Atomic Barber Co — Local services in Winter Park

I have never posted any type of review however, my experience at Atomic Barber shop today was astoundingly bad. I have been a customer for nearly 4 years. I love the atmosphere and Sam who has been cutting my hair does an amazing job. So why the one star review? The owner has established a rule that a customer can be no more than 10 minutes late to an appointment. The penalty is that one loses their appointment AND is charged the full cost of the haircut ($60.00). The same rule applies to missed appointments and I have missed a few and paid without complaint. I understand it would be difficult to operate this business without rules dictating customers promptly show up for appointments. But when there is such steadfast adherence to rules without on occasion giving longtime customers the benefit of a doubt the rules hurt the business rather than help

Today I was 13 minutes late for my appointment or three minutes past the 10 minute mark. I was told that my appointment would be canceled and I will be charged the $60.00.

Worse yet I was told the owner took my time slot. He saw me talking to the receptionist and must have sensed my frustration. He refused to acknowledge me and let his receptionist deal with a difficult conversation. He could have offered to finish his haircut at a later time and let me keep my appointment. He just sat there and did not say or do anything. I was only 3 minutes past the deadline, he could not have been in the chair for more than 3 minutes.

I'm sure the owner felt satisfied that he was able to establish he never deviates from his rules. Unfortunately, the impact on his staff, in this case Sam is that three minutes caused him to lose a long time customer.

At the end of the day it's his business to run as he sees fit. I hope at some point he finds the courage to replace his ego with understanding and compassion for both his employees...

I've been coming here for a while now and have never had a bad experience. Drew does a fantastic job every single time. I've had a few others as well, and everyone has been awesome, but the last few times Drew has been my go-to guy. Everyone is super personable, and the atmosphere is always jovial. The music selection is also always on point and eclectic.

Unlike another reviewer that thinks the no cellphone policy is "absurd", I think it's great because people are more likely to converse and be aware of their surroundings instead of worrying about what's happening on Facebook. If someone tries calling or something, no one is stopping you from stepping outside and answering the phone, so honestly that criticism in itself is absurd. And if you're in the chair...I mean...how are you going to use a cellphone in the first place? Plus I'm sure if you give them a heads-up like "Hey, I'm expecting a really important call/text, do you mind if I pull out my phone just to check when I get one?" that they would be accommodating.

Complaining about price? Go to Supercuts. You're in Downtown Winter Park at the best barbershop in the area, there is going to be a bit of a premium. Plus the treatment you get is second-to-none. Hot towel, shampoo, straight-razor finish, etc.

The only real issue I could see someone possibly having is finding parking, but honestly there is parking all over and unless there is an event going on it's pretty easy to find. You might have to walk up the road, but unless you're physically disabled just look at it as a bit of exercise and an opportunity to take in the sights.

I honestly look forward to making my appointments to come here.

They also offer you a beer or water when you're checking in for your appointment. I mean, how...

Well now, let me tip my hat and set the record straight: Atomic Barbers in Winter Park ain’t your average clip joint. It’s a place where time stands still, phones stay holstered, and the art of barberin’ is alive and well.

My boy Michael’s been sittin’ in Sam’s chair for a while now, and every time he hops down, he’s lookin’ cleaner than a whistle at a Sunday sermon. Sam’s got hands steady as a surgeon. Ain’t just a haircut. It’s a transformation. That kid walks out with confidence like he just won a showdown at high noon. Round these parts, a sharp haircut means a whole lot to a teenage feller tryin’ to make his mark.

The no-phone rule? That ain’t a nuisance. It’s s a blessing. That’s called class, partner. Teaches the young’uns (and older fellers) to sit up straight, soak in the moment, and maybe even learn how to hold a real conversation without tappin’ on glass. It ain’t just a rule. It’s a lesson in respect, the kind you don’t find too often anymore.

So if you’re fixin’ for a cut that’ll turn heads and a vibe that takes you back to when honor meant somethin’, ride on over to Atomic. The Sheriff runs a tight outpost, and this here’s the finest barbershop this side of the Mississippi. Just don’t be late, don’t sass the crew, and for heaven’s sake, leave your phone in your saddlebag.

Five stars, no question.

A Satisfied Customer from the...