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Avanti Salon
Category: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Hair Salons [Edit]
11 Newbury St2nd Floor
(between Arlington St & Berkeley St)
Boston, MA 02116
Neighborhood: Back Bay
(617) 267-4027
- Nearest Transit:
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Arlington Station - Outbound (Green Line)
Arlington Station - Inbound (Green Line)
Boylston St @ Berkeley St (55, 9)
- Hours:
Mon 11 am - 5 pm
Tue 10 am - 8 pm
Wed-Fri 9 am - 8 pm
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
79 reviews for Avanti Salon
79 reviews in English
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Review from Lena C.
Boston, MA
9/27/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I've been going to Janida for over three years. (My boyfriend introduced me to her, no joke!) She's the best stylist I've ever had and I'm Asian -- it's not easy to find someone who does Asian hair well. Especially amazing since she's not!
Janida's also really cool; an appointment with her is like hanging out with a friend. Both my boyfriend and I have seriously gotten to the point where we don't like having other people do our hair ... every time I'm out of town for long periods of time, it's a nightmare and I'm dreading my move away to Germany next year because I imagine totally terrible haircare. I'll probably come back to visit just to see her! -
Review from Shannon L.
Brighton, MA
Updated - 1/28/2012
So I went for another cut, and I have mixed feelings. This time I scheduled my haircut using their website's online appointment scheduler, and since Jill wasn't available I grabbed an appointment with Kevin. Now, I didn't realize at the time, or until I went to check out, that Kevin was a "senior stylist", and thus the haircut would be more expensive. I wish the feature online would specify this when scheduling, so one star off for not making the price differential more transparent.
Now, if I was someone who had the patience to spend a ton of time every morning on my hair getting it to look just right, I would have no further complaints. However, I very specifically stated to Kevin that I was approaching busy season at work and that the hours were quite demanding. I told him that I wanted a style I could essentially just flip over and blow dry, brush out and go. And when I left the salon with a short & fun 'do, I thought he had done just that...
...until the next morning. I found that there were layers and chunks of hair that were cut at odd lengths that could look nice if I took the time to properly blow it out and frame my face with it, but I just don't care to put that much effort into my hair when I'm working 12-14 hour days. So instead I do my normal flip-and-dry technique, and have to deal with a cut that I feel is sloppy looking and does not fit what I asked for. It actually cause me to cry in frustration the one morning because I could not get it to look as good as it did when I left the salon (the stress/exhaustion of long work hours may also have played a role in those tears). Subtract another star for not listening to a customer who had a very specific hair-care request.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/23/2010
Just got my hair cut by Jill today, and I am absolutely in love with it! Went from having super… Read more »
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Review from Allegra M.
Milton, MA
11/1/2011
I'm not sure if its because I've watched one too many episodes of "Tabatha's Salon Takeover" on Bravo, but I was really underwhelmed with my experience at Avanti.
When I made my appointment, I mentioned the "yelp deal" and said that I wanted someone who had experience cutting curly hair. They put me with James who, according to his online bio, was awarded best stylist for curls by Boston Magazine. I suppose I should have asked for a quote, but considering I was only planning on getting a trim, I didn't expect to pay more than $50 with the yelp discount factored in.
When I arrived at the salon, I was somewhat disappointed by the space. Some of the bulbs were blown out in the track lighting and the walls were in desperate need of painting. Very different than the "Newbury Salon" atmosphere other businesses offer. After checking in, I was brought over to the waiting area which can only be described as three chairs within the hair cutting area. I sat there for about ten minutes as James, my new stylist, finished cutting his clients hair about two feet away from me. Once he finished with his client, he said to her, "I can't seem to find you a mirror to show you the back of your hair, but trust me, it looks good."
"Uh-oh," I thought, "if he doesn't even have a mirror at his station, I might be in trouble."
Once his client left, he proceeded to take out his blow-dryer and blew most the chunks of hair off of his chair and onto the floor (which was not swept up). He then gestured for me to take a seat - and as i walked over the piles of hair surrounding his station, I contemplated running out the front door.
During our consultation, I told James that I was looking to keep most of the length and to even out the bangs I've been growing out. This was not a complicated hairstyle, and like I said earlier, it was more of a trim than a style or a haircut.
I was then shown to the shampoo station - which is by far my favorite part of any haircutting experience. Unfortunately, the woman who was washing my hair was apparently having a bad day and spoke to her coworker the entire time about how the salon was understaffed, that she was too busy, and she hadn't had her break yet. I felt like I should have apologized for monopolizing more of her time.
Back at James' station, he asked me if I wanted my hair blown out straight. Since he was voted Boston's Best for curly hair, I asked for him to style it curly since it was his area of expertise. He asked if I was "sure." Needless to say, I was less sure after he asked...
When the hair trim was over, I have to say I didn't really notice a huge difference from when I walked in. His curly-hair expertise seemed on par with my gel scrunching and hairspray techniques I use every morning. Oh well, I just wanted a trim, and that's exactly what I received - no more, no less. Obviously, I didn't have the chance to see the back of my head, as there apparently were still no hand-mirrors in the salon.
After giving me two of the products he used on my hair to purchase, he shook my hand and, like the client before me, blew the cut pieces of my hair from the chair and onto the floor for the next person to walk on. Ew. I showed myself to the register...
I decided to purchase a bottle of the curling mousse for $22 - which has a pump that is now broken after a single home use. The cut came to $60 with the discount, because James' cuts are usually $75. I guess I wouldn't have had a problem spending $75 on a haircut in a beautiful salon/spa on Newbury, but $75 for trim in a salon that doesn't even have a hand-mirror and makes you walk on someone elses hair-shavings? No so much.
I paid the $60, but I will definitely not be returning to pay the full price. The only noticeable difference when I walked out of the salon was that was wallet was significantly lighter. -
Review from jelly b.
Cambridge, MA
2/1/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I went to Avanti following a Yelp coupon purchase, and my haircut with Janida went swimmingly. She listened and gave me the exact haircut I wanted - which also looked bond-girlesque fabulous. My first cut also lasted a long time before my hair returned to its natural cave woman state because of the way she cut it I think. I went back a few months later for a follow up and loved what she did the next time.
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Review from R B.
Salem, MA
2/6/2012
not very professional, bad decor, weird layout, unprofessional Priscilla and not going back. Ever.
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Review from Nupur L.
Houston, TX
10/16/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I've moved out of Boston now but had to write a paean to my girl Janida at Avanti. Asian ladies, she's the best I found in Boston at cutting Asian hair. I'm very picky about haircuts and hopped around salons all over the city before settling on Janida. She saw me through growing out bangs and re-cutting them, bobs to hair past shoulder length and managed to make every style suit me. Not to mention she is the nicest, most accommodating stylist and excellent to chat with while she works her magic. Moreover, she is one of those rare stylists who understand exactly what you're trying to say and does just that even when you can't articulate your vision. I can't recommend her more highly.
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Review from Brita F.
Wakefield, MA
3/30/2011
The salon seemed nice, they offered teas and were very clean, but my stylist, Megan Kelley, was a big disappointment.
First, I had a 2:30 appointment, and she didn't take me until after 3:15pm. She didn't even come over to apologize for being late until after 30 minutes had passed, I had to rely on her assistant to assure me that she was even in the salon.
When I finally did sit down in the chair, she was very sweet and knowledgeable. I came in with photos of what I wanted my hair to look like, which was a bit of an edgy look. She said she specialized in more natural, "Victoria's Secret" hair, and that I may want to see another stylist. She also suggested that such an edgy look wouldn't work well with my short hair (I'm in the process of growing it out from a pixie cut). I appreciated her honesty, and decided to go with a more natural look that she was comfortable with-- I still had hopes that her talent would be worth the aggravation of waiting. I mean, her portfolio looked great (why don't more stylists keep a portfolio?). We decided to go with auburn/red and caramel blonde highlights.
I wasn't super thrilled with my results. The reds came out nicely, but the blonde was heavier on one side than the other. And, after a few days, it started to take on a more orange tone.
She did give me a free styling product for keeping me waiting, and offered me 20% off on my next appointment, but I won't be taking her up on it. -
Review from Alissa J.
Detroit, MI
3/8/2011
Being new to Boston I wanted to spruce things up with a color, cut and and new style. So I, of course, went on Yelp to read the reviews of salons in Boston. I came to the conclusion that Avanti was my type of place: upscale though not pretentious, higher end products in the store, fair prices and good bios of the stylists.
I arrived to a warm and friendly greeting by all! I sat for about 2 seconds before ROB came over to introduce himself and see what my plan was. I went in with the idea of going to a brown color and a more professional haircut. Rob helped me decide on the right color brown and worked his magic with the cut!
He did such a fabulous job, others in the salon were stopping and commenting on his art that is my hair. The color is beautiful and even throughout and my hair is shinier than its been in years! I totally LOVE the cut. I was in awe watching him work!
Rob was personable, friendly, professional and forthcoming on ways to keep my hair at its best: ie opt for a quality blowdryer!
The salon is fresh, modern and on the second floor which allows for a great view of Boylston St. (one enters the salon on Newbury St but the windows are in the back overlooking Boylston). They just got new dark wood floors that make the salon that much more upscale.
I will be returning to Rob from here on out as he is now 'my' stylist or as they say in Boston: hairdressa!
I unfortunately did not catch the name of Rob's assistant but she gave a great head massage with the shampoo. I really wish I could remember her name! She had a beautiful orange shellac polish on and was also very personable and professional.
I had a great time at this salon and would recommend it and Rob to my closest friends!Listed in: Hair Do or Don't
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Review from Dave S.
Westford, MA
12/7/2010
I loved the salon and I loved the end result of my cut and my experience, but i just had to yelp about what i witnessed from the manager, i believe her name was betty.
She had a real stuck up persona about her and a real attitude with the front desk staff, in means of being too good to take a call or listen to them. One receptionist was on the phone taking call after call and the phone was still ringing and the manager completely ignored the call and asked one of them "Are you going to answer that or let it keep ringing?". I wanted to say "Why cant you pick it up?". Also everytime she would come around the front desk she would just push whomever was there right out of the way as if they were nothing.
I will mostlikely come back for another cut i just did not like the actions that i seen of the person in charge. VERY unprofessional!! -
Review from Jaime M.
Boston, MA
2/19/2011
I followed my amazing colorist, Megan Kelley when she moved over to Avanti (by the way she is the BEST hair colorist in the city!).
The staff are super sweet and take the time to make you feel at home. Also, the owner Alex is soooo friendly! Avanti rocks :) -
Review from Laura W.
Tyler, TX
Updated - 1/12/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
If you happen to have caught this salon featured on a recent "reality" television show, you might have unfortunately seen the results of some really nasty editing that cast an excellent stylist in a lesser light than what she deserves. To give you an idea of how much I care about Priscilla both as a stylist and a person, I'm coming back - again - to update my review.
I've been getting my hair done with her for two years now after going to three different stylists in Boston that I was never, ever, happy with. It is very safe to say that I am extremely picky. Priscilla is the first stylist I have ever had who was able to not only create what I wanted, but do so in a way that suits my personality, my hair-type, and my facial features. Just check my previous reviews; I don't "yelp" for everyone.
Just to give you an idea of how great this lady is - I recently moved across the country and am living in Texas now. However, I'm making sure to get my hair done with Priscilla every time I'm in town. AND, when she heard that I was moving, she made sure to make time in her busy schedule (which was already full) so that I could come in, get my hair done, and have a little break from the stressfulness of packing and moving.
Please remember that, as someone who is a client of hers and a client of the salon, reality television is not always reality. What you see is scripted and edited in an effort to create drama.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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6/17/2010
Still five stars, y'all. I went back about a month ago to get a pretty risky (for me) haircut and… Read more »
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Review from S. L.
Suffolk, MA
11/18/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Came here for the Yelp deal. Stylist was friendly but I didn't notice too much of a difference between my old and new hairstyles. A bit too expensive to consider going to regularly for the minimal difference in hairstyle.
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Review from brian d.
Malden, MA
1/11/2011
I've been here a few times and I must say... I've rarely found a wash/cut experience elsewhere like that I've had at Avanti. The guy who washed my hair before my cut with Janida was fantastic, basically gave me a head massage back there. I almost fell asleep!! They use bumble & bumble, too...which i love.
then theres Janida. She knew exactly what I meant when i told her about my thin hair and how I love to style it spiky, but with my hair being thin and product weighing it down- having it always look ridiculous. Anyway, whatever method she uses to cut hair - my hair has never felt thicker, nor has it ever been as easy to style. she even recommended my new favorite styling product/regiment. Its so nice to look in the mirror 8+hours after you style your hair to see it look exactly the same. another cool thing was that they let me put my ipod on over the stereo. They heard the house mix on my headphones and were like ...lets pop that in! it was very cool, and made it a more personal experience
The only reason I didnt give this place 5 stars was because I wasnt a fan of the set up of the salon. I felt like the stark white walls (which I understand have since been painted) were more of an unfinished feeling, and at the time i was there last- the sinks in the back were unfinished with random pieces of wood laying around/the back store room open for you to see with dirty towels laying around. I've had friends go here since my last visit and apparently its been redesigned and looks stellar. I can't wait to head back and hit up Janida for a cut! -
Review from Jess P.
Manhattan, NY
3/23/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
The first couple times I came here for a haircut, the end result was kind of "meh." I wasn't unhappy, but it wasn't anything special, and I preferred my little Coolidge Corner salon much more.
HOWEVER I decided to give it another try when they had a Yelp deal. I'm glad I did because my haircut this time with Jill was great! I came here wanting to chop off my hair to about chin-length but was a little wary of how it'd turn out. Jill was really thorough, friendly without forcing small-talk, and I really loved the end result. Plus, she followed up with a free manicure voucher in the mail, which was pretty nice.
I also had the best mani-pedi in Boston here. At $60-$70, it was a little more than I usually spend (I normally go to the $35 places on Newbury), but I can see how it was truly worth it. Helen was SO FRIENDLY and so thorough, and the hour just passed by so quickly because of good conversation. That may seem like a long time, but I think the detail and care was worth it - The mani-pedi lasted me more than a month. Unfortunately, I don't think Helen works there anymore (I hear they actually don't have a manicurist at the moment), but I am sure whoever replaces her and Selena will be just as good. -
Review from Kate W.
Brookline, MA
12/5/2010
LOVE this salon.
I go to Megan for my color. She is fabulous! She turns hair coloring into an art form. I have finally have found the perfect colorist and will go to her consistently. She knows what colors will look best on you based on skin tone, eye color, etc. My blonde hair looks completely natural thanks to her. Not only is she great with color, but she treats her clients like a good friend. Megan is arguably the best colorist in the city. absolutely adore her.
After a botched hair cut at a different salon I asked Megan if she knew of anyone who could fix it. She recommended Danielle. Danielle was amazing. I could tell she knew what she was doing and now my cut looks 100x better. I also had a great time chatting with her throughout my appointment. She was so cute and I can't wait to go back! -
Review from Maggie H.
Boston, MA
11/3/2010
I love this salon! I go to Megan who is just simply amazing at what she does. I have had a hard time finding a colorist in Boston who truly understands how to make blond hair look impeccable. She does it..and does it amazing. She really understands and is very helpful with her suggestions...they are never her just trying to do what she wants. She is exactly what you want in a stylist. I have been happy every time she does it. I highly recommend Megan for any color hair. She is an artist. I have never had so many people think that my hair is naturally this blond and beautiful. She makes my hair look completely natural, just like when I was a little girl :)
Thanks Megan! You are the best :) -
Review from law enforcer e.
Cambridge, MA
4/20/2010
I haven't written a review in a while, but decided I needed to write one to warn others about this awful place.
I went to Avanti after redeeming a BuyWithMe coupon offered through http://Boston.com. I got a mani/pedi for 1/2 off - so $30 instead of the normal price of $60.
When I got there, the place looked like a dump. Dirty walls and floor, and the people who work there are unfriendly and inattentive. I came in an smiled at the people at the desk, and tried to say "Hi", but was ignored for a good five minutes while the employees carried on a personal conversation. After standing there for a few minutes, an employee ushered me over to the seating area, where I had an opportunity to wait and watch the stylists cut hair. From my vantage point, I saw completely unhappy looking stylists, who were not particularly skilled or friendly, and dirty, unswept floors with hair lying around.
I waited 15 minutes to finally be called into the chair. Selena did my pedicure and manicure and was meticulous and thorough - the only reason why this place gets two stars. However, the chair where the manicure was done is basically in a closet, and then when she was done, I had to shuffle through the dirty salon to a table in the middle of the room, while everyone stared. It was incredibly awkward. I also got random hair stuck on my flip flops, and in my toes...YUCK!!
There is no dryer for the pedicure, and the woman who did my manicure had to pull out a portable machine that barely works out of a drawer to dry my nails. She had the hold the cord, otherwise the dryer just shuts off on its own! So so bad. I just can't imagine how anyone would pay more than $30 for this low level of service.
The mani/pedi also took about 2.5 hours, which is way too long. I was exhausted by the end of it! When I went to pay a tip, I asked the man at the front desk how I would leave a tip for Selena. He pointed to what looked like a fish bowl with some envelopes and indicated that I needed to put the tip in the envelope and write her name on it. He saw me struggling not to smudge my nails, and didn't even offer to help, which would have been a thoughtful gesture.
This place is a horror show and belongs on Tabitha's Salon Takeover (on Bravo). For a Newbury Street salon, it's the pits and not worth the money.
In my experience, the best mani/pedi is at Aveda in Harvard Sq. -
Review from Sticky T.
Boston, MA
Updated - 12/4/2010
I cheated on Rob as I was not working for a few months and used a Buy With Me voucher at another horrible salon in the South End called Liquid.
Never will I find the love that Rob has for hair. He was able to take the ashiness out (my hair was grey!) and fixed the horrible cut to something with sway and sexiness.
The salon has just gone through a little face lift and the pops of colour are wonderful.
Good job Avanti!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/25/2010
Rob Martelli is a master at making you feel gorgeous.
So I've seen Rob a few times now and decided… Read more »
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Review from Nicole C.
Quincy, MA
4/8/2010
I heard of this salon because I saw a coupon on BuyWithMe for a discounted haircut. I thought, "Sweet - A Newbury St. Salon haircut for $30". It had fantastic ratings on Yelp and I do trust my Yelpers, so I felt pretty confident.
So one week, I decide to go grab a body wave / perm. I go in, sit in a chair for 2 hours and 15 minutes (ughhh) and my hair worked on by Alex, the owner. He seemed very meticulious. He didn't say a word to me throughout the whole two hours, but whatever. I finish at the salon, and 30 minutes upon leave the salon, my hair is straight. Completely... stick... straight... just as I had entered the salon. UGH - 2.15 hours down the drain. I call. They say to come in and they'll fix it.
Two weeks later, I go back in, deathly scared that getting another perm would damage my hair, and no doubt - it did. The owner worked on me again.
My hair now looks like a cross between a 70s crimp and Tarzan.
During the process, the girl washing my hair, legit soaked me. Head to toe. My entire dress was wet. I have no idea how that was possible, but it was horrible. I called back and told them my hair was a) not permed b)tangly and uncontrollable and c) just plain disgusting.
A woman called, not the owner, just a phone-girl telling me that I'm getting a refund. No apology. Nothing.
I'm sure the cuts here are great, but I'll never know that. I'm going somewhere tonight to get my overly damaged, precious long hair chopped off... because at this point - I have no choice. -
Review from Laura G.
Updated - 6/6/2010
My hair was starting to look really boxy after a couple weeks so I recently hit up my regular stylist and she found my haircut to be seriously uneven :(
Wah wahhhhhh......1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/13/2010
I was expecting a lot from a "Newbury St" salon but the place is crowded, noisy and the layout is… Read more »
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Review from Lisa R.
8/17/2010
Thanks to a generous yelper (Elphaba X), I was given a voucher for a free haircut & blowdry at Avanti! And thanks to all the wonderful women here who recommended Julia . . . I came here yesterday and was treated like royalty!
I have made no secret of the fact that I usually go to Supercuts to get my hair cut. It saves me a lot of money and time. But every once in a while I will treat myself and come here again. All of the good stuff that I've read here about Julia and Avanti is true. I felt like a million bucks when I walked out of there yesterday.
Thank you again, Elphaba X! The X stands for the kiss I would give you. -
Review from Katherine E.
Brookline, MA
12/22/2010 Purchased a Yelp Deal 1 Check-in Here
Went in for a routine haircut using a recent Yelp deal.
The salon is nice and bright. Despite being busy, the employees were friendly, took care of all clients in a timely manner, offered drinks, and seemed very organized and did not seem rushed. They use Furturer hair products during the shampoo, which was nice.
I had a great cut with Nancy. She asked questions about how I usually wear my hair, the cut and shape that best fit my hair texture, suggested different ideas and ways to style at home.
The only suggestion I would make is to make the waiting area a little larger. -
Review from Juliet P.
Boston, MA
5/19/2010
Took advantage of a Buy With Me to try out a new place and was thrilled with Janida. She is sassy yet completely down to earth and super friendly.
She took the time to understand what I wanted, played with my hair to evaluate how best to achieve the desired result and then set to work. I was really happy with the way it turned out (although I should note that I was not asking for anything drastic)!
The other thing is that Janida is just nice. I don't know why more stylists aren't like this - but she repeatedly told me what great hair I have. Instead of feeling embarrassed or self-conscious of my split-end, winter mop she made me feel proud of the mess. Honestly, more stylists could learn from her and do this to put your clients at ease. Everyone loves a compliment.
If you're looking for a good solid stylist at a trendy Newbury place without the attitude Janida at Avanti is the gal for you. -
Review from Tech L.
Boston, MA
Updated - 8/28/2010
Whoops - so an update for Avanti is long overdue. One of the owners read my review and indulged me with some sound business practice - a complimentary re-cut. I had an appointment with Julia, who is sweet as pie and as smiley in person as she seems on her online staff profile. (Though, word to the wise: prepare for the potential awkwardness that might come when you run into your old stylist...)
The re-cut wasn't squeal-inducing, but I give due props to Julia and Avanti -- it's months later, and I've been happy with how it's grown out. I've got nothing but great things to say about the service, cleanliness, and decor here, so I'd put Julia on a short list of stylists I'd take a risk on in a flash. I'm still looking for someone/somewhere to take care of me in the long haul, though!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/12/2010
Count me among the other Buy With me customers here. My experiences here have been pretty… Read more »
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Review from Kelly G.
Somerville, MA
3/31/2010
I wanted to love this place...I really did...and I *do* love my haircut, but I had the worst hair-salon experience I have ever had.
*I came up the stairs rather than the elevator (it's only one flight and bathing suit season is coming) and walked into a bunch of staff members hanging out and chatting- they all looked at me funny for cutting through what appeared to be their little area.
*Inside the salon - the place is dingy! The white on the walls is scuffed and gross looking; the black cabinets are scratched and dinged up; there was a random internet cord sticking out of one of the walls at about eye height, dangling about 3 feet and just hanging there. On Newbury St. and for the price tag on their services, you'd think they'd step up their game a little.
*There was a blond girl in the chair next to me when I sat down...and a pile of brown hair on the floor by her...so not hers. That haircut finished, a whole other cut came and went, and a third cut started before the floor was swept. Ew.
*My stylist's hairdryer was held together with several layers of electrical and scotch tape and his scissor case was full of all sorts of hair...it was really grossing me out, actually.
*He scratched me on the ears, neck, and forehead with the comb every time he moved my hair around - and when he pulled the round brush out for the blowdry, I was actually (and rightfully) scared. I was a tangly haired kid (thankfully that's changed) and so I've got the scalp of steel...but the front of my forehead, tops of my ears, and neck were still red when I met my gf for lunch after my appt.
*Just about every piece of hair he cut, he held above my head so that the little bits rained down on me...which was a little annoying but fine until he got to the front and the small bits were falling INTO MY EYES. I still had hair in my eyes that evening.
*My stylist did not say A SINGLE WORD to me from when I sat down after shampooing until he started to blow dry. Which, I get the not-chatty thing...but a little small talk every now and then?
I've had better experiences in a mall salon....but the cut is superb. I'll be going back to Liquid Hair Studios for my next appointment, however.Listed in: Putting the Aaaah in…
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Review from Jamie S.
Arlington, VA
7/10/2006 ROTD 7/12/2006
Eli G-- this one's for you...
From her silver sparkly flip flops, to the little sequins on her belt and tank top, Julia's silver scissors are a mere extension of her fingers. This gal has got her dance on.
Cutting hair sometimes 12 hours a day, because she loves it that much, she greets each customer as though it's her first appointment. I met Julia during her 11th hour...at 11pm, she was snipping and toe tapping away.
Meticulous and unfettered she ran her hands through my hair, noticing how it falls and what needed to go...
After a relaxing wash with a head massage, Julia snipped away...the dry split ends and the uneven edges. Leaving me with shiny satiny hair.
My cut would appear seeming straight forward. However, cutting hair that is nearly two feet long, takes some talent. Unlike CheapCuts, that like to cut from left to right in one straight line, at Avanti, they cut in layers so your hair falls with body and volume.
Don't let this get out-- but Julia gives the BEST BLOW-dry JOBS!!! Seriously, I didn't believe it when Alfie (boyfriend to owner Alex) told me-- but she is OUT OF THIS WORLD! My hair looked like smooth melted chocolate with the ends slightly curved under.
For $40 dollars this experience and cut, including the glitterati (fruity italian candies at the desk) can be yours...
Kindly remember Avanti won't add the tip to your card and for services like this gratuity is a must! Just think after all...you are drinking sangria on the house :)Listed in: You look marvelous--…
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Review from Mike A.
Cambridge, MA
7/28/2006
Came here for the Yelp / Avanti / Sangria / Peroni party to get my drink on and my hairs cut.
Janida, the stylist who came in to work that night just for the party, took me by the arm, as if I were on a date with her or something! I hardly get that kind of affection from my normal friends. It was funny and enjoyable.
She did a great job and I had a ton of fun just hanging out in the salon after she was done, enjoying the drinks on the house and DJ who was spinning house!
Only on Newbury St. can you find something like this. I felt like I was at some sort of hollywood elite event or something. Too much fun.
What a cool spot....and a great place to get your hair done while you're there! -
Review from Kimberly K.
Solana Beach, CA
10/28/2010 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I've been really pleased with Avanti.
My husband and I moved to Boston a little over a year ago and both of us have been going to Jill at Avanti. Jill is fabulous! She has done a fabulous job at taking my hair from long & thick to medium length, layered, lighter, bangs, subtle highlights underneath instead of on the crown... I've been super happy every time I've seen her. And I'm Asian! So the highlights were very pleasing - no brassiness, no red tones or orangey-ness that creeps up after a few weeks... just great. She's also done a fantastic job with my husband's short blonde hair.
Not only does she have amazing skills, but she is so kind and really great to talk to. She is a beautiful woman who has a great flair for style (I love her own hair!) and she and her husband have a little boy. It's a pleasure seeing her and catching up with what is new.
The salon is comfortable and although everyone working there looks lovely and trendy, there is a very comfortable - non pretentious vibe throughout. They always offer something to drink, coffee or tea, and the hair wash is very soothing. Often I will look around and notice other customers hair, and I am often very impressed - they look wonderful! Going to Avanti has always been a relaxing and pleasant experience for me. I feel refreshed and beautiful after visiting! What more can you ask for? :) -
Review from Sarah C.
6/18/2010
I heart Julia.
I've been getting my hair cut here for a while. I love the atmosphere and the people...oh and the haircuts. It's very reasonably priced (I think?) for a high end salon, and it doesn't FEEL high end...unless you want it to.
I always get a cup of coffee (or tea, water) offered to me within 5 minutes of being there, and a super lovely head massage during the shampoo (my fav. part).
Also I recently had a mani/pedi with Celina. WOW SHE IS AMAZING! Best mani/pedi i ever had. Don't think you're gonna bust in and out with her - she really takes her time and does a fantastic job. Both together took about 1.5 hrs, most of which was her working (not drying time). She's very sweet and calm/quiet, and she really pays attention to what she's doing and has high standards. Also her foot/leg and hand/arm massages were AWESOME! My nails look great and it was a lovely and relaxing experience. I highly recommend!! -
Review from Alexander W.
New York, NY
8/9/2006
Janida rocks (followed her from Acote some time ago)! I recommend all my friends to check her out.
As a rule, I just feel great whenever I leave this place. Its always been spot-on for what I was looking for. Prices are more than competitive too.Listed in: Things I Will (soon) Miss…
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Review from Jimmie J.
Boston, MA
6/8/2007
I'd give it less than one star, but that is not an option.
How the heck is this place so highly rated?
Here's some food for thought: My girlfriend has an early Saturday appointment. She was sick all night. At 4 a.m., we knew she would not make it. She called and left a voicemail on the machine apologizing and cancelling. Yes, its short notice, but that is what happens when you are sick.
The manager called at 8:45 and left a voicemail admonishing her for skipping the appointment. His tone reminded me of my second grade teacher. Annoyed, we called her stylist to inform her what the manager did. Apparently the message did not sink in. No less than 5 minutes later the manager called back to "apologize". His apolgy ended with "It would be helpful if you called during business hours." They had a freakin' answering machine! What's the point of having people leave messages if you cannot manage late 80s technology?
There are a ton of salons on Newbury street. At these prices, we're going somewhere that appreciates their customers. -
Review from Laura M.
12/1/2006
What a great salon! I went for the Thursday night deal and was first surprised that everything on Newbury St. shuts down at 8:00. What the hell? I'd never been there at night before, but I didn't realize that that's because there IS nothing there at night. Silly Newbury St.
Avanti, though, was hoppin' at 8:00 when I got there. When my stylist, Janida, asked how I'd heard about them, I told her I read about them on http://yelp.com. She seemed so psyched! She was like, "There are reviews about ME on there! Like, me personally!" Your good reviews have the power to make someone's day, Yelpers.
So I got my glass of sangria and got shampooed, cut, and blown dry. I was really impressed by the way Janida sat me down in front of the mirror and immediately sensed what my hair needed. I'm terrible at telling a stylist what I want, so I just have to hope they understand what will look good on me, and she totally did. She put in some really cute layers and then used thinning shears on my out-of-control thick hair, to keep it from being so weighed down. I'd never had that done before and was a little freaked out by the idea, but it definitely worked. I look and feel awesome!
I will definitely be recommending this place to all my friends. Everyone's super nice, and a fab Newbury St. haircut for $40 is a great deal. Score!
EDIT 5/25/07: I'm adding on to my review to say that I visited again last night (yeah, I get my hair cut every 6 months, and that's in a good year) and saw Kevin this time, who also did an excellent job. I was bad at giving instructions for the cut I wanted, but when I got home from the salon several people were immediately like "NICE hair!" so clearly he knows his stuff. He is less chatty and bubbly than Janida, but sometimes after a long day I'm not so into making haircut small talk anyway, so I just chilled. Also, they remembered me from last time and commented on my Yelp review, which made me feel special.
One word of warning -- the door buzzer was on the fritz and I couldn't get in using it. Make sure you've got the salon's number stored in your cell in case this happens to you!Listed in: Yelp finds
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Review from Kate S.
Brighton, MA
1/4/2007
Let me express to you my excitement regarding Avanti salon.
First of all, I requested Julia to style my hair based upon the yelp review by Jamie S. THANK YOU JAMIE S! What I loved about the whole experience was that I told Julia that I was feeling kind of tired with my color and wanted something new, but natural. She spent HOURS on the whole process and my hair came out beautifully. She then styled it for a holiday party, and I've never seen such genious with a flat iron. In fact, I will post a new picture of myself on Yelp so that anyone on this review can see how fabulous she made my hair look. My favorite part of the whole thing was when she put the "glaze" on my hair. It felt and smelled like cool honey all over my head and my hair came out glowing. -
Review from Iska B.
7/5/2007
Another find via Yelp.
So I went here for the Thursday night 8-11PM "get a haircut for only $40" event. Although none of the "DJs and drinks" were to be had (maybe I came on an off week?) there were still Boston's top stylists.
My stylist was Kevin, who while completely not bubbly or talkative, knew how to cut hair. I actually appreciated our lack of conversation since I'm not really good at the small talk hair dressers normally do. Anyways I explained, or rather showed, him the mess on my head and asked what he could do to tame it. At first he freaked me out by wanting to cut off most of it (which I adamantly declined) but we compromised on cutting off a little more then I wanted and a little less then he wanted.
In the end I probably lost a pound of hair and ended up with something a little shorter then I would have liked and I'm not going to lie and say I was thrilled initially because I wasn't, it was a little too short and I kinda wanted to give this place a less then five star review. It was later that I realized the magic that had been done. My hair was MANAGEABLE. It was no longer a frizzy, puffy, dried out mess that I would pull away from my face in a ball. It was capable of being worn down without any sort of heat styling. It was amazing.
I am sorry I had so little faith. I should have trusted everyone on Yelp and Kevin too AND I am glad I waited to write the review.
You know I am coming back.
P.S. I also had issues with the doorbell i.e. it didn't work. Make sure to bring your cellphone with the salon's number or you will be standing outside for awhile. -
Review from Meredith J.
Boston, MA
6/18/2011
Avanti had a Rue La La special for conditioning treatments and blow-outs so I decided to give them a try. The salon was funky and modern and I loved the decor. I was taken care of immediately, and my stylist, Lauren, was incredibly sweet and helpful. Having colored my hair far too often it's often difficult to manage and I frequently walk out of salons disappointed. My hair looked gorgeous when I left Avanti--Lauren did a wonderful job with the conditioning treatment and blew it dry just the way I had asked. I got sooooo many compliments on the way home. I am definitely going back and would recommend their conditioning treatments to anyone with dry or over-processed hair.
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Review from Sarah S.
Jamaica Plain, MA
5/7/2007
I was nervous upon entering Avanti - I'd there after fearing I'd be late, a first-time client faux pas - and also because they don't have a website and I didn't know how many Benjamin's I'd be dropping. It's Newbury, after all. I'd do anything to avoid the street but my friend's (and all other Yelpers') glowing review of Julia made me too tempted. Just who was this Julia!?
It turned out to be one of those wonderfully surprising ventures - Julia was not what I expected. She's quite pixieish and young but from the moment I started talking to her I could tell she worked hard for her money (so hard for it honey) and I laid my trust in her shear snipping hands. I didnt have to give her much direction at all - she was like a hair psychic because she just knew. Ok, that's a little dramatic, but you get the drift.
I got color and cut and enjoyed every minute of it. Julia wasn't one of those stylists that talk your ear off or worse, say nothing at all. Rather, she was friendly, chirpy, but let me read the newspaper (Us Weekly, Life & Style, et al) in peace. We had a good repoire. I said I was an undercover Yelper and she said she loves the site and is grateful for all her fans.
Everything came out superb. My color is excellent and my cut is much more manageable. Julia gives an amazing shampoo and a more amazing blowout, without that dreaded hairspray overload at the end. It was the salon experience I'd always hoped for - one where I was taken care of and attended to. Word to the wise: this place only takes cash tips. Good thing I had some stashed in my wallet or I'd be making a frantic run to the ATM.
Otherwise, Julia, Avanti: I think we'll have a good future together. -
Review from Caitlin A.
Boston, MA
7/23/2009
First, let me say that if I don't get my hair cut regularly, I start to look like Carrot Top. And I don't mean in his recent, steroid-fueled, trans-gender phase, because he clearly has a stylist now. I mean back when he was schlepping his box o' props around the Catskills.
BAD.
So, I thank you, fellow Yelpers for recommending Avanti. Because just a few days ago, my hair was at DEFCON 5. I looked like I was growing my own coonskin cap.
My stylist was Valerie, and she's very talented. Remember how Jesus turned water into wine? Well, Valerie turned the mess on my head into something which can only be described as awesome.
She listened to me and picked out a perfect color and highlights combo and gave me a sleek and cool hair cut that I love. She was also friendly and talked a little bit, but not too much. (Sometimes I just prefer to zone out or read about the Olsen Twins and their eating disorders.)
It wasn't crazy expensive and they gave me a coupon for a free manicure next time I come in.
Sweeeet! -
Review from Drew S.
San Francisco, CA
4/3/2008
This is a Julia specific review:
So first of all let me begin by saying that my hair is brown underneath, and blonde on top, with a black streak (its not what you think... Xtina diiiiirrrty... it looks are less weird than you would imagine)
So, when looking for someone to do my hair I require that they know a lot about coloring blonde hair, because mixing the black and the blonde can be a little tricky.
I went to Julia based on her Yelp reviews and based on the fact that when I called the salon they recommended her for blonde.
I went in on a day when they were super busy, and Julia had obviously been overbooked, but she worked really hard not to make me wait, and I could tell that when I had to she genuinely felt bad about it.
I didn't mind... she was so nice and really took her time in coloring my hair so that it turned out how I wanted it.
The cut was fantastic as well, and she explained it to me in a way that I can actually style it at home, which is always a plus.
The best part though was that when I did have a problem with my hair (the blonde and black mixed a little- not her fault, always happens with Wella black and my blonde it has been discovered.) she booked me another appointment to fix it right away, free of charge.
I will without a doubt be going to see her again!
helpful hint: this salon does not accept CC tips, and the garage is HELLA expensive so take the T or park in the boston common garage (across the park...) -
Review from Camille J.
Millbury, MA
6/23/2006
I love the idea of a private feeling party at a high end trendy hair salon on Newbury! Each week has been getting better and better, featuring local talent on the decs and percussion, complimentary Peroni and Sangria, and of course top notch styling! I must say though, this place has everything going for it even without the fabulous weekly party on Thursday nights.
The stylists are amazing and the atmosphere is pristine. And now, a great night spot? This place has it all. -
Review from Molly R.
Brookline, MA
8/25/2007
first let me start by saying that i went to the "40 dollar special thursday night deal" to get my haircut, and though i was pleased, there wasn't a DJ and there were only two hair stylists on duty when I got there (about 7:30ish). I know everyone's been raving about the Thursday night drinks+DJ thing but don't be too let down if there aren't any DJs or a party-like atmosphere.
But, onto the hairs.
My hair stylist was Marlena (i think) and she was really sweet. I had explained to her that this was my first time getting a hair cut from someone other than a mutual friend of my aunt since I was about 11 years old and I was kind of nervous. Marlena reassured me and went right on to cutting my hair. I had a few ideas and explained to her what I wanted and she seemed to "read" me really well. She gave me an excellent hair cut that was low maintenance and complimented my face shape really well! Considering I hadn't had my hair cut for an entire year, the fourty bucks was worth it. I look forward to doing business with this salon in the future. Bottom line: really friendly to their clients and listen to what they want and find a way of delivering it to them :)
also, they gave me a cup of wine. that was nice, but i'm, you know, underage.
