The distinction comes from Boston Magazine, which in its 38th annual “Best of Boston” edition awarded Mellie the title of “Best Hair Salon (South)” for 2011.

As part of its annual “Best of” series, the magazine recognizes top restaurants, shops and services in the Boston area.

Melanie “Mellie” Martinous, who opened her salon at 376 Granite Ave. back in 2006, said she didn’t expect to receive the honor.

“It came as a complete surprise. But it’s great,” she said. “We’ve been working hard for five years. It’s great to be recognized for that.”

Martinous, who got her start in the business in the early 1990s under the tutelage of master stylist David Schumann at Linear Aveda in Boston’s South End, said her salon offers exemplary service and cutting-edge techniques to a growing list of clientele.

“We do exceptional color work. We’re really craftspeople here,” she said of her staff.

Prior to opening her salon in Milton, Martinous worked for more than a decade as a senior stylist at another former “Best of Boston” winner: Grettacole Spa in Wellesley.