You’ve seen the big hair, the bold personalities, and the unmistakable New Jersey flair. If you spent any time watching reality TV in the 2010s, the name Anthony Lombardi—the force behind Anthony Robert Salon—probably rings a bell. But here’s the thing: while the cameras stopped rolling on Jerseylicious years ago, the actual business of Anthony Roberts in Verona, NJ, never slowed down. Honestly, it’s one of those rare cases where a local business survived the "reality TV curse" and actually got better.
Most people associate Anthony Roberts with the Gatsby Salon or the drama of central Jersey. But his true home is Verona. It’s where the roots are.
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What People Get Wrong About Anthony Roberts
There is a massive misconception that the salon was just a filming set. It wasn't. Anthony Lombardi (whose middle name is Robert, hence the salon name) actually started his journey long before the Style Network arrived. He famously jokes about getting into the hair business at age 20 just to meet girls. He was a straight guy from a tough neighborhood doing buzz cuts in his parents' garage.
He was terrified of the "stigma" of being a male stylist. Then he realized he loved the craft.
The salon at 279 Bloomfield Ave isn’t just a place for a trim; it’s a high-end institution. When the new location opened around 2012, it wasn't just a move up the street. It was a statement. We are talking about a 2,500-square-foot loft-style space with a black, white, and yellow color scheme that feels more like a Manhattan boutique than a suburban shop.
The Business of Being "Jerseylicious"
Running a salon in Verona is a different beast than filming a TV show. Anthony has often spoken about how the phone rang off the hook once the show aired. People flew in from South Africa. They came from Australia. They wanted the "Jersey look."
But the locals? They are the ones who keep the lights on.
Lombardi is a master of color and a voice of reason in an industry that can be, well, a little chaotic. He actually used his wedding money to start the business. Think about that. He and his wife took a massive gamble—no vacations, maxed-out credit cards—just to open the first shop. That is the kind of "all-in" mentality you don't always see on TV.
- The Vibe: It’s modern, airy, and professional.
- The Services: They do everything from GK Global Keratin treatments to master barbering.
- The Longevity: They’ve been a staple for nearly two decades.
Why Verona?
Verona is a tight-knit community. If you don't do good work, people know. Anthony Roberts Verona NJ has managed to balance the "celebrity" aspect with actual, high-level technical skill. They aren't just selling a brand; they are selling a result.
In a 2026 landscape where every influencer is trying to open a "brand," Anthony Roberts stands out because it’s a service-first business. You can’t fake a good haircut. You can't "filter" a bad color job in real life.
Navigating the Salon Today
If you are looking to book an appointment, you have to realize this isn't a walk-in-and-out barbershop for most people. It's an experience. They’ve added specialists for weaves, makeup bars, and even a coffee bar that rivals local cafes.
One thing that surprises people is the staff's loyalty. In the salon world, stylists jump ship every six months. At Anthony Robert Salon, you see names like Denise, Maria, and Filippo appearing in reviews for years. That says something about the management.
Actionable Advice for Your Visit
- Book in advance. Even years after the TV peak, the schedule stays packed, especially for Anthony himself.
- Be specific about "Jersey." If you want the volume and the glam, they can do it. But they also specialize in "LA Blondes" and sleek NYC bobs. Don't feel pigeonholed by the TV show's aesthetic.
- Check the local events. The salon often hosts "Blowout Lounges" or community fundraisers. It's a great way to see the space without committing to a full color transformation.
The reality is that Anthony Roberts Verona NJ survived because it was built on a foundation of actual sweat equity and family support. Whether you're a fan of the old show or just someone in Essex County looking for a stylist who knows their way around a pair of shears, the salon remains a landmark for a reason.
To get the most out of your experience, call the salon directly at (973) 857-1922 to discuss your specific hair goals with a consultant before booking a major color change. This ensures you're paired with the stylist whose expertise matches your hair texture and desired maintenance level.