You’re driving down Dobbins Street, maybe looking for a place that actually knows how to handle a mid-taper without making it look like a bowl cut. Vacaville has plenty of options, sure. But there’s a specific energy around Primos Barber Shop Vacaville that you don’t find in those corporate chains where the "stylist" is just watching the clock.
Honestly, this isn't just a place to get the hair off your neck. It’s a shop with a history that’s kinda legendary in Solano County, mostly because the owner, Juan Desmarais, basically became the face of small business defiance a few years back.
Whether you agree with the politics of it or not, that grit is baked into the walls of the shop. It’s a USMC veteran-owned business. That means something here. You feel it in the precision. You see it in the way they treat the military and first responder community.
The Vibe at 198 Dobbins St
Walking into Suite E, you aren't greeted by that sterile, hospital-white lighting. It’s clean, yeah, but it feels like a neighborhood hub. There’s usually a game on. People are actually talking. Not just small talk about the weather, but real conversations.
The shop specializes in what they call "traditional gentlemen’s haircuts," but don't let that fool you into thinking they only do side parts for grandpas. They’re hitting modern mullets, textured fringes, and those sharp-as-a-razor designs that the kids are into right now.
Who’s Who Behind the Chair?
The shop operates on a booth-rent style or "shop within a shop" model, so you’re often booking with the individual barber rather than just the brand. This is a big deal because your loyalty ends up being to the person with the clippers, not the sign on the door.
- Primo Dennis: This guy is a beast with bald fades. If you look at his Booksy, he’s got hundreds of five-star reviews for a reason. He’s quick but not "rushed" quick.
- Rudy: Known for being incredibly thorough. If you need a beard shaping that actually follows your jawline instead of ignoring it, Rudy is the one.
- Angie: She’s been a go-to for many in the military and law enforcement community lately. Very efficient and, according to local regulars, she’s great if you’re the type who doesn't want to talk your ear off the whole time.
- Corey and Len: If you have a toddler who loses their mind at the sound of clippers, these are your people. They have a reputation for being "kid-whisperers" who can keep a three-year-old still enough for a clean line-up.
What it Costs (No Gimmicks)
Let’s talk money. In 2026, prices have stabilized a bit, but you’re still looking at a range based on the complexity of the cut.
Standard haircuts usually hover around $40. If you’re going for the full treatment—haircut plus the beard trim and the straight razor line-up—you’re looking at $50 to $60.
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One thing that Primos Barber Shop Vacaville does better than most is their respect for the uniform. They offer discounted rates for:
- Active Military
- Law Enforcement (LE)
- Fire Department (FD)
- Seniors (usually 60+)
These "Service Cuts" typically drop the price down to about $30, which is a solid break when you’re getting a high-and-tight every two weeks to stay in regs.
The Membership Factor
Dennis Reyes (Primo Dennis) even experimented with a monthly membership model. For about $100 a month, you could basically keep your hair looking fresh year-round without doing the math every time you sat down. It’s a smart move for guys who need that "just cut" look for work every single week.
The Elephant in the Room: The "Cease and Desist" Era
You can't really talk about Primos without mentioning why they were on the news every night back in 2020 and 2021. Juan Desmarais, the owner, flat-out refused to close during the lockdowns. He was served cease and desist orders. He faced license revocation.
At one point, he even received about $12,000 in donations from supporters to help pay his fines. But here’s the kicker: he didn't keep the money. He donated it to local youth sports and the Charge on Foundation, which honors fallen Vallejo officer James Capoot.
That specific brand of "standing your ground" earned the shop a fiercely loyal clientele. People don't just go there for the fade; they go because they want to support a business they feel has a backbone.
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How to Actually Get a Chair
Don't just show up on a Saturday morning expecting to walk in. You’ll be waiting forever.
Most of the barbers at Primos Barber Shop Vacaville use the Booksy app. It’s the easiest way to see who’s available at 9:00 AM on a Tuesday.
- Check the Barber’s Portfolio: Each barber has their own page. Look at their actual work. Some excel at sheer work (scissors), while others are masters of the no-guard bald taper.
- After Hours: Some of them, like Kato or Dennis, offer after-hour slots. They’ll cost you more—sometimes $60 to $70—but if you’re a busy professional who can’t get away during the day, it’s a lifesaver.
- Be Specific: If you want a "messy hair look" or a specific "messy mullet," bring a photo. These guys are visual artists.
Final Advice for Your Visit
Parking is usually fine since they’re in that Dobbins Street pocket, but give yourself five minutes. If you’re late, these barbers are on a tight schedule—usually 20 to 30 minutes per client—and they will have to move on to the next guy.
If you’re new to the area or just looking to switch shops, start by booking a "Regular Cut" with one of the top-rated barbers on Booksy. It gives you a chance to see if your personalities mesh.
Next Steps:
Download the Booksy app and search for "Primos Barbershop Vacaville." Look specifically for Primo Dennis or Rudy to see their current availability. If you are active military or a first responder, make sure to select the "Discount Cut" option when booking to ensure you get the adjusted rate at checkout.