I see around me. I went Alicia specifically on the recommendation of two friends of mine -- I had admired both of their cut/color for years. Me with tricky hair, however (fine, dry, damaged, wavy), I didn't know what to expect. I was floored from the first visit, and every visit since. Alicia blends gorgeous caramel and honey tones in my hair, with sassy little pale blonde pieces for fun. The placement of each color is 'signature Alicia'. I get compliments all the time. I perform on stage and remember having a woman approach me after the show saying my blonde was one of the most beautiful 'blondes' she'd seen - and she was a hair colorist herself.... where did I go and WHAT product did my colorist use?? Is it the Keune coloring products Alicia uses that work so well for me? I'm sure that is a large contributor, but Alicia knows what colors to select and exactly how to place them. Alicia has spoiled me! read more

My review is about Seth! I went to Seth on a recommendation from a close friend after complaining in her living room about my unhappiness with my hair. My feeling was that I had gone through a lot of change in my life and my look just wasn't representing me well. I have naturally fine/ wavy hair and my biggest issue with most hair stylists is that they insist... INSIST on straightening my hair! In the end I leave unhappy and they have just spent more time on my hair then I will ever have the patience too all in that one appointment. First thing when I sat down Seth said "you know you have naturally wavy hair right?" THANK god! He explained his theory about working with what you have naturally instead of forcing it to do something else with various hair products. He did not use ANY product in my hair. I could hardly believe it. I knew I was going for a change (from long to short) so I was sure to gather images before my appointment of what I thought might work for me. After looking at my hair he knew exactly what to do! I trusted his experience to make it awesome and I am SO glad i did! He took my hair from long and boring to short, fun and flirty. I can honestly say it is the best hair cut I have ever had. I finally feel like myself. The best news is that i barely have to do a thing to it! he has saved me time and money because i don't have to use so much product in my hair and best of all.. everyone I know is amazed at my transformation! They say my new hair cut is "so me" and perfect for my personality. It's amazing that he got that from just one visit! Seth is a GREAT conversationalist as well! It was great talking about life with him and he has a super fun personality. I will definitely be going back in 3-6 weeks! Thanks Seth! read more

I've been getting my hair sheered and shined by Rainbeau for almost six years. In her care my hair is the center of the universe. She is talented, vivacious and full of moxie. And her cuts evolve over time. I receive compliments for weeks, even months, after I see her. The thing I appreciate most, however, is that she can translate my few words into a total cut. read more

Seth has been cutting my hair for 8 years. He always gives me a cut that is flattering, easy to style and edgey. This impresses me, because I would like to think I have become more discerning in the past 8 years, and I still love Seth's haircuts. I have recently strayed from the fold, but I am regretting it, and so I write this review because I'm so excited to call him up tomorrow! I know he's gonna fix me up. My favorite favorite feature of his 'do's is that they grow out soooo well. I have always had shorter than shoulder length hair, so if the cut doesn't grow out so well it shows pretty quickly. Not so with Seth. When he works his magic, the look remains lovely for 2-3 months. Seth is also very charming, sometimes goofy, and often up for existentialist banter while he's cutting your hair. He can do small talk too, if that's where you're more comfortable. I have referred him to a couple dozen friends, and now that I told all of you I hope I can still get an appointment. read more

Yo (Herr "J" salon) is a precision haircutting who is extremely reiliable. I've followed him through 4 salons until her did the right thing and created this lovely home for himself and other talented cutters. My hair is thin, but there is lots of it so it can show everyplace the scissors are placed and that can be a disaster. Yo has never disappointed me. His flair for great highlights is unbeatable. read more

Owner Jo Jung (pronounced "Yo") is a superb precision stylist and I've followed him to several salons up to this one that he opened 5? Years ago. Ok so I have thick hair and lots of it but Jo's styles are always up-to-date, whether he cuts it short and texturizes the hell out of it, or "we" decide to let it grow and I get the longish cut but always balanced And "hip". Then there's color. Jo is a master colorist . I'm blonde w/ 3 colors woven in my hair and I couldnt be happier with the outcomes. (11/1/12) Once again, (owner) Jo's creative genius gave me an eye-popping, updated style - this time using a razor-cut method. I've resisted this in the past, fearing it would "frizz" the look, but no. This time I just said: "do what moves you" and the result is a short "studied disheveled" look and oh so easy to finger-style myself - once I broke my roller-brush habit. His 3-color weave is perfection. I'm getting (more than usual) strangers in the street, stores and in elevators complimenting my hair and asking who my stylist is. I'm starting to carry his cards on me to save time. Jo's THE BEST!! read more

Holy Crap!!!!!!! I found a new stylist.....feeling a little guilty because the one I've been going to for 10 years has been keeping me pretty...right, and then....................................Rainbeau rocked the S*%T out of my hair. "Toss-a-rammmmmma Mama" is what they oughta call me because I cannot keep my hands out of my hair it feels so good and looks so good and I love my new cut and color sooooooooooo much I WANT TO PLAY I WITH MY HAIR, SO I WILL and I do. See this is the thing, I went a shade lighter to color my roots and not look so Elvira-sque, and the ends were still super dark. Well, Rainbeau lovingly and painstakingly went through and foiled the ends so that I wouldn't feel or look like such a freak with 25 different color of hair on my head---thank you Jesus! Super rich color I got, super awesome treatment and dang.....humble as I am......I look H-Awwwwwwww-T! Yippee Rainbeau, yippee J. Salon, Yippee my new haircut and my new stylist! Happy Hair-tossing Beautifully highlighted Woman. read more

I've had my haircut by Noah Camene here. Check out his own Yelp reviews. I love the cuts I get from him and am so glad I finally found a stylist after trying out so many in Temescal, Rockridge, and Berkeley over the years. read more

I was referred to Alicia by a client of mine a while ago...I am so super loyal to my stylists, but my last one made me a scary shade of blonde that washed me out and gave me doll hair. Alicia Orabella rocks. She works magic on hair with color and cut. Not only is she a real, down to earth, person who is easy to talk to. But she is the ultimate professional AND a super talent. Even though the economy has tanked, and every expense is a struggle, I will stick with Alicia because EVERYTHING is easier when you have great hair. Love her! read more

Seth is da man! When it comes to getting just the right style, Seth has the talented ability to give you what you need. I have gone in requesting one thing (i.e. bangs) and he is honest in saying , No, that won't look right on you." Then he takes the time to see what it is I am looking for in a hairstyle, and he nails it everytime! He is patient and kind and really knows his way around a head of hair. I feel Seth's price is reasonable as well, especially for what he can do! read more

Jo has cut my hair for thirty years. More than anything about my appearance, I get compliments on my hair!!

Prez is my favorite. I have been seeing her since I was a child. She is professional, full of life, and reliable. She gives me valuable input on my hair. She is wonderful to talk to and always has my best interest. If you are looking for unbeatable customer service and an amazing cut/color/perm ask for Prez! read more

Rude and unprofessional. I was extremely disappointed with Seth's service and lack of professionalism. My appointment with him was at 1PM. I came into the salon and waited for him to be finished with his client which I did not mind since I was late myself. After talking for a couple minutes about the kind of cut I wanted, he washed my hair with very hot water while chatting with one of his co-workers the entire time. He did not ask me about the temperature until a few seconds before he had already finished washing my hair. He cut my hair, and after he asked me what I thought - I could immediately see that he had cut my hair a lot shorter than I wanted him to in the back. I was clear in the beginning that this is not how I wanted it. When trying to decide if I should tell him to cut the front a little shorter, he tells me, "You can go home and straighten it to see how it looks, but if you want me to cut the front you should tell me now," and in a nasty tone he continues to say, "because honestly I'm about to miss my lunch." Because this made me so uncomfortable, I told him that if he needed to go to lunch he could do so. I paid him (stupidly) for a mediocre haircut, told him to enjoy his lunch, and to add onto the unprofessionalism he tells me that next time I should arrive on-time because "he's not willing to lose his lunch over it." He really said that. I could not believe he had the audacity to tell me this after he was late for our appointment himself. If you must go to this salon, I HIGHLY advise against going to Seth - this salon should be ashamed at his behavior and poor attitude. read more

Rainbeau can turn a working mom into an elegant diva w/in an hour! She gave my long, temperamental, wavy hair a stylish cut w/ long layers that frame my face & will continue to grow out nicely for the next 4 months. I highly recommend her if you have long hair and/or you are trying to grow yours out. She listens, recommends, fixes, and even teaches! She gave me a few tips on how to blow dry my hair to obtain the same salon style. The 5 minute head massage during my shampoo was divine. A great break from the daily grind. She's also reasonably priced - my cut was $70 + tip, which I consider a bargain for a cut that will last 4 months! read more

I've been a client of Alicia Orabella for 17 years! She is amazing! Love, love, love what she does with color...and she's great about recommending something new if I'm ready for a change. She's honest....if I want a cut and she doesn't think it will frame my face well, she tells me why and explains what cut would be the most flattering and easy to style. If you want a great cut, beautiful color/highlights, schedule an appointment with Alicia! read more

EDIT (September 12, 2012): Seth is no longer at J Salon. I'm very happy to finally find a hair stylist who is as talented as Seth is at J Salon! I've been jumping from salon to salon over the past few years trying to find the perfect hair stylist, someone who is talented, experienced, and listens to their customer. I brought a photo in for reference, Seth gave me great advice/expectations on how the style would look like on my thick hair, and gave me a fantastic hair cut. I couldn't be happier. He didn't take off more length than we discussed. The other positive yelp reviews are spot on about Seth and his ability to give great cuts. His price is very reasonable. I can finally stop experimenting with salons! I highly recommend Seth. read more

Ester is one of the best stylists I have ever had. Fantastic color and cut. Highly recommended!

At the risk of having to wait even longer for appointments, I have to say Seth is amazing. He's been cutting my hair for over 10 years. Occasionally, I can't get an appointment with him soon enough, so I'll go to another stylist. Bad idea. I've learned to book in advance and wait patiently for the "Hair Whisperer" to tame my unruly hair, which is wavy and grows in many opposing directions. When I have had my hair straightened, he cuts it into perfect long layers. He is just really good at seeing your hair's texture and behavior and cutting accordingly. Additionally, he is a super interesting guy and there is never a dull moment or uncomfortable silence. read more

Seth Ellis at J. Salon is a terrific hair cutter. He doesn't do color or perms, (tho' there are others in this very pleasant salon who do) he just gives great cuts. What makes him REALLY outstanding is his deeper understanding of hair types, what they are and how they behave, what you can change and what you have to work around, and how to use what nature gave you to its fullest advantage. Sometimes that means he has a different take on your hair that you came in with: my advice is to listen carefully, and go with his suggestions. I have never regretted it and I've learned a lot in the process. Short hair or long, Seth rocks! read more

Tsomuka is awesome! She's very professional yet down to earth stylist. She's knowledgeable about appropriate products for men's hair and quite generous of giving advice on how to take care of your hair. My experience was superb and it was totally worth the visit from Alameda! read more

If you are a girl who loves to sport a short cut, Noah give the best hair. I would not go anywhere else and if I ever win a big lottery and I'm going to swoop up him and his family so they can travel the world with me and make sure I have perfect hair everyday. I'm not kidding.... read more

I just recently got my hair cut from Esther. After avoiding getting my hair cut for months, I finally broken down to visit a "real" stylist for an updated look. She came up with some ideas and ran with them. I have thick hair and a lot of it and it did not intimidate Esther. She came up with a style that flattered my round face and that I could still wear up when I am feeling lazy. She took the time to really make my hair look nice and I really appreciated the attentiveness. I get the sense from some stylists that they are trying to rush you out the door, but not with Esther. I love my new 'do and will definitely be back for a follow-up! read more

It's true that I have followed Alicia Orabella on her journey through a number of salons since she first styled an "up-do" for my annual holiday party in the early 90's (photos have thankfully been lost - the "do" was perfect, the outfit left something to be desired), and I will follow her again if she leaves J Salon. But I can honestly say that I love having her here and love the lively and friendly greeting and conversation with Joaquim, Rainbow, and the gang that accompanies my too infrequent visits (dark roots are so late, I know). Gotta love the extensive b&b products lining the shelf - I hope Alicia feels she has found a home that will keep her happy for a few years! read more

I finally found a great stylist for my fine, curly hair. Rainbeau is awesome! She really knows curly hair and does a great job every time I come in which is every 3-4 months. She gives great head massages while shampooing my hair! I love her but she always runs late, sometimes I wait for 15-30 minutes even with an appointment, so that's why only 4 stars. read more

Alicia did a fantastic job cutting & coloring my hair. I felt especially comfortable because she actually teaches other professionals how to color. I'm into that whole extra-professional ability skill set. She was also very sweet, energetic and obviously loves what she does. read more

Esther Silvera is not just a hair stylist she is an artist. With my curly hair it is really difficult to find a hair stylist that can cut curly hair and Esther is THE best. I always place my trust in her to know exactly where to go with my hair and she never disappoints. That is not something I would say lightly. J Salon has a comfortable, chic atmosphere that is very pleasant with a great location on College Ave. You will be in good hands with Esther and J Salon. read more

Alicia Orabella has been my hairstylist since 1996. We've been through many-a hairstyle and color over the years, keeping up with my ever changing mood and "look" of the moment..and she ALWAYS gets it right. Also, I have to say, I often get stopped on the street or in a store by someone complimenting my hair and asking me who my stylist is. Even men passing by, will say..."great hair!" Oh, and I love J Salon, it's the perfect place for her creativity and energy...and the parking is surprisingly easy. read more

Rainbeau is the best! I have thick, curly biracial hair and she is the only one who I trust to tame it. Definitely 5 stars.

Noah Camene is THE BEST of the BEST! Aside from his charm, warm heart, intelligent mind and good looks, Noah is extremely talented with hair. Most people have no idea what to do with my hair (fine but curly). Noah can handle me and I always feel beautiful and new when I leave his chair. I've been going to Noah for about five plus years! He also gives incredible head/neck massages as he washes your hair! And our conversations are always interesting. I highly recommend him! You can make an appointment with him online which is very convenient as well.... read more

I followed Alicia Orabella to J Salon, and would follow her to the ends of the earth. After my former stylist of 14+ years moved out of the area, I think I tried almost every other stylist in the Montclair area until I found Alicia -- and then, as I said, gladly followed her when she moved to J on College. Alicia had also been a Redken color trainer, including at major hair shows, until that was too much for her schedule -- so she *really* knows color. I've had some bad previous experiences with stylists having my color go way too dark (I think it processes faster than normal, or something), and Alicia has it in a very natural-looking and good condition. We've done highlights on occasion, and, again, the result has been great. Her styling is incredible -- she really knows hair and the head, and how to layer hair to get the best style that continues to look fabulous for weeks as it grows out. She's never pushy about selling products -- so for those of you complaining about hard-sell stylists, see Alicia! Alicia is a consummate professional, extremely capable, AND very, very friendly, natural and NICE! The atmosphere of the salon is pleasant, relaxed and friendly. Lively but not noisy. read more

Joachim and Anthony ROCK! I have had my hair cut by one of the two of them for over 8 years now. I have worn everything from a cropped do to long layers and been exceptionally happy with all of the results. People stop me regularly to ask who cuts my hair and all of the many friends whom I have referred have been exceptionally happy as well. Priced in the $65-75 range and well worth every penny. read more

Seth at J Salon is a great as it gets! I wouldn't have anyone else cut my hair. Seth has been cutting my hair for about 10 years and I always walk out happy. He listens to what I want, but also has ideas about what will look good and what my hair will do if cut a certain way. Besides Seth is wonderful to talk to and interesting. I look forward to seeing him every time. Thanks Seth!! read more

Seth has been cutting my hair for years and it is fabulous each and every time. I need to look professional for work, but I don't want a dowdy haircut. Seth has worked with me to come up with styles that are equally appropriate at the office or at Bakesale Bettys. People I don't know walk up to me and ask where I get my hair cut, so it's not just me who likes it. The salon is friendly and as I look around I like what the other stylists are doing, but Seth is still my to-to guy. He's easy going and a profound thinker with varied interests, so the hour will go fast. read more

Esther is absolutely amazing; a true hair artist. I went from long to short before meeting Esther, and though I liked having short hair, I couldn't seem to get the "right" cut for me. Esther took the time to look, listen, evaluate, play, and create the short cut that was PERFECT for me. I continue to be thrilled. read more

I am SO grateful to a friend for telling me about Alicia Orabella who is both a stylist and colorist. I even followed her from another salon to J Salon. My color is wonderful. And now I am experimenting with going from blonde to natural salt and pepper. She is making the transition so easy and beautiful. I prefer longer hair, so she cuts and shapes just enough to keep it looking fresh. After I had surgery I was out of the routine for a while. I emailed her to let her know I would be back ASAP. Truth. And I am. And I will stay. Period. Find something great - stick with it. AND she is a kick to chat with while she works miracles. Go. Sit. Stay. read more

Anthony is by far the best stylist I've been to in years! He cuts my hair to perfection. I get comments from people on the street all of the time and friends tell me I always have a great cut. And his highlights are beyond awesome. He takes such care and time doing it that it turns out beautifully every time. And, he is so much fun!!! read more