I have been a loyal customer of Kendall Barbers for close to 20 years. George and his team personify exemplary customer service. The haircut or trim is always as requested. In addition, the atmosphere feels like a homecoming. If you are an introvert, the barbers will allow you to silently and calmly enjoy being cared for by them. If you are an extrovert, there are numerous opportunities for fascinating conversation with the barbers and other customers. The location is on the East edge of the MIT campus, so Kendall Barbers claims as customers many MIT students, faculty, and staff. You may be talking with an HVAC technician from one of the nearby hotels, or engaging with an MIT professor who is a Nobel laureate! I suggest booking your appointment online, but walk-ins are also welcome . read more

Only giving 2 stars because the staff is very friendly. Booked an appointment online which was easy. I explained what I wanted to the barber and ended up with a high and tight which was not what I wanted at all...I asked about their Yelp check in for new customers getting a $20 haircut and they told me it was a scam and not real. That is weird considering the promotions on Yelp are usually made by the actual business and not a third part but whatever. I didn't complain and paid the full amount + a tip but will not be returning. read more

Unfortunate to leave a poor review, but this was probably one of the worst haircuts ive ever received. Staff was kind enough to take me despite not having an appointment, and the barber was very kind taking me in and cutting my hair. But the actual haircut is what made me give 1 star. I asked for a low taper style of haircut at a 3, but my barber just heard 3 and shaved my entire side and back at a 3, like I was in boot camp getting clean shaven. Once that happened, I asked to even out the top which is when he started chopping the top of my hair with clippers with zero care and attention. I was truly shocked. After he'd cut my hair I thanked him for his service and left a tip which totalled to $50 for a cut that lasted about 5 minutes. I have been getting negative comments about my haircut and feel truly embarassed to walk around everyday. Do not come here if you want a quality haircut. read more

When Keene Barber closed because of the building renovation, and then during the pandemic, I was at a complete loss. Beside the fact that George and his crew are the best, and give equal attention to your hair no matter what kind of cut you're getting, I have never felt so welcome and at home in a barbershop. The camaraderie is something special. So when I saw that it was open again in a new location, I made an appointment right away. I don't even live or work nearby any more, but I missed them that much! read more

Walked in on a Saturday and was able to get a great haircut & shave from one of their barbers. Very friendly staff

Back open as of Nov 2021! George is the best barber around. Friendly and clean shop now in a brand new location in the alley way behind Legal Seafoods. I have been going there for years prior to the pandemic and its finally back. It was worth the wait. read more

Not worth the risk. Got my haircut here yesterday. I've been a few times and it wasn't bad in the past. The hair dresser today I think had no interest in actually cutting my hair. Besides doing almost everything with one hand and a hair buzzer, making it uneven, and not following what I asked, he was unapologetic about how choppy the cut was. According to him, my hair just "pokes wierd" and the buzzer can never be uneven. I had to ask him cut my hair down an extra layer. Even in doing so, he left it even and with no style. I had a friend trim many of the extra lengths, but attaching a picture for reference. read more

Kendall Barbers - At your own risk. - Barbers Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

All great barbers, go here every time I need my hair cut. It's easy to book, good experiencw, and they all remember your name. Strongly recommend. read more

Went twice to this barber shop because it is close to work and I really wanted it to work. However the first time I went I explained well what I wanted and even pointed out the same haircut on another customer and I ended up with a high and tight. So when I was in a pinch I went back months later with pictures of me with a good haircut; exactly what I wanted. I still ended up with a high and tight. If you are in the military or law enforcement, this barber is quick and reasonably priced. However, if you want something other than a high and tight, go else where. read more

I should probably explain my haircut history before I start into the discussion on this place. My senior year of college, just weeks before my graduation, I needed a haircut. I went to the local barber, apparently a former army barber who could only cut buzz cuts. I didn't figure this out until after he was finished. Epic fail. In my years afterwards, I've had a varying degree of success with barbers and hair-types, some outstanding (State Street Barbers), some haphazard (local WMass barbers) and some that were, um, baaaad (hi, Supercuts!). Once I found State Street Barbers, I thought I'd stick with it permanently. However, it can be tough to get out there, and it's also a little on the expensive side at times. What is one to do when you just want a quick cut? Hence, Kendall Barbers. Located right next to the Kendall-MIT Red Line stop, it's incredibly convenient. And while the hours are a little bit more of a problem, you can easily be in and out in 20 minutes on a lunch break, all for about $20 after tip. The cut can be a little on the short side (but people seem to like it, so I'm happy about that). They also do the straight razor thing to the back of the neck that all the kids don't talk about. Overall it's a painless experience, all for a decent price. And they also have a cool vacuum that sucks up all of the excess hair so that you don't spend the rest of the day repopulating society with your now shorn hair follicles. Simply put, it's a dang good barber place. read more

just to reinforce my review, and confirm im not totally making this up. here is a response i got back from owner/worker whatever. you'd think a message of prolific apologies and something like please give us a chance. i guess the customer is just always wrong at this establishment. and yes keep blaming the customer for messing up the haircut, its not your services at all, its all my fault :) from Lisa B of Kendall Barbers: I am not surprised with your review,totally understand your anger, since I did take off more than you wanted, but let's be honest.You were so unclear about what you wanted in the first place and you never said don't take anything off the top. In regard to our hours, it is NOT laziness, there just comes a time where you have to say no, since people would be coming in always at the very last minute and you know what? We have lives and famalies to get home to...I know that's hard for someone like you to understand. I try to make all my customers happy, but sometimes you just can't. And just for the record...I like my job alot and have been in this shop for 19 yrs, but I've learned after 37 years in this business, you just can't please everyone. read more

I'm not a fan of haircuts, because I always feel like I just got the worst one of my life. But now that I work near Kendall, I showed up to this place based on the Yelp reviews. I am pleased. It is a family affair that has been there in the same place since 1934. They have the same register from that same day. Which is so great. I chatted with the gentleman with the white beard about straight razors while I got a fantastic scissor cut. Well worth the 20 you'll spend. read more

This is by far the absolute barber I've ever been too. I love it there. The staff is really, really awesome and always have something to talk about with you while they cut your hair. They also have a great selection of magazines that you can read in case you have to wait since it's a walk in only but usually the line is very short. Sometimes I skip my turn just so I can read some of the articles I started haha. They give you a cut for $17 bucks which isn't bad. I always tip 'em by giving them a $20 bill. They know how to cut hair and my favorite part of the cut is when they use warm shaving cream and a razor blade to square your neck. I just love the feel of the blade and that is very authentic. I can't describe it, it's an experience of it's own. I am a proud, loyal customer of theirs and they deserve my business because they are the best. read more

Hands down worst $$ range barbershop around Boston. If it were at a Supercuts price, then sure why not four stars. But it isn't. I went to the barber to the far left, next to the window. He was staring out of the window half the time when he was cutting my hair, resulting in a cut way too short and uneven. Maybe he was just out of it that day, but in that case he should have just not come into work. Worst, the female stylist in the middle was terribly annoying. All she did was gab and ask her customers intrusive questions. Talk about an awkward social setting. The only real plus is the location, which is right off of the T and near the MIT campus. read more

George is a very well experienced barber - he's literally the best of the best. If you want a great haircut and like to have a nice conversation, this is the place to visit. read more

Oh, how I wish I could rate this place by barber. While Lisa consistently delivers a quality cut, George's performance has been spotty in my experience. After my last visit, I left feeling quite bald because George took off much more than I requested; in contrast, I've never left with such a feeling after seeing Lisa. Nonetheless, the more specific guidance you provide (razor number, blending, etc), the more likely you are to leave with the cut you expected. That all said, the results are far superior to any chain barber shop, and prices are reasonable at $17 for a basic mens cut. Service is always fast--even when there is a wait--an endorsement supported by the many workers from area businesses who stop in during their lunch hour. An added bonus, and a bit of a throwback, is their use of hot foam and a straight razor to shave your neck. I must admit I was a bit nervous at first, having not seen such a technique in some time, but the results are astonishing. Since I generally wear polos and collared shirts for work, this approach is genuinely appreciated. read more

Being Taiwanese, I blessed/cursed with Asian hair that is rough and does not look at all good overly short in any way. Barbers I've been to in the LA/OC area have usually been a hit or miss (though more hits with Asian salons). So when I moved to Boston, I was in search of my next local barber. For $17, I got an excellent cut with a #4 trim and it didn't have me look like I just got out of boot camp. Not too short but just right. She even did a razer neck shave which is always a nice feel finish. This could very well be my regular to make me look like Andy Lau, who I have no idea is but Maria V. is apparently obsessed with! read more

I've been seeing George for haircuts for about 2 years now. He is, simply, the best of the best. I always get an excellent haircut and it's enjoyable to chat with him. I highly recommend Kendall Barbers! read more

Went here a bunch of times when I was working in Cambridge. I had good and bad experiences. The younger gentleman, in the photo, took his time and was very thorough. He used a straight razor on the neck, which I love. Sadly, I'd get home and the cut would inevitably be uneven and the razor was generally dull enough to cause discomfort. The woman working would never cut my hair short enough, and took so little time that I was legitimately shocked when I left the chair. She actually scolded me once for getting my hair cut too close to a formal event, even though that's exactly how I decided I wanted it. I would actually sit and wait for the younger dude, even if her chair was empty, because of her shitty attitude. That's the first time I've ever refused an open in chair in 30 years of getting my hair did. YMMV, as people actually waited for her chair, but I'm glad I no longer work in the area and can finally write a review. I really wanted to like Kendall barbers, as the younger guy was really nice, but I just can't recommend them. read more

Forget Mapquest it got me lost the first time I typed in the address, this place is right by the Kendall Post Office. Polite, professional and courteous, I will definitely be returning to this place and would recommend it to others working/studying near the kendall square area. PS - I am not very imaginitive about hair, this guy made me look great (I say 'guy' because I am an idiot and didnt ask his name) Note - Cash/check only - no credit cards. read more

A solid barbershop. My cut cost $17, which is on the pricey side (I'm used to Chinese shops in Northern California charging $12), but I needed a quick cut since I haven't been home for a while and had a job interview coming up. Worth the money for sure. read more

I am originally from Brazil and relocated to the US in the end of September. I am really picky about my hair and found out that getting it cut at a hair salon could cost be a lot of money. So I decided to give Kendall Barbers a try. And I'm glad I did. Lisa was the one that cut my hair. I didn't know what to ask since it was my first hair cut in the US so I asked for a regular cut. She looked at my hair and said: "are you sure? you probably want a scissors cut". Wait - I thought a regular cut used scissors? Hahaha... I was lucky! Overall, the cut was pretty decent. The conversation, however, was amazing! Lisa is very outgoing and started telling me about a trip she made to Argentina and Brazil and how wonderful it was. We talked about food, wine, waterfalls, and many other things. I paid $20 + tip for this hair cut. I will definitely return to get my hair cut (with scissors!!!!) by Lisa again. The other two barbers also seemed to be skilled, especially the older one, which had a really nice, well trimmed, white beard. I'd recommend Kendall Barbers to anyone looking for a decent haircut at a reasonable price. read more

I've been going to Kendall Barbers now for about 5 or 6 years every 6 weeks. I no longer live or even work in the city but I make a point to come in just for the haircut. These guys do an awesome job and are personable. There is a great old school feel to the shop. It's a typical mans barber shop that happens to be smack dab in the middle of granola hippy town. I strongly recommend these guys. Relaxing with no rush and the barber shop anxious folks (you know the type) seem to warm up and have a good time too. Did I mention that I drive 25 miles into the city just for a haircut from these guys? They can't be beat and will remember everything you tell them after your first visit (hairstyle/length, etc.) read more

Who would cut my hair if it were not for Mark (and Dave) and the others who are so amazing in this great place. I abso love going here - once every 2 months or so and getting a full buzz - Mark knows the routine - he cuts my hair, lets me chat a bit and I go catch my train to South Station. Been doing this for 5+ years and won't cut my hair anywhere else!!!!! read more

David (gentleman with gray hair) has been my barber for over a year now. He got it right the first time and he gets it right every time. I am extremely picky and have gone through many barbers. Apparently having thin blonde hair is a nightmare for barbers too. First time I came there I just asked him for: "please not too much off the top, so when I comb it, the hair stays", "thin out the back, round", scissor cut. All I have to say to David now is: "this is two months of shag". Then quietly, with no needless chit chat, he takes care of business. I love that! Are hours short? Yeah. But this is not Supercuts, this is a family business. Don't expect chain stuff out of them. I usually go at 2PM, 1 or 2 guys waiting, 30 minutes later I am out. Most important to me - my wife loves every cut I have received. Wife happy, sure as hell I am happy :-) From what I have observed in a year: younger guy is better at shorter clipper cuts and he is darn fast and efficient. Nice lady there is better for clientele with gray or thinning hair. David is more for those of us who like a classic style business look - sharp, clean, nothing goofy! read more

This place works for me. I keep my hair very short, which means I need my haircuts often (at least once in three weeks, and often more) and it's not hard to do a decent job of cutting it. I don't have much spare time, so I appreciate a barber that can get me in and out quickly. Kendall Barbers delivers on all these counts. My haircuts take less than 30 minutes, waiting included. It is conveniently close to my office, so I don't have to sweat the schedule. And at their prices, it doesn't wreck my budget if I drop by twice a month. I happen to like how Lisa cuts my hair, too. It looks good both immediately and in the weeks to come. This is obviously highly individual, and YMMV. But like I said, it works for me. read more

I'm an MIT student, so this location is perfect (right next to campus). The barbers always remember exactly what they did with my hair the last time. I'm clueless about hair, and always go to Kendall Barbers. Small town atmosphere makes me comfortable while I wait. This place is far superior to the pretentious barbers that work on campus. The price is higher ($17.00) than at home, but I guess it's been a while since haircuts were $10.00. read more

#3 on the sides blended to a #6 on top. No muss, no fuss. Mark gave me a great cut and is one cool guy to talk with. Definitely going back again! read more

Just had Mark give me a good haircut, the hot foam is definitely a good surprise at the end of the haircut. Will definitely comeback here in a few weeks. Mp read more

I got a haircut with George and although he did give me a descent haircut he disregarded what I asked for. So I got a buzzcut. If you want a buzzcut, this is the place for you. The good: 1) George was super friendly and I came in three minutes before they were going to close and he still cut my hair. I understand coming in right before they closing is inconsiderate, so I suppose I deserved the haircut I got. 2) George gave me some helpful skincare tips. The Bad: 1) It seems like George had a haircut in his mind that he was going to cut regardless of what I asked for. I asked for a fade from a 1.5, he faded from a .5. I asked him to leave the front long, he didn't. I told him not to shave the back of my neck short (I get ingrown hairs). He shaved the back of my neck down to the skin. I'm new to the area and have been making the rounds to find a new barber. From my experience I'd rank barbers I've used in this order. 1. Nu Image 2. MIT COOP 3. Kendall Barbers read more

I've been to a lot of different barbers across the country and you'll never consistently get a better hair cut than if you go to a local shop with a barber that will remember you when you come back. I've been in the area for a while and tried stopping by here once, but its cash only. I didn't have any cash on me and didn't have a debit card with me. I've tried a few other shops in the area and wasn't impressed. Made it in with today and brought some work with me in case there was a wait. I only had two in front of me and waited about 15 minutes at 11:00. Danny cut my hair and I couldn't be happier. I've had months of crappy hair cuts and while he couldn't fix it in one trip it already looks tons better. One caveat - I got a short medium fade. According to the reviews they have problems getting anything other than fade's right. I can say that the two people in front of me didn't get a fade, got exactly what they asked for, and left happy. read more

Not for women! Yikes. I got the worst haircut I have ever had in my life. It is actually hard to believe how bad it is. Only became apparent the next day, after the blow dry collapsed. when Uneven and straggly all over. I have given myself better haircuts. read more

Two experiences here, one fine, one quite bad. First time the shop was largely empty and I got a quick cut. Pleasant conversation, and good value. The cut was average and no frills. No straight razor work or thinning, but nothing wrong either. Second time the shop was busy. The barbers rudely told one customer that he couldn't leave and come back in a few minutes, and then sharply pointed to the only seat, told him to clear off a coat, and wait. Fine- that's fair, and that's the general rule at a barbershop...but be a gentleman about it. The cut, more importantly, was terrible. Too long at the whorl, way too short at the sides; The guy shaved off my sideburns after I specifically asked him to keep them low, and the back and side lines were crooked and uneven. This was flat out the worst cut I've ever had, and although they were busy, that's not acceptable. Won't be back. read more

Do yourself a favor and wait the extra 5-10 minutes for the male barber (who should get 5 stars and does a great job) who cuts on the leftmost chair and avoid the female barber with the glasses (who is impatient, mediocre and should get 2 stars). Follow my advice and you will get an excellent cut for your money! read more

I just got back from my first hair cut at this place, and I will definitely be going back. The barbers are friendly, and take their time and focus on the details. Granted, I was the only customer in the shop. But the warm shaving cream and straight edge neck shave sealed the deal - I will be coming back here for a long time. read more

I get here at 9am which is the time they are supposed to open. They are closed. There is a sign on the door saying they'll open at 10:30. I go. Return at 10:30. Still closed. I wait until 11. Still, no one, while customers come, wait with me, and leave. Finally, I leave too. read more

Was visiting Cambridge from out of town; came here to get a quick haircut and it was honestly one of the worst haircuts I've ever had in my life. People that work here were extraordinarily nice - including the gentleman who cut my hair - but the way he was cutting my hair, it was as though he was in the running for the Guiness Book of World Record for the fastest haircut. May work for you, doesn't work for me. read more

George does a great job. Friendly too. The lady in the middle chair has an attitude and is not very friendly. But ask for George and wait for him - especially if you're a guy - and you won't be disappointed. read more

Been coming here to get my haircut for over four years now and always leave thinking I look great _and_ come home being told by my wife that I look great. My regular hairstylist is Lisa, but I've had my haircut by everyone at Kendall Barbers. Lisa is always friendly and attentive to details. As a matter of fact, she cut my hair for my wedding! I highly recommend getting your haircut here -- these guys are professionals. read more

I usually come here when I have time but sometimes I'm in a rush and go to Johns in Central. Today, I was in a rush and went to johns. I'm 95% I have either ringworm or the worst case of razor burn I've ever seen. Regardless, it's Kendall Barbers from here on out!! read more