Disappointment! (See update below: “Redemption”, from 1 to 5!) I spent 25 euros on an uber to make sure I was at the shop on time for my scheduled appointment, only to find out the person I booked with was running over an hour behind - which was odd considering they only had one customer in the place. I had to give my email and phone number in order to book the reservation, yet no call, no notification, nothing about the guy running so far behind. When they asked him how late he was running, he couldn't even bother to turn around and apologize face-to-face, he just grunted over his shoulder. The guy at reception (a barber himself, according to the website, yet not busy at all) didn't bother trying to get me to stay, offer a discount for the wait, or even reschedule - nothing to make it worth staying or book another appointment. For a shop that boasts being so highly-rated, I was highly disappointed.
UPDATE: REDEMPTION: A couple hours after posting this review, I received a call from the owner. I was a bit surprised, but having been in the service industry for 10 years and a small business owner for even longer, I knew exactly why he was calling. Customer service is everything, no matter where you are, and this showed me that he truly is focused on his business and its reputation. He apologized for the interaction I had with the shop and invited me back for a chance at redemption, and even offered to reimburse me for the uber I took. I should say, at no time did he mention my review or ask that I change it, which earned even more of my respect.
I don’t live in Amsterdam, or Europe for that matter, so theoretically he could’ve just let this pass knowing that losing one customer who may never be in Amsterdam again wouldn’t hurt him, especially with all these other positive reviews. But his work ethic put satisfaction over profit.
Being the eternal optimist, I woke up early, took a bus and a train to get to the shop, and was warmly greeted by the owner himself. He was welcoming, courteous, and was appreciative that I took him up on his offer. I ended up getting a haircut from CJ, who worked quickly and precisely, giving me one of the best cuts I’ve had in a long time. If I lived here, this would be my new spot because of David’s dedication to his customers. I can now say that I HIGHLY recommend David and CJ for your next haircut, and I hope I’m in Amsterdam next time i need a trim.