I was visiting San Diego for a few days and decided to test out a local hair salon. I felt very brave doing this as my hair is extremely important to me and I am very careful who gets to touch it. I was in desperate need of some highlights to mask my premature grays (ugh!) and also in need of a haircut. I settled on Salon Tonic and at the front desk's recommendation, Berge (pronounced Bir-j) was my stylist. Typically in Toronto you have a separate stylist for the cut and color but here it was one person. I was nervous about this, but in the end she did a great job of both.

When I first arrived at the salon, they gave me a glass of wine. Nice touch! Though I was quite early I didn't have to wait. Berge listened carefully to my requests and delivered exactly what I wanted. I was especially impressed with her coloring job. It's not easy to touch up existing highlights without getting a line between the old and the new. She blended it perfectly. The cut is also quite good. I love what she did at the front. The back required a bit more blending, which she happily did for me no problem. Overall I am very pleased with the results. The scalp and neck massage during the shampoo was amazing. I can honestly say this is the most relaxing hair appointment I have ever had.

The salon is nicely decorated and airy. It was very quiet and when I arrived there were only 2 other clients even though my appointment was for 2:30. Half of the clients during my visit were men! For the price, I expected thumping music, a really busy environment and a little snobbery but instead it was a very laid back feel.

The final tally was $190 tip (eek!) but that included highlights, root touch up, toner and the cut and blow dry. It is more than I pay in Toronto and the results were the same, but the experience was fantastic. Next time I am in San Diego I will definitely book another appointment here with Berge.

I highly recommend this salon to anyone picky about her hair, willing to pay for perfection.

1532 India Street (in the heart of Little Italy)
619.234.9432