Steve Jester is the owner and creative force behind Public Barber Salon based in San Francisco, California. As owner, he performs multiple roles, including hiring, training, and supervising staff, securing workers’ compensation, and tracking budgets. Since opening the first location in 2007.
In 2012, Steve opened a second Public in North Beach. Under his leadership, Public has received several recognitions, including Best Barber Shop Bay Area and Top Hair Salons in San Francisco. When Steve opened Public in 2007, he combined the easygoing feel of a traditional barbershop with the personalized service of a salon.

He treated the physical space as part of the experience. For the design of his shop, Steve restored vintage barber fixtures, built custom furniture, and filled it with objects, each with its own story. Public also supports local artists through gallery events and sources products from small grooming and hair care brands.

His path into barbering began at San Jose Barber College. After completing his barbering training in 2001, Steve undertook an apprenticeship with Vidal Sassoon. He later honed his skills at different barbershops, including Di Pietro Todd Salon and Rudolph’s on Melrose. These experiences helped shape his approach to hair and inspired an interest in design, art, and the character of the spaces where people gather.

Steve Jester