Oliver EvansA few years ago, I made the mistake of trusting a $5 haircut overseas because ten minutes later, they gave me a bowl cut instead of a fade. For weeks, every time someone asked about my “new look,” I just changed the subject.
Apparently, I’m not alone. Turns out, everyone I know has had a haircut gone wrong—whether it’s uneven sideburns or a surprise mullet.
That’s precisely why I rallied the rest of the Waterview Vancouver writing team to check out the best barber shops in the city—shops where skilled hands and sharp fades actually go hand in hand.
If you’re tired of gambling with your hair, these are the spots worth putting your trust in.
How much does it cost to get serviced at a barber shop in Vancouver?
It costs at least $20 to get serviced at a barber shop in Vancouver. This is just an estimate. The actual price will depend on the type of cut you get, beard grooming, and more.
1. A1 Barber Shop
Address: 332 Water St Unit 150
Contact Details: +1 604-428-6202
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
If you want a sharp cut that won’t empty your wallet, A1 Barber Shop is one of the top choices in Vancouver. Their haircuts start at $20 and every chair is run by a senior barber, so you’re not rolling the dice on a rookie.
Their “A1 Refresh” is perfect if you’re the type who likes to keep things tight—20 minutes and you’re out, especially if you’re back within 10 days of your last visit.
We appreciate how they check every line, tidy up the blend, and make sure your fade is as clean as the first time. Customers love their beard sessions too—warm towels, careful trims, and razor edges. They even use a bit of beard oil to finish.
That said, if you’re particular about your bangs, heads up: the barbers tend to go too blunt or too short. Blending also isn’t really their thing.
If bangs are your dealbreaker, spell out exactly what you want or look elsewhere. For fades and beard work, though, A1 is a solid bet.
Awesome haircut
“Awesome haircut I received from Barber
” Mike ” of ” A1 Barbershop ” on Water Street in Gastown in Vancouver BC.Clean & very modern looking barbershop. I love the wonderful decor & interior custom design.
I will most definitely be a regular returning client to this establishment. Thank you Staff”
–Resh Naidu, Google Reviews
Super friendly and professional
“My experience with Barber Rai was amazing. He was super friendly and professional at the same time. It was first time trying the tapper fade and the way the executed the cut was simply artistic. I would totally suggest people to visit.”
–Udaya Bhandari, Google Reviews
2. Pintor Barbershop Vancouver
Address: 2951 W 4th Ave #1
Contact Details: +1 604-568-7272
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Pintor is the barber shop we tell Vancouver parents about when they ask where to get a quality kids’ cut. They’re one of the few shops in town that does kids’ cuts (ages 5–12).
We think the aviation theme here really helps make the kids love the place. There are a bunch of cool plane photos and model aircraft around the shop that entertain the kids when they visit.
Beyond the kids’ cuts, they do a great job on classic men’s cuts, sharp buzzes, and beard trims. They can even do beard shaping for when things get out of hand.
If you want to treat yourself, regulars rave about their luxe hot towel shave, which comes with a hot towel, close shave, cold towel, and moisturizer. They even offer facial waxing if you want to leave looking extra polished.
The only downside? The price. It’s not cheap, so it might not be your every-month spot.
But if you want a great experience for you or your kid, it’s hard to beat.
Great barber shop for kids
“A great barber shop for kids! The staff here is incredibly patient, friendly, and great with children. They make the experience fun and stress-free, from fun decorations to gentle, caring attention during the haircut. My child always looks forward to their visit, and we always leave with a great haircut and big smiles.
The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, making it the perfect place for your little ones’ haircuts. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a kid-friendly, top-quality experience!”
–Mory M, Google Reviews
Always gives me the best haircuts
“Love this place. Nicky always gives me the best haircuts. The whole team are friendly and accommodating.”
–Alan Kane, Google Reviews
3. New Shanghai Barbershop Vancouver
Address: 439 Columbia St
Contact Details: +1 604-762-5927
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 8 AM to 7 PM
- Tuesday & Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
New Shanghai Barbershop is for anyone picky about their hair. Every barber here is trained in-house, so you get a consistent level of skill no matter who you book with.
Cuts start at $40 with a standard barber or $60+ if you want a senior barber. We think the prices are worth it if you care about things like hair structure, face shape, and getting a style that fits your day-to-day.
We really love how the barbers recommend cuts that fit your lifestyle. Regular clients told us barbers always ask how they style their hair at home to make sure the cut works well for them.
When we visited, we were impressed with the barbers’ skills. We saw everything from crisp, close crops to longer, natural styles. Plus, they handled every texture with confidence.
Their beard game is strong too—whether you want a natural shape or a razor-sharp fade, they’ve got you covered.
That said, New Shanghai runs a tight ship. Show up 5–10 minutes early, because you’ll get charged if you’re more than 15 minutes late or miss your slot.
And they’re cash-only in person, but you can pay by credit card online (for a higher price).
Takes his time to get it right every visit
“Been getting my cuts here for last 10 years, flawless every time. Justin takes his time to get it right every visit. I live out of the country and have gone to many different barbers in various cities that I have lived in and no one has been able to get my hair looking as good as these guys. I make a trip to the shop every time I’m in town.”
–P T, Google Reviews
Was very careful when cutting my hair
“I had an amazing experience here. Tony was very patient and knowledgeable with his consultation. Took his time and helped me figure out what kind of hairstyle I wanted, as I’m inexperienced and never know what to ask for in a haircut. He was very careful when cutting my hair and paid close attention to detail. Was also a great conversationalist and worked efficiently, making sure to explain everything in detail and that I understood everything that was going on with my hair. I learned more than I have from every other barber/stylist combined. Also consistently made sure there wasn’t hair sitting on me anywhere.Tldr; 10/10 experience. Clean and spacious interior, great barbers, very knowledgeable and helpful. They really want to make you happy with your haircut. Loved the cut!
P.S. The food rec was great”
–Ivan Chang, Google Reviews
4. Boombox Barbershop
Address: 2460 Heather St
Contact Details: +1 604-423-9373
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Boombox Barbershop is a great pick for anyone who wants a retro atmosphere and options when it comes to both price and skill.
We really appreciate the 25% off coupon (get it from their website) they provide for new customers. It’s a good bonus that really made us want to try the service.
But what really stood out to us was the tiered barber system. You can book with a standard Barber for the basics, or go with a Senior or Lead Barber if you want someone with more experience (and don’t mind paying a little extra).
The vibe here is half the fun. The walls are plastered with colourful, old-school posters, and the ceiling plants give the place an urban edge. The music is also always on point.
You’ll find all the essentials on the menu—classic cuts, beard trims, buzzes, or a combo if you need the full refresh. But a few people said that the fades are sometimes hit or miss—occasionally not as clean or blended as they’d hoped.
Also, Boombox has a strict no-show policy. If you bail without cancelling, you’ll see a charge.
Hands down the best barber in town
“Connor is hands down the best barber in town. He is super professional, always on time, and genuinely takes the time to understand what you want. Whether it’s a fresh cut, beard trim, or just a clean-up, he nails it every single time. The shop has a great vibe, welcoming and chill.”
–Mahdi Gholi Zadeh, Google Reviews
Proficient in cutting short and long men’s hair
“Highly recommend a cut with Connor – easily the best barber I’ve found in Vancouver. The man is proficient in cutting short and long men’s hair – insane attention to detail, gives thoughtful direction, and is just an overall quality guy. Don’t miss out.”
–Nathan Cruickshank, Google Reviews
5. TOP GUN Barber
Address: 2162 E Hastings St
Contact Details: +1 604-620-6210
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
TOP GUN Barber is the go-to spot for anyone who wants a premium grooming experience and likes the convenience of bundling services for a full refresh.
We love that they make it easy to get a full grooming experience without having to book multiple appointments.
If you’re after the works, their Haircut & Hot Towel Shave package is a classic. You’ll leave with a sharp cut and a close, relaxing shave—perfect for when you want to feel completely put together.
Customers with beards love the Haircut & Beard Shape with Razor and Hot Towel combo. You get a tailored cut, expert beard shaping with a straight razor, and that relaxing hot towel treatment that leaves your skin feeling brand new.
Or if you’re just looking for a quick tidy-up, the Haircut and Beard Trim combo is a fast, efficient way to stay sharp without fuss.
We like how they also offer skin fades, gray coverage, and head shaves. Customers have different styles, so being able to offer various options can really help.
However, their appointments sometimes run behind, especially later in the afternoon. A few customers told us they had to wait up to 30 minutes, even with a booking.
Classic barber offering stylish haircuts
“It is a great classic barber offering stylish haircuts, impeccable facial detailing, and luxurious straight razor shaves by a highly skilled hairdresser. Hot towels, moisturising products, and precision shaves leave me feeling rejuvenated and incredible. Highly recommended!”
–Ray Sharma, Google Reviews
Always exceeds my expectations with a perfect cut and style
“Absolutely impressed with Leo.
He always exceeds my expectations with a perfect cut and style. He takes the right time to listen to what I want, and adds his artistic touch. Professional, attentive, and a true artist. The salon’s vibe is welcoming, great atmosphere . Left feeling confident and refreshed. Highly recommend!”
–Hazma Ismaiel, Google Reviews
