I've been to a lot of barbershops over the years, but Urbane Blades is on a completely different level. From the moment you walk in, the vibe is professional, welcoming, and honestly just refreshing. You can tell the team takes real pride in what they do. My cut was spot-on... clean fades, sharp lines, and attention to detail that you don't see everywhere. What stood out most was the consistency and the respect for my time. I booked, showed up, and sat right down. No long waits, no chaos, no ego--just skilled barbers who do incredible work. And let me say this: Urbane Blades is for everybody. All textures, all styles, all walks of life. I've seen everything from kids' cuts to classic business trims to modern fades done flawlessly. If you're tired of rolling the dice on mediocre cuts or barbers who aren't professional, give this place a try. The experience, the environment, and the craftsmanship speak for themselves. Easily the best shop in the area... I'm a customer for life. read more

Eddie was excellent. Zen, stress free environment with super professional barbers who are professional, kind, and efficient. I highly highly recommend this venue. read more

Mehdi is the best barber I have had by far! Cut is 10/10 every time and his attention to detail is impressive.

Anthony messed my hairline up badly and my forehead is razed from the hairline f'up Ill come back but you need to go back to school my guy Quality not great and i'm pretty angry but it's not the end of the world.. read more

Urbane Blades - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Service was terrible, haircut was terrible. You should not walk in there without asking someone what they're good at(cutting) They need to go back to school and listen to the person in the chair the vibe sucked people in chairs on their phones not wanting to cut hair until someone ask if they're available read more

All the guys seemed so Professional, clean and good vibes . Dreux did an amazing job cutting my hair. I felt like a new old lady when I left out the shopI will definitely be back . read more

I have cut my hair with Kenneth several times. I was only impressed the first time and after that he has continuously cut my hair so lackadaisically and unprofessionally despite the fact that I leave him at least a 20% tip every time. Everytime I leave him I feel like I could have gotten better and that's not how a customer should feel. I don't know if this is his best but he is definitely tarnishing the reputation of Urbane Blades with his service. I am sure there might be others who are better but please avoid Kenneth if you ever visit this place. For me, there is no going back. Good luck to all those who try him out. read more

Great haircuts! My barber is often not on time. I've waited 15-30 minutes past my appointment time because the person before me was still getting cut. As a regular customer at Urbane Blades, it would be nice to feel valued as well. read more

I have been there lots a times and for some reason the barber always don't give you the same haircut. And it's the same barber for years!! either he cuts my hair line to far deep. or in-even hair length. And I have to grow my hair back in those places. The guy is good but not consisten! read more

Ricardo did an excellent job with my hair! I'm from out of town and needed an "urban" barbershop. I mistakenly headed to Floyd's barbershop only to walk out the door in frustration! So glad I did, I was very happy with my beard trim and haircut! read more

Urbane Blades - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just moved to Chicago a few months ago and was looking for a new barber. I was recommended by a friend to check this place out. Darren was the one to cut my hair and was quite impressed with the haircut. I can tell they take the time to make sure each customer gets the haircut they want. They work on appointments which is something i love because no one wants to be in a barbershop all day. Great conversations as well. Will definitely be coming back for future haircuts. read more

Thanks Jeremy R. At Urbane Blades for giving your girl a fly cut! It was my first time at Urbane Blades. The service was top notch. All the Barbers in there were doing the damn thang! #SheReady! read more

Urbane Blades - Fresh Cut! - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Not a bad haircut but not even close to what I asked for. Cut the sides to short to quick and didn't blend the 1 to 2 (just gave a 1). Might try again. read more

I came into Chicago for work for a few months and I needed a haircut pretty bad. I was staying in the Downtown area for work and new here weren't many black barbershop in the city unless I went to the Southside of Chicago. I found out about Urbane Blades from searching "Black Barbers Chicago" on Google. Once it pooped up, I looked on YELP! for the reviews and it seemed pretty decent, so I decided to check it out. I logged onto the website (www.UrbaneBlades.com) which was pretty simple and straight forward and booked a time with Airano (Chikago). It was very convenient. When I arrived there at 10:00am, he was already there with a few other guys and they had just opened the shop. The shop was very clean, urban and had a cool vibe where I felt very comfortable. Airano has my name already and he welcomed me over. He cut my hair and did a very great job. He gave me exactly what I was looking for which was a clean Ceasar with a slight taper in the back and sideburn area. His conversation was pleasant, cool and he kept me engaged as he asked me all about myself and how I liked for my hair to be. Once completed, he made sure I was happy. I didn't feel rushed or pushed out for the next client and I really appreciated that. I would definitely recommend this barbershop to anyone one looking to grab a great haircut in the downtown Chicago area. I will definitely be returning. read more

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Had a rough experience with my regular barber and needed someone else. I'm big on respect and overall care of someone's time. I saw Urbane Blades on here about two years ago but the reviews were iffy. I checked back today and it seems like the owner has listened to customer feedback and made changes for the better. As a woman I'm always nervous to visit a new place because well lol. NATE was GREAT. Acknowledged me by name and took me a bit early. He respected my wishes and delivered a great haircut. Price isn't bad at all. Not sure about the rest of the reviews but I've had barbers charge $40. This haircut is exactly what i needed. Thanks again guys! read more

These guys know what they're doing! Doesn't really matter who's chair you sit in they will all cut you up right. I always go see my boy Leo who gives me a mean fade! Definitely not a 30-min haircut but I like that... he takes his time and does it right. If you work normal hours like me (9-5pm) then make a reservation through their website (you can get there through Yelp too). If you just show up you might be waiting for a while depending on what time you get there. They have a couple tvs in there too always playing sports so you don't miss any games. However, if you're looking for a high-end "salon" this isn't it. My rating of 5 stars is for the haircuts... specifically Leo's haircuts but like i said, they're ALL good. read more

I'm not one to diss a black owned business, so I'm sorry, but my cut was straight-up terrible, terrible, terrible. I agree with the other one star reviews. I'm from NYC and have a barber in Chicago. I get fresh cuts in Harlem with a straight-edge blade line-up for $20 or under. I'm telling you FRESH and Clean. In Chicago, under $15. I've always stayed away from these supposedly "ethic" shops in high-end areas because they are usual weak as hell, and overpriced, like "soul food" in gentrified neighborhoods. The last time I had a hair cut this bad was at Supercuts when I was 14, and it left me crying, and at least that barber apologized. Great barbers are in the hood, I'm sorry. I knew this...yet I was in need and had no time to go to my barber. Serves me right for rushing. (I'm not naming him) His tools were inferior and skills were even more inferior. For $32 buck??? He sure gave me $32 worth of ego. Blaming his wackness on the shape of my head and the direction of my hair growth!!!! Are you serious???? You're a head and hair specialist and your blaming me because you're an amateur? I asked "how long have you been a barber?" and he replied, "how long is long??? What???!!! This guy left my head patchy and my face cut up. I have photos. I know when I've have a good haircut because you're usually left with this cool minty fresh feeling. Instead I left there sweaty, angry, disappointed and hair all over me. Throughout this whole process not once did he dust or wipe the hair/sweat off my head, and that part is easy. At the end I did it myself, paid and left. I wouldn't spend the time writing this if I weren't dead serious. If the shop has a barber this awful on staff, I have to judge the whole establishment in the same light. Absolutely Awful!!! read more

Urbane Blades - A few same day scars, and the scars getting darker couple day later. - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Good spot to get a cut at especially if you work in the loop/River North or nearby. Cool, chill atmosphere and the guys that cut here are very conversational. TVs everywhere for all of us sports lovers that like to watch some games while getting a haircut. They also serve you coffee while you wait...not too many shops do that. Definitely a gem for the area! read more

I decided to give Robert another try. Came in and my appointment was honored as always. I think all was missing from my experience the first time was my clear instructions about how I wanted my hair to be cut. This second time around Robert did an AMAZING job. The detail was great this time, and I received countless compliments and attention regarding the cut. All is well! read more

Wish I could give it more stars. Such a dependable shop. Been rocking with Darren for 8 years and have never been disappointed. On occasion, I've gotten my hair cut by other barbers and it's always been good! Again, so consistent. And the ease in scheduling and pay is so great! Professional, skilled, friendly, and chill vibes. read more

It's always a little sketchy trying to get your hair cut when you're traveling but I had read a couple reviews and felt comfortable enough trying Urbane Blades. I didn't make an appointment just walked in on a Tuesday at 1pm and was able to go straight to the chair. I was fortunate enough to get Danny and he did an amazing job with the temp fade and razor line up! And he was super fast, he would definitely be my permanent barber if I lived here. read more

Urbane Blades - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Came here for an emergency cut before a trip because my normal barber couldn't get me in. Professional Shop for sure and great atmosphere. Granted, if I'm dropping $50 for a hair cut I expect a legit good cut / fade from any barber in your shop read more

Great energy between the barbers and it infects all the customers. I am growing a beard and needed some help with coloring (lots of gray). The Barber Ray W did a great looking and helped with three coloring. Along with great conversation this BACS shop was COVID ready and there was a great vibe. Definitely found my new spot. read more

As a new resident to the area, and a single mom, it's always sooooo hard to find good business to fit my needs for my son. I've always loathed going into barber shops with my son, because typically the rude barbers stare at me when I enter as if they're confused as to why I'm there! Definitely not the case with Urbane Blades!! I booked my appointment online with EASE! Pre-paid for the cut, including tip...and showed up at my scheduled time. When I got there, I didn't get those random blank stares from the barbers- I was acknowledged but had a seat and waited for my appointment. Darren was the chosen one (lol) and he called my name to meet me and ask what I was getting. I quickly shoved my 10 year old son in his face and asked him to perform a miracle!! He did JUST THAT! I wanted to go back a few more times before making this review, just to make sure this wasn't a fluke. But 2 months later, they haven't let me down. I gladly make the 60 minute drive to the city every two weeks to let Darren fix my son's hair follicle mishaps in exchange for pay and tip! Thank you Darren and Urbane Blades so much for making this experience such a pleasant one and for making my young King presentable!! PS: My son thinks he's fly now! ‍ read more

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I just moved from Paris and I was looking for a good barbershop ! Urbane Blades is a well place for a good haircut ! The barbers were very nice and the barber shop very clean ! I strongly recommend you to go there. read more

Urbane Blades - Barbers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Definitely was on edge looking for a good barber who could give my toddler his first haircut. Found this barbershop which isn't too far from me. Booked online with Ray. I arrived on time and was greeted right away by Ray who asked that I give him a few minutes, which was fine and gave me time to settle in with my toddler and prep and pep talk him lol. After a few minutes, we were in the seat. Ray was very patient with my son who occasionally threw tiny fits and a few dance moves when his song came on over the speaker lol . Ray and I also chit chat about an array of things which was nice because I didn't have to sit uncomfortably amongst awkward silence. It was an overall very pleasant experience and he has gained himself a loyalty and returning customer. read more

Great shop, great dudes. Sometimes can be a wait, so book ahead. The place is popular for a reason, all of the barbers are skilled at their craft. I've been following David for three years, and by far this is the best shop he's been at. Locally minority owned too. read more

After moving from Boston, it was tough finding the right barber to cut my hair the way I wanted. Darren and the gang welcomed me and gave me exactly what I asked for. I will always have this barbershop to go to in the Midwest. Each of the guys is qualified to give you something from a traditional cut to a pristine fade. I've never dealt with such a great scheduling platform online until I started going here! read more

Moved from Bronzeville and wanted to find a barber downtown so I could get my haircut after work. I came across Urbane Blades, went to their website, and liked how everything could be booked and paid for online. I've been going here every two weeks for over a year with no complaints. Everyone is always timely and professional and the vibes are always great. Highly recommend making appointments to get in and out but even if you walk in you'll get taken care of. The fact that it's black owned is the icing on the cake. read more

My existence wasn't even acknowledged when I walked in. I went to the shop and sat down. After being there a minute I saw there was a sign in sheet for walk-ins. I signed my name and put the current time down. Wasn't anyone's fault I didn't see the sign but mine. Then I waited another 15 mins and no one even bothered TK say "what up we too busy for walk-ins today". There was two barbers in the back chillin on their phones laughing together. After looking at their site is guess they do online appts. Had someone spoke to me and told me what to do is know that. After being there a while I realized this was my second time having gotten the SAME exact experience there. I guess if you don't know someone there you not getting a cut of you're a walk-in so don't even bother. read more

I'm tired of the fancy salon and spa's for men, give me a good old barber shop any day, they are few and far of them these days. So I was curious to see how these guys were going to measure up. I initially thought that they would only specialize in Black hair, so it's was nice to see a sign up that they "welcome all hair textures." And they sure do! They were able to handle this Asian's unwieldy stubborn thick ass straight hair. It's a cool hip place, down to earth stylist. I got a warm welcome from the staff. My barber was Ray, nice friendly guy. The smock/cover up has a see through pocket for your phone/ipad while you're in the chair. They have wireless and plenty of tv's to keep you occupied or you can always pass the time with great conversation with Ray and the staff. Ray was diligent and paid great attention to the haircut. I think I've found my new place... read more

Very loyal to my barber in DC but was traveling extensively over the holidays and couldn't get home to DC for a cut prior to heading to Chicago to visit a friend for New Years. He lives on the Northside and I figured there would be no shortage of black barbers on the Southside but I didn't want to have to trek all the way to an unfamiliar part of town for a haircut. So a google search of black barbers on the Northside of Chicago turned up this place and I'm glad it did. Called them up and they were open on NYE and they take same day or advanced appointments which is what I'm used to back home. Arrived here at Noon and Ray was ready for me. Shop was NOT crowded (a luxury of taking appt only as people show up at their scheduled time instead of having to wait around.) Ray gave me a great haircut and he was conversational but not overbearing. Awesome social skills and hair-cutting skills in a relaxing PROFESSIONAL environment which is just what I look for in a barber/shop. There was ESPN playing in the background, snacks available, wi-fi, and both barbers were talking to their patrons but there was NO loud, brash, misogynist, homphobic, etc conversation taking place. At least not on the day I was there. Ray is a full-time craftsman and you can tell he takes pride in what he is doing. I took the L here but there appeared to be ample streetside parking around. Neighborhood is up and coming and very safe. I recommend this shop to any discerning man who wants a nice haircut from a centrally located barber on the Northside while visiting Chicago. read more

Recently moved to Chicago from Austin and searched the internet for "black barber shop." Funny what Google includes under the ethnic hair category. Thankfully, ran across Urbane Blades since it was in walking distance to Brown Line CTA. Quick service, free WiFi, north downtown location, friendly and affordable. Ray gave me the best haircut of my life. Been back twice. A definite recommend. Six Stars! read more

I will keep it Simple! Do not go to this barbershop. I am the perfect example and I do not want what happened to me happen to anybody else. I moved from NYC to Chicago and was really looking for a barbershop. I took a chance and found this spot online due to close proximity. Yes, it is true everybody is nice and you do not have to fear being robbed but my hair cut was terrible. I received a razor shape up with no razor gel. Secondly, after the hair cut my hair line was bruised and I am not even considered a yellow fellow. Please skip this barbershop and find another shop..From my honest un bias point of view there is at best 2 out of 6 good barbers in the shop....You have been warned! read more

I've been coming here for approx. 7 months now and can honestly say I think I've found my new barbershop. Location The location is not too far from the Chicago CTA Train stop (Purple Line and Brown Line) which makes for a quick 5 min walk. I haven't explored parking options and I'm not too sure what's nearby. Given the area, I would play it safe and take advantage of public transportation. Atmosphere The shop is great and offers a nice blend of modern African American culture in a mature environment. The conversations are great and the staff is beyond friendly. The staff even takes the time to coordinate various small get togethers for clients at the shop. Barber I originally worked with Ricardo who's moved to a different shop but did fairly nice cuts. Since Ricardo's departure I've been working with Deprece who's fairly accommodating with his schedule (has squeeze in an appointment for me near closing) and does a great job while listening to clients. Deprece also makes use of the "Style Seat" service which lets use schedule, pay and review your appointment from your mobile device or browser which is another PLUS for convenience. The shop seems to accommodate walk-ins fairly quickly while adhering to their scheduled appointments from what I've observed. All in all, if you need a cut - this shop makes the cut in my book! read more

Lady in the barbershop alert! I was a bit apprehensive to go going to a barbershop to get my hair done. I like keeping that mystery and the whole I-woke-up-like-this thing going. However, I felt comfortable and it's a lady-friendly spot. Location is great. Staff professional, nice touch with the t-shirts. The stylist has my hair on fleek- isn't that what the kids are saying?. My style is a a natural updo. Aside from a little snafu on the booking it was worth it. Also, I liked the barbers cut hair of all textures and every one walked out with really good cuts. read more

Horrible !!!! I arrive here,sign the sheet to be seen with no greeting or direction from the barbers. Almost an hour and half later a barber comes up to me apologizes for the wait and tells me it will be an hour or more before I'm seen as they are completely booked for the day with Appointments and I should have scheduled online !!!!!!!!!!! That would have been nice to know when I arrived !!! I will never return !!! read more

I am from South Africa and in Chicago for a meeting and needed a haircut. I walked in, put my name on the list and was helped in less than 2 minutes. The barber Danny was great and I got what I asked for, so thank you, great and efficient service. Would highly recommend Urbane Blades, they know what they are doing. read more

Man. I can finely breathe a sigh of relief. I've found a barbershop that I can stick with! I've been trying to find an accessible and professional place to get my haircut downtown since I moved to the city in 1999. This is it. There is a bus stop *right* in front of the shop which is key for me. (it's the 37 bus) The Chicago Brown/Purple line stop is pretty close too. So getting here is easy, check. Each dude that has cut my hair here has been great. I'm stylin' and profilin' every time I walk out after a fresh cut. Don't have to deal with riff raff, check. I never have cash. They've always been able to take a credit card payment, check. Cost for my tight af fade, beard trim and shape up and a little eye brow shape up (i'll get back to this) the cost is usually $26+tip. The only thing is I wish someone knew how to shape up a man's eyebrows - I ask when I go and I feel like it's kinda of an awkward question for them and I have to walk them through it....idk. Maybe it's me? Seems standard. Highly recommend a visit if you're looking for place for a good cut with a friendly staff. read more

I work in the neighborhood and also am moving close by so I was really excited to find out about this place on yelp. Its a great shop with a young hip atmosphere. I have been to many barbers on the north side but always end up disappointed in one aspect or another. Finally, after 3 years I found a reputable establishment. Urbane Blades is the best! I come every week for a fade and make an appointment ahead of time so i never have to wait which is awesome. Ray usually cuts my hair and sometimes Raphael. They both are very knowledgeable, professional, and their cuts are always consistent. Also, the shop caters to people from all walks of life and not just an African American customer base. There is even a female stylist for the ladies. If you live in the gold coast/river north area I would recommend giving Urbane Blades a shot! read more