Hillcrest · San Diego · CA.
Every service is delivered with the same precision and care — whether you're after a quick clean-up or the full treatment.

A clean, considered cut tailored to your face shape, hair type and how you wear it day-to-day.

Tight, blended fades from a #0 skin up — taper, mid, high or bald. Crisp lines guaranteed.

Patient, friendly cuts for the next generation. Same precision, smaller chair.

Full beard sculpt, neckline, cheek line and edge work — finished with oil.

The classic combo. Cut, beard sculpt, neckline and finishing oil — done right.

Traditional hot towel treatment with steam, pre-shave oil and balm. Old school therapy.

Clean, even all-over clipper cut. The fastest reset in the chair.

Razor-sharp neckline, cheek line and edge work — the cleanest in-between-cut tune-up.

Hair tattoos, parts and custom designs cut freehand — bring a reference or trust the chair.

A relaxing shampoo and scalp massage — add it to any service for the full treatment.
Defined Cuts is a neighborhood barbershop in the heart of Hillcrest. We've built a room where the chairs are comfortable, the music is right, the conversation is real — and the cuts come out clean every single time.
Our barbers bring decades of combined experience across classic American cuts, modern fades, beard work and design. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer rolling in off University Ave, you'll get the same straight-up service and attention to detail.
Appointments run on schedule, every time.
Certified, licensed, and obsessive about details.
Hundreds of regulars and counting.
Right on University Ave — easy to find, easy to park.
Four experienced barbers and stylists. Pick a chair — or let us match you up on your first visit.
A few of our favorite reviews from Google. Thanks for the love, Hillcrest.
"Probably the coolest barbershop we've been to in SD!! They have a cool little side arcade room, you can play darts while you wait for the cut to be done. The vibe is dope, and the shop is legit. Think we've found our spot in SD!!"
"When I moved to San Diego, I did trials at a lot of different barbershops to see who I could trust to do a good job. I'm so lucky I found Joshua…"
"I've only been there once but my first visit was mind blowing. Outstanding shop. Very clean with a focus on comfort towards the customer."
"I've been going to this shop for my haircuts since I moved to the area last year. The staff are super friendly and easygoing."
"To those who are looking for truly professional barber services delivered by a talented crew, check this place out!"
Leave us a review on Google — it helps us out, and helps your neighbors find a great cut.
Leave A Google Review


Free parking lot on-site.
Walk-ins always welcome.
141 University Ave Unit 2
Hillcrest, San Diego, CA 92103
Mon – Fri · 10am – 6pm
Saturday · 10am – 4pm
Sunday · 10am – 4pm
Licensed barber or stylist looking for a chair in Hillcrest? Two floors, free lot on site, and late shifts where the walk-in traffic is. Reduced rent for your first 60 days while you build your book.