San Francisco - April 19, 2005

Friendly Fire

Firehorse Salon

The creative world loves a firebrand. A firecracker. A firehorse.

A firehorse? Okay, maybe it isn’t the most common of terms. So for the record, it’s a sign in the Chinese zodiac associated with strong, imaginative individuals. The new salon on Haight Street was named in tribute to such people.

You’ll see why once you step inside, decked out as it is with simple, modern decor (with plenty of clean space to let those creative juices flow). Think cement floors, white walls, and green and yellow touches. Plop down in a chair and get your hair coifed by one of the three stylists for just 60 bucks. (Yes, that includes a blow-dry.) Highlights start at $110.

To keep things interesting, Kimberly Jones (of Eyebrows to Die For) makes an appearance every third Thursday. And Julia Napier is on hand for updos. Owner Tracey Fischer sees the space as an installation art house, so look for various exhibitions in coming months.

One thing’s for sure: Get to chatting with owner-cum-stylist-cum-photographer Fischer, and you’ll be amazed at how well you two get on.

Like a horse on fire, you might say.

Firehorse, 659 Haight Street, between Steiner and Pierce Streets (415-336-0779).