Carl’s of Broadway

I’ve been going to Carl’s since I my father took me to him when he was located on Waverly Place in Chinatown a long time ago.
Carl is a old style friendly talkative guy, kind of what barber shops of old were; a place to gather and to talk. If you’re young enough, he’ll have some juicy fruit gum for you. His cuts are very consistent and he takes his time; you’re never rushed even when a walk-​in is sitting there waiting. He’s always got the food channel on (Saturday), so after my hair cut, I also get to try out some new recipes when I get home.
Carl actually retired at the end of Jan 2016, so he no longer serving his loyal customers. He deserves a break after all that time. My hair will miss him.

What do you want from a barber? If you want a trendy, hipster place where everyone looks cool and you doubtless pay a lot for the pleasure of someone who dresses like they’re from the nineteenth century and clearly looks down on you for not being as cool on you, then go to one of the other establishments around Polk street and pay an arm and a leg for the privilege.
If, however, you just want a decent job done by a really nice guy with years of experience of doing a good job which matches customer expectations then this is the place for you.
If you can get there when it’s open (9:30 am until noon most weekdays), you’ll find a warm welcome in the small shop. The prices are also pretty decent, $ 20 for a men’s haircut is very reasonable for the area.

Carl is a classic. Super friendly with a welcoming smile and got right down to business sharpening me up for a friend’s wedding. Old-​time barbershop, single chair, drop-​ins welcome. Couldn’t recommend more highly.

My father went to Carl’s for years. My brother and I went to Carl’s for years. And then my nephew got his hair cut by Carl!
This is your neighborhood SF barbershop when your barber sees three generations of your family.
I have fond, vivid memories of Carl giving me Juicy Fruit packs of gum after every haircut. I can even say I’ve seen Wrigley’s/Juicy Fruit go through at least 3 design changes. I also remember his choice magazine collection for men.
Carl is a warm, friendly Filipino man who loves to cut, chat and joke around. He really caters to your requests and has a genuine care about you leaving happy.
I invite you to go in for the good olé’ personal, neighborhood barbershop experience at least once. Carl knows hair. He has been doing it for 20 – 30 years.
Though I’ve been cutting my own hair for decades (shaved head), when I do grow it out, I go to Carl’s. Some times it has been years between hair cuts, but every time I walk away feeling like a new man.
By no means am I an artist, but if you gave me a paintbrush and canvas, I could paint you a picture that would replicate the place.
Some good things never need to change.