My friend has been coming here for years and I finally decided to try it out! I had a great time and I am so glad that Sei was the one cutting my hair. He had great attention to detail and really took his time on my haircut even though I was the last customer of the day and he must have been tired. I arrived at 5:30 and only waited two minutes before he called me to be seated. I finished at about 6:35, which was incredible because I usually am rushed through my haircut at another place I've been to where it's 35ish min. I prefer to take my time and I felt very relaxed and not rushed here. Also, the space is bright and clean with about five chairs for haircuts and three chairs for washing hair. I showed Sei a photo of what I wanted and he offered his guidance as well which I took. Then we went to wash my hair, and I thought it was neat that they have reclining chairs. After the wash, Sei didn't fully blow dry my hair, but rather he would cut a little and then blow dry a little. After he was done, he immediately swept up the hair on the floor (I appreciated the cleanliness of the salon). Then, he wheeled out a cart with about four round hair brushes and spent maybe 25 minutes giving me a blow out which was so soothing and honestly made me almost fall asleep. At the end, I paid for the cut ($99.30 including tax) on my card and tipped in cash. read more

Consistent great Japanese style hair cuts! I've been coming here for more than 10 years. Great quality and zen vibes :) read more

Very professional and very satisfying with a result all the time. But someday in the week, a lady artist initial M seems not in a good mood. We don't want to see her treating a staff like a salve. Because I understand some Japanese, her way of instruction was rude and unkind. Hopefully M-san changes her attitude to be a better way. Otherwise everything is so great. I will continue to go on the days when I don't have to see her. read more

I have never felt more comfortable at a salon. Sei was gentle, kind, and accommodating. His years of experience are clear and the magical haircut and glow I left with was so refreshing. Thank you to the whole team there for a lovely service. read more

I've been a client for 15 years had 3 different stylist there all great . Very friendly atmosphere everyone greets you hello and good bye . Shampooing is relaxing also. Highly recommend this place read more

I got an uneven haircut from my previous hairdresser which was fixed. They listened to what I was asking for-- I just wish I got the name of the person who cut my hair, he was older and had a small ponytail! Highly recommend read more

I really recommend, my hairstylist was sooo nice, she taught me how to do a few updos and she was very focused when cutting my hair. Really really good experience. Usually when I go to a new hairsalon I'm a bit stressed, but here was the first time that I go to a new hair stylist and I am sure I'm in good hands. Thank you very much Omae!!! read more

don't want to risk not being able to get an appointment, but it is worth noting how great this salon is. I've only ever gotten haircuts here and they do a terrific job. one of the first salons where I can just walk in and ask for a "trim" - which to me, means, cutting it in the same style it is already in - and, without me saying anything, the stylist can accurately and precisely determine exactly how my hair was cut (even if not by them). sadly have never experienced a shoulder massage (maybe Becuase I have only gone during and after the pandemic??). hoping they bring that back! read more

Sei Tomoko continues to uphold its excellent standard in times of COVID. It has always been not the easiest to get an appointment in this salon (which is a good thing!) Staff is very polite and considerate. They have ample hand sanitizer which they encourage you to use upon entrance. There is also no-touch temperature check when you first walk in. They are charing extra $3 for PPE which in my opinion is totally reasonable - staff wears N95, plastic gown, as well as face shield. Given the inherent risks of infection when you are so close to many customers, it is better for everyone if staff is well protected. Other changes in COVID times including quick shampoo and quick dry, single use gowns for customers, as well as skipping offers of tea (so you don't take off your mask) and massage (minimize contact). Though it is not quite the usual Sei Tomoko experience, safety is first and I still felt incredibly taken care of given all their considerations. There were also a couple UV light boxes to sanitize tools as well as a jar with tools in antiseptic solution. On top of this, I had an amazing haircut with Sei, who is incredibly skilled and truly listens to what his customers want. My hair now looks exactly what I wanted it to - five stars! read more

Always a great experience. This is the only salon I trust. They are professional and efficient. I was in and out in 45 minutes. I showed the stylist a picture of what I was looking for and she nailed it. read more

Sei Tomoko Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - New York, New York

After more than a dozen wonderful haircuts over the past six years at the W4th location, I am so upset at the experience I had today at the 13th Street location with an older man named Sei (who is the owner, I believe). In a nutshell, he abruptly ended my haircut when his next client arrived, and told me I'd have to schedule another appointment if I wanted my haircut finished. Here's what happened: I arrived early for my appointment. Sei washed my hair, trimmed it, dried it, and then -- instead of shaping the ends dry (as Japanese salons typically do), or letting me check the back of the haircut with a mirror -- he abruptly removed the cape and told me to pay the receptionist, because his next client had arrived. I was in disbelief, "I don't think this haircut is done - my hair still looks like a bell!" He told me he was done with me, and I'd have to make another appointment if I wanted to finish my haircut because his next client was there. I asked if I should wait until the rescheduled appointment to pay (this wasn't a threat, but a question... I've never had a stylist not complete my haircut!). Sei overheard my question as he was washing his next customers hair, and yelled across the salon, "If you don't pay me you will not be welcome back here!" I was humiliated, and the receptionist was clearly stunned. As I paid, she quietly said that her next client was running late and offered to fix my hair. She sat me down and took 5 minutes (that was all it took!) to finish the haircut. I was so grateful for her kindness that I hugged her when I left. Meanwhile, Sei ignored me until I left as he worked on his next customer. Going forward, I will stick to the W4th St location and request "anybody but Sei" when making appointments. His behavior today was absurd and unacceptable. read more

Wonderful!!!! This is my new go-to spot. They are so kind, knowledgeable, and talented. All I knew was that I wanted my hair to look healthy without too many layers while I continue to grow it out. They gave me the perfect cut! Maybe the best one I've ever had. I really appreciated the price transparency. While making the appointment, they told me the range. Once I got there, they told me it would be $70 (higher end of the range) which is very fair for how long and thick my hair is as well as how precise they are with the cut. I also enjoyed the tea and the mini massage. Can't wait to come back! read more

This is a review on their insane customer service & policies, and not salon services. I called on a Saturday back in February to make an appointment with Sei because I had heard good things. Someone had just canceled for Sunday, so they gave me their appt. That next morning, a work emergency came up so I called first thing & left a vm asking if it would be possible to reschedule. They later called me back and said I would have to pay a cancellation fee. I was shocked bc no one ever mentioned a cancellation fee when I booked, but also because I had not canceled. So I said I would get someone to cover the work emergency and would come in on time. The woman on the phone said it was too late and that they had booked someone for my spot but I still owed a cancellation fee for "canceling". I tried explaining that I never canceled and I was going to come in if rescheduling wasn't possible but then a man named Sei got on the phone and started yelling and threatening me that if I didn't pay the cancellation fee that I would never be able to go to their salon...and then he hung up the phone on me. But hey, he did me a favor in the long run! Now that I know how insane he is, I dodged a bullet on whatever wackjob he might've done to my hair. read more

I want to think it was when I wrote my first review that I got the best hairstyle (Masae!) that I kept to all my life since. I've gone back to Sei Tomoko three times since and wish every day that they were in California now. I felt confident that I could get an affordable quality stylish haircut there with any stylist. every time I visit New York, I visit Sei Tomoko. read more

Was a very frustrating experience. Had to wait 20 minutes and didn't receive any apology or update. When finally sat down, I explained what I wanted to the hairdresser, but they cut it much shorter than what I explicitly requested and made it much more feminine than either of us were aiming for... I didn't realise how bad it was until I had walked out of the place, unfortunately. After many months at an awkward length, I've been returned to an awkward length and cut and have to go through the process again. Very frustrating experience ESPECIALLY considering the price tag. Only not a 1 star because the hairdresser was friendly and the salon was clean. read more

PROS: great cut, great service, brief massage, free hot tea / water (refilled without me having to ask!), they don't push products on you, VERY clean (floor is swept constantly by a worker during the haircuts so it doesn't pile up on the floor), really professional blow drying (based on me watching them expertly blowdry and style two women with longer hair who had their hair cut) CONS: can't really think of any except that during the 2 hours I was there (includes wait time, since I came early), I didn't see anyone ever wash/clean their scissors Long version: After much research, I came here to get rid of my long locks in exchange for a pixie cut. My stylist, as per my request, was Nanako (also called Nana), who accepts student ids for a discounted hair cut (not all stylists at the salon do). I came in with several pictures of what I wanted, and she was able to look at my face and the texture of my hair and tell me what would realistically work for me before I got my hair washed. The shampoo smelled heavenly. I think you get one wash with shampoo and one with conditioner, but it could just be shampoo twice. You also get a nice hot towel around your neck and a brief scalp massage during the rinse. During the toweling off, your ears are wiped clean. When I went back to the chair, I received the briefest of brief shoulder massages (2-3 minutes?). Then, Nanako got to work. I really like that she didn't just grab a chunk of my hair in a ponytail and chop it off. I think she realized that with this drastic of a change, the conservative approach was necessary. She clipped my hair into sections expertly (no pain at the roots! no wet chunks of hair flopping in my face!) and began cutting. She worked on the layers slowly and it took a while before it was the length that I wanted it, but I didn't have to say anything. Nanako was a very focused and you can tell that she really sees the details by the way she works. This was also the first time I've had my hair cut that the stylist didn't overdo it and take off more hair than I wanted. After she finished and I gave my approval, she took me back to the sink to rinse my head off. Once most of the stray hairs had been washed off my neck and scalp, she blow dried my hair and styled it with wax and a little mousse. Because I told her I'd never had my hair this short before, she showed me a few styling options and gave me some tips on how to manage my new cut. Overall I was very happy with my experience, and I would happily go back to Nanako. Total cost = $42 + tip. read more

Sei Tomoko Salon - from long hair to pixie cut thanks to my stylist Nanako - Hair Salons Near Me - New York, New York

I went here for the first time when my long time salon closed due to the pandemic. It was highly recommended by several people in an online neighborhood forum gor great haircuts. I was not disappointed. I got a wonderful cut for my medium length straight hair that has kept its shape as it has grown out and neede only air drying at home. I am going back. It is a bonus that the East Village location is close to my apartment, but I would be willing to travel further for this level of service. So pleased to have found this place. read more

Mutsumi is an angel. So sweet and understood exactly what I wanted. I really appreciated her advice on the style I wanted and followed it! I'm glad I did! The shop is so clean, peaceful and the staff is so hospitable. Will definitely be back for my perm in a couple of weeks. Thanks for the new look and restaurant tips, Mutsumi!! read more

Sei Tomoko Salon - Thanks Mutsumi! Before vs After. Bangles and flat vs light and dynamic! - Hair Salons Near Me - New York, New York

I've gone to Yuu at Sei Tomoko twice now and I can honestly say it's the best haircut I've ever had. 1. the price is unbeatable 2. the service is exceptional, prompt service, a mini massage, great products, clean environment. 3. The actual "product" of my hair cut has been top notch, she understood what I wanted. For background - my hair is semi curly but I blow it out most of the time. I only got a haircut, no dye, and I go to the salon 3-4 times a year. read more

I've been going to the 13th street location for years. Mutsumi has always cut my hair and she's fantastic! I recently went for the first time since Covid and I was very impressed with their efforts in regards to safety and PPE. You are given hand sanitizer before you go in and get a temperature check. The stylist wears an N95 mask and face shield, and also a plastic gown. All surfaces are sterilized prior to the next customer, including the chairs you sit on to wait (which are outside). I highly recommend Sei Tomoko and especially Mutsumi! She's so sweet and an amazing hairdresser. read more

I received a Japanese straightening perm and a haircut here about a month ago. The haircut turned out great but the straightening perm has been causing me loads of stress. I waited a couple of days to wash my hair as instructed and while washing, I noticed the hair on the top middle of my head (where the part basically ends) felt very crunchy and wiry. I was visiting from out-of-state and was only in NYC for a week so I quickly returned to the salon to have her check on it and she told me it was normal. I've had straightening perms before and never had my hair feel like that so I was skeptical. I trusted her because she seemed so dismissive of it like it's nothing unusual even after reminding her that I'm leaving in a couple of days so I can't come back if something does happen. Turns out it was the start of some serious breakage from essentially the roots of my hair. From what I'm reading, it seems to be a side effect of over-processing. Obviously, there's nothing that can be done about it now and I just have to wait till it grows back. Luckily, I have a lot of hair so it's not super noticeable and it's only in one area but it's still unacceptable (especially when you consider how much these treatments cost). So, if you're just going for a haircut, they're probably fine but I definitely don't recommend coming here for a straight perm for obvious reasons... read more

This would be 5 stars except for some reason I was told the haircut was $40 on the phone for a student. When I came in - I suppose I was the last appointment of the day - I was charged $55 upfront since they wanted to swipe my card before closing their books for the day. Given it's a Japanese establishment I wasn't sure if this meant the tip was included but I made sure to ask at the end of my fantastic haircut and service. It did not include tip so I made sure to bring cash in the following day, as they were closing. While they were appreciative the next day and even seemed surprised, I still wonder why I was told a different price on the phone. The haircut and service (massage included) was fantastic, though, and I am sure I'll be back next time but will clarify what exactly I am being charged. read more

My favorite salon that I've been going to for 5+ years. I actually don't have one stylist that I go to but I always get my cuts by whomever the junior stylist is for that day. $45-$50 is exactly how much I want to spend for my trims and straight forward haircuts. The salon has about 5 cutting stations and 3 washing stations. It's rare that you can walk in and get your hair did so I highly recommend making a reservation. All cuts include a wash, a mini head and shoulder massage, and a blow dry. I've never done more than a cut but I often see dyes and such being done. They also do men's. read more

Bf made an appointment here for a hair cut. He was disappointed twice by the two salons in k-town, so decided to try a japanese salon. The inside is very clean, minimalistic, and has a relaxing atmosphere. I napped a little bit while waiting for his wash & cut. Definitely loved the complimentary barley green tea. Bf didn't realize it at the time, but the owner and president of the company cut and styled his hair to a professional look. The owner listened to what style the bf wanted. He definitely took his time with the little details at the end. Perfect! Don't forget to bring your student ID to get a discount. Bf forgot his, but the register lady gave him the discount anyways for showing a recent school email on his phone. Very nice of her and will definitely remember to bring the school ID for next month's haircut. They also sell beauty and facial products and offer other services like massages and facials. Currently seeking haircutting models Sunday & Monday evenings- $10 read more

Before I say anything negative about this place, let me say that their manners and service were great. In addition to this, the salon was clean and bright. Now my complaints: - The receptionist was a lady who spoke a bit too softly. It was difficult to hear what she was saying and I unfortunately had to ask her to repeat herself quite a bit. (again, she was very nice throughout our exchanges though!) - I'm assuming I may have gotten an apprentice? The lady who cut my hair was very nice and asked if I wanted to follow the previous hair cut. I agreed and she quickly got to work. By the end of the haircut, it seemed she did literally nothing. No clippers when I asked for a fade/short sides, no detail or any customizations. She didn't do anything except literally "following the haircut" and trimmed less than a quarter inch off my hair. I kept asking her to cut the sides shorter but she never took out the clippers and only cut with the scissors. For $40, this was the biggest waste of money for a mens haircut. For these prices, you'd expect at least some skill, but it was no better than when my mother cut my hair when I was a child. It really is a shame as the vibe and environment were great but for an asian male haircut, there are far better for the price. read more

Having been recently out of a job but still needing a good haircut before starting a new one (woohoo!), I did a thorough search on Yelp for salons that had great reviews with budget-friendly prices. I am pretty picky about my hair, as it is one of the best physical assets I've got. And according to a recent research, men apparently notice a woman's hair first, before anything else, so I had to make sure I had an awesome haircut. I made an appointment and asked for a stylist that would be good at cutting long hair. Akiko was my stylist, and she was fantastic--she took the time to listen to what I was looking for, and made sure that she wouldn't be cutting off more than 1-inch, which would have been enough to get rid of the dry ends. Then came the shampoo and scalp massage, which was done by an assistant. The chair was motorized, so all I had to do was sit down and the chair zoomed back to position my hair for the sink. It was probably the most comfortable washing experience I've had. And no water ever splashed on my face. Wow. The assistant took me back to the chair and informed me that he will be giving me a neck and shoulder massage. What a service! Once I was all relaxed, it was time for the haircut. Akiko was very friendly and down-to-earth, and was an absolute pleasure while she was cutting my hair. After the cut was done on my wet hair, it was time to dry my hair and check the cut. Akiko really took her time to make sure that my haircut was even on my dried hair. The whole experience took about an hour and a half, and I looked great! But the real test is when you do your own hair the next day...and just from finger drying my hair, my hair fell into its place perfectly. The most amazing part was that the final bill was only $45!!! Usually for long haircuts for women, most places charge $70 and up. And they treated me like a VIP. Thank you Akiko and Sei Tomoko Salon crew for giving me luscious locks! I can't wait to come back in a few months! read more

Sei Tomoko is not a fancy upscale salon, but the Japanese stylists are attentive, the salon is well kept, and the value can't be beat. Haircuts for women start at $30, which is an incredible deal for a non-Super Cuts salon. The stylist herself washes your hair with a great scalp massage. She also discusses in detail what you want and gives her opinion on what should be done for a healthy stylish look. There's also complimentary tea, and a cute min pin dog to play with while you're waiting. Be advised: They accept credit cards for services and products, but tips are cash only. read more

This place is a gem! Located around the corner from the Momofuku empire, Sei Tomoko on 13th is a sleek stylish salon that has given me the best cuts in years at a killer price. I've had my hair cut by quite a few stylists here, including the owner and I've never been disappointed and have never paid more that $50! They give a great shampoo and massage before they chop away and the results are exactly what you want. The only downside is that it's hard to get a last minute haircut, so make reservations in way advance! read more

This is a long overdue review. I have mixed feelings about Sei Tomoko, i've had great cuts and then i've had a (singular) cut that drove me to tears for the first time in two years. The salon is extremely clean, modern, and peaceful. The receptionist is friendly and always asks to take your coat and bag, and offers you anything from green tea to coffee. Hairwashes are good as they come. No serious head massage is given but I love the smell of the shampoo and conditioner they use--something almond based as far as I can tell. Yu is an amazing hairdresser. She listens to what you want but isn't afraid to give you recommendations based on your grooming habits. I told her i'm pretty low maintenance and don't enjoy blow drying my hair every day. She offered up two options: an edgier style that required more primping and something simple but low maintenance. Naturally, I chose the latter. From what i've heard from my male friends, Yu is good with short hair. My hair is on the shorter side so I feel comfortable going to her. She did an amazing job with neatening my bob up, my cut lasts for months and I never feel the need to go in for trims until absolutely necessary (4 months later). She's also a great conversationalist and I never feel awkward telling her about my personal life LOL. But also, she respects your need for silence and i've had haircuts when i've simply sat there for an hour staring into space/ reading a magazine. My terrible experience was with a man that I have not seen at the salon since. I asked him for a simple hair cut, just a long bob with some layers because my hair is pretty flat (goddamn azn genes). When I looked up at the mirror it didn't look like he had created many layers because it looked really matte and boring so I asked him to change it up a little. A few minutes later I was in tears. Not even kidding, I looked like shaggy from Scooby Doo. He ran a razor through the base layer of my hair (right where it ends at your neck) and the layers were flipping out in different directions. I left in a hurry because I was so traumatized!!! I really regret tipping him. You know how your friends generally sugar coat their words if you ask them how you look, well mine just straight up told me I looked bad--that's how bad the haircut was. I mean if it's any indication I hadn't cried that hard since my ex boyfriend broke up with my two years ago. So the next day I went back and Yu saved me. She wouldn't even let me tip her because she recognized how horrible I looked and felt. I had to tie up my hair for half a year but at least it grew out in a decent shape. I can't say enough about Yu's abilities and friendly disposition--I highly recommend her. read more

I was in dire need of good cut but also not breaking my wallet. So, my friend recommended this place to me (we're both extremely picking about our cuts!) so we both scheduled an appt to go together. Now, my friend and I have had bad experiences with cuts, so i'm very weary any time i try out a new place. Let me just say that while waiting for our scheduled appointment, ALL THE LADIES walked out with an amazing cut ever. I like simple, layered cut. A simple cut that can still make you look and feel fabulous is a job well done! I had the stylist whose name started with an 'N'-- she had short black hair. My friend had Yu. We both walked out feeling awesome. Let me just say that the person who gave 'N' a bad review did a darn job on my hair! She was very precise every since inch... no.. millimeter! UGH! I'm totally going back there again! Note* Do make an appointment! They are veryy busy! read more

I love Sei Tomoko. I tried some other salons in this price range, most are more expensive, and nothing - NOTHING - compares to the service and quality I've come to expect from Sei Tomoko. My husband went there after it was recommended by a friend. Then, both of my sisters went there and got amazing haircuts so I decided to give it try, too. My husband said I should get an appointment with Mika and I was pleasantly surprised when I went there for the first time after having had two or three really bad and expensive haircuts from other salons. Don't expect to get in and out of this place in less than an hour. First, you're treated to an amazing scalp massage and shampoo. Then, once you're seated, you get a neck massage. The stylist will cut your hair wet, dry it in whatever style you plan to wear it, and then go over every section and trim it again if necessary to make sure everything is just so. I can't stress the importance of this last step. Anyone who's ever had just a wet cut that didn't dry quite right knows what I'm talking about. I have never walked out of Sei Tomoko disappointed. You cannot get a better haircut even if you're paying double at another salon. The staff is professional and friendly and the salon has a very relaxed, cool vibe. My stylist's dog is usually around and he will often come up and sit on my lap during my haircut - which I love! He's a sweetie. Don't waste your money at an overpriced, sub par salon. Go to Sei Tomoko! read more

I get my haircut here for just $10 on Mondays after hours by volunteering as a hair model. I have my hair done by Manson, and I think he does a terrific job. The owner always oversees him as he's working, so I always end up with a fantastic mane shape that looks natural but sexy. It takes longer than a normal haircut, which would usually be about 45 minutes. This takes about an hour and a half instead, but I think it's worth it for the price. read more

I've done both the student priced haircut and the hair modeling [student stylists, Monday nights, $10, any haircut you want]. Both times I have left extremely satisfied with the haircut. Everyone was extremely nice and professional and quite attentive. I only have one serious complaint - these stylists take FOREVER to cut hair. They are precise and do a great job but both haircuts took an hour and a half!!! So long as you have the time to spare - this is a great place for a haircut. read more

Sei Tomoko Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - New York, New York

I just got back from my haircut and am fairly pleased. Going to a new hairdresser is never easy - I'm a one stylist kinda girl and have been seeing the same hairstylist for the last 5 years while living in Vancouver. I found Sei Tomoko thru Yelp and decided to check it out since I was in a dire need of a haircut - bangs outgrown and dried ends - it was about time. I arrived and had to wait for a bit. My stylist was busy with someone else. I was offered tea and some magazines. Needless to say their selection of Japanese magazines were limited - either that or I wasn't given the ones I usually read... My stylist was very nice - I gave her free reign, stating that I only wanted to grow my hair long. She advised that I cut off all the dry ends and thin out my full bangs - needless to say, the end result was good and I was very pleased. The massage after washing my hair was awesome and well-needed. Student discount and it came out to $40. More expensive than Chura back home in Van, but still decent. But for now, I'm still shopping around...more updates to follow... read more

I just got another haircut here - this time it was cut by Sei himself. I felt like I was a blank canvas as he snipped away, almost silently grunting at times. I brought a picture in and we discussed what I wanted. He asked me twice if I wanted to drink tea or read a magazine. I politely declined and preferred to people watch through the mirror and pay attention to his cut. It was a wet/dry cut with multiple blowdrying during the process. I'm deathly afraid of the thinning shears. I was surprised when he was using it. A lot. Good thing, because it was just in time before he touched the top layer. I didn't feel like my haircut looked at all like my pic, except for the bangs which I love. And was also somewhat disappointed that he made the underneath nape area really short and somewhat prickly - after I'd said that it had to be tie-able. I'm still easing into this cut. Next time, I want to go with the girl I got last time. What I love most about this hair salon is the hair washing process and the shoulder massage. Totally worth the price, especially since other Japanese salons charge more and don't offer this in their service. I scheduled my appointment a week in advance and was surprised to see so many slots were open on Saturday. Last time, I had to do late Friday. I'm also a big fan of Momofuku Milk Bar which is only a few doors down. So convenient. read more

Fiercely loyal and possessor of typical Asian hair (stick-straight, stubborn, requires much layering, and turns into 70s-prom queen if goes to non-Asian salon), I often only get my hair cut when I return to Hong Kong once or twice a year, with a trim in between at various Japanese salons. Never a drastic change. I had a pixie cut last summer and it was growing out to that awkward just-above-shoulder length. In a fit of madness I showed up at Sei Tomoko demanding to have it chopped off. After which I was politely penciled in for an hour later and given a small paper cup of green tea. I played with the little dog that was sunbathing by the glass door, only to be abandoned when a small white terrier pranced by, sending other dog into a frenzy. Finally I was seated and explained to the stylist that I wanted it chin length. She briefly outlined what she was going to do, then led me to the hair washing. Oh, the hot towel! I nearly fell asleep during that relaxing wash, what with the head massage and hot towel on the neck and the almond scented shampoo. Overall, it was a great experience, and the hair cut was cute! Tip: make an appointment! And a student wash and cut is only $35. read more

Nana at Sei Tomoko gave me one of the BEST haircuts I've ever had, which is no easy feat: You know those people that come to Starbucks and customize the sh** out of their latte or whatever? That is me with my haircut. I always come in with a collage of photos, and apologize profusely for requesting something so byzantine. But for Nana, it ain't no thang. She knew exactly what to do and got right to business (without doing that thing where a stylist pulls on the ends of your hair for a half hour, trying to figure out exactly how to start). She also suggested something new to try that blended well with the cut overall, and which I ended up loving. A true hair sculptor! I'd give this place 5 stars for Nana alone, but it also helps that it's actually affordable. Under $50 after tip = "a steal" in this city. For an amazing cut that grew out well, that is actually a great price. So with how wonderful this place is, why 1 star off? Because I came back to ask about a trim (quick touch-up shave, takes any barber 5 minutes and they charge me $5) and the guy at the front desk wanted to charge me $30 for a "partial cut". I told him "No thank you, that's ridiculous." and walked out. What gives, Sei Tomoko? Don't most places offer free trims? Don't give me that "partial cut" BS when I could do it at home if I had a freakin' electric razor. That aside, I'd happily come back for a FULL cut. Highly recommended! read more

Just went to Sei Tomoko on Sat., Sept. 5th. The salon is very clean and well-kept. Staff members are very courteous and professional. The stylist would ask questions to find out the hair style that I want, also found a pic in the magazine to confirm. After consultation, then shampooing, applied conditioner, placed a warm towel behind my neck and a brief scalp massage. Then came back to my seat for a 10-min neck & shoulder massage. I like the hair style. Every colleague told me it suits me and looks very nice! Definitely will go back for future visits. read more

I've been getting my haircuts here for almost three years now, and I'm pretty satisfied. I really like that they offer student discounts. However, when you call for an appointment, make sure that you specify that you want to see someone that takes student discounts. I forgot to tell the receptionist on the phone one time, and I had to pay so much more than I normally did. I think it's because only one stylist at this location offers student discounts. I always get the same lady, and she's always so nice. I always get what I want (I suppose it's because I always have pictures of what I want haha). I usually bring a few pictures, and then she tells me if they need a little tweak. The results are always satisfying. Even when I'm away at college, I always make time to come to SEI Tomoko to get my hair chopped. If you're in the area, definitely pay a visit. c; Also, one of the earlier reviews mentioned how haircuts for them always took an hour and a half. That might just be that girl because her hair is super long. Mine always take thirty minutes to an hour at most. So unless you have two feet of hair to chop off, you should be out of there in an hour. read more

This place is a godsend. I was in desperate need of a new straightening place, and a friend of a friend recommended Sei. He's one of the owners and is apparently the best in the business. Despite the enthusiastic recommendation, I was nervous because I'd never been to this place before and had never undergone the Japanese method. It lasted 5 hours and came out fabulously. I am in love with my hair! Sei has a very gentle, deferential manner - you'd hardly know he was the owner. Japanese Straightening plus a haircut cost $400 plus tips and was worth every penny to me. I will throw in a minor complaint just to prove this isn't a fake review: the shampoo chairs recline all the way but they hurt your lower back (since your upper body is horizontal and your knees are bent so that your feet dangle). One side note: I don't know if it's a Japanese cultural thing or something unique to this shop, but the people who work in this salon (all of whom are Japanese) are SO NICE and POLITE. It was a breath of fresh air after going to a salon on the Upper East Side for years where the staff had a haughty, aloof attitude. I felt so welcome and "in control" in this salon. I will definitely use this place exclusively from now on. read more