The Wolf Den

Family-owned & operated

Established in 1996

Extremely Impressed…read more I was driving by the San Marcos shop and stopped in to see how much a haircut was. I was told an amount and thought this is great. Chris, the manager, took me right away. I showed him how I like my haircut and sat down in the chair. I was extremely impressed with the time and care he put in to cutting my hair. The cut was exactly what I was looking for. in addition he gave me a shave and did an outstanding job. I highly recommend this shop. Not only was Chris a great barber his customer service was outstanding. Aric - Fort Lauderdale

Absolutely the worst experience I've ever had at a barbershop I'm surprised people actually support…read morethis place

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Getting started

V&M Barbershop

4.8(100 reviews)

0.3 mi

Went there five times. Russian native immigrants. The cuts were good but there were other issues…read more My instructions are simple - keep it long as possible on top and at the crown. Fade the back closer to my neck. And most important: cut the sides down to 1/2 inch long from my part on down. I showed him where I part it. I always said "do not cut the crown or the back too short because I'm thinning." Every date the exact same instructions, on purpose. Michael did not even try to talk to me during any haircut, and they take time (shampoo, scissor cut, trim neck & brows). I would speak when I felt he was thinning too high in back, "just a reminder." His static reply "Don't worry, I know." EVERY TIME. In the end he held a small mirror to show me the back. He had cut it WAY too short and my scalp was showing 3 inches from crown down. I said "I think you cut it a little too short there", No apology, he just took the mirror and flipped it over to the non-reflective side and grinned. Problem solved? No, but too late anyway. I still tipped 20%. Good barbers need breaking in. So last Tuesday I called for my 5th appointment there, none available. They only book same day appointments so she said to call back next day. I called next day and I said "I have to be someplace as close to 5:00 as possible." But I ended up taking a 5:00 appointment. I arrive about 4:20 just in case I get lucky. One kid is a walk-in so they say he has to go. BUT they GAVE him an APPOINTMENT FOR THE NEXT DAY. There's three of us still waiting and 3 barbers and none of them look close to finished. I was surprised she did not remember me from previous visits, or that I had called by name two times just to get any slot. Plus I tipped 20% every time. Anyway, I wait and 5:00 rolls around. I'm estimating I would be lucky to get started at 5:30 which meant a 6:30 finish for me. At 5:15 I got up and said "I'm going to have to go, it's too late for me. Sorry." They were stoic. So I asked, "Do you think I can get an appointment for tomorrow?" I knew they generally only take same day bookings, so the full day must have been open and they gave a WALK-IN a next day appt. Michael says, "No, it's a problem now because now you said you are leaving, that's not good." I was apoplectic. So I just looked at him said "well, I guess I need to find a new Barber," and walked out. Good haircuts. Disastrous customer service.

Great place and cut !! Husband and Wife. Couple that give great cuts…read more Very friendly and very clean establishment

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Haircut

Bravehold

4.8(151 reviews)

2.9 mi

Very friendly and a nice job on my beard…read more I will be going back for sure It is a place that I would recommend

10 stars! Laura always does an amazing job, takes her time, and pays attention to detail. I live…read moreclose, but would drive far to come here! Great value for what they charge

After barber pizza party

"Rockstar Mohawk"

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Thank you Georgie!

Rite Cut Barber Shop

4.3(95 reviews)

0.6 mi

If I could give them zero stars, I would. First time coming here. Normal vibe of a barber shop…read more Brought in one of my clients. He didn't want to go short due to the cold weather, so he asked for a trim on top and just buzz off his beard. Since he is elderly , rarely get a woman's attention. Somehow she convinced him to just buzz his beautiful hair off. When it came time to pay, they didn't take card, Zelle, or Venmo. She sent me to the liquor store for the atm. Keep in mind, they had no sign stating "cash only" When I asked her how much it was. She said $36. Instead of arguing with her, I just paid it and decided never to come back with any of my clients. So, she ended up just buzzing his head with what looks like a 1 or 2 guard and completely took of his beard. In total I paid: $36 (buzz cut and beard removal) $7 in fees to pull cash in the atm $4 for tip - only because I took out $40. Total: $47 Do you think this is right? I think not. Never coming back.

This place is a family owned barber shop and everyone is really nice and detailed oriented when it…read morecomes to cutting hair. It's a little bit more pricey than the competitors but I would gladly support a family owned business than the corporate ones. I highly recommend getting your next haircut here!

We are together through this hard time

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Right next to Lees Locks and the Greek American restaurant on El Camino Real.

American Deluxe Barber Shop

4.2(267 reviews)

1.7 mi

All the barbers do a amazing job here! But my favourite one is Nikoli! He's very hands on and knows…read morehow to do a good taper

Nico was awesome and knowledgeable on my hair line! Also they have cold beer! Great vibesread more

Rico never disappoints.... same with the rest of his staff.

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Don't look at me look at the haircut. Exactly what I wanted. Thank you American Deluxe.

Barber Refinery Encinitas

4.6(14 reviews)

1.9 mi

great haircuts, nice people, well worth the membership, Dalton is the man, highly recommend!read more

Dom is seriously the best! He does an amazing job at cutting men's curly hair which is so hard to…read morefind. I highly recommend Wing and Blade Barber shop if you don't just want a buzz cut.

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The Proper Cut Barbershop

4.1(44 reviews)

0.4 mi

Been going to this spot for years ! Not only are the haircuts always on point, the staff is very…read moreprofessional and the environment feels extremely welcoming. Oscar is my go to barber but the others do a great job too. All their clients walk out happy. Try to call in or book an appointment because they can get pretty busy. All in all I would recommend this place to everyone !

Went in as a walk in, seemed apprehensive to take so I can back later as they requested. Guy…read morechopped me up so quick spending maybe 10 mins on the cut, I was in n out before someone who came before me was even finished. This is easily one of the worst cuts of my life. This shop is entirely dependent on who you have cutting your hair there. Wouldn't recommend it's literally a gamble.

The Proper Cut

What in the world ????? Oofffff so upset!

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Barber Shop

4.2(53 reviews)

1.9 mi

My daughter and I have been getting haircuts at Encinitas Barber Shop for several years now, and we…read morehighly recommend this establishment! Supporting independent family-owned businesses is a priority for our family, and between the welcoming environment, the fun banter, and the care and consideration with which Matthew handles our cuts, I can't imagine going anywhere else. The pricing is SO reasonable (cash only but they have an ATM) and we are always beyond satisfied with our haircuts. LGBTQ and kid-friendly! 10/10 experience.

We were traveling through Encinitas in an RV and my search for barbers landed on these terrific…read moreguys. No appointments, cash only and a generous senior discount. Great conversation with them, and an excellent recommendation for a pizza place very close by. Highly recommended.

Encinitas barbers get down.

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V's Barbershop Carlsbad

4.0(165 reviews)

2.9 mi

I've gotten two great haircuts here now! Fast reliable service, and it's great to find a barbershop…read moreas a woman with short hair, I feel comfortable going. So happy to find this place close by!

Great haircut while I watched football. Brittney was professional and personable. I highly…read morerecommend her!

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The Gentlemens Lounge Barbershop

4.7(16 reviews)

2.4 mi

Oscar was great; super communicative as far as scheduling via text, and a skilled barber in terms…read moreof detail work with facial hair a decent towel shave for the head. Very personable too and we had a good chat for the time he took. Would absolutely come back here, although parking was a little tough during lunch hour, but I was still able to find a spot.

Taryn always does a great job, lovely conversation and a great haircut. What more do you need ?…read more Worth making a reservation as they do get busy

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16 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Troy R.

0

1

0

7 years ago

My son and I have been getting our cuts from Mike for 4 years and he's always on point. Mike is the real deal and does an awesome job every time. Iron Wolf is welcoming, inviting, stylish and has a very cool vibe. I can't say enough great things about Mike. He's a super hard worker, pays close attention to detail, listens to requests and most importantly a really talented barber. He's incredible with kids too. My 8yo son has always enjoyed the experience of getting his hair cut at Iron Wolf and we skate with Mike too. If you're looking for a great cut, friendly barber, and cool experience go see Mike and take your kids. Guaranteed good time and fresh cut! read more

Souriya S.

50

16

4

2 years ago

Mike offered fantastic advice on beard care, taking the time to explain various techniques and products that would best suit my needs. Thanks to his expertise, I walked out looking sharp and feeling confident. The shop itself is conveniently located, making it easy to access, and the atmosphere is truly inviting. The combination of friendly staff and great energy created a perfect environment for a grooming session. I left not only satisfied with my look but also with a sense of having received personalized care and attention. Overall, it was a wonderful experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking to up their grooming game. read more

Austen L.

0

1

0

6 years ago

This was my first haircut since the virus lockdown restrictions, so I was in desperate need of a haircut. I wanted to try out a new barber since my normal one hadn't reopened yet, so I searched my local options and came across Iron Wolf. Made my first appt. through yelp and was confirmed within 10 minutes. Next day, I walked in, met Mikey, and the whole process was quick and super easy. He also gave me best skin-fade I've ever had done. I will definitely be returning. 5 stars for me - if you're looking for a good cut, Iron Wolf is the spot! read more

Rosco J.

0

6

2

7 years ago

I found this new place while strolling through Encinitas. Mike cut my hair and paid attentional to detail. I was hesitant to write a review because I did not anyone else to know about my secret barbershop. But if you're looking for a good haircut in Encinitas or North County San Diego, Iron Wolf is the "Go-To" spot and their place looks awesome. Also, they shampoo your hair after your cut, so you are pretty much "RTD" after your cut. (Ready-to-drink) read more

Daniel M.

150

1

7 years ago

As an Encinitas local who's long time barber recently moved away, I was at a loss for where to go. The spot is rad as heck & Mike is absolute wizard with his tools. I've now made Iron Wolf my new home for my cuts & product. Anyone who decides to give Iron Wolf a try won't be disappointed. read more

Drew E.

0

2

0

7 years ago

Mike is an Awesome Barber who consistently gives me a Great Hair Cut. Both my son and I have been going to him for a couple of years now. Mike is Friendly, always on time and an all around good guy. If you are in North County Mike and Iron Wolf is the place to go! read more

Norwood C.

0

1

0

7 years ago

I've been getting cuts from Mike for about a year and recently had my first at his new spot, Iron Wolf. He always does a great job and I can't recommend him enough. Anyway, i'm not great at writing reviews but I just wanted to let people know about this spot! read more

Braden C.

0

2

0

7 years ago

Super nice guys who own the place! Great service, good hang and a rad environment. They worked hard to make the place aesthetically pleasing and they succeeded in that goal. Best haircut I've gotten in a while. I would most definitely go back read more

Tyler S.

0

9

0

7 years ago

I needed to find a new Barber Shop in Encinitas. I stumbled upon Iron Wolf while driving on PCH and was glad I found this spot! The experience is awesome and I walked out of there shampooed snd styled. I will be definitely coming back. read more

Wes P.

0

5

4

2 years ago

Been going to Mike for 5 years. In fact my whole family sees Mike the barber! Quick and easy experience, and he's always happy do a touch up if you need to look sharp before your next cut. read more

Drew O.

0

1

0

4 years ago

Mike is the man. Always does a great job and is a chill dude. I haven't stopped going here since my first cut with him.

Paul L.

0

1

0

7 years ago

I have been getting my hair cut by Mike for over 6 years, he does a great job, the way I like it and fast. - Paul L

Jose F.

1

11

2

6 years ago

Great cut. Great conversation. Clean, quick and all outside ;-) I'll be headed back with my son in a couple of weeks!

River C.

351

33

1

4 years ago

Always have had a great experience here. Mike is a great guy and always does a great job. I continue to go here!

伊地知由季 I.

0

1

0

7 years ago

とてもフレンドリーで面白い美容師さんでした。お洒落な店内でカジュアルな雰囲気。仕事は早く、クラシックな髪型から、最新スタイルまで熟知している方でした。マイケルさんの人柄に惹かれ、2回目の訪問です。行きつけの理容院です。

Josh T.

958

9

41

3 years ago

Went in the other day. Found them online and they were amazing. Will be back very soon

The Wolf Den - barbers - Updated September 2026

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