Liam SmithLast year, my trusty barber packed up and moved to another city, leaving me with a wild mane and a mission to find a new place with the same magic touch. Armed with recommendations from friends, I embarked on a quest around Ottawa.
I tried a couple of places, winced through a few too many awkward small talks, and stumbled upon some absolute gems. I even tagged along with friends a couple of times and was seriously impressed by the results they walked away with.
So here it is—a list of the best barber shops in Ottawa that have earned a spot in my haircare hall of fame. Trust me, these places will have you looking fresh in no time. Let’s dive in and say goodbye to bad hair days!
How much do barber shops in Ottawa charge for a haircut?
In Ottawa, the average price for a standard haircut at a barbershop ranges from $20 to $30.
For additional services such as hair styling or a full service (including haircut, beard trim, and styling), you can expect to pay between $40 and $75.
1. Arte barber shop
Address: 780 Baseline Rd Unit 6
Phone: +1 613 513 4122
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
We’ve been hearing good things about Arte Barber Shop, so we decided to see if it lives up to the hype. Right off the bat, we spotted how clean and spacious the place is.
The range of services they offer is pretty solid. From basic haircuts, styling, beard shaves, and trims to waxing and shampoo treatments.
There are options for pretty much everyone, including kiddos—they even offer discounts for students! On a friend’s haircut appointment, the staff members showed a welcoming vibe, especially Mustafa, the owner.
He was very hands-on and even offered himself if we were cool with him showing out his skills. We also saw how well they handle kid’s haircuts. Many clients echoed this and also commended the staff’s patience and ability to make kids comfortable.
Booking an appointment is also a breeze—you can even select your haircut style and see the price online!
We’re just iffy about the long waiting times regarding the email confirmation of the appointment, which typically takes about 24 to 48 hours. It’s a small hiccup in an otherwise excellent service process, though.
Kid-friendly and attentive service
“Great experience here. Came in with my 10 year old son tonight, whose hair was quite long. He was very reluctant to part with it, but a young man by the name of Abdul put him at ease quickly. He was really friendly and clearly knew what he was doing, because this is the best haircut my son has had so far and the best part is he loves it too. Abdul really took his time creating a fresh new cut, asked questions about the look and feel that he wanted, and really delivered. He chatted with my son throughout the cut, which helped him to feel more confident and comfortable.
The entire vibe of the shop was laid back and very friendly. We will definitely be back in the near future. Highly recommend this place!”
-Daria Kathnelson, Google Review
Consistently great trims and friendly staff
“Came here for a quick trim before a busy weekend for me. Arte’s barbers were talented, funny to chat with and gave an awesome cut. Always come here for a good laugh and a quality trim. Also love the hours of this place and will continue to come back!”
-James Millions, Google Review
2. Khalil Barbershop Men’s Hairstylist
Address: 1430 Prince of Wales Dr.
Phone: +1 613 723 7686
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
As the recipient of the Top Choice Award for Ottawa’s Best Men’s Barbershop in 2023, Khalil Barbershop piqued our curiosity—we had to check it out. To our pleasant surprise, the experience exceeded our expectations.
First, the place is impeccably clean with a cosy atmosphere, complete with offers of coffee or espresso. We also noted their seamless blend of classic cuts and modern styles, offering a variety of services from haircuts, colouring, and beard grooming to waxing.
They even accommodate kids under 12—clients loved how good the staff was at handling them. We also commend the team’s expertise, especially Sam, who has an impressive 32 years under his belt!
Furthermore, booking online is a breeze, letting you pick your barber and see prices upfront.
Many clients we interviewed vouched for the place, raving about how it’s not just the haircut but the overall experience—from the friendly chit-chat to the meticulous grooming.
On the downside, the compact size of the place means it can feel a tad less spacious.
Extremely pleased with every haircut
“Easily the best barber I can find in the city and surrounding areas. Anytime I am able to go here and get my hair cut, I have people compliment my hair, ask me where it was done etc. Each and every time I’m not even kidding. It Doesn’t matter which one of these gentlemen cut your hair, you will be extremely pleased with the result. Cannot recommend enough.”
-Logan Smith, Google Review
Highly skilled and very professional
“Khalil’s barber shop is at the top of the line when it comes to getting your hair cut. All the staff working there are extremely professional, friendly, and welcoming. You can always expect the best services. They even offer espresso coffees or anything they can to make you feel like you’re comfortable. I highly recommend this barber shop. I’ve been coming here for years and will always be a customer. I especially recommend Sam, the owner, who is highly skilled and ver professional.”
-Jessy Saikali, Google Review
3. The G.O.A.T. Barber Shop
Address: 82 Burland St.
Phone: +1 613 828 1628
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
The G.O.A.T. Barber Shop offers a wide range of barbering styles, from classic cuts like the Caesar or wave cut to more contemporary styles like the mohawk or mullet. One standout offering is the GOAT Package—a full hour of hair, beard, and facial treatment for just $80.
We tagged along a friend who tried this, and he mentioned how he felt satisfied with the session.
We were also impressed by their clean and inviting setup. The barbers clean up immediately after each client, which speaks volumes about their commitment to hygiene and customer comfort.
When you book through their website, the system lets you choose your service and see all the prices upfront—so there are no surprises or hidden charges!
However, their “cash-only” policy is quite inconvenient in an increasingly cashless society, but the quality of service makes it a trade-off worth considering.
Unmatched attention to detail
“I’ve been getting my hair cut at the G.O.A.T for 4 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the results every time! James always takes the time to listen to exactly what I want, and the attention to detail is unmatched. Whether it’s a trim or a full style, I always leave looking and feeling my best. The atmosphere is welcoming, the service is top-notch, and the skill level is beyond impressive. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great cut and an even better experience. Five stars all the way!”
-Waheedullah Stanikzai, Google Review
Truly professional and family-friendly
“The only place my *very* fussy husband will go for a haircut. Jayms is, as has been noted by others, a true professional who runs a tight ship and only hires the best. We bring our boys here as well now and all 3 ‘men’ of the family get compliments every time they get a haircut. Can’t recommend enough and hope they never move or close.”
-Amanda Airey, Google Review
4. The King’s Barber shop
Address: 2222 Carling Ave.
Phone: +1 613 829 5464
Business Hours:
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
The King’s Barber Shop comes highly recommended by many of their previous clients. Here, they cater to everyone—kids, adults, and seniors—with a variety of haircut styles.
We chatted with a few regulars, and many swore by the barber shop’s King’s Treatment package. This includes a haircut, beard trim, wax, shampoo, styling, and a facial that lasts a solid hour and a half.
This package comes at $125 + tax—a bit high compared to other shops’ special packages, but judging from our experience, we think it’s worth every penny. Their hair products are popular too—gels, oils, shampoos, razors, you name it. So, no need for extra stops after your cut!
In addition, many of their previous clients highlighted the ease of making appointments and felt reassured by the transparency. Overall, the consensus is that this place is solid—skilled barbers, a great atmosphere, and consistent service.
Consistent quality and focus
“My go-to location for a few years right up until I moved out of Ottawa! Moe regularly gave me the best fade – very attentive and focused. Will definitely return if I get back to the city! Highly recommend.”
-David Suriano, Google Review
Expert fading and tapering skills
“If you’re looking for a new barbershop, look no further! I got my first haircut with them yesterday and the entire experience was phenomenal. Welcoming environment, friendly barbers and a great cut. MOODIE really knew what we was doing and delivered a fantastic cut with some fading and taper. He knew exactly what I wanted and delivered. My girlfriend has already mentioned 3 times how good it looks so big shoutout to MOODIE!”
-Niko Gettas, Google Review
5. House of Barons
Address: 481 Sussex Dr.
Phone: +1 613 241 2427
Business Hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
House of Barons offers an impressive range of services—everything from classic haircuts and straight-razor shaves to kids’ cuts, beard grooming, and soothing hot-towel facials.
Even better, their private event services make for an incredible experience if you’re looking to host a groomsman party. The 10% discount for students and military members is also a thoughtful touch.
Furthermore, we were happy with how clean and trendy the place looked, enhanced by vintage chairs and the welcoming environment.
Many of their previous clients can’t get enough of recommending them, especially with how the barbers deliver exactly what clients want. A lot even commended the barbers for giving style suggestions that turned out great!
On the downside, while booking is straightforward, waiting for your turn can take longer than expected since they entertain walk-ins. The good thing is that they offer refreshments like water, coffee, or even beer, making the wait a bit more pleasant.
Friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere
“Best barbershop we’ve been to! The boyfriend was getting his beard/hair done and they offered me water/coffee/beer while I waited – great group of guys, friendly, professional – the best boy was Clyde, shop dog!! Great playlist cool vibes”
-Kimberly Vickers, Google Review
Kid-friendly, welcoming environment
“My husband has been going here for a couple of years and recently he’s been bringing my 2y/o toddler as well. My toddler loves the “bah-ber shop” and he’s always very excited to see Tito Mitch. It’s always the highlight of his day/week whenever he goes. Judging from my son’s happy experience, HOB is the place to be!”
-Camille Rodriguez, Google Review
