Young Entrepreneur Saves Nearly 70-Year-Old Waterloo Barbershop

It's the beginning of a new era for one business in Waterloo. After being a staple in the Cedar Valley for nearly seventy years, some thought that the beloved barbershop Zarifis would close its doors for good last year.

Luckily, one young entrepreneur was able to save this Waterloo staple and is making moves to revitalize it.

So, if you are looking to get a trim here in Eastern Iowa, you can go to the same barbershop that your grandfather might've been a customer at.

The business is described on its Facebook page as place where the team strives,

"...to blend traditional barbering techniques with modern styles, creating a welcoming atmosphere where every client leaves not just with a great haircut but a sense of confidence and camaraderie!"

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History of Zarifis

Jim Zarifis, the original owner of the barbershop, first opened up his shop in 1956. Back then, the business was located near the Rath Packing Co. meatpacking plant, according to reports.

In 1966, Zarifis moved to Ridgeway Plaza at Kimball and Ridgway avenues and has been there ever since. Zarifis passed away in August of last year, according to reports.

And then, at the end of 2023 the co-owners of the shop Werner Meyer and Eddie Halvorson, retired. Located at 2124 Kimball Avenue in Waterloo, a young entrepreneur is now breathing life back into the place.

Meet Andrew Brymer

Brymer graduated from Waterloo West High in 2020. Ever since, he's been keeping busy making a name for himself in the hair community of Waterloo.

He attended barber school at the Salon Professional Academy in Cedar Falls, and is the master barber and owner of Reflections Barbershop & Salon located at 1801 Laporte Road in Waterloo.

Now Brymer and a talented group of barbers are ushering in a new generation of haircuts. The city of Waterloo celebrated this new era with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, February 13th.

The hours for the barbershop are as follows:

Sunday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Monday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

To make an appointment at Zarifis, make sure to call the business at 319-233-8746.

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