Tao Barber Salon

I saw Doug here a while back and stopped going. He treated me like I was a burden to his busy schedule. He didn’t even take the time to shave me neck.

I’ve been to Peoples now a half dozen times and must say it’s been hit and miss. Daniel cut my hair three times and he was always amazing. But the other three, all different people, were pretty rushed and sloppy. They just weren’t good cuts. The place is always busy so maybe they’re bursting at the seems and giving on quality. In future if I can’t book Daniel, I’m going somewhere else

Doug is a real pro. One of my best cuts ever. I love the space he’s created and the attention he gives to every detail of your experience. I’m definitely going back.

Quick five star review here, as I’ve written about this salon under its new name, The Requisite Barber.
Suffice to say, as most of the other reviews state, this is an excellent barber, truly first class care, from first meeting, till leaving. Really great.

I’ve been to a bunch of other barbers around the city, and without failure, this is the best beard trim/​cut I’ve had. Thorough to the point of meticulous, it’s just all-’round class and quality.

When I first arrived in SF, I turned to Unilocal to find a suitable place to get a haircut. Thankfully, I discovered Tao Barber Salon, which – despite its stellar reviews – far exceeded my expectations.
Doug’s work is superb. Having gone to him for just over three years and through numerous changes in hairstyle (from long to short; from more «styled» cuts to classic looks), I have yet to receive a haircut with which I was unsatisfied. I became so comfortable with and confident in Doug’s abilities that I sometimes gave little forethought to what I wanted, leaving Doug with only a vague idea of the style and instructions to «do what looks good.» Of course, I do not recommend this approach to most people, but I use it to illustrate just how much faith I had in Doug’s work. Simply put, Doug can and will execute the haircut that you want; just be mindful that we as clients share the responsibility in getting there too.
As for the salon itself, the environment is pleasant and serene, and the other stylists are always professional. But frankly, the setting is not as important to me as the haircut itself, so I’ll keep this part brief. (You could put Doug in a back alley armed with only a potato peeler and I’d still go to him for my haircuts.)
Unfortunately, I had to leave SF for my career, which prompted me to write this – my first Unilocal review. I don’t acknowledge outstanding service as often as I should, but I felt compelled to review Tao Barber Salon both due to its excellence and the fact that Unilocal led me there in the first place. I hope my review may help others in search of a good haircut, and I highly recommend you give Tao Barber Salon (and, in particular, Doug) a try!

I actually found this place because I inquired about stores that carry the product, «Hanz De Fuko» in San Francisco, given that product itself originated in San Francisco. I got more for what I bargained for once I entered Tao Barbershop to pick up the products. The entire set up is incredibly nice and just emits that relaxing vibe. There is even complimentary drinks in the back, ranging from water, tea to bourbon (Feel FREE to help yourself to a drink or two, or three). It is also worth noting that at the time, I was trying to find a go-​to barber.
After much debate, I scheduled an appointment online (which is where all booking is done). Doug was my barber and is incredibly intelligent as far as his duty and roles as a barber. Very talk-​a-​tive too so there will not be that awkward silence through-​out the cut. Doug really takes his time in making sure the haircut is done the way you requested, or at least VERY close to it (everyone has different hair so don’t expect to show a picture of Ryan Gosling and expect you to walk out with Ryan Gosling hair; Doug will put in his own touch on the cut so it works for you and your hair style).
All in all, I believe I’ve found my go-​to barber and will be making a visit here every month. It is about $ 45-​$ 50 dollars for a hair cut, which is common for a quality cut.

I dare you to find a shop that puts as much care and detail into each haircut. I’ve been here a number of times and worked with both Doug and Raquel, and they are incredible at what they do.
Going to Tao isn’t just like going to a barber… it’s an escape, and you happen to come out looking and feeling like a rock star.

The entire experience is fantastic. Both Doug and Raquel have cut my hair and they both give incredible attention.
There’s an awesome whiskey lounge area in the back and they’ll make you individual cocktails. Can’t recommend this place highly enough.

Saturday afternoon, walk in. Three barber chairs, all empty. «Oh sorry we’re over booked today next availability isn’t until next Tuesday.» Where are all your barbers?

Just moved back to SF and was looking for a new regular barber. After lots of research I decided on this place. Made an online reservation on a Monday for Thursday afternoon with Doug. Showed up 5 minutes early and was warmly greeted by a friendly female stylist near the door and shown to the waiting area in back.
That area is nice and comfortable and I did notice the Bourbon selection but did not partake.
My complaint is that when I have made an appointment I expect it to be honored. When Doug finished up the client he was working on when I came in, he then came and escorted the other gentleman who was waiting to the chair and told me «I will be with with you in a few minutes»
Well, 25 minutes later I decided we do not speak the same language! 25 is not a few, its way too damn long to expect someone to wait, and of course it would have taken longer as he was still working on the guy. Why even take reservations if you blow off your clients?
Now I am a reasonable person so if he had come and said this is going to take longer, can you wait or some such basic courtesy I would have been okay. Instead, my statement that I could not wait any longer was greeted with silence. No apology, no attempt to ask me to wait a few more minutes. Nada. I guess this guy has enough regular business he does not care about making new long term clients.
Save yourself a similar fate and go elsewhere. I can highly recommend People Barber on Polk and Sutter. They know how to treat their customers, new and old.

Very pleasant and great service, but unfortunately the worst haircut I’ve ever had. Lumpy, uneven, too short some places, with long pieces everywhere.
Based on the reviews I’m really surprised. I can’t say I’ll be returning.

Unfortunately, My experience at Tao was extremely unpleasant for me:
I made an appointment with Doug for a haircut @ 530 on a Friday. I realized that I would be late so I called and spoke with Doug and he told me that «everything would be fine». When I arrived (about 545) I was promptly greeted by Doug and was told to take a seat while he finished the current client.
It took an additional 15 minutes or so for Doug to finish up with the guy and send him on his way. Then Doug approached me and told me that he was overbooked and would not be able to cut my hair that day. He then proceeded to give me a grocery list of excuses for why he couldn’t do it. Doug then told me that he would try to fit me in the following day and would call me (he didn’t).
As we parted, he asked me how knew about Tao and what neighborhood I lived; as if he were sizing me up which I thought was strange to ask someone that he just turned away.
If Doug was so overbooked why wasn’t I notified and asked to reschedule or even told on the phone when I phoned in? I do not understand why I was forced to sit in the hot sun only to be turned away 15 minutes later nor why did Doug offered to call me when he had not intention of calling.
I found this all to be very unprofessional and it reminded me of why I don’t like going to these types of places. Doug was nice initially but he obviously didn’t care to cut my hair or to even treat a potential new customer with respect. Although I do live close by and frequently pass by but I’ll will be taking my business elsewhere.

Yo, Rachel! Thanks for the bitchin’ hairdo!
I have some crazy ass thin hair on top, bit of clown hair on the sides, and a damn kick as Avatar pony tail… so she got rid of my clown look, cleaned me up all round, and made my tail shine and look like the shit! (that’s a good thing)
Thank you Rachel!

I’ve been hesitant to write this review because I don’t want for it to become more difficult for me to reserve a haircut with Doug, but I know that it’s the right thing to do because this establishment and it’s owner deserve all of the success in the world.
Unfortunately, I lived in SF for about a year bouncing around from Salon to Salon spending $ 20 to $ 100 trying to find the right place to get my haircut before stumbling upon Tao. Now I won’t trust anyone else with my haircuts as long as I live in the Bay Area. The atmosphere is great, it’s a relaxing experience. You can tell that Doug has really done his research and put in the hard work to make this a successful establishment. Cleanliness at Salons can sometimes be overlooked by owners and clients as something not very important but this place is pristine and Doug works hard to keep it that way… always. I’ve had my haircut here now probably 6 times and couldn’t think of 1 negative thing to say if I try.
You won’t be disappointed.

Always had a great haircut here from Sarah… but she’s no longer there. I would love to find out where she went. I hope someone knows…
This place was always quiet and calm. Easy appointment scheduling online and a hot towel on your head at the end of your cut. Book your appointment earlier in the day as the afternoon sun can be brutal coming in through the front windows. There’s a nice selection of bourbon in case you have to wait. Overall, a great experience.

I don’t write a lot of reviews, but this one definitely deserved this!
I’d been going to my former hair stylist for over 10 years and followed her to 4 locations all over the bay area. She moved to the east coast last year and it’s been interesting, to say the least, finding my new person. My last haircut was bad… Like real BAD! I’m not even picky, but my last haircut left me wondering if I was balding. I found Tao and Doug through Unilocal,and am exciting to say «I think I found my new guy». Doug was awesome!!!
First of all, there’s something to be said about a guy who makes up his shop the way he has. He definitely takes pride in his business and his work. Not only does it show but you can feel it too. The shop is beautiful, awesome music, bourbon (Yep Bourbon!), appointments online, great prices and stupendous service. Definitely can’t wait to go back! Thanks Doug!

This barber shop takes the cake for the classiest barber shop I have ever been to. I originally called to schedule an appointment for the same day and the guy said they were all booked up. I told him that was fine and began to search for a new shop. About 10 mins later he calls back and says a spot just opened up for 1pm! The fact that he called back already shows that they care about their customers.
I arrived and while I waited they have a nice lounge in the back where you can help yourself to some bourbon. You better believe I did! Great selection to choose from, including some of my favorites. The wait was about 30mins, but who cares when you got booze at your disposal! The whole inside of the place was very clean, modern, and organized.
When it was time to get my hair cut I got a girl named Sarah (I think that’s her name). She did a mighty fine job and was pleasant to talk to. The cut was one of the most expensive cuts I have ever gotten, but worth every penny.
Check this place out!

For years I have never not question God why he gave me my kind of hair… I have straight awkward asian hair that sticks up crazily on top because I have weird cowlicks and no other person has ever known how to cut it right.
until I book my reservation ONLINE and had my first haircut with Doug eons ago.
I don’t need to tell you all how convenient it is that you can schedule your appointments online.
But I should mention that DOUG IS THE BEST. He does an awesome job every time and truly knows hair. My hair stays awesome for weeks. And he is very nice.
I’ve lost count on how many times I’ve gone back. I recommend all of you to get your haircut here. I have never been more satisfied.
Oh and he plays good music too! And the décor is nice. Very chic. I love this place and I think you will, too. (chocolate in the waiting lounge!!!)

Ok, THIS is a barber shop. I was referred here by a couple of co workers and walked away very impressed.
I walked in and was immediately greeted by Doug, the owner. Was shown the lobby where they offer sparkling water or bourbon (if only I didn’t have to go back to work)!
Was then greeted by Chris, my barber, and began promptly at my appt time. NO waiting. (I did schedule in advance). In regards to Chris, he definitely tailors each cut specifically to that person, which is always appreciated. One of the best cuts I’ve ever gotten.
What sold me (and made me want to write this review):
1. I forgot my wallet at work. I got there expecting this to be a huge issue. It wasn’t. We were able to take care of it without me needing to come back.
2. I walked in limping due to a sprained ankle. Doug offered to give me a ride back to my office! How amazing is that?!
The price is a bit higher than most other shops, but it’s worth every penny. Definitely going again. So should you