Freddie is the best. Takes his time and so genuine. Price is more than reasonable. He's been there for 26 years!

I've had a couple weeks to sit with my experience at this salon, and I feel like I have to share what happened to my hair. If you have fine hair or a sensitive scalp, this salon is not for you. I told him I wanted layers and bangs / face framing pieces, as well as a wash and blow dry. I left (crying) with unconditioned, damp, and unevenly cut hair. Since he doesn't use a detangler or heat protectant before styling, a bunch of my hair ended up falling out bc he was brushing it so aggressively. He was a nice guy, just no technique, didn't listen to me when I said it hurt, and was clearly overbooked (2 other ppl had the same appointment time as me). read more

Came at the recommendation of my friend after not getting my hair cut professionally since early 2021. I called on a Tuesday night asking if there were any lunchtime appointments available during the week and he was able to book me for a 12:30pm appointment for the next day. I showed up to my appointment on time and waited a few minutes while he finished up on another customer, but a wait was expected since he's a one-man salon. I showed him a photo of the kind of long layers I wanted and he was able to provide without any issues. He also asked if I wanted to thin my hair since it's super thick in the back, which I appreciated, since I had forgotten that was an option after having not been to a salon in a while. Overall my session was about 40 minutes, which included the cut, wash, and blow-dry/styling. It came out to $48 (not including tip), which is his baseline for women's haircuts. I would definitely recommend coming here! Just be sure to call ahead because he doesn't take walk-ins. read more

Zen Hair is awesome. I have long asian hair and requested to take off an inch, and he gave me exactly what I wanted. Excellent service, and I will make sure to recommend this place to all my friends looking for a cut. read more

Came here as one of my friends said she liked the haircut she got and it was relatively affordable. The process of making an appointment was easy enough - just call and he'll slot you in according to your time of day preference. I came in at lunch time on a Wednesday and he was a few minutes late after finishing up with another client, so it wasn't a big deal. He had a pretty comfortable waiting area and was alone on the day I came and after experiencing his process, I realized he's very much a one-man show. He took calls while working on my hair and multi-tasked quite a bit - it wasn't necessarily a con, just an observation and slight heads up that he won't be completely focused depending on how many calls he receives. He's very careful with making sure you get the haircut you want and always double-checks on things such as length and whether he'll thin your hair out. He's very experienced and often talks about previous clients he's had in terms of past haircuts he's given and also gives good advice - I asked him about my hair texture and the best ways to take care of it and he was pretty knowledgeable about it. The place isn't the most sanitary or neat, but I would say he gets the job done and is very good at what he does. For $50 with a woman's haircut, I found the price extremely for the quality of work done and the experience. I would gladly go back as I was pretty satisfied with the result! read more

Freddy at Zen Hair always does a fantastic job! He takes appointments by phone or text. Because he's a one-man shop, sometimes the previous client will be running late and so you may need to wait up to 20 minutes for your haircut so keep that in mind! Freddy knows what he's doing and has an eye for detail. If you are unsure about aspects of your proposed style he's helpful with advice. He also includes wash and style with each cut. It's about $55 for a women's cut, but since I only get my hair cut like twice a year it's worth it! read more

I got an amazing haircut for a very reasonable price. He gave great suggestions. I will definitely come back

I have gotten my hair cut by Freddie Luk since I moved to metrowest Boston since 2009. He uses the dry cutting technique, and whether I request layers all over, or a blunt long bob, my hair looks great in terms of both style and health and lasts for 2-3 months. I wouldn't go anywhere else, as I absolutely trust Freddie! Appointments are easy to schedule and reschedule over the phone, and I am always able to find street parking near the salon quickly. My daughter now goes to Zen Hair for her haircuts as well, and Freddie does great with her extremely long hair. She also sends her friends to Zen Hair. read more

Heard a lot a good thing about this place. But too bad I had the worst experience. He started thinning my hair without asking what is my preference. After that I kinda expected a wash since he didn't wash my hair before the cut. But he didn't, instead, he tried to make the cut look better with blow dry and hair straightener on my oily hair. And kept repeating to me that I made a big mistake on my hair style choice from when he started cutting till he finished. It's not like I never had this hair style before, I had it every few years. What's wore was he kept talking over me when we have conversation about my hair style choice. I felt very frustrated even before he started cutting. But since I heard a lot of good things about it, I gave it a try. Then I went home with very thin hair and choppy bang. Now can't wait for it to grow back. read more

Zen Hair - Hair Salons Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I would not recommend AT ALL and strongly encourage not going! I read about this place on a Chinese APP and wanted to give it a try. I made appointment, but I had to reschedule. So I called at least 5 times, no one answering the call. Finally, a guy picked up the phone, I guess is the owner. I asked him if I can reschedule, he said NO. He was so rude and complained that I should leave voice message. If no one never ever answer the phone, how am I suppose he get chance hearing my voice message. The guy is exactly the person that was described in the negative reviews, arrogant, rude, non professional. I am so glad I never stepped into his place and experience his bad attitude in person. He seems does not know he works in service industry. From all the negative reviews, you can tell most of the negative comments about this guy are the same. I strongly encourage you read all the negative comments before you make your choice. read more

I strongly recommend you do not come here. I had a perm before and told him I no longer wanted to perm my hair. I remember telling him to fix it up a bit, and that I liked my hair long. He understood that as cut out all the permed hair. So now I may as well be bald. read more

I am about 25 miles away from the salon. But still rather drive in to have my hair cut here.

I was refused service. I was very excited to get a hair cut when I saw the positive reviews here. I have been to a few hair salons in Back Bay and somehow I was assigned to a hair stylist in training who cut my hair very unevenly and I had some stylist who didn't know how to comb my hair so they would give me the brush to comb my own hair. After all of my traumatizing experiences, I cut my own hair for a while until I decided to give another shot to this hair salon and I hoped that I would find a hair stylist who knows how to cut layers to curly hair. I kindly asked the owner whether he feels comfortable and/or have experience with curly hair. I didn't challenge or interrogate him. It was a simple question. He got very defensive and he told me that I was questioning his skills and he outright told me that he can't cut my hair. I did not argue so I quietly left the salon. This happened many years ago but to this day I still vividly remember how disappointing and embarrassing it was to be refused service in front of other clients. read more

I am very particular when it comes to my hair...so particular that I have been going to the same place in nyc for the past 5 years. Yup you heard right---I get my haircut in NY, which means that this Boston gal can only get her haircut whenever she's goes home to NJ/NYC. Obviously not ideal, but I have always been afraid other salons might butcher my hair. But after years, I felt like I needed to find a place here in Boston and decided to try out Zen Hair because of all the positive yelp reviews--so you know it's a big deal that I took this risk. Overall I am very satisfied with the work Freddy has done to my hair!! Freddy seems to just get Asian hair and I am happy he was able to make the thickness of my hair more manageable with his cut. Before he cut my hair, he asked me about my morning hair routine and what I want for my hair cut. After telling him that I straighten my hair each morning, he made recommendations for what styles would work best but ultimately let me make the final decision. I appreciate that he is very professional, friendly, and customer-centered! Things to keep in mind: this place is cash only so plan accordingly. My haircut was $42 before tip. Also, Freddy is very busy so best to call to make an appointment. Although his salon opens at 10am on a Sunday, he booked me for an 9am appointment and I was surprised to find that he was already working on 2 customers when I walked in. A testament to how he is super busy but also very hardworking to the point he will take in customers before his salon even opens. Now that's a stylist worth supporting :) read more

Freddy is so amazing at his job. He is super nice and super funny and super smart. he totally has a doctors degree in hair cutting.

Freddy is very nice and has great hair cutting skills! I've been sticking to this place a while ever since my friend recommended this place to me last year. The place is in a very convenient location and that's definitely a plus. read more

An extremely disappointing haircut experience. The stylist was very rude and mean. Failed to deliver the look I asked for, completely disregarding my preferences. Had to wait for half an hour past my scheduled time, followed by a rushed service. When I made a couple of simple request, the stylist responded aggressively and kept said his time is constraint and he couldn't waste time on each customer, though the request took barely a minute - and the entire service was only less than 20 min. As someone who usually maintains composure and patience, I felt very disrespected and insulted throughout the visit. Strongly advise avoiding this place to if you don't want to be overcharged for a poor haircut + an unpleasant and demeaning experience. read more

I have been getting my hair cut by Freddie for the past 5 years, including this year after I moved several states away. The great: For the haircut you get, his prices are unbeatable! And he is knowledgeable enough to not just cut your hair the way you want it but to give you feedback when your initial idea is not fully compatible with your hair weight and texture. My bangs look perfect without needing any styling after he cuts them. I also feel that my best haircuts have been dry haircuts, and this is the way he cuts hair (cut first, then wash and style). The less great: when you make an appointment with him, it's sort of like making an appointment with a doctor. You'll probably be waiting past your appointment time about 15-30 min, so bring a book. He really packs his schedule and also takes walk-ins. For the price and quality though, I am happy to wait! read more

Authentic and chill! The cut was smooth and seasoned. Prices are reasonable. Gotta bring my mom there too :D read more

Zen Hair - Hair Salons Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Saw all the reviews online and wanted to try this place out while I was in Boston since Baltimore is lacking in its Asian hairdressers. Came very early on a Sunday morning and waited only about 10 minutes? Freddy then spent about an hour on my hair after asking me about what I wanted and whether or not I had time to style it. Looked great and am very happy with the results! Definitely worth coming, and if you don't want to wait, Sunday morning is a good time! read more

Love getting my hair cut with Freddy! Always efficient, my hair always grows out well when I get it cut with him as well.

Freddy is the best hairdresser out there! He knows how to cut Asian hair and he will take a perfect care of it. He will also give you advice what kind of product you should use to keep your hair perfect and he also does not charge as much as some other Asian hair salons in Boston but you will get an awesome result even for the lesser price! I've going to him for years now and I cannot recommend him enough if you are looking to get your hair done for a good price. read more

Still love Freddy! He also works extended hours, as long as you text/call in advance. Women's cuts are now $50 as of Fall 2022.

Best hair cut ever! Freddy was professional and listens to my concerns. I have very thick Asian hair that requires a lot of thinning and layering. He did such a great job and doesn't make my hair frizzy. $45 hair cut includes a hair wash and styling. Will definitely be a regular here from now on. read more

nice guy, think i was a bit overcharged but gave a pretty decent haircut. no complaints.

Professional, skilled, and he washes and styles your hair for no extra charge. Great deal for the price. He's really easy to talk to, knowledgable, can help you figure out a good style. Haven't found anyone else in Boston who understands Asian hair as well as him. He runs a 1-man operation and does a lot per client so sometimes you have to wait for your appointment, which I think is a reasonable trade-off. read more

Freddy is absolutely phenomenal. My whole life I've been struggling to find a hair stylist who truly understood what I wanted, understood my difficult hair type, and executed what I wanted! Not to mention, this place is super affordable! I found out about this gem from my friends who had similar coarse, thick, Asian hair. I finally met girls with the same hair type and they recommended I go here for my haircuts. Before i was adventurous, I solely got trims here. Then I decided to go one step further and let Freddy dye my hair for the first time. And then I went one step further and let him cut my hair shorter than I was used to. My usual cut is an asymmetrical bob. I was so SO scared to do it before but now I'm glad I trusted him with my hair and have been getting this cut from him and only him for the past 3 years. Also, all he charges me is 40 bucks... This place is cash only now! So bring cash. What astounds me is that he does a dry cut first, then washes my hair, cuts it, then styles it. It's truly an art. My boyfriend comes here too and gets a cut for 30/35 which is pretty expensive for guys but worth it. He's always booked back to back so I recommend calling him as soon as you think you need a haircut! read more

I scheduled a time with Freddy about three days before my appointment. Given that he was busy, I said on the phone that a really simple hairstyling would be fine. After getting there and waiting for about 20 minutes, he told me he could only do blow-dries, since "he was completely busy". He did not want to talk to me, saying "Let's not waste your time and my time". I explained him the situation: It's MIT senior ball, it's Saturday 5PM, I scheduled a time with him in advance, I would never be able to find another hairdresser now, and he was losing a client. His response? "I already had 10 clients today." Completely unprofessional, impolite and irresponsible. Though I cannot judge on how good he is as a hairdresser, my advice is: Do NOT trust this place if you need something to be done for sure. In general, I would just highly discourage you from going there. I eventually found another hair salon, a few blocks from Zen, whose hairdresser heard my story and decided to stay after her working hours so as to help me out with my hair. read more

If you're looking for a luxurious, spa hair salon experience, then Zen Hair is not for you. I don't go to Freddy for luxury. I go to him because Freddy UNDERSTANDS HAIR. Especially Asian hair. When I asked him to chop my hair into an asymmetrical bob, he asked me exactly where I wanted my hair to fall in the front. When I pointed to where I wanted the front to be, he immediately said, "Okay, the back of your hair will be 2-3 inches above that so it will be this short" and he showed me with a mirror where the back of my hair would fall. I really appreciated this because with most hairstylists, you say you want a bob and they will ask how long you want the front to be and then they go straight into cutting. Freddy understands what little questions to ask so that you don't leave the salon cursing your haircut decision. I also really like that he cuts your hair dry first and THEN washes your hair and styles it. THIS MAKES TOTAL SENSE - WHY DON'T MORE STYLISTS DO THIS? Most of the time when stylists cut wet hair, they cut it too short because when the hair dries, it shortens by another inch. Freddy even gave me great advice on how to style my hair. When I asked him if he would recommend any products for volume, he explained that with my texture of hair, most products would only last for an hour tops and then my hair would be flat again. He showed me some styling tips with a blowdryer and heated comb that would give me volume. My haircut also cost me $40 which is waaaay better than the fancier salons in Boston that can cost $60 and up. All in all, if you like fuss-free, straightforward, GOOD hair service, check out Zen Hair and I'm pretty sure Freddy will work his way to becoming your go-to hair guy. read more

Freddy Luk is the Michael Jordan of haircutting/styling. The best to ever do it, especially if you've got thick hair. I moved to NYC and nobody compares. read more

I thought I wrote a review for Zen already but to my surprise, I have not! 5 stars because Freddy is awesome, and the fact that I refer friends over and over and not one has come back with complaints. In fact, many continue to refer Freddy. I've cut really long hair to short (donated it), gotten a trim, bangs, and layered my hair. Explain and/or show him a picture and Freddy can really do it all. read more

Freddy is THE BEST! After having a difficult falling out from my salon in NYC, and trying a couple of mediocre places in Boston, I think I've finally found my salon. Make sure to call ahead to make an appointment -- Freddy is usually booked throughout the whole day and he typically can't accept walk-ins. Also, if time is crucial for you, make sure you book early in the day since he (and most salons with 1 stylist, I would think) are backed up by 5pm. He dry cuts, which I wasn't originally comfortable with. It ends up working out great because he can understand the way your hair falls and acts in its natural (dirty) state. He always asks you exactly what you what (there are plenty of up to date magazines if you need inspiration). He also knows more about my hair that I do -- he ended up finishing most of my sentences, understanding that I didn't necessarily need a trim but thinning of my insanely thick hair, and that side swept bangs don't really work for me since my hair is rail straight and just pokes me in the eyes instead of bending to the side. Once he cut, washed, and styled my hair, it looked perfect! But if you still have any nitpicky things you want him to work on once he's done, he's happy to oblige. I'm not usually one for conversation during a haircut, but Freddy's pretty easy-going. He'll ask the usual questions (How long have you been in Boston, etc.) but in no way in the conversation pain-staking. Best of all, he won't push any products on you! I've found my go-to hairstylist, all for $40/haircut. read more

After four years jumping from salon to salon in Boston (and occasionally back to my former stylist in California), I decided to try Freddy, who was GREAT. Freddy knows Asian hair.. he's the first stylist to ever say I have "fine" hair, usually hairstylists just remark on how thick (read: difficult to cut) it is. He also knows what's high maintenance and what isn't.. we discussed the best way to layer my thick but fine hair and it's been working out great 2 weeks later and I don't have a layered mullet that many Asian hairstylists cut. Lastly, despite having very Asian hair, I don't speak any Asian languages so added bonus that I was able to have a real conversation with Freddy about hair. The super sad part is, that was my last hair cut in Boston since I have to move. Tips: make an appointment a few days in advance, he gets booked. He also works by himself so he doesn't always pick up phone when with clients. He did run about 20 min late but made up for it with an awesome haircut. He also dry cuts, then washes + styles. Cash only. $42+tip, comparable to some of the Newbury places I used to go to but without the espresso, but much happier with the overall results (an espresso lasts 5 min, but that haircut will last a few months, for me at least). read more

I admit, I was a little nervous to get my hair cut in Boston. Asian hair? Boston?! Yeah...I know you understand where I'm coming from. However, after my hairdresser in California was on vacation over Thanksgiving (sidebar: who expects a Chinese hairdresser to be on vacation on any day other than Chinese New Years?) I had reached a point of desperation. As cute as a high bun is, I was over it. Enter Zen Hair. I called on a Wednesday for a Friday morning appointment and, after some scheduling snafus, had to move my Friday morning appointment back half an hour. Freddy didn't bat an eye. I showed up to the salon frazzled by the morning's unexpected turn and was welcomed into the lush silence of soft conversation and the shush of magazine pages turning. Ahhh...zen.. I waited for fifteen minutes and sat down for a five minute consultation with Freddy. He cut my hair dry while we chatted about the relative difficulties of starting a business in China and how hard it is for an ABC to maintain their language. Freddy spent a lot of time carefully shaping my hair with scissors and didn't get awkward when conversation ceased and I dove into my magazine. A hairwash and blowdry later, Freddy cleaned up the last perfecting strands and had me waltzing out of the salon in an hour flat, only $48 lighter (my med-long haircut was $40 and you've gotta tip!). Best parts: I wasn't pushed to buy products. The magazines are plentiful and up-to-date. My hair still looks awesome after washing and drying it on my own. read more

Zen Hair is my go-to place for haircuts and dyes in Boston. In fact, it's such a wonderful hidden gem I feel a little torn about posting on Yelp about it. It'll make the place too busy for me! Freddy, the stylist who owns the place, is fast, nice and his haircuts are fantastic. He's really great for Asian hair. I have somewhat coarse, unruly hair but Freddy always manages to make it look like I stepped off a movie set when I walk out of there. I've also gone to him for subtle highlights and he makes it look totally natural. Also, the prices are very affordable. I only paid about $40 for a haircut and $80 for highlights. Finally, Zen Hair is great for men too. My husband goes there regularly as well and his haircuts always turn out great. We wouldn't go anywhere else in Boston for a haircut! read more

When you go to Zen Salon you will most likely be there with one other person but I guarantee. . . You will feel like a Celebrity!!!! Not to mention the salon has great music and a flat screen TV which makes the time fly. Freddy is very talented and is amazing at cutting and coloring hair. For example, my hair is very difficult to manage, it's long, wavy and thick and every time I come out of the salon I get compliments left and right. Freddy also takes the time to maintain healthy hair and has a wealth of knowledge. I'm looking at some of the comments below and I have to laugh. People travel all over the US to come to him. Not to mention he uses the best high end products. I will admit he is very busy but so isn't every other amazing stylist. read more

I'm gonna be honest: I have very low expectations walking into a hair salon. There's no way anyone's going to understand my hair better than the person who's been living under it for the past twenty-five years, and I've seldom met exceptions to that rule. Freddy was kind of an exception. Why kind of? Because I could tell he knew his stuff. He made observations I'd never considered before, like, "Your hair is thicker in the back and thinner on the sides, so if you ever try to cut it short you would probably have to go with an A-line." He asked if I spent much time on styling (no) and tailored his cut based on my answer. Still, I could tell he was a busy guy, running the salon all by himself, and it felt like he always had half an eye on the next client waiting, another half on the TV in front of us, and the remaining eye on my head. The cut I ended up with was good, decent, not stand-out but also not hideous, which was enough to make me happy. Bottom line: Freddy's a skilled cutter, but I do wish I could've had more of his attention. I might check out Revere or Mie next time, just to switch it up. read more

An amazing hair-cutting experience! I hated hair cutting because I have typical Asian hair (thick, heavy, baby hair, thousands flyaway). I didn't change my hairstyle for at least four years until I found this place on Yelp. ALL the positive comments are TRUE. Freddy is an artist. He listens to your idea and tells you exactly how he is gonna nail it! He also tells you how to take care of your hair and what products fit your hair type. I had my hair cut today and I was so satisfied with the outcome. Definitely recommended. Next time I probably will try some new hairstyle in this place! read more

Zen Hair - My baby hair is still there but it looks good. - Hair Salons Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

My search for a hair salon in Boston continues... I really wanted to like this place and the haircut I got here- I even delayed this review, hoping I grow to like the haircut. But alas...here goes. Um, hello! How did no other Yelper mention that Freddy dry cuts? Yes, it is kinda cool to see hair and scissors flying but I gotta say, a haircut without the shampoo or scalp massage before it is missing something. Freddy & his assistant were very very nice- he asked questions about my hair routine (minimal- very low maintenance was my only request) and what type of hair styles I prefer (sleek and chic)- like the other Yelpers said, really seemed to take great care in trying to give me the haircut I would like. However, the result wasn't so great- the haircut I have now is very high maintenance and is not so stylish ("soccer mom hair" is the description that comes to mind)- layers stick out everywhere and will take a long long time to grow out. I'm not that picky about my hair but yeeesh. Reading in reviews that Freddy specializes in Asian hair was the reason I came here...I guess not my kind of very thick Asian hair. If there are any plusses about the hair- it's not crooked and the length is generally ok. It's only Freddy available so book your appointment in advance. Heads up- since it's only him and an assistant, he does take time to stop and answer the phone while he's working on your hair. The salon has tv screens that keeps you occupied while sitting in the chair...but you can't control it so I was stuck watching cartoons. Kenmore Square location is very convenient and as I said, super friendly people, nice salon experience...just not a good result. Based on the numerous 5-star reviews of this place, was my visit a fluke? read more

Freddy's got flair for Asian hair. He's been cutting hair for 17 years, and I think he knows what he's doing. It's pretty much a one man show, but even when booking my appointment over the phone, he asked me a couple questions about my hair. And when you get in the chair, you get a thorough consult, He really takes the time to examine how your hair falls and get to know your maintenance routine (i.e. how often you get it cut, how you dry and style it, etc..). I've never experienced this level of attention to detail from another stylist before--even on Newbury Street. It's interesting to watch him work because he doesn't check lengths by pulling hair straight down. Instead, he doew this chop/swish of the hand to flick hair into place. Hard to explain, but I guess it works. I was pretty pleased with my cut. If you need inspiration, the reception area has Japanese hair magazines for the ladies. Guys don't have to feel left out because there's a good selection of Stuff and Maxim as well. The great location at Kenmore means I no longer have to trek to Chinatown for an Asian stylist. read more