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By Gianluca D'Elia | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

This story was originally published on Oct. 15, 2018.

If you're a man in need of a haircut, there is no greater comfort than knowing you have a masterful barber shop that can truly take care of your hair and beard. It's like having a good mechanic or electrician on speed dial — you know you're in good hands and can relax.

And it's no secret that a trip to the barber can double as a therapy session; a chance to escape the real world for a hot second, or in some cases, even a place to have a drink and socialize. But with hundreds of shops around the state, how do you decide which one is right for you?

Yelp has an answer for that. The popular user-based rating website has provided data on which barber shops are the top 35 in the state, using an algorithm that considers the number of reviews and star rating for a given business.

If you’re looking to step up your grooming game, you might want to check out one of these 35 places when you’re due for a trim.

Did your favorite barber shop make the list? Is there a shop we’re missing out on? Let us know in the comments.

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35. Barbers & Songs, Succasunna

One customer says: "Jim is a great Barber and always makes you feel comfortable. His professionalism is the standard that other shops should try to be like. The shop is always clean welcoming. Both Jim and Christina are very talented and experienced. My son and I have been going to them since they first started and would not go anywhere else."

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34. American Male, Lebanon

One customer says: "This place is awesome for a men's haircut. Everyone there is extremely friendly, and the online booking is fantastic! No more waiting in a long line to get cleaned up. Lisa and Nicole take great pride in making us men look our best, and everything they do is very professional. I love this place so much, I already referred 5 of my co-workers!"

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33. Irit Barber Shop, Fair Lawn

One customer says: "Irit's the bomb! She's a real pro and knows what she's doing. She's given me excellent advice on various products too. Great cuts, excellent attention to detail and able to switch it up if you don't want to keep the same thing all the time."

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32. Webb's Barber Shop, Somerdale

One customer says: "I've been a customer of this shop for a few months now and each session with Jay does not disappoint. When you're in his chair, it's good knowing your hair is in the hands of someone who's so skilled that you can pretty much just zone out and let him do his magic. Fantastic cut, great value."

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31. Leonard's Barber Shop, Caldwell

One customer says: "It is very hard to find a barbershop which does it old school like Leonard's. Barber shops might 'look' the part, or try to take on a homely feel when you first walk inside, but it's not just the decor which makes this place feel like home. It's the character that Leonard has cultivated over the years which makes you feel like you can relax and gather yourself for a second, before heading back to the rat race that we all call 'life.'"

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30. The Bearded Barber, Scotch Plains

One customer says: "The best haircut I've ever had. They certainly know beards! I drive 45 minutes from my house to come to their barbershop because their quality is unlike any other place I've been to. They shaped up my beard perfectly and gave me the haircut I wanted, exactly as I described. I've had Mike each time I go but have heard great things about every barber they have working. While I was getting my haircut, the barber next to me was cutting the hair of a toddler who was making a fuss and screaming. He stayed calm and patient with the parents and managed to cut the kid's hair."

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29. Bello by Daniel Ross, Verona

One customer says: "I have tried many barbers in the Verona area and after years - FINALLY found the best in Bello. The staff is beyond courteous, the establishment is clean and Danny is an artist when it comes to hair. My son and I have been going here for months and couldn't be happier."

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28. Maskeley Barber Shop, Cliffside Park

One customer says: Recently got my first haircut at Maskeley, and was very happy. My haircut and beard trim were done by Bri, and she did a fantastic job. Word to the wise: when it says appointment only, they really mean it. Don't waste your time dropping in to see if you can get a cut, they are strict about their schedule and won't be able to fit you in without an appointment. The ambiance is great, and they have little snacks and coffee if you get a little hungry.

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27. Totowa Barber Shop, Totowa

One customer says: Been coming here for about a year because these guys do an excellent job. I've had three different guys cut my hair over that time and the quality was consistently good and always what I wanted. It's also pretty inexpensive ($20 with tip) so that's a great value especially considering how nice the guys are and how clean the place is.

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26. Master Clips Barber Shop, Edison

One customer says: "I travel a great distance to this place for my haircut. The staff is very friendly and polite. Miguel, the barber, is at top of his game. I strongly recommend him if you decide to visit."

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25. Exodus Hair Studio, Belleville

One customer says: "I've been going to Exodus since 2001 and have never had a bad experience. He is consistent and accurate when you sit down. Not only that but having seen other stylists in action, the one thought that goes through my mind is, 'He REALLY knows what he's doing.' He has the qualifications, experience, and results to back up his name."

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24. Chateau Gentlemen's Quarters, Franklin Lakes

One customer says: "I've been to many many places to get my hair cut, and I've paid lots of money for it at times. Based on my experiences, Christine's work is top notch, and now that I've been there once, I would not go anywhere else."

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23. Alex's Barber Shop, Kenvil

One customer says: "I was brought up in the old barber shop era and have to say Alex's brings it back in a new way. Talk about getting greeted like a long time old friend, getting the cut and look you wanted by really down to earth people who not only treat the customers with respect, they treat each other with the utmost respect. Not only did I have the pleasure of getting my hair and beard done there, not only am I becoming a usual customer, they welcomed my 10 year old son there as well."

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22. Talking Heads Barber Shop, Asbury Park

One customer says: "John gives one of the best haircuts out there, but the real treat is getting a hot shave. He does an amazing job. The shop is an absolutely sweet place with great tunes playing and a great environment. The whole staff is super friendly and I can't imagine going anywhere else. I also love that I can book my appointments online!"

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21. Kennedy's All-American Barber Club, Westfield

One customer says: "I walked in and was immediately offered a beer and a seat in their lounge (pool table & bar) while I waited for a stylist. Cathy cut my hair, and she was great. I was clueless, and she made me feel comfortable and gave me a great cut!"

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20. Carlo's HairSpot, Bayonne

One customer says: "Carlos has been cutting my son's hair since he was a year old and also cuts mine. It' a family run business as his son Roman also cuts hair. My son is now 6 years old and he will not let anyone else cut his hair. They are both extremely patient barbers. Their shop is very clean, comfortable. They are extremely patient with kids with special needs. I highly recommend them. Appointments are highly suggested as they get really busy Fridays and Saturdays.

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19. Razor Sharp Barber Shop, Metuchen

One customer says: "What separates Razorsharp Barbershop & Shave Parlor is their attention to detail. Upon entering you see their logo etched into the front glass door. The decor is a mix between vintage furniture and youthful skate, tattoo and Graf inspired themes."

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18. EvilFades Barber Shop, Millstone

One customer says: "I have gone through my fair share of barber shops in Manalapan and Freehold, and was wanting a place that can get my haircut done correctly. I randomly was scheduled an appointment with Kim, and Kim did not disappoint. She was meticulous and did an incredible job cutting my hair exactly how I wanted it. The overall vibes of the Barbershop is great, very clean, very cool vibes with sports memorabilia."

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17. Calabrese's Barber Shop, Keyport

One customer says: "The shop has an old school rockabilly feel, with vintage barber chairs and decor. Chris the owner is a cool dude and knowledgeable in his craft. Mitch is my personal barber and i trust him with my head. Even though I've moved out of the area i still make a monthly trip down here for my haircut."

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16. The Made Man Barbershop, Fords

One customer says: "Got my haircut by Miguel. Hands down, THE best barber I have ever been too. He was very attentive to how my hair grows and gave me input on what he thought would look best. The finished product was something that I never imagined a haircut could look like."

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15. SteelMclean Barbers, South Orange

One customer says: "I've had subpar experiences until I found SteelMclean. What truly sets them apart is their attention to detail and open communication with the customer. They make it a point to give the customer the haircut they envisioned."

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14. City Master Barbers, Old Bridge

One customer says: This place is amazing! It's so clean there and the barbers are so nice! My husband loves his hair cut! This place should be how every barber shop should be like! If I could, I would give them more than 5 stars! There was absolutely no wait time which is amazing too! And they took their time to make sure his hair cut was perfect.

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13. TRUGLORY, Cliffside Park

One customer says: "I walked in and did not have to wait at all. Edgar crushed it for me. He did a great job in understanding what I was looking for, demonstrated a lot of patience. He was not in a rush and took almost an hour to cut my hair. When I asked for some minor adjustments at the end, he was very happy to oblige."

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12. Original Sharp Barbershop & Shave Parlor, Millburn

One customer says: "On a busy street, this place has all the classics of a trendy, professional, talented barber crew. I had an appointment with Khalil, who gave me a perfect haircut, with some tips on how to modify what I had wanted in order to fit my head shape and hair growth. These guys are pros. The haircut is expensive, but if you are willing to splurge at the cost of a longer waiting period between cuts, you won't go wrong here."

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11. Little Joe & John's Barber Shop, Glen Rock

One customer says: "Simply the best. Great prices. Gives the perfect hair cut for people of all ages. I went to Al and he gave me the best fade. Took his time and is very friendly. I've seen the other barbers do all types of haircuts. They are the best at their profession."

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10. The Avenue Barber Shop, Colonia

One customer says: "$17 dollars for the amazing haircut they gave? Yes please. The place is clean and bright and the staff is so friendly. The free parking lot is a big plus. Came in as a walk-in at noon on a Sunday and was seen almost immediately. Great store! Will make this my regular spot. It was so hard to find a barber shop open on Sunday too!"

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9. Shaving Art Barbershop, Hackensack

One customer says: "I've never seen a barber put in so much time and effort to make a haircut look perfect. David did an amazing job on my friend's haircut and did not rush to get him in and out. He was very sociable, funny and made my first experience in a barber shop a very pleasant one! I've never seen someone so serious about their work before."

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8. Justin's Collingswood Barber Shop, Collingswood

One customer says: "It's a barber shop, but one that is operated by a real gentleman who listens to the customer, and also asserts his views on what you end up with. The shop reflects Justin, with serious journals and reading material, and an eclectic mix of music on Sirius from old r'n'b to 60s garage to good jazz and the Ramones. All kinds of customers, all kinds of cuts."

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7. Classic Man Cut & Shave, Montclair (Fullerton Avenue)

One customer says: "I've been going to Classic Man for over a year and every time they deliver top quality service. It doesn't matter who cuts your hair, they're all awesome. The place is clean and comfortable, and you rarely have to wait if at all. Most importantly, they are efficient and the price is great. The owner Eli is the best."

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6. Hold Fast Barber Shop & Shave Parlor, Flemington

One customer says: "The best barbers in the area... period! I would trust them with my life let alone my hair, mustache and beard. You can't go wrong. The shop is an excellent experience, down to the little details of the 50s rockabilly/ punk rock style. You are always welcomed and the price is well worth the time and effort both Rich or Jeremey will put in."

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5. Classic Man Cut & Shave, Montclair (Watchung Plaza)

One customer says: "At Classic Man they take the time to listen and understand your desired style. What I'd say I appreciate more is the professional input they give you when you ask them for their opinion. Kal has been cutting my hair for a little over a year and every time he does a great job."

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4. Virile Barber & Shop, Waldwick

One customer says: "I have been visiting Virile's for 2 years and words fail to express the level of satisfaction I get from each visit. The level of customer service is exceptional. You walk into the shop and get blasted to an era where people took pride in their work, which is a reflection of each and every one of the barbers in the shop. Whether it's an old school tow-bit, shave and haircut, or a modern style shape up, these guys have you covered. There's no beating the knowledge and level of perfection exhibited by the barbers. I usually walk in looking like Teen Wolf and walk out looking Magic Mike!"

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3. Mr. Freshcut, Teaneck

One customer says: "Great place for a fresh cut! The staff here pays great attention to detail when it comes time to a cut! The staff here is very friendly and make you feel at home. They also offer old school hot towel shaves which I think is awesome. Not many barber shops still use a single switch blade to give you a tight shave. Definitely recommend this place for anyone who is looking for a new spot for a fresh look!"

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2. JAX Chop Shop, North Arlington

One customer says: "I've been coming here for several months now and this place is nothing short of exceptional. Atmosphere is great, everyone is friendly and always offers a drink, and most importantly their barbers are all very skilled and do awesome work. I usually make my appointments with Christian or Elmer depending on who is available, both always do a fantastic job!"

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1. Iconic Barber Shop, Glen Rock

One customer says: "Probably the best cut I've ever gotten from any shop. Can't remember the last time I've gotten so many compliments from coworkers and friends after a barber visit. Casey was also incredibly professional, not only going along with what I was visualizing for my ideal cut, but exceeding expectations I originally had for a new look. Will definitely be back on the regular."

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Gianluca D'Elia may be reached at gdelia@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @gianluca_delia. Find NJ.com on Facebook.