Kim's Barber Shop

General Details of the Barber shop

Kim's Barber Shop located in the Lakewood Washington neighborhood in Lakewood, Washington with postal code 98498.0. This establishment has been a staple in the community for quite some time, with visitors noting that the business has been operating for at least a couple of decades, which speaks volumes about its staying power and service quality. People who visit this business often find themselves in a quiet and nice setting, which allows for a bit of relaxation before their service begins. The venue is run by an elderly Korean lady, often referred to as Mrs. Kim or Helen by patrons, who appears to run the entire operation herself.

This venue is known for being a very friendly spot, where the owner is described as respectful, kind, and someone who takes the time to genuinely ask about her patrons' families. While the atmosphere is generally quiet, it is certainly welcoming. It is important for potential customers to know that this business operates on a cash-only basis, a detail frequently mentioned by those who visit. Furthermore, visitors should note that the physical location has recently moved up the street into a new building, now situated at 14915 Union Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98498.

If you are searching for a local Lakewood barber shop that offers consistent quality without the high price tag, Kim's Barber Shop is definitely worth checking out. Its location in Lakewood makes it a convenient stop for many residents looking for quality grooming services close to home. The fact that it has maintained a loyal customer base for years suggests it is a reliable option when you need a great cut in the area.

What outstanding services does Barber shop offer?

People who visit this business frequently praise the quality of the haircuts provided. While specific services beyond basic cutting and trimming aren't often detailed, the most commonly highlighted skill is the ability to deliver excellent fades, including medium and high fades, making it a go-to spot for those seeking sharp, modern styles. Visitors also mention that the barber is skilled at cutting hair for both military personnel and civilians, suggesting proficiency with regulation cuts. If detailed treatments or specialized styling beyond the basics are needed, there are no specific comments, but they surely offer the most common services of a traditional barber shop.

What is the average price of a haircut?

One of the most frequently praised aspects of this establishment is its value proposition. Visitors consistently mention that the pricing is very reasonable, with several people noting a specific price point for a haircut that they consider a steal compared to other spots, including those on the nearby Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) or the PX. The price level is generally described as average in the city, but the service received often makes it feel like a much better deal. People who visit this business feel they are getting good service for the price paid.

Do they offer packages or discounts (parent and child, student, military, etc.)?

There are no specific comments detailing formal package deals or explicit discount programs like student or military rates being advertised. However, the general consensus among patrons is that the pricing itself is already so low and affordable haircuts are the norm that special discounts might not be heavily promoted. One visitor did note that the prices are cheaper than what is available at the PX, suggesting that military members already benefit from competitive rates here.

How long does the full haircut + beard trim service take?

Specific timing for a combined full haircut and beard trim service is not frequently discussed by people who visit this business. What is mentioned is that the barber takes her time with each client, indicating a dedication to detail rather than speed. Visitors appreciate that the barber puts a lot of time into each haircut to ensure top-notch work, which suggests that while it might not be the fastest in and out experience, the thoroughness is valued.

Opinions about the staff

The staff, primarily the owner/barber, receives overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding demeanor. Visitors frequently describe the barber as friendly, courteous, kind, and very easy to talk to. Many note that she is respectful and always greets them warmly, sometimes even inquiring about their family. However, there is one notable instance where a visitor felt the barber did not listen to specific instructions regarding hair part placement and desired length, leading to an unsatisfactory result. Overall, though, the staff is seen as approachable and dedicated.

What skills or techniques does the barber master best (fade, taper, razor, design, color, etc.)?

The most lauded skill at this venue centers around precision cutting, particularly the fade. Several visitors, including those who identify as African-American, have complimented the barber on her ability to execute fades and line-ups very well, sometimes better than other shops in the area. The barber is also noted for knowing how to cut hair for military personnel specifically. While she is praised for her skilled barber work, one negative comment mentioned receiving a double part when a simple drop fade was requested, suggesting that while mastery is present, consistency in executing niche requests can sometimes be an issue.

Do they offer beard trimming or styling?

While the primary focus is clearly on hair cutting, beard services are touched upon. One person mentioned asking for a beard trim along with their haircut. However, there are no detailed descriptions or specific praises/complaints about the quality of the beard trimming or styling itself, so while it seems to be offered, it is not frequently highlighted as a standout service compared to the hair cuts.

Do you offer traditional razor shaving or only machine shaving?

This point has slightly conflicting reports from people who visit this business. One patron who highly recommends the shop mentioned that the barber "always uses a blade," which they liked for achieving a sharp look. Conversely, another visitor claimed that the shop "won't use a razor for skin fades," implying machine use for very close cuts. Therefore, while a blade is used, the extent and type of traditional razor shaving offered for a full shave is not explicitly clear from the available comments.

Ambience and atmosphere

The atmosphere at this establishment is consistently portrayed as pleasant and relaxing. Visitors describe the shop as nice and quite, offering a space where one can relax before their service begins. The overall feeling is one of familiarity and warmth, largely due to the friendly nature of the owner. It seems to be a low-key, comfortable environment rather than a loud, bustling modern salon.

Most praised or recommended

The combination of high-quality great haircuts and exceptional value is what is most frequently praised and recommended. Patrons often express how happy they are with the final result, noting that they don't have to go home and touch up the cut themselves, which has happened at other places. The owner's friendly attitude and the fact that she takes her time to do top-notch work are also highly recommended features of Kim's Barber Shop.

Areas for improvement

The most significant area for improvement mentioned by visitors relates to communication and adherence to specific customer requests. One review detailed an instance where the barber insisted on cutting the hair shorter than requested and created incorrect parts by not listening to the customer's direction. Another visitor felt the execution of a skin fade was lacking compared to other shops. These comments suggest a need for more precise listening to nuanced instructions.

Cleanliness and tidiness

The perception of cleanliness at this venue is positive. One visitor specifically noted that the shop was very clean during their visit. This aligns with the general positive sentiment regarding the quality of the service, suggesting that patrons feel comfortable in the environment provided by this establishment.

Waiting times between customers

There is no specific mention of long waiting times between appointments or walk-ins. In fact, one visitor noted that the shop is quiet enough that you can relax a bit before the barber is ready for you, implying that while you might wait for the barber to finish with a previous client, the environment is conducive to waiting patiently. The service is described as quick by one person, though others suggest the barber takes her time on the cut itself.

Location and Accessibility

The location is a key feature, especially since the business moved to its new address at 14915 Union Ave SW in Lakewood. Its positioning is noted as being convenient, even being close to local sewing shops for uniform needs. From an accessibility standpoint, it is good news for those who need it, as the information explicitly states there is wheelchair accessible parking available at this establishment.

What is the average cost of products/services?

The cost is a major highlight, frequently mentioned as being very affordable, with a specific price of $15 often cited for a haircut. This low cost, combined with high satisfaction, makes the value proposition stand out. The general price level is categorized as average for the city, but visitor feedback strongly suggests the service quality exceeds what one might expect for that price point.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, this place is considered suitable for children. One long-term patron mentioned that the barber has cut both his hair and his son's hair for over a decade, always doing an exemplary job. Furthermore, the general information confirms the venue is listed as "Good For Children," suggesting a welcoming environment for younger clients.