University Avenue has long been known for its restaurants, international markets, and locally owned shops. But the corridor has also become a destination for beauty services. From neighborhood barber shops and braiding studios to salons specializing in every hair texture and style, people from across the Twin Cities come to University Avenue seeking trusted barbers, stylists, and hair care experts.
This growing beauty community is one of the many stories being celebrated through University Avenue’s Hidden GEMS, a campaign facilitated by Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) and supported through the City of Saint Paul’s Commercial Corridor Program. This summer, the campaign is highlighting businesses between Lexington Parkway and Rice Street through storefront window clings, billboards, local influencers, and digital storytelling that encourage residents to discover everything the area has to offer. An online business directory at www.ndc-mn.org/gems also makes it easy to explore the many businesses that call University Avenue home.
Starting near Victoria Station, businesses like CJ African Hair and Privilege Barber Lounge represent the variety of services available along University Avenue. Whether clients are looking for barbering, natural hair care, braiding, or specialized styling, these locally owned businesses have become trusted destinations for people throughout the area.
Just a few stops east, Dale Station offers a wide range of beauty services within just a few blocks. From Grooming House Barber Shop and Anh’s Hairstylists to Glamour New York Cuts, Reliance Salon, U Haircut, TT Salon, TJ Nails, and Collective Salon Studios, the area has become a convenient stop for clients looking for experienced barbers, stylists, and salon services.
Among them is Collective Salon Studios, where independent salon owners operate their own businesses under one roof. One of those owners is Angela Walker of Crown Garden, who grew up in the neighborhood she now serves.
“Serving my clients in the heart of Frogtown has me feeling empowered,” Walker said. “I am honored to work within a community of thriving businesses. The convenience, diversity, and professionalism of the neighborhood motivate me to be my best self and continuously elevate my business at Collective Salon Studios.”
Continuing toward Western Station, Blendz Barber Shop and King Milan’s Barber Shop highlight the important role locally owned barbershops play along University Avenue. For King Milan’s owner Milan Dennie, the barbershop has become a place that extends far beyond haircuts.
“Owning a business on University Avenue means much more to me than operating a barbershop,” Dennie said. “My shop has become a place where people come not only for haircuts, but for mentorship, encouragement, and connection.”
Through King Milan’s Barber Shop and the nonprofit, It’s Our Neighborhood (ION), Dennie launched Minnesota’s first youth barber training program, creating opportunities for young people to develop career skills, confidence, and pathways to entrepreneurship.
The businesses featured here are just a few of the many salons, barber shops, and beauty businesses that call University Avenue home. Whether you’re looking for a new barber, stylist, braider, or nail technician, the avenue offers plenty of opportunities to discover a local business you may not have visited before.
To explore more businesses participating in the Hidden GEMS on University Avenue campaign, visit www.ndc-mn.org/gems, where you’ll find a directory of restaurants, retailers, beauty businesses, service providers, and other local businesses throughout the district.
Business owners located along University Avenue who are interested in learning more about the campaign or getting involved are encouraged to contact Neighborhood Development Center at communications@ndc-mn.org.
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