Artbeat Salon & Gallery

Love love love this salon! First of all, the ambiance is beautiful – big, serene space; exposed brick and beams; skylights and windows provide natural light to see true colors.
Amazing, professional service, too. Jane at the front desk is on top of her game!
Terrific cut – long layers, some thinning, by Jill. Perfect for my thick, long, and prone to frizz hair.
And gorgeous full highlights by Monica. She took her time and selected beautiful colors, lightening my dark hair and giving it dimension.
Price is absolutely reasonable. I can’t recommend this place enough!

I went to Artbeat to get my hair and makeup done for my wedding on Saturday. Jill did my updo and my makeup. She was a delight to work with for both the trial run and the day of services. She listened to my desire to still look like myself. I ended up looking and feeling like a very glamorous version of myself.
I appreciated that Jill was willing to ask another stylist for help when my veil proved difficult to get to stay in my updo. They worked together and added more pins in strategic places and my veil both stayed put and was easy to remove for the reception.
Jill also did a beautiful job on my mom’s hair.
Joel did back to back appointments with my Maid of Honor and my bridesmaid. They both looked absolutely beautiful.
I had looked at having a stylist come to the hotel, which was crazy expensive. Artbeat was super reasonable in comparison and the atmosphere is great!
I likely won’t have another reason to get that glamorous in Berkeley. But if I did, I would go back in a heartbeat.

This review is overdue, but this place is really not worth the money. I did a lot of research in advance, and chose them because one of the stylists was said to be good at cutting curly hair. I was super disappointed. About $ 80 later, and my hair looked exactly the same. Didn’t even look like I’d had a trim, even though I asked her to cut more. I had to make an appointment somewhere else and get it cut again the following week.

Horrible Customer Service
I never write reviews since I am short on time and not online a lot, but this was such a negative experience, I actually signed up for Unilocal and feel compelled to warn others about it so they don’t have to go through the same thing.
Short version:
Trying to have a basic conversation with a receptionist about rescheduling my haircut and moisturizing treatment since my stylist was out sick turned into a nightmare with a truly bizarre and rude staff person there. I never knew booking an appointment and trying to come in and use the services offered could end up being so difficult and traumatic thanks to the receptionist, but it was. Never had an experience like this anywhere else. I do NOT recommend this place. Stay away if you value your time, energy, and well being.
Detailed version:
In an attempt to reschedule my appointment with a stylist who was out sick, I had to talk to a receptionist (Brianna) who was rude, hostile, and made doing anything, from rescheduling to asking about services, very difficult. She spoke in a sweet, saccharin tone, but her words were rude and inappropriate. At some point, because it sounded like my stylist was booked pretty far out, I asked if they might be able to fit me in somehow, or maybe swap me with someone else if they were flexible, since they had to cancel on me, and it was just a short haircut. Brianna’s response was, «your time isn’t more important than anyone else’s, you know. All these people value their time as well.» Hmm. Ok, that’s kind of an overreaction, and NOT what I was suggesting, of course.
When I let her know directly that I didn’t like how she was speaking to me, she became even more difficult. I realize that some people are uncomfortable with direct and honest, even if polite communication, so maybe that was her hangup, but she was already being rude, and I told her that’s how it felt on my end. I am generally very friendly and considerate of anyone I speak to, but if they are rude, I will be honest and let them know. This only made it worse. When I finally came in for the hair treatment, I tried to forget about this awful interaction.
Brianna had reluctantly agreed on the phone after much discussion to «let» me pay the same amount I would for the add on treatment as if I were still getting a haircut (and of course planned to get the haircut as soon as possible anyway) instead of doubling the cost, as she first argued they needed to do, which is ridiculous given that they had to cancel on me. So I had a perfectly fine hair treatment from a stylist there, who was nice and reasonable.
When I went to the front desk to pay, The same receptionist, Brianna, was there, and remained hostile. Before I could pay or say anything, she told me I should go to some other salon and not come back, giving a list of salons, that I wasn’t a good fit for the salon, and that my service was free, continuing her rude streak for no reason. Crazy.
At this point, I got upset and angry. I let her know what I thought of this, and that it was inappropriate and not based in reality. It seems like she really didn’t like me or talking to me, which is fine, not everyone likes everyone. But then I guess at this place, if the receptionist doesn’t like you, they do what feels good for them personally, rather than being professional, and tell you to get lost and reject your business. I have never heard of that before as a good business practice!
I asked for the manager, and she seemed awkward for a minute, and then said she was basically the manager that day. So then I asked for the owner, and she said she wasn’t there and doesn’t take calls from clients. ! Ok, I said, how about her e mail? She handed me a paper with the generic «info@» address. So I guess this receptionist is in charge of the whole place, and the owner doesn’t care about customer experiences??? I had to google search to find the owner’s actual e mail, and wrote and let her know I wanted to talk to her about my bad experience, but haven’t heard back. Perhaps I will hear back soon. Or maybe she just takes this crazy receptionist’s word as ultimate truth and has no interest in customer feedback or the reality of what is experienced, I don’t know.
The worst part is, I didn’t even get to tip the nice stylist who did my treatment, because this interaction was so awful I finally had to cut it off and walk out the door. I had my wallet open and was trying to count cash right there at the desk, and this receptionist was so rude that they literally lost money because I had to walk out and couldn’t take it anymore. I wish I could let the stylist know I wanted to tip her but this got in the way, and wish I could get in touch with the stylist who originally cut my hair to let her know what happened and why I won’t be back!
No customer deserves to be treated like that. Major thumbs down.

I got my hair cut here for the first time today, and I’m so glad I ended up here instead of some of the other places nearby I’d been considering. The receptionists were welcoming and friendly, and the space was open and super clean – not to mention unique because it doubles as a gallery, showcasing artwork on the walls.
Monica cut my hair, and she did a fantastic job! I showed her a picture of the look I was going for, and she understood right away. She asked me about my hair washing routine and product use, and really took an interest in understanding my day-​to-​day maintenance and routine. She was thoughtful and attentive the entire time, asking whether the water temp was ok and the blow drying temp as well. She was silent and focused when she needed to be, but made easy conversation with me as well. Monica went the extra mile by giving me a quick styling tutorial, letting me practice with the flatiron to achieve my desired style.
The extra details that made me appreciate this place even more: Monica did not try to upsell me on the Aveda products they sell onsite, which I really appreciated it. She told me what type of products she was using in my hair, but did not pressure me into buying them there today. And the receptionists were happy to have me use the Unilocal deal I received for checking in at the salon, not making me feel uncomfortable at all for using the deal (which is rare, I’ve found).
I look forward to returning for another great cut by Monica.

I definitely will not be returning here. Why oh why do hairdressers not know HOW TO USE SCISSORS? I had my hair done by Jill 4 weeks ago. It looked kind of OK. I was worried though that she spent 99.8% of the time using a razor. Does she not know how to layer hair with scissors? Is that all they «teach» at Paul Mitchell schools, how to use a razor? Two weeks later my hair is frizzy and very uneven.
If anyone out there knows of a good salon in the Bay area please let me know.

I’ve been here for color and cut services. I come back for the convenience of their late hours and online booking. But this place is expensive and the services are about average, depending on whom I’ve seen.
Jill did a great job with my color, was communicative, and the experience was good. I wish I didn’t have spots of color on my forehead, ears, and neck, but I do recommend her.
Emily’s color job left me with roots still showing through, that I noticed the next day in daylight. She cut more than we had discussed and didn’t talk to me while she did it. Overall the layers are nice and it falls well, but the bottom was the weirdest blunt cut I’ve ever had. Maybe she stopped when she realized she’d cut so much already. I dunno. If you’re in the chair of this senior talent, stay alert and make sure to get her to talk about what she’s doing.
The shampoos so far are always «meh.» So not worth the $ 100+ price, but I’ve had a hard time making appointments in the east bay. Most places only take appointments by phone during business hours when their hands aren’t busy with someone’s hair, but Art Beat does have convenient online booking.

This place is super close to my home, so I was excited to try it out! Made a call, got in same day on a Saturday. Last appt. of the day with a junior stylist, but I took it and was glad to get an appt. My stylist, Celine, was friendly and talkative. She took a few minutes for a consultation and kept me in the loop as far as snips and cuts here and there. Overall, okay. I’d go back for a second visit, but wasn’t super impressed. The cut is great, but front desk service could be so much better!
Pros:
–Same day appt.
–Cool vibe
–Aveda salon
Cons:
–Unfriendly and unwelcoming front staff
–Awkward ask (from me) for a scalp massage that I thought was supposed to be included with the cut
–kind of a snooty clientele
Will probably give it one more shot, just based on proximity to my house, but might go somewhere else after that if front desk ladies can’t get a smile on their faces and at least fake like they enjoy their job.

It is about time I left a review for Artbeat Salon! I moved to the area 3 years ago and with that comes finding a great esthetician/​hair stylist — never an easy job. After doing a little research, I chose to try out Artbeat and I am so glad I did.
Their environment is just what I was looking for. You are always greeted by a smiling face and offered water or tea — so you are instantly relaxed.
My haircut is really simple so I get my hair cut by their New Talent Stylists. I am always satisfied with the entire process. You can’t go wrong!
For all waxing/​tinting/​general relaxation — I go to Rachelle. It is always scary going to a new esthetician but not with Rachelle. We sometimes start out a service with an aromatherapy journey and I cannot express how perfect it is when you are feeling stressed out. Rachelle makes you feel so comfortable with every visit. She listens to any and all concerns and it makes a huge difference when you are going to someone for this type of service. I’ve even tried out different services with her because I trust her so much. I feel really lucky to have found her!
If I could find more reasons to go to Artbeat, I would! It’s my favorite salon in the Bay Area.

This is my second time visiting Ashley for a brow tint, eyebrow wax, and lip wax service. She pays incredible attention to detail and both times I have left incredibly happy. You can tell she keeps up with the ongoing brow trend because she provides you with various styles you could choose from but also keeps in mind what you are actually looking for her. This salon is a ways from my house but Ashley makes the drive worth while!

First time getting my hair done here! I got a a senior talent Jill she is was too sweet and nice very welcoming! They offer mimosa which I love. I did highlight partial and cut my hair. I bought some products for my hair. I would definitely recommend Jill she was awesome

In desperate need of a haircut ASAP, I called Artbeat and was able to book a same-​day appointment with Monica. Best decision ever! The whole experience was awesome — the salon is tranquil and beautiful, the employees are friendly and I am in love with my haircut!
With just a little bit of input, Monica somehow knew (more than I did) exactly what my hair needed. She trimmed it exactly as requested and added some layers so that it looks cuter with less maintenance — very important since I’m about to have twins! I appreciated that it wasn’t the same boring haircut that I always get, and I will definitely go back to see her again.

I was in the area visiting my sister on a little weekend getaway, and she recommended this place to me. Wow! I had Ashley and her hands are magical. Her facial was so relaxing and my skin was just glowing when I left! I also decided to get my legs waxed and it was the least painful wax I’ve ever got. She was so professional and sweet. Definitely will be back on my next visit. Thanks Ashley!

I’ve been coming to Artbeat for three years now but I think it’s time to go elsewhere. For the last 12 months I’ve tried coloring my hair– normally a shade darker than my natural color. Emily did a great job with this and I was very happy with it. Recently, I decided to go lighter for summer and it was a disaster.
First of all, the color wasn’t lighter at all– it was just my normal color and then had a weird red sheen with patches of purple-​red color on my scalp. When I left I told her I didn’t think it was right but she said give it a few days. So I did but within a week I couldn’t even stand it anymore. I never complain and felt really uncomfortable calling to ask about correcting it but I paid $ 240 for her to dye my hair it’s normal color with purple streaks? I really don’t know what happened but I like Emily so thought I’d give her a chance to make it right.
They said I needed to come in for a consultation and then another appointment. For me the challenge is that I’m crazy crazy busy and finding time for a consultation and a 2 hour appointment is hard– really hard. Anyone who can afford a $ 240 color probably has a lot going on and doesn’t have time to drop everything to fix it. But I did my best to make the time for the consultation and the appointment and then had to cancel the appointment last minute. I know this is not ideal– I know it’s a business and I understand why they have a deposit for regular appointments. But this was to correct an error that they made. They have a 14 day policy to fix it which is just unreasonable– of course I wanted to fix these purple strips within two weeks so of course I’m motivated to come in right away– but when that’s not possible they should be doing everything possible to fix it so I don’t have to write a post like this. I’m disappointed and won’t return unless they make this right.

When is the last time you used Unilocal to find a great hairdresser and ended up getting your best hair cut in years? This has not worked will for me in the past. Not now! Genevieve is EXCEPTIONAL at cutting curly hair.
She’s also terrific at listening to what you want and giving you what you asked for.
Me: don’t assume that because I’m of a certain age I don’t want to look fun and hip and chic.
G: I think this shape would look good, but do you need to tie it back (I told her that in my job I sometimes have to look Elizabethan. Long story.).
Me: oops! Yes!
G: any strong likes \dislikes, like razor cutting, thinning, etc?
Me: Nope. Do whatever you want as long as it looks cute and artsy.
RESULT: a gorgeous cut that makes me look 10 years younger and five pounds lighter, that works like a dream with my curly hair. The test is the next morning when you wash and style it yourself, and this cut looked even better the second day! A week later, I’ve gotten a dozen unsolicited compliments.
You ROCK, Genevieve!

I’d like to clarify from the get go that this is a review for OMAR specifically, not the salon. I’ve had other experiences at this salon that have been amazing, but my experience today with Omar was simply so bad that I couldn’t not warn others.
I came in wanting a simple long side bang cut. I was armed with pictures, all of which I showed Omar. He nodded and said nothing, then gathered my hair in his hands and did one big snip. «Okay,» he said, as he showed me my short, straight across bangs. «You can wear it either way.» When I told him that that wasn’t at all what I had asked for and again showed him the picture, he shrugged. «She has different hair than you,» he said. I told him that was fine, I understand that I’m not the person in the picture, but if he could’ve communicated that BEFORE cutting my hair, it would’ve been nice. Again, he shrugged, completely un apologetic. «It’s not your hair,» he said.
Again, I understand that my hair can’t always look like the picture. What I found appalling about this experience is the utter lack of communication before, during and after the cut, and the complete lack of contrition on the stylist’s end. If you go to ArtBeat (and I recommend you do, as it’s a great East Bay salon), be sure to specify that you would like someone other than him to cut your hair.

I visited this salon for the first time on Sunday and really enjoyed the experience, as well as my haircut!
I booked online, but ended up changing the time. This resulted in me getting charged two deposits ($ 37.50 and $ 32.50). When I called, and also when I arrived in person, the staff was very clear in giving me the option to keep it as a credit on my account, apply both to my haircut (basically making my haircut pre-​paid), applying the remainder towards a tip or product, etc.
I’ve been to Sole Salon, also an Aveda salon, in Emeryville so I was familiar and always appreciate the «Aveda» experience: tea or water upon entering, starting with a scalp massage, etc. The salon is clean, has a comfortable «anthropologie art gallery» feel and the ambience plus the staff are very pleasant. I enjoyed my haircut with Heather — I welcomed her input and ended up with my long-​pixie-​cut that has all the details I appreciate! (bangs, length, etc. spot-​on). And, she mentioned that if the back or bangs are getting long, which often happens before the cut grows out, I can schedule to get those trimmed for free. Awesome — I appreciated the option to extend my cut.
I also did not find the staff to be «pushy» for Aveda products. My other experiences have been like that — ending with an Aveda sales pitch — but I didn’t get that from the folks at Artbeat this time.

I am a fan. I am. But you have to gird your loins when you make your appointment. You have to take a sharpie, write on a card, and keep that card on your lap. The card should say «No thanks, just a cut.»
The cost of a cut is totally reasonable. The cost for color is like WHUUUUUT? And the poor staff members are encouraged, nay trained, nay brainwashed to get you buyin’ up that product and orderin’ up that color.
Hey, if you’re single and wild and free and you’ve got dollars flying out of your pockets on the regular, go crazy and have all the color. But if you’re on a budget, want a city-​sophisticated cut, and live in fear of surprise charges, come prepared. It’s totally worth the annoyance; the cuts are outstanding.

I have been to Artbeat a few times (Omar is great for coloring! and he’s the only reason this reviews gets more than 1 star)
I had a very unpleasant experience here at art beat. my stylist was noelle or michelle (? she also said she lived around sonoma if that helps clarify which stylist it was) and she barely cut any of my hair or gave me any volume or layers. I also asked for almond hair color — she gave me black. How many black almonds do you eat?
but what made the experience unpleasant was that noelle/​michelle made a statement that was extremely rude.
first i told her that my friend had blonde hair and that it didnt look good (my friend’s hair color was more blonde/​orange) and i asked her how hard is to dye black hair blonde? then she says to me yeah Asians don’t look good blonde.
First of all, how dare she assume my friend is Asian because I am Asian. She is making that assumption based on my looks. Is it impossible that I can have friends who are not Asian just because I am Asian?
Second, she has some audacity to tell me that Asians don’t look good blonde. She cannot make that blanket statement that applies to MILLIONS OF PEOPLE.
And some Asians do look good blonde, why don’t you take a look at Daul Kim (RIP) or Soo Joo before you say that kind of stupid comment to me that Asians don’t look good blonde.
I will not be coming back to a salon that employs hair stylists who are allowed to make discriminatory and rude comments to their customers.

Spatastic! Fantabulous! Awsmazing! YES. This was the kind of place that made you want to tell everyone your experience.
For $ 55 I got the full spa treatment. I usually go to spa salons and never got this deal or experience so I was blown away.
So my journey began at 1pm. I was a little early cause I was nervous. I had NO clue what to do. But I did know 2 things. I wanted BANGS and keep my length long.
I was seated with my stylist Michelle. She had a pleasant smile and was very welcoming. We first strategized how we were going to attack this mission to NEW GIRL redemption. It took a good 10 mins for her to visualize it and on we started.
She first put some type of eucalyptus oil and began relaxing me with a massage. I was wowed. I had never had a back massage at any salon I’ve been to. After that she wet my hair and lathered it (more relaxing). By the time I was back in my seat I was extremely relaxed.
She began working on my haircut and there’s one thing I really don’t like when someone cuts my hair… «CONVERSATION» it’s not that I hate it, I’m just not very good at it, I feel we ask each other the same questions we hear ALL the time. «What do you?» How long you work here? How’s your day… So when I get a haircut I honestly just want to be quiet and let myself be in peace.
Michelle did just that. Only talking to me when I ask things that apply. I felt comfortable and that’s the kind of stylist I needed.
After my haircut I thought I’m up and outta there. BUT no, Michelle was not yet finished. She even took it upon herself to style my hair. I mean, WOW. I looked amazing after and everyone agreed.
The bill was $ 55. Exactly what their price list said without hidden taxes and fees.
I can’t wait to go back!