Toni and Guy is a little pricey, yes, (hence the 4 stars) but for me it all comes down to the hairdresser. I've been going to Jo for a few years now and she is absolutely fantastic. She really listens to what you want and is freakishly good at remembering what you've done in the past - so you're never starting back at square one. She's also super friendly and can carry on a great conversation, no matter what mood you're in.
The Toni and Guy experience is perfectly pleasant. They offer you tea while you wait and I've never waited longer than 10 minutes (usually shorter) to be seen when I had an appointment.
But the real treat is the shampoo scalp massage. Why don't all salons do this? It turns a routine errand into something I actively look forward to. Pure bliss.
My hair always looks fantastic when I walk out of Toni and Guy and it stays that way for weeks - the real test of a good cut. I can't vouch for the other stylists, but ask for Jo and, I assure you, you won't be disappointed.
Cost: $60+tip.