Description
Matter of Instinct Barbershop is a full service barbershop in the Lower East Side. They specialize in classic quality cuts, straight razor shaves, beard trims, hair relaxers, and of course, barbershop banter. It's a place to experience the old classics, such as music, drinks, and good conversation. The barbers have been described as very nice and conversational, so you will likely enjoy your time with them.
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Ratings
Google Rating
Yelp Rating
Alvin Cheng
20:45 19 Aug 19
Always get an amazing haircut here! Greg is my go-to guy, talks to you about what he's doing and why he's doing. Don't be afraid to ask questions! You'll receive a nice informative answer and get suggestions on how to get the barbershop finish. I let Greg decide what's best for my hair and have not been disappointed yet.read more
Douglas Tracey
17:48 21 Jun 19
Best barber shop in the city. Every barber in here is excellent, trained, skilled. The owner is a great guy....Friendly, good humored, open. The front desk crew is very helpful and friendly. The space is cool, too....wood paneled, urban rustic, chic.Mark is our guy. He is an amazing barber and really just a great guy all around...smart, funny, easy to talk to, interesting. We moved to the NW Bronx from downtown; and we still make the trip, bc it is worth it to go out of our way to get a good cut and support a great place and a great barber.read more
מתן קסירר
20:41 30 Sep 19
By Far - The Best Barbershop Experience I ever had! Thank Chris! :)
Tom H
11:51 11 Jun 19
Great barbershop. Very welcoming and clean. Nathan gives an outstanding haircut you can tell he's really worked at his craft.
Michael Shimonov
12:29 23 Sep 19
Amazing barbershop, good vibes ! Great staff.
Matthew Kates
16:41 16 Oct 19
Such a great atmosphere. Nathan has been my barber for a long time. Could not put into words how perfect it was. My groomsmen and I got haircuts before my wedding and it was perfect!
Gaspar Hogarth
15:04 17 Oct 19
Great place to grab a haircut, quick service, great prices. 5 stars
Albert Suyonov
18:15 28 Dec 19
Great place good customer service and great barbers....
Sean Saunders
15:27 03 Mar 20
Mark is the best barber I have ever been to. From his first cut, to now knowing exactly what to do, even for a guy with really thick and curly hair, I've loved each cut. The space is pretty rad too.
Valerie Bush
01:25 20 Mar 20
It’s an attractive setting. It’s just an ideal place. They also give a neck and shoulder massage, which is nice. They served men from any age especially teenagers who are heading towards college and who would like to look a little better than just a buzz cut. It’s a nice mid-priced salon. We will absolutely use their services again in the future.read more
alana margolies
01:06 16 Mar 18
My favorite barbers from Freemans still holding it down delivering great cuts at a new shop - sick location & space. 👏🏼👏🏼
Stephen Szmed
18:35 20 Jul 20
Boris was friendly and took time to get the style I wanted. Love that hot towel at the end!
Celyn Albert
20:56 24 Jul 20
The most reliable and trustworthy barbershop in my area. The quality of service they provided was amazing! From their front desk, Alex quickly addressed my inquiries. He was totally excellent and professional in all ways. I highly recommend this barbershop to all of my friends who need an awesome hair cut. Kudos!read more
Callan Holden
20:32 24 Jul 20
I wrote this review to express how thankful and happy I am with your services. I thanked your barber for cutting my hair into a modern style. Actually, my friends love my new-look now. I will surely visit your barbershop again and again. Thanks to your barber again! Very strongly recommended to everyone!read more
Gene Onefator
01:08 25 Jul 20
We took our toddler for his first haircut today. Before I go any further he’s 3 and rocked a man bun. To say we had hair separation anxiety would be an understatement. We walked out with the dopest hair cut in NYC. The entire experience was amazing. Making the appointment was easy, the desk was professional and seamless. The stylists is supper talented and was great with our kid. He enjoyed the entire process not one single outburst.Not only is this my kids Barber shop for life, but I made an appointment for my next cut and I can’t wait. I’ve lived in NYC my whole life and I finally found my shop.read more
Kiah Fraser
21:10 28 Jul 20
I had my hair cut yesterday in your shop. The young lady’s name has eluded me, but she was very courteous and engaging. She was especially attentive to the scar I recently acquired on my head and took care not to further aggravate the area. The final result is really great. We have used this shop since arriving back two years ago and have always found the staff friendly, the service good. I so love it! Thanks a lot!read more
M F
13:29 05 Aug 20
Best haircuts in town and friendly too. Not only are these guys famous for being one of the best barbers a guy can find in NYC, they are also versatile and flexible. When I brought in my one-year-old for his first haircut, Rosie jumped in like the pro-that she is and made the whole experience worth while. My wife and I had an amazing experience.read more
scott Laine
17:06 03 Apr 18
As a gentleman with a beard I need a pro to keep it from going all ZZ Top on me. Greg is that man. From day one at Freeman’s I have loved what Greg and Ruben have done. Service is always top shelf and they work hard to creat a cool yet stylish shop, without going overboard. Reasonably priced and accessible location make MOI the top shop in the city.read more
Sean Dillon
20:02 17 Aug 20
Before I started to grow my hair, I would always go to this shop to have my monthly haircut. I don't trust barbershops because they would always ruin my hair. Most barbershops don't give excellent results about hairstyles. But this shop always meets my expectations. I really love my haircut. Thanks!read more
David Arjun
22:37 20 Mar 18
The best barbershop in NY hands down. You want someone who really knows what they’re doing? This is the place. Everyone here is talented and the work is impeccable. The shop vibes are right and it’s only getting better. If you go anywhere else for a haircut or shave, you’re making a mistake!read more
Ahmad Attia
00:17 06 Sep 20
Boris is the man and it seems like all of the other barbers are equally skilled - great cuts, service, and atmosphere at MOI. I’ve told a few friends about this place and they’ve have nothing but great things to say. Can’t recommend this shop enough!read more
Tim Beairsto
20:55 05 Sep 20
Rosie crushes it, love the shop. Will be back. Thank you!
J M
12:00 13 Sep 20
When I moved out of state, I changed my doctors, mechanic, gym etc. I have 3 barbers within a couple of miles of my home. We still drive 150 miles round trip, so my sons and I can get haircuts at MOI Barber. Ruben and his team are THE BEST. During lock down I went 5 months without a haircut and it still looked good. This is next level. The clientele is diverse as the City itself and everyone feels welcomed. I have met celebrities, tech millionaires, creatives and everyone in between. You will not be disappointed. Just a get a cut and prepare yourself for the wave of compliments everywhere you go!read more
Serena Bloggs
16:48 20 Oct 20
I was delighted and thrilled with the service I received with this shop. The barber did a great job of doing my haircut, and I greatly loved it. Eventually, I look handsome and decent. All thanks to him! Next time, I will ask for another service. Again, thank you so much. It was highly appreciated!read more
Jem Parkinson
16:56 26 Oct 20
Awesome! Today I received a nice and excellent service to the barber who did my haircut. He was very talented, nice, and accommodating. Besides, their shop was a beautiful place to visit, for it was clean, comfortable, and stylish. Honestly, I was greatly satisfied asking for a service in your shop. Thank you so much. Great work!read more
Hanna Robles
19:32 26 Oct 20
"The last visit here, I took my dad to get his hair done. He was even amazed by the care they provided each customer, and the pride they take in their work. My dad was so thankful to me that I brought him here for he really liked his haircut. He looked so young with it. He also told me to go back here again when he needed a haircut."read more
John Smith
02:58 06 Dec 20
Probably the cleanest fade I’ve gotten in NYC. everyone here is phenomenal and talented but I exclusively go to Nathan or Ruben. Great ambiance and they are true professionals ofTheir craft. Don’t think twice. 5 starsread more
Andrew Shatz
14:30 14 Dec 20
I've been to 10+ places around Manhattan and no one gives as good of a haircut as Rosie. The place is very nice, safe, and the vibes are immaculate. Great product for a great price.
Zack Meher
21:28 22 Feb 21
By far the best barbershop in nyc - hands down. I originally started going to Ruben almost 10 years ago- back when he was at Freeman’s. After leaving the country for a while, I returned and started going to a local barber. After a year or so, I realized my hair just wasn’t where I wanted it to be and said I need to go back to see Ruben. He is a true expert- he’s gotten my hair exactly to where I want it to be, plans out future growth to make sure it always looks in tip top shape, and is just so caring. He really takes the time to make sure you know he has your (and your hair’s) best interest at heart!I recently had my hair colored by Ali, their resident color expert. He did a BOMB job on my hair- got it to ice silver- a color that is hard to achieve and that I’ve spent DOUBLE to achieve other places. He took his time to protect my scalp using olive oil, and really cared about achieving the results I was looking for.What can I say- is it a bit pricier than your local barbershop? Sure. Is it worth every penny? Without a doubt! Go - if you wait your hair will regret it!read more
Simon Dollo
19:29 22 May 21
I had Rosie take care of my hair and beard at MOI and she was fantastic! She was so welcoming, accommodating, and really knocked it out of the park. It can be a little daunting when trying out a new barber spot and person but you can tell through Rosie's attention to detail and care that she is extremely talented in her craft and leaves you in good hands. Thank you!read more
Eddy Ruddy
01:38 09 Jun 21
Can't say enough good things about Rosie - highly recommend! Recently had to find a new barber after 5 years with the same person. Matter of Instinct had good reviews, so I checked it out, and Rosie made the experience top notch. Very attentive, personable, listened to what I wanted (even when I wasn't sure how to ask for it - haven't needed to ask in 5 years!) and offered advice and suggestions along the way. The shop itself is well-maintained, quality service, and good vibes. If you're looking for a new barber, book your next appointment with Rosie!!read more
Serdar Ozturk
16:26 25 Aug 21
Emanuele cuts the best hair in the city. Attention to detail is over the top. Every time I’ve seen him, it’s just gotten better. Low key, I was hesitant to even write this because I don’t want his books blocked up but I had to share.read more
Neil Cavendish
20:02 02 Nov 20
It's hard to decide if this is 4 or 5 stars. Mainly because it's not cheap. But that being said it's worth the money.So first of I'll start with the good. The place is very nicely designed and very clean. Staff are super friendly and they all really know how to cut hair. They also don't try and rush you out the door. The spend a lot of time making sure every thing is perfect and no hair out of place. There is a fridge with free beverages available while you wait, mainly beers so early in the morning that's a shame but can't really complain. Would have liked to see some soft drinks available but again it's a free fridge with beer so.....Ok so the bad.... Not much other than the price. And I'm not saying it's not worth the price but it's not cheap. A little bit more than most city barber's but for all the above reasons I would rather go here I think. The issue at least for me is I normally need to go ever 4 weeks and at these prices + tip it starts to get extremely expensive. However it will probably become my main haircut location.So looking for one of the best cuts head on over.read more
Miguel Espino
23:01 02 Dec 21
This place is my new home. Very happy with the service, in particular how Rosie fixed up my hairdo.I started coming ~6 months ago after leaving another barbershop. Rosie fixed it up nicely on the first go, and perfected it after 2-3 times (I had to grow into the new cut). Her and I have built a great relationship and she does a 10/10 job every time. She’s also hilarious. Highly recommend this barbershop.read more
Linda Rice
14:56 07 Dec 21
Ali gave me The best haircut ever He is an artist and knows your style. Very friendly, comfortable atmosphere. , I love this place.
Ian Clark
22:52 24 Oct 21
This place is legit and Rosie is hands-down the best barber I have ever had. She is extremely attentive to detail and every cut is consistently clean and professional. Seriously, when you come to MOI, you gotta ask for Rosie. You will not be disappointed.read more
Harris Robinson
20:59 22 Oct 21
After 27 years of getting haircuts I finally found a barber who had a plan of attack. ROSIE was incredible, truly awesome to watch an artist at work. Looking forward to going back so she can keep getting me right!read more
Francesco Ferri
17:29 23 Dec 21
Not only professional also very nice down to earth people. It was my first time there and they made me feel like a usual.
Charlie Mate
21:54 29 Dec 21
Rosie was the best of the best. She transformed my hair into something amazing. She is the nicest and sweetest girl. She really knows what she's doing and she's so professional. If I would go to anyone I would go to her. I've been to so many barbers and none of them really know what they're doing and she knows everything and is a expert. When it comes to products and what you should do for your hair she knows exactly how you should style your hair and she really knows how to work her magic. I would give this more than five stars if I could. Definitely go to Rosie if you're looking for an amazing barber.read more
GM NYC
22:47 29 Dec 21
Diana is the best! Tried out MOI , after my regular place, Esquires of Wall Street limited their hours/staff. Offered a choice of drinks upon entry (water, wine, or whiskey), very clean, and classic men's barbershop (neck razor when done, hair wash, hot mint towel).Loved the shampoo so much, I ended up buying a bottle. Highly recommended!read more
Taylor Cottrell
23:04 30 Dec 21
I have been through many barbershops in NYC, and there is no barber that has me looking or feeling better than Rosie Pena.Initially I’m going to say, just stop reading this and book a service with her. I have thrown basically every high tension moment at her in which I needed to look my best — she has not failed at making me look my most presentable, not once.Whether you’re incredibly in-tune with your style or just starting to figure out the character you want to be, Rosie will treat your visit with acute attention to detail and a level of care that many barbers may only reserve for their highest caliber clients.read more
James Ni
23:19 30 Dec 21
Rosie is the best barber that I’ve ever had! Asian hair is always tough for a barbers but she was confident from the beginning. She’s very meticulous with every cut she makes and envisions what she wants before the cut. Go to Rosie for your haircut needs!read more
Mike Laterza
16:33 01 Feb 22
Rosie is the best, you can always rely on her for the perfect cut. It took me nearly 3 years in NYC to find someone reliable to cut my hair. She is always consistent and professional, but will give you a good laugh when you visit. Highly recommend asking for Rosie.read more
Hendrycks Diaz
22:51 24 Feb 22
Rosie was absolutely amazing! I walked in there expecting a good haircut but Rosie blew my mind with her work. She was super professional and she made it feel like home even though it was my first time there. I Couldn’t be happier with my cut and my experience there. 11 out of 10!read more
John Byrne
19:44 19 Mar 22
Matter of Instinct is the best barbershop I've ever been to. Prices are beyond reasonable for NYC and the quality is far about what you pay for. The shop is always clean and welcoming.I highly recommend booking with Rosie. I have a habit of letting my hair get overgrown and she always does a masterful job - the best haircuts I've ever had. She also does a great job with beard trims.read more
Olivier Breton
20:32 30 Jan 22
Rosie is great: very friendly, attentive and knows her stuff. I'll definitely be back
Sean
21:47 19 Jul 22
I have been following Rosie's career for a long time now and when I was visiting from out of town, I knew who I had to go to! Rosie gave me the best cut I have had since leaving New York all with good conversation and friendly demeanor. She is it!read more
Marley Alnajjar
19:22 02 Aug 22
I have gone to a barber shop who completely missed up my hair and beard, searched online for the best barbershop in NYC and their names poped upRosie have fixed my hair in the best way possible also she was soo friendly and kind to try and make me laugh as I was frustrated, her attention to details is remarkable! Her attitude is positive and big time customer centricRosie is highly recommended for anyone who cares for his style....read more
Zack Leitner
18:24 06 Sep 22
Marshall gave me one of the best haircuts I’ve ever had. Great place!
Chris Wang
14:03 25 Dec 22
I’ve been going to Ruben for 8 years now - since the Freemans days. Ruben is, without question, the most skilled, attentive & detail-oriented barber I’ve ever met. Great listener & will work with you to craft an excellent hairstyle, including both edgy & more classic styles. I also appreciate that Ruben is very skilled with different types of hair - including my very difficult-to-manage Asian hair. Ruben has helped change up my hairstyle at least 5 times and they’ve all looked great. Highly recommend Ruben & the MOI crew for your next cut!read more
kamilo rendon
14:53 08 Jan 23
Love this place! Found them it.when i was wandering through Chinatown, and got my hair cut and colored on a whim. They did my hair and i am ecstatic with his work! I couldn’t decide what style or color to do and they were so patient and offered some great suggestions. Very very happy with my new hair, I’ll definitely be coming back! If you come here ask for them!!!read more
Maria Camila Neira Rodriguez
15:27 05 Jan 23
Great place. Staff are friendly and very able. Barber cut my hair free hand and with confidence. It looks great! Definitely will return.Thanks M O l studio!""
brian rendon
23:36 31 Jan 23
I went to M.O.I. for a haircut. Mark G gave me an incredible Cut. I asked for a skin fade and it was flawless. Mark perfectly styled my hair as well. Overall it was a great experience and I will most definitely be coming back for a haircut by Mark Gread more
S J
23:21 14 Jan 23
Great hair cut from Ali. Takes his time and very detail oriented. New shop looks amazing. Keep up the good work Ruben and team!
Rafay Kazmi
20:24 19 Feb 23
I get my haircuts from Ali who is exceptional and thorough, you can tell he loves his craft. The staff is generally friendly, would definitely recommend them.
M
00:06 05 Mar 23
I recently visited a barber shop for a beard trim and unfortunately, my first experience wasn't up to par. The barber didn't use a razor blade or a hot towel, and I ended up getting charged twice. I tried to get the issue resolved by calling the shop, but they didn't believe me, so I gave up. However, I decided to give the shop another chance and booked an appointment with Mark. I must say, Mark was exceptional! He used both a razor blade and a machine and even gave me a hot towel treatment. The towel had a wonderful scent and added to the overall experience. I appreciate Mark's skills and attention to detail, and I'm glad that I gave the shop another chance. If you're looking for a great beard trim, I highly recommend Mark at this barber shop.read more
Joseph Porter
06:15 24 Mar 23
Very highly recommend.Better haircut than the two other neighborhood barbers I've tried by far.Personable to boot. I'd recommend anyone in the service, retired or vet to stop by too.Took care of me & gave a discount to those serving on top of a crazy good price.Please support them!read more
Kaleb Klein
15:19 18 Mar 23
Great Barbers - Mark and Diana are welcoming and offer a top service. I always phone and get booked in at a time that suits me and get a well looked after. I would recommend to anyone looking for a local, friendly and well priced barbers in New York .read more
Laurence Knowlson
20:33 13 Apr 23
Came here while visiting, after a series of bad haircuts in the city I was nervous but Helen gave me a great cut which was exactly what I asked for. The guy on the desk was welcoming and friendly too. Great place!read more
Leia Long
09:38 23 Mar 23
I was visiting from out of town and needed a haircut. Seen all the post and thought I’d give them a chance. Mark G did a great job, exactly how I wanted it to be cut!
Phyllis Cortese
19:14 18 Aug 23
Just letting you know that Diana has been one of the best barber I have been to in a long time. I am a hairdresser myself and a master cutter myself. So just needed to tell everyone that there is do much talent at MOI.read more
Mark Hammer
20:45 29 Aug 23
Ali and Diana are both fabulous at cutting my hair. Diana has also cut my husband's hair to his great satisfaction. The shop has a really nice relaxed vibe.
Lydia Edwards
20:10 16 Jan 24
Ali is the best. He takes the time to understand what you’re looking for and has the experience to make recommendations that will work for you. As a queer woman, men’s barbershops aren’t always friendly but MOI does great.read more
Max Gardner
05:38 16 Apr 24
MOI is a fantastic barbershop and more - from getting laced with a sick fade to wonderful hair coloring services, MOI has you covered. Quality walk-in service but seek out the skills of owner/operate Ruben Aronov or any of his barber-stylists and they will take care of you well, every time.read more
Finn-Olav Jensen
15:45 04 May 24
Andrei is AMAZING! Best haircut I’ve ever had. Extremely good attention to detail I can’t recommend enough
Richard Goldman
17:38 05 May 24
Andrei did a great job on my hair. He spent a lot of time getting the details right. Would highly recommend.
Lorenzo Garcia
23:47 18 May 24
We had gone all the way from Connecticut to find a place who knows what to do with my hair. Not only did Andre perfectly style it, they gave me tips and tricks of how to style it properly so it looks the same after I leave.read more
Mac Craik
21:06 14 Jun 24
MOI is my favorite barbershop in NYC. The staff is always courteous and professional and the atmosphere in the shop is great.I got a haircut from Andrei today and he was absolutely fantastic.Andrei was methodical and precise in his approach to my fade. He ensured that every hair was perfect.In addition to his great work, Andrei was extremely professional in his approach and displayed great customer service. I can't recommend him enough!read more
Selena Ortiz
19:15 21 Jun 24
Dominic is by far the best barber in the East Village. Allow me to enlighten you:I brought my 15 year old and 4 year old son here since a friend recommended it. My son has been insecure about his haircut for over a year now and left this shop with an entirely different personality. The haircut was exactly what we asked for and was done with care and close attention.I never expected my 4 year old son to be so well behaved at the barber shop for the first time. Dominic made sure to keep little Jerry entertained the entire time.I will never bring my sons to another shop in the city. Thank you for giving us an amazing experience!read more
Mario Pesqueira
23:00 06 Aug 24
The best barber experience I’ve had in years!I booked an appointment with Dominic and I couldn’t have been more pleased. We held great conversation the whole time while cutting my hair exactly how I wanted, if not better. I will most definitely be returning to MOI for all of my future haircuts, outstanding staff!read more
Tony De Bari
18:43 30 Aug 24
I've been using MOI for nearly 7 years with complete satisfaction. Their entire team compromises of master barbers and stylists that can turn even the toughest head of hair into model status.What I enjoy the most is their attention to detail, friendly and fun dialog throughout and most importantly a family like love in knowing they won't finish with you until you're completely satisfied.Ruben has been my barber for a majority of this time and definitely helped me grow into different styles that fit my best appearance and swaying me away from ones that don't compliment me.Recently a new face has been both a quick fill in and regular cut for myself, Dominic has hit all the above as far as attentiveness, detail, lineups and touchups in a pinch. I absolutely recommend him to anyone wanting to find someone new to style their hair and he's great for beard work as well.read more
David Bernier
18:04 25 Aug 24
I had a great experience with the owner Rubin. He did a fantastic job on my cut, he was very friendly and knowledgable about hair care. I would hight reccomend MOI and Rubi,
Callan Rendall
23:42 05 Sep 24
I have been a regular client at Matter Of Instinct for 4+ years now and I can confidently say that this establishment stands out for its consistency, professionalism, and attention to detail. The barbers are highly skilled and take the time to ensure every haircut is tailored to the client's preferences, offering expert suggestions to enhance the overall look. The shop itself is always impeccably clean, with a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable.What truly sets MOI apart is the level of personalized service provided. MOI consistently delivers high-quality results with precision and care. I highly recommend.read more
Pennington Marchael
23:21 23 Mar 25
Ruben has been my go to barber for a long time. This place has a great vibe and talented staff
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