Merchant & Rhoades in Chicago
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Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, US
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Site: http://www.merchantandrhoades.com/
- Monday:8AM–6PM
- Tuesday:8AM–6PM
- Wednesday:8AM–6PM
- Thursday:8AM–6PM
- Friday:8AM–6PM
- Saturday:8AM–4PM
- Sunday:8AM–4PM
Ive been getting my hair cut by Alex at Merchant & Rhoades for nearly ten years. I tried a couple of other barber shops when I first moved to Chicago but Merchant & Rhoades was, and is, the best. I want a barber shop as opposed to a salon and I want the best haircut possible. M&R delivers on both accounts. The prices are fair for the quality of service, the setting is relaxing, and the staff is professional and welcoming.
This barbershop was recommended by the staff at the nearby Waldorf Astoria Hotel and was a unique experience - from the antique barber chairs to beautiful decor. What truly distinguished the experience was the level of professionalism of all the staff and one of the best haircuts Ive ever had. I felt comfortable leaving it in their hands. Undoutedly, there is a difference between a skilled mens barber and a salon haircut. Im considering flying in from out of town monthly for this!
A more gentlemanly experience can be found in a high-school locker room. A more relaxing environment can be found at your local supermarket. The space is very well-appointed, the staff is very skilled and experienced, but this is not a place to relax and pamper yourself. Its just very expensive, and clients openly brag about how much money they have, arrogantly and condescending to the staff thats taking care of them. If thats what youre after, its the perfect spot. I prefer the Union League Club, where members treat each other and the staff with respect instead of condescension. The Merchant & Rhoades insulting and upsetting banter between the staff, even between the manager and other clients, is endless. I even asked several times for it to stop, but it never did. And this was my fourth visit, always the same, always a regret. Additionally, Im quite sure the shop does not have a liquor license, but it was served freely when I last visited. I was there to be pampered and relaxed after a family tragedy, which I openly explained, but was forced to hear very hurtful jokes. My tears and pleas to stop were ignored, and I could only leave hours early. I will gladly take my money elsewhere, and the owners can remain defensive and proud of the shameful shop theyve built, or rather the great shop that theyve ruined.FYI, I sent this review to the owners a week ago to give them a chance to reply. They never have.
Wonderful! Superlative! Oasis! In our lives of constant rat race, this establishment is a combination of consumate pros, constant superlative service performance, fine product line. Customer service is quintessential! Step over the threshold & into the shop, feel the oasis until walking out the door! From ownership, management, to performers, top tier! I was honored to participate with beloved Kirk P. Merchant from leasing space & remain an awe-struck 26 years customer through present, as the Merchants continue sacred superlative tradition, while updating, innovating improvement, to my happy wonder! Come to visit, stay for service, love-appreciate pampering yourself! M&R provides it; You deserve it!
For 25 bucks it would get 4 stars, but for $130 I expect the treatment and decor to be more like barbershops Ive been to elsewhere around the country. From the start Id expect a better selection of drinks than the water cooler I was directed to when I came in. Next Id prefer that while reclined Id be seeing something besides a grate over a fluorescent light. Then I would think that there is a much better preparation to condition the skin before a shave so that I am enjoying it, like I usually do, rather than tolerating the discomfort I experienced. And finally, Id think my beard would look better than what I could have done if Id just bought a Wahl clipper at Walgreens down the street and did it myself. Overpriced and subpar. I suspect the 5 star ratings must come from men who never go to barbershops for shaves.
Ill admit to feeling a bit of apprehension and potential awkwardness before my first-ever appointment for haircut/shave/manicure/shoe shine which was a holiday gift, but both the atmosphere and quality of service were superb! This could easily become a persons splurge.
Today, AFTER my husband agreed to and had a haircut from another barber because his regular barber had to leave, and a manicure, Merchant and Rhodes told him that his regular barber had to leave because she was exposed to Covid-19. My husband is in a high risk category and NEVER should have been allowed in the shop. After 20+ years, he will NEVER set foot in this shop again. BEWARE! Completely irresponsible.
Total reviews rating 4.6
53 Reviews for Merchant & Rhoades 2023:
Review №1
2022-06-01Best cut in town and the environment lends itself to a classic high-end barber shop. Youd never expect to find this gem at the top floor of the mall on 900 Michigan. Nella is exactly what youd hope for and a warm and general barber. I always leave with a cut that gets compliments. This is a must visit for those who take their hair cut seriously.
Review №2
2022-04-17I’ve been going here since 2009 when they used their other name. I keep moving further away but no question that I’ll keep coming back. Always quality haircuts, impeccable service. Just be careful—you’ll like it so much you won’t go anywhere else. Prices have risen a bit lately but still very fair for the quality of the haircut and experience.
Review №3
2021-12-16I thought coming here would be such a great experience, high-end but chill. I made an appointment, but when I arrived, the people there acted weird and snobby. I can’t even describe how unexpectedly awkward and disappointing. I left and literally got a $20 haircut elsewhere.
Review №4
2020-10-21I called yesterday to see if they sold detroit grooming products. The employee was very nice and professional. We lost connection and she called right back. Today I called to inquire about parking. Again the employee was very nice and professional. He told me theres a parking garage and parking is free after validation. At the shop the employees were also professional and patient. I didnt get a haircut so I cant speak on there barber skills but I based on my limited experience I highly recommend.Thanks
Review №5
2021-03-14Got my head shaved here and it was an amazing experience ! I was nervous as it was my first time getting my head shaved, but if you are gonna do it. Go to the best. Hot towels, multiple shaves, a massage at the end. Best experience ever and really
Review №6
2022-06-26A great place to pamper yourself. Friendly environment, knowledgeable people.
Review №7
2021-06-02Merchant and roads is a real old-time barbershop located in the 900 North Michigan avenue Mall on the 6th floor. While it is a barber shop in the truest sense of the word or title especially as compared to something like Supercuts which really isnt even a comparison. The barbers are all licensed professionals. They have a lot of repeat business because everybody seems to know everybody there. Many people have a particular barber that they patronize on a regular basis. Lets be clear right at the top quality work costs money. A regular haircut which includes washing your hair and trimming and whatever else you may need run $65. It takes a little bit of getting used to at that number but it doesnt take long before you feel like you deserve spending that kind of money to make yourself look handsome and feel good and just have a pleasant hour. If you cant afford the $65 then Supercuts or its equivalent is the place for you and naturally you will get what you pay for
Review №8
2022-01-26World Class. This place is the real deal. 5 star service with a firm grasp on professionalism and hospitality. Quality is the only word need apply.
Review №9
2019-04-16Although this is there only place Ive had a straight reassure shave, it is with the extra cost. Every visit is extremely relaxing. My beard and goatee have come out looking highly stylish with a great afternoon to detail. A great cut and experience.
Review №10
2016-12-10This is where I would want to get my haircut every time. Ive never received so many compliments! On top of the perfect haircut I received the most relaxing and enjoyable shave. The staff were all friendly and professional. The whole experience was great.Worth mentioning... This was also by far the most expensive haircut Ive ever had... But you get what you pay for.