I've been going to Astor for over 14 years now. I enjoy getting my hair cut by Alberto more than ever. I could go on here about why he has customers waiting while other barbers are sitting in their own chairs, but the reason is obvious and his reputation precedes him. What I will tell you is that this was once a great place that the owners have let go to sh*t. I suspect this is a generational thing, I doubt the old man would accept the attitude that prevails there now. Let me explain: While I understand that this place never was and shouldn't become a fancy chi chi salon, there is no reason to have filthy bathrooms that reek of piss when there is so much money flowing through the business. You can't do a minor renovation and hire someone to keep them clean?!! There is such a cheap, dirty air about the entire place that it is becoming a turnoff. I understand it shouldn't be wall-to-wall marble, but again with the amount of money the owners make it's an insult that they can't do a reasonable renovation, add a few comfortable chairs for waiting customers, etc... If it were not for the customer loyalty that some of the stylists have built nobody but tourist a**holes who don't know any better would come here anymore. If the owners are reading (and I know you do read these reviews...), man up and stop being so cheap and detached before you totally destroy a very successful business that has become a legend in NY. And try to smile and at least pretend you give a sh*t when I pay for a haircut instead of looking at me and everyone else like an ATM.....
Pros: Good, inexpensive cuts, great conversation.
Cons: Sometimes you will wait, he has a broad client base.
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