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Arbre Nail Spa
Category: Beauty and Spas Nail Salons Nail Salons [Edit]
1244 N Wells St(between Goethe St & Scott St)
Chicago, IL 60610
Neighborhoods: Old Town, Near North Side
(312) 274-9935
- Nearest Transit:
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Clark/division (Red Line)
Sedgwick (Brown Line, Purple Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9:30 am - 8 pm
Sat 9 am - 7 pm
Sun 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
We are an upscale nail, waxing, and threading salon open 'til 10PM on weekdays, and BYOB every day of the week. Our salons emphasize the natural… read more »
108 reviews for Arbre Nail Spa
108 reviews in English
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Review from Gigi J.
Chicago, IL
4/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
I had not been to Arbre in at least a year with my girlfriends, as they had purchased a gift certificate for my birthday, and had a good experience, mostly because they were BYOB. I was there again a month ago, I am not sure if management changed, but the look and feel of Arbre has much improved. They now have a small bar area and a courtyard you can purchase wine from in case that you don't bring your own or simply want a glass of wine while getting your nails done. I have been to the same nail technician, Oksana, the last couple of times and could not be happier with the results. A friend who accompanied me was also happy with her results.
I had never tried no-chip mostly because I had heard that they do tend to chip even after a week, but my no-chip lasted well over two weeks and my pedicure was in tact as well. I only waited more than two weeks because I was out of town and wanted to be sure I received the same level of service as I did at Arbre by returning.
Everyone there is friendly and helpful, I recommend at least checking it out. Appointments are recommended if you need service that will require more work such as no-chip, but as I sat there on my last visit, I noticed many walk-ins as well. -
Review from Petronella D.
Chicago, IL
3/29/2012
I went in early on a Sunday, so it wasn't crowded. I was there for a mani-pedi. The tech insisted on doing my manicure first. I asked if she would do the pedicure first so my toenails would dry enough for me to put my shoes on and leave, but she refused. I figure she had a plan so I sat down. The tech pulled a dirty paper towel from a pile of dirty paper towels and lad it on the table. What the? I asked for a clean paper towel and she said no! WHAT? I should have left immediately, but I wanted my nails done so I stayed for the sloppiest manicure I have ever received. I could have done better myself after a sixpack. She cut my nails to different lengths, filed them crooked, glopped on thick, uneven polish. Horrible.
The pedicure took about ten minutes, with hardly any services beyond a foot soak and a nail trim. I declined to have my toes painted because at this point I just wanted to get out of there.
On top of everything else, the place is just filthy. It looks like it was clean and nice when first opened, but since then, nobody seems to have bothered to dust the tables or keep the equipment clean.
It's a good thing they are BYOB, because you have to be wasted not to notice what an awful place Arbre is. -
Review from Anne G.
Chicago, IL
3/24/2012
I'm new to Arbre, but I love going there. Great atmosphere, great people. I love the little courtyard. Drinking a glass of wine while getting a pedicure is completely decadent.
If you go, ask for Olga. I've been her client for years and she is absolutely the best. She's very skilled and a lot of fun. A true professional. -
Review from Natalie M.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 3/13/2012 19 Check-ins Here
I have been a patron of Arbre since 2007, however I stopped coming consistently in 2010. Arbre just had not been living up to its former standards (i.e. lazy nail techs, disorganization etc) and with meter parking going up and up I found other places to take care of my mani/pedi needs.
I decided to give Arbre another shot this winter as my Mom wanted to go. I have to say Suni (the owner) has out done herself.
1. The remodel- MORE pedicure chairs, multiple tvs (so that you can see from every angle), a party room and a little courtyard for the summer. The salon is still BYOB but they have received their liquor license so the bar should be opening up shortly.
2. New nail techs-Galina is my favorite. She has me HOOKED on the new no chip. I had tried no chip several times and hated it. Instead of chipping it would PEEL off leaving me with a few fingers sans polish. The trick is finding a great nail tech (Galina) and the right brand for you. If you are someone who's nails chip at the drop of a hat or are thin (like me), the OPI Gel Color is THE no chip brand for you. I am going to try all of the colors (four down, eight to go!). Yes the $40 price tag is a bit much, but to have nice nails for TWO WEEKS makes it so worth it.
3. Fabulous Service-Once my nail did break, and my thumb chipped two days after my service. Galina re-did my thumb (no charge of course) and refused her tip. Every time I come I am offered water, coffee or tea (with sugar) and refills are no problem. The lovely woman at the front desk with a blonde pixie cut (I haven't gotten her name yet) was more than happy to put quarters in my meter.
Arbre you have WON me back with your fabulous service and the best No Chip in Chicago-land.
P.S. Tips are cash only!Listed in: Are your digits looking for a…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/9/2008
When they advertise to be the cleanest salon in the city, they are not lying. The space is clean,… Read more »
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Review from Lindsey D.
Chicago, IL
4/24/2012
I went to Arbre for the first time on Monday with a couple of girlfriends for mani-pedis, and we had a great experience!
First of all, it is important to note that it is no longer BYOB. That is a bummer, as it was one of the reasons we chose to go there, but with that said they do have a full bar now. They offer wine, sparkling wine, and cocktails, and I believe there is always a bartender there after 3pm. He serves you while you're getting your nails done, and was very friendly!
On Mondays (and I think Tuesdays as well) they have a mani-pedi special for $35. That's about what I'd pay with a Groupon voucher, so I was very happy about the price! My technician also did a good job and my nails look fantastic!
The only reason I docked a star is because my two friends were finished 30-45 minutes after I was. There were not enough technicians working (even though we had an appointment) to keep all of us on the same schedule. I also wished they had a bigger polish selection, because I would have liked to try out some of the newer OPI collections. -
Review from Kat K.
Chicago, IL
4/12/2012
I hadn't been to arbre in about a year...when I went for a girls spa/brunch day. I was so glad that I walked in today for my mani/pedi. They were able to take my walk-in request within 10 minutes of coming in, which was much better than the salon I had stopped in earlier who turned me away b/c I didnt have an appointment.
I had Galina for the mani and pedi. She was beyond excellent. I have a latex allergy, and she was very sympathetic and accommodated me without issue.
She took her time and did a meticulous job on my nails and cuticles. I also love the new bar setup complete with a great looking cocktail menu with top shelf liquor!
All I know, is that the reasonably priced glasses of wine, the sex and the city re-runs, the relaxing atmosphere, and great nail technicians will keep me coming back! -
Review from Mina M.
Chicago, IL
4/5/2012 4 Check-ins Here
Love this place . Owner is so nice and i go to Stan , he is great . I tried few other specialists and all of them did great job too. I love watching sex and city episodes which they play all the time there . Plus you can do spray tanning at Ecotan which is part of salon. Oh also Irena is giving great back massages . Great spot !
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Review from Kris R.
9/26/2011
DISORGANIZED CHAOS.
i've been here once before on a sunday afternoon and it was totally fine. i bought a youSwoop years ago and went with a friend. nice, friendly, but nothing out of the ordinary.
so a few months later another youSwoop deal came through, and of course i bought one. i made the appt for fri at 530p. BIG MISTAKE.
i came in and it was g-damn ZOO. one bridal party waiting since 5p, no technicians available. NO ONE at the front desk helping anyone. i believe the owner was performing a service in the back - and until she came out, no one was helped. the bridal party LEFT. another bridal party came in, and the owner (w/o asking) almost seated them before me! i'm just here by my lonesome and ALL I WANT IS MANI/PEDI! it's FRIDAY! i have PLANS! let's do this already!!!!
6p, i finally get seated - and next to a woman who was so pissed that one of the technicians (it may have been the owner) just STOPPED in the middle of her pedicure. and the client could not believe what just happened. it was a mess.
furthermore, the owner, who began doing manis, kept micromanaging her staff, not paying attn to her client. it was nerve-racking and unacceptable in my eyes.
i didn't get out of there til 730p. the mani/pedi itself was okay - not much scrubbing and a little slow. i had to pay my meter in the middle of my pedi since they were late. i paid $6 for parking. i was becoming so stressed out that it was taking so long. i just wanted to GO HOME.
i'd say NEVER depend on them for your bridal party outings. yes, they give you the option for BYOB, but so do a lot of other places. their DVD player can't even play an entire episode of Sex and the City. LAME.Listed in: gettin' nailed.
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Review from Erin B.
9/14/2011
A BYOB nail salon? Awesome.
I was the host for my best friend's bachelorette party, and I was so happy to have stumbled across this place. Through one of their coordinators, I was able to book a party for 4 for mani/pedi services- and I was very satisfied.
The salon was lovely- as was the table they had set up for the party. Wine glasses & plates were out for us (how easy!).
Our party started at 3pm- two of us showed up at 2:30 to set up, while the other two were running a little behind. The receptionist really helped us- she knew that there would be more parties in later, so she made sure we were running on time without making us feel rushed, which was incredibly appreciated.
She also was kind enough to bring over our bottle when were getting our toes done (We didn't think to grab it with us!). I feel like in general, we were a pretty needy crowd- but we were greeted with smiles throughout.
One complaint was one of the nail artists. K had this pedicurist, and was not a strong painter. While the rest of us had moved onto nails, K was still having her toes fixed. I don't think this nail artist was ready to be out on the floor yet! Needless to say, another manicurist stepped in to take care of K's hands!
We were still at the salon when another party came in, so the receptionist was back in action, helping us move any of our party items out onto the gated courtyard- and I'm so glad she did! The courtyard was fantastic, and was a great way to end the rest of our 'spa' treatment.
All in all, it was a fantastic experience. And considering we had a party and a wonderful mani/pedi, the price perfect. My nails look terrific and I still feel jazzed about the whole experience!
Hint- bring cash for a tip! I found out the hard way that you can't tip on credit cards. Thankfully a friend had extra money ;)Listed in: Lookin' Faboooo
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Review from tina m.
Chicago, IL
7/20/2011
If I were rating just the manicure and pedicure it would be 5 stars hands down.
My friend and I went on a random Tuesday night and it was pretty empty which was perfect for us. I was excited when she told me about the Sex and the City episodes that they play on their TV's, but super disappointed that you couldn't even hear them. I get that they want people to be able to chat, but you could at least put the volume on low so I could at least hear Carrie complain about Big's lack of emotional availability!
They got started on me right away, but my friend sat soaking her feet for a good 15 minutes before anyone even showed up which was a bit weird.
Then, I wasn't paying attention during my manicure because my friend and I were catching up, and he grabbed her color so my toes were coral but my fingers were orange. Simple mistake :)
So other than those two small things, they did a really great job on both the manicure and pedicure.
The decor was just okay, I'm a BIG fan of low lighting, and a more "zen" feeling with "spa type services", but it was okay. -
Review from Kena H.
Chicago, IL
9/13/2011
Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of this place.
Although it's perfect for a girls afternoon, I did not feel like I received a quality spa service. The nail polish was lumpy and too far from my cuticle. I also left with ragged cuticles and dead skin that required additional attention.
You can't beat getting a spa service, sipping wine (BYOB), while watching Sex and the City. That being said, if you are just looking to enjoy friends while being pampered, go for it! -
Review from Angie M.
4/25/2011
The Pros:
- BYOB nail salon. This makes Arbre a prime spot for girlie bonding. Nothing gets between ladies, their wine and pretty nails, right?
- Very clean. Obvs important because there's not much worse than a dirty nail salon. Arbre does a great job of keeping things tidy and stylish.
- Decently lasting mani. My nails went 4 days without chips. That's pretty good for me since I abuse the crap out of my manicures.
- Arbre plays a constant stream of Sex and the City reruns... including nudity! Remember that episode where Miranda was dating the guy who wanted her to, um, attend to his backside? Yep. That was playing.
The Cons:
- Mediocre/shoddy actual manicure/pedicure. My cuticles weren't even trimmed on my toes. My heels were hardly buffed. There was basically no foot massage.
- Abysmal parking on Wells in the heart of Old Town.
So here's the skinny: Go here to bond with your lady friends. Don't go here to expect the best mani/pedi of your life.Listed in: Stay Gorgeous, Chicago!
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Review from Amy H.
4/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I had purchased two You Swoops for Arbre nail salon thinking that it would make a fun lady date with one of my best gal pals and I think that it did. There were some things that Arbre did right and some things that they did wrong.
What did they do right?
Arbre is BYOB. They provide the stemware and buckets of ice for your bottles, even positioning the bucket in between you and your friend so that you can share. Also, the chairs have a nice little arm rest with a cup holder so that you don't have to worry about spilling vino on your pants. The staff was incredibly nice and the salon is cute. They have a great selection of nail polish and play vintage Sex and the City episodes (you know, back when it was actually funny and Carrie's outfits weren't too cray-cray), which are fun to see. I also liked that they waited for both of us to be done with our pedicures before they moved us to side-by-side manicure tables so that we could continue our gab fest.
What did they did wrong?
Unfortunately, when you're a nail salon nothing else matters if you aren't doing good nails. It's been a long, cold winter and my digits really needed some TLC. My nails look nice and the polish is cute, but they didn't do much in the way of soothing away the dry winter skin.
I have really ticklish feet and always squirm while trying not to kick my nail tech during the pumice scrub, but at Arbre I barely felt a thing and that's because there was barely any scrubbing going on. I had to apply lotion to my feet three times after the pedicure. I know my feets were dry, but nothing a proper pedicure couldn't cure and Arbre did not. I don't expect perfection, but I do expect my feets and fingers to feel a little bit softer afterward. It is the day after my mani/pedi and I'm still slathering lotion on my cuticles.
Would I go back?
Overall the experience was average and I would probably come back here with a group of girlfriends, because it is a fun little shop for some lady time. I wouldn't go back on my own for a pedicure because the service just wasn't all that. -
Review from Stacy Y.
3/16/2011
Terrible experience!!
Like many others, I purchased a YouSwoop for Arbre and was excited to try the salon. I've heard many good things over the years.
I experienced the WORST mani/pedi I've ever had in my life at this salon.
I happened to be texting with a friend during my pedicure, so I have a time stamps of how everything went down:
7:05pm: Seated in chair
7:06 - 7:11pm: Technician (Jessie - AVOID HER AT ALL COSTS) "groomed" my nails leaving them uneven, ripping apart my cuticles and she didn't even clean under my nails.
7:12pm: Tech used pumice on my feet and "cleaned" them a.k.a. splashed water on my legs.
7:13 - 7:15: Tech applied lotion and did "leg massage".
7:17: Tech began applying polish and got it ALL OVER my feet.
7:24: Horrible pedicure finished.
The worst part of all:
During my manicure the Technician was missing tools. So she went over the pedicure station and used the same nail tool on my hands THAT SHE USED ON MY FEET. SHE DID NOT CLEAN IT.
At that point I was done. That is disgusting. I couldn't wait to rush out of there and apply mass amounts of hand sanitizer to my hands and feet.
I did write to management and they did offer me the opportunity to come in to "give them another try", but after this horrendous experience...I am frightened for the safety and cleanliness of my nails. I declined to return because the service was so terrible and their locations are not convenient for me.
Long story short: GO ANYWHERE BUT ARBRE. -
Review from Beth J.
Chicago, IL
6/12/2011
Four years ago this place was five stars in my book. I am so disappointed in the collapse of this place.
I had a 6pm appointment and by six forty was still waiting. I don't mind a wait, but don't stick me in the chair to soak my feet for forty minutes!
To top it off she took off my polish and then left to serve another customer.
By 6:40 I had enough and ended up walking out without a cute pedicure.
I will not be going back! Save your time and money and go somewhere else. -
Review from Gillian R.
Chicago, IL
7/13/2011
I really wanted to like this place! Any manicure salon that's BYOB should shoot right to the top of my favorite places.
But alas, it's Wednesday and my manicure from Sunday is chipped worse than if I did it myself without a top coat. *sad face*
I was on time but my two friends weren't. They called to say they'd be late, and the front desk made me wait for them even though I was on time. This wouldn't have been a big deal if there was somewhere to sit and wait but there was some kind of party of girls (bridal party perhaps?) taking up ALL the seating in the waiting room. I had to stand around in whatever space I could find like an awkward penguin.
My friend was split up from the group because the chair next to me was broken. Except she ended up in a chair that was also broken. I felt bad because they have REALLY nice massage chairs there which she was unable to experience.
Finally, checking out with a YouSwoop was mega-weird. I had to ask the woman at the counter "Is that it?". It was not a normal business transaction by any means.
Back to the Nail House I go! -
Review from Fallon S.
Chicago, IL
3/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
If this place was not BYOB and if it did not play Sex and the City on the flat screen, it would have gotten one star. The pedicure I received was the worst one I've ever gotten...I could have done it myself. Not enough attention was paid to the heels of my feet and when I left, the heels of my feet looked no better than I did when I walked in. The paint job was decent, though. My manicure was better than my pedicure. It was an average, get the job done, manicure.
I unfortunately purchased two youswoops for Arbre Nails. Hopefully the other location has better service. -
Review from Lauren G.
Chicago, IL
5/3/2011
I was a little skeptical after reading some bad reviews about terrible waits (even with appts) and sassy, rude service.
I was pleasantly surprised. The pedis were decent- but the customer service was great. They refilled our drinks, took pictures, brought us ice and glasses, let us stay and linger, were just super sweet and fantastic.
And I saw they allowed dogs- wonderful. -
Review from Kathryn M.
Chicago, IL
11/24/2010
From bachelorette parties to mom/daughter pampering, Arbre has always served me well. So when the YouSwoop deal popped up, you know I jumped on board (along with my closest gal pals, of course).
Appointments were made for mani/pedis with a girly dinner to follow. Although we arrived in time for the first half of the evening, by the time our nails were sparkling and ready to go, we ended up about 45 minutes late to dinner. Oh well, I know that's the way it goes sometimes. That was my only gripe - we all sort of trickled into the pedicure chairs one at a time as they opened up, and the whole process took longer than expected.
On the flip side, this place is BYOB, and lucky for us we had a couple bottles of champagne to keep the night moving. Plus the quality of service here is always top notch; the leg/foot massage nearly put me to sleep. Heaven.
Not to mention the awesome front desk gal, Taylor, was so gracious and helpful the whole time we were there!! When I was worried about my parking meter expiring, and I tried to hobble out in my fancy pedicure flip flops mid-manicure, she insisted that she would take care of it for me. She helped me dig in my purse for my keys and credit card and then she ran out, printed a new parking slip and put it on the dashboard. Talk about customer serivce - I was so grateful!! That's what will keep me coming back.
I was bummed they didn't have Opi "Ski Teal We Drop" (my new fave) but my Essie "Pretty Edgy" nails are screaming today with holiday spirit. Even though my friends informed me it looked like color from the Shrek line. I dig it. -
Review from Christina P.
Chicago, IL
1/5/2011
If there's one thing that I cannot live without, it's a polished, perfected mani/pedi. Arbre helps fuel my fire by providing this lady the best of both worlds.
The location is killer, the staff is friendly and efficient. Absolutely call ahead for reservations and expect a popular salon and a potential wait. My only gripe with this place is the lack of selection for colors... if you are looking to try different OPI/Essie offerings, you will be disappointed.
However, they makeup for that by consistently playing great music, showing Sex & the City nonstop and being the wonderful term BYOB.
Go pamper yourself and get to Arbre!Listed in: Glamazon
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Review from Sar S.
Chicago, IL
6/28/2011
This place does a GREAT job and that is why I go every 6 weeks. BUT, the staff here is not very friendly and definitely LESS friendly when you try to pay with a youswoop--no idea why they did 2 rounds of youswoop if they don't want people to use them.
Also, know that you can't redeem the youswoop on a saturday (they won't tell you that when you book your appointment)
Other than the chilliness, they do a great job, have current magazines, and their tubs and equipment are clean. -
Review from Ellen P.
Chicago, IL
9/23/2011
Going down hill :(
I've been going to Arbre for about 2 years now and I'm a little disappointed by my last experience there. I made an appointment 3 weeks in advance. I was greeted and then sent to a chair and had to wait for 30 minutes before someone came to give me a pedicure. It is byob and I like that they have glass wine glasses, however, I was given a red plastic solo cup. The pedicure was good but my mani wasn't. The nail technician cut me and I was bleeding - yuck and I can safely say it was the worst manicure I've ever gotten. Very sad. Time to find a new nail salon I guess. -
Review from Sarah E.
9/3/2010
I would have loved to have experienced Arbre. I have heard wonderful things about the salon, the experience, the S&tC.
However, my "experience" with the staff and the fact that my money is not welcome at Arbre has really ruined any shot I had at their pampering bliss.
My friend loves this salon so as a birthday present I decided to call up and have a gift card mailed to her. One... two... three... yup four phone calls later and a lady with capabilities of writing down a credit card number and a mailing address is finally available! Success! Sort of...
I give her all my information in my clearest English, she repeats every syllable and I'm lead to believe my friend is going to have fab digits in five to seven days.
Two weeks later, no gift card arrives, no charge on my checking account... I was so close! I call again and, shocking, the woman who is capable of writing is out. I call again, she's there, and has no recollection of our conversation. Did I dream all this? Is Arbre just a faded nightmare of actually forgetting to get my friend a birthday present in the first place? No it isn't, Arbre just doesn't want any of my moo-lah. Well guess what, Arbre, ya aren't getting any of it either!
I took my friend to The Nail House instead and we had a fabulous time and our nails were advertisement-worthy. -
Review from Kit G.
Updated - 11/19/2010
Clear your schedule, a mani/pedi will take 2 1/2 hours!
I bought the mani/pedi deal from YouSwoop. I went with 3 girlfriends and we made appointments weeks in advance. When we arrived we were informed we would have to wait 30 minutes. After waiting 30 minutes I was lead to a chair for the pedicure. I waited another 30 minutes with my feet in the water. No one even came over to ask about the water temperature or to turn the bubbles on.
Finally someone came over and did the pedicure. I was lead to another chair for the manicure. And again, just left while my manicurist gave someone else a manicure. Meanwhile two of my friends were done with their manicures and pedicures and just sat around waiting for us.
Finally after 45 minutes she came back. Only to be sent away immediately and replaced with the owner (I think). The manicure was terrible. The owner answered the phone several times while working on my manicure. She did an awful job even filing my nails (they were completely uneven) and the nail polish looks like a blind 3 year old applied it. It was frustrating because she stopped several times to work at the register and to deal with random issues (like a conversation with the man washing the windows).
The entire time I felt like no one was paying any attention to me. It was not a relaxing experience. It was frustrating because even though I had a 2:00 appointment I started to worry about making plans at 5:00 because it took so long.
My friends were equally unimpressed. One friend described her pedicure as having her entire toe painted and then the excess polish removed.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/15/2010
Clear your schedule, a mani/pedi will take 2 1/2 hours!
I bought the mani/pedi deal from YouSwoop. I… Read more »
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Review from Michelle T.
Boston, MA
1/16/2011
This place is pricey and service is just OK. If I hadn't had a 1/2 off coupon, I wouldn't be here doin' the mani-pedi. I should also mention I got a big FROWN when I pulled out the coupon from the lady at the register.
Even with a reservation, my friend and I came in to a half-empty store and YET we had to wait to 1) get seated, 2) get someone to do the foot spa, 3) wait for someone to do our hands...between each "task", there was a good 30 minutes. Why have so many seats if you're understaffed???
The job itself is fine - like any other mani pedi salon I've ever been to. The service ain't worth it and that price..gives me the shivers. -
Review from Cassie D.
7/15/2010
I'm such a lucky girl - Anne S. treated me to a mani/pedi here on my birthday!
Not surprisingly it was pretty quiet at 2 PM on a Wednesday afternoon. But that was just fine - made us not feel like we were disturbing anyone with our constant chatter :) The atmosphere was great - definitely a step above the cheap places I tend to frequent for quick/cheap nail jobs! Loved the massage chairs!
The color selection was really good. Full Essie and OPI lines including new and standard colors (it makes me crazy when places either only have new colors or only have the standard colors). The technicians were great.
As for the mani/pedi itself - super. The pedi lasted a good 3 weeks and probably would have lasted longer if I'd wanted it to. If I found myself in the neighborhood, I would definitely come back!Listed in: Give Me Ten (or Twenty)
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Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
4/27/2009 1 Check-in Here
7 girls + brutally dry winter + bachelorette party = Let's pamper the nails!
I booked 7 appointments (a party) for a Saturday at 430. A BYOB mani/pedi palace complete with girly movies and lotsa comfy chairs? YAY!
I was a little concerned as I entered to see there was another party we were overlapping, and an estrogen-fest in full swing.
BYOB, bonus. Bring some champagne, wine, etc. Or beer, hey...whatever fits your style, right? They provide glasses and an ice bucket....
Arbre is super, duper clean. With looping episodes of Sex and the City playing (how did they know I LOVE the one where Aidan has short hair and is really hot!?), and the buzz of women...ya know, it's sure to be a hit. Their color selection is above average, and the nail techs are very friendly.
A few glitches: a bit overbooked, one of the pedicures took longer than several of the combos...a bit short staffed. We were charged $45 for each mani/pedi...not sure if they raised their prices, but I recall it used to be $35 midweek and $40 on the weekends. Seems like a steep jump, harumph. Also, one of my nails chipped THAT night. So, so sadness.
Overall, great for a party or just to pop in to get your nails did, but I'd definitely make sure you've got some extra time padded around the end of your time slots just in case...if you're a germ-freak, this will fit the bill, most def.
Also, bring snacks! I get really drunk on champagne it seems. Ooops.Listed in: Manicures & Pedicures!, Chicago Bachelorette Parties!
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Review from Jess E.
San Diego, CA
1/30/2011
BYOB - appreciate 'cha.
Nicer atmosphere than many nail salons, but they do seem to over book their appointments. If you're on a tight schedule I'd go elsewhere. If you have time to burn and a friend to chat away the time with, then it will probably be a good experience. There are definitely cheaper places to go in the city that give a great mani/pedi, but I continually get suckered in by YouSwoop and Groupon deals to Arbre.
Possibly the most wishy washy review ever. You're welcome. -
Review from Nancy H.
3/12/2009 ROTD 4/26/2009
A pretty spectacular place - really clean, really elegant, really modern (the spa pedicure chairs transform - the separate foot rests, the arm rests, etc!), and really friendly (especially the stylish owner who is all smiles). SATC with closed-captioning plays on the large LCD, it's BYOB (they provide wine glasses, bottle opener, and ice bucket), and the girls are nice and aren't chatty unless you're a regular. Really a casually chic place to host a bachelorette party!
The attention to detail is great - I can be a hand model now! Like those 1980s posters of a dark-haired Mediterranean woman eating a gyro at Greek fast food places, I can be the Chinese girl eating a deep-fried eggroll with my sparkly nails in clear view! One thing I didn't like was once they shuttle you off to the drying table (which, BTW, is a UV light + fan, which is great!), they just forget about you. I'm used to having nail technicians be really good at body language and rush to you when it looks like you're about to get up and leave. The Arbre ladies should check your nails to make sure they're dry and help you with your shoes and coat so that you don't ruin a great paint job!
Their M & Tu special is a $35 mani/pedi, and you're done with both in an hour. And you can tip on your credit card! -
Review from Aurore L.
5/21/2009
The numbers:
19 : day in May I went to Arbre
4:30 : time of the appointment
2.75 : price of my parking for a spot just IN FRONT OF the door. Neat.
20 : digits done
35 : dollars spent for the aforementioned service
4 : season number of the "Sex and the City" episodes that were on at the time of my visit
70 : minutes of indulgence
3 : languages spoken during that time. English, French (we have French lessons with Erin every Tuesday - oui, messieurs-dames) and Polish.
The experience:
This place is incredibly clean and stylish. Their pedicures stations are definitely high-end and a wonder of comfort. The walls are all pampered too - nice artwork and a great zen-like fountain at the entrance. More high-end that most of the places out there, no doubt.
But I wasn't blown away by the results. My pedicure was quite sloppy (I left with my big toe smeared up) and even my manicure was far from perfect. Not really bad but not outstanding either.
The verdict:
A solid 3 stars, verging on the 4. -
Review from Andrea R.
7/20/2009
Let's see...
1 star for BYOB
1 star for the Sex and the City episodes they show on their TVs
1 star for the prices ($30 for a pedi, $15 for a pedi)
And 1 star for the talented nail technicians
Me likey! I'm a no-chip mani gal this days (you can get that at Sanctuary Nail Spa down the street), but I've come here on a few occasions for some very enjoyable pedicures.
This past weekend my friends and I took over Arbre for some pampering during a friend's bachelorette party. We bought some delish cupcakes from the Twisted Baker down the street and I even brought along some champagne/OJ for some mimosas. Nothing is more relaxing than enjoying a pedi with a mimosa in hand.
They do some serious bachelorette party business here because there groups right before and after us. Not surprised all the brides and their maids are flocking her though cause Arbre really is such a fun atmosphere for a group of girls.
Oh, and if their Old Town location isn't convenient for you...word on the street is that they'll be opening a 2nd location in just 2 weeks in Streeterville.Listed in: Grooming and Pampering in…, Bachelorette Parties
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Review from Amanda Z.
5/5/2009
What a great start to a girls' night out: a soothing spa-like environment, awesomely comfortable massage chairs, an excellent collection of polish colors, and Sex and the City on the flat screen. Oh, and did I mention the sweet BYOB? AND they provide glasses and ice buckets. Niiiice!
$45 is a bit more than I like to spend on getting my nails done. Face it, I'm cheap. Wait, scratch that, I'm frugal: Why pay $45 when you can get a very good mani-pedi for $30? Catch my drift?
Well, clearly, this ain't your mom and pop nail shop. No gaudy posters of 80s nails with pictures of palm trees on them or of loooong french manicured toes (those ones give me nightmares for days.) Nope, just calming water fountains, Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda. (My girls go by slightly different names, you know who you are ladies, and you're fabulous.)
Service was a bit off when we visited, it seemed as if they didn't quite plan well enough for an afternoon of parties, but no fear, we all got our nails done on time.
So, I'll be back for special occasions, when I'm feeling like some champagne, Sex and the City, and After Sex...the polish (by Essie) you pervs.Listed in: Nails.
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Review from Kim C.
Chicago, IL
7/7/2009
WTF??? Had a 6pm appointment for 2 mani-pedis and we were barely acknowledged the whole time we were waiting. Left at 6:20pm when we realized what a huge waste of our lives this was and decided that they did not deserve our business.
If they weren't going to honor our appointment, then don't let me make one! It's simply unacceptable to take a reservation and then service walk-in customers knowing full well that they would not have enough people to work on us at our scheduled time. Worst part was they didn't seem to care at all and left us standing there without any indication of how long the wait was going to be. They didn't even ask us to pick colors! Grrr... negative 10 stars!!! -
Review from Jenny T.
Chicago, IL
6/17/2008
What a charming little place! I went here with my mom based on yelp reviews & could not be happier! My fingers and toes look lovely and it was only $35.00 plus tip. They took their time and really didn't rush anything even though they should have been closing. It's definitely a girls place and can see it being a lot of fun taking a bunch of girlfriends there. Maybe some boys wouldn't mind coming along since it's BYOB! Yeah, that's right. Drinking wine and getting my nails done-what a perfect ending to a long work day! Mon and Tues are 35 for mani & pedi, while Wed and Thu are $40. I will most definitely be back to Arbre! Bet you wanna tag along, don't you?
Only downside is the Sex And The City DVD was just on repeat, so I saw the same episodes twice. Thank goodness I love SATC and didn't mind much!Listed in: Good Eats & Good Fun in the…
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Review from Ginger D.
Chicago, IL
3/13/2009
When I am in need of a mani/pedi I go to Arbre. It is located in Old Town, so it's in a great neighborhood, and you can check out all the people walking their dogs too and from the Salon. The employees are all very nice and talkative. The owner is pleasant as well, always very well dressed, and remembered my name after the second visit.
What I love about Arbre is that it's bright and fresh. As soon as you walk in you can tell that this isn't some run of the mill salon. Out of all the Nail Salons I have been to over the years, Arbre is up there when it comes to cleanliness. Everything is clean! Everything. From the floors to the ceilings to the TV that always plays "Sex and the City" (YAY!!!) to the wine glasses they give you if you BYOB. And yes, this salon is BYOB! And if you don't BYOB, they offer your beverages while you get pampered. Complete heaven!
Arbre is the best place to unwind after a long week with a girlfriend and share a bottle of wine. It is also a great place, in my opinion, to bring a bridal party. You can bring drinks and food and everyone will have a great time. They have a wide selection of nail polish and on Mondays and Tuesdays they offer a $35 mani/pedi special. All in all, I believe Arbre is well worth it for the price because of the cleanliness, experience and ambiance. You won't be disappointed, -
Review from April F.
Chicago, IL
6/17/2008
A really great, clean, quiet, and fun place to get your regular mani/pedi.
They've got Sex and the City on constant rotation, the chairs are great, products pretty good, and the people are totally sweet. Love, also, getting a quick, cheap chair massage here for a little extra TLC.
Tip: Rock the neon color 'Hot Spot.' Instant Haute.Listed in: Shop Accoutrement
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Review from Blair B.
8/14/2007
I really love this place! The $35 Monday-Wednesday Mani/Pedi is great, and the place seems very clean. As many have said Sex and the City is always on, and it's BYOB! Also, they have a frequent use card, go 10 times and the 10th time is free.
I'm only taking off a star because I don't necessarily think this is the most thorough pedicure I've had. My feet looked/felt much softer after my $50 Mojo mani/pedi. That being said, for a faster/cheaper fix this place will be my #1. -
Review from Brittany M.
Lake Arrowhead, CA
5/8/2007
Awesome nail salon. Whoever designed this place knows women very well. It's extremely clean with a posh feel. I would recommend an appointment though as they're usually staffed according to their appointments for the day.
Sex and the City + a pink/white fill = happiness.
Arbre I give you five stars. I love you.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Suzanne E.
Chicago, IL
6/5/2008
A lovely, peaceful place, the Monday-Wednesday package is a good deal, but when will someone realize that watching Sex and the City is a purgatorial experience for some of us? The idea that one has to suffer to be beautiful is supposed to be outmoded.
There's a niche here waiting to be filled: what this town needs is a nail salon that plays reruns of Absolutely Fabulous while plying its customers with vodka and champagne cocktails. -
Review from teresa k.
6/3/2010
Had made an appointment for 6 mani/pedis for a bachelorette party. The person i talked to was very helpful and responsive, even when i had to change the number down to 4 people.
The day of the appointment we were running late. I called to confirm that they would still be able to take us since we were running 20mins late, they said that would be fine just to show up asap.
Then 10mins later I get a call from the salon saying that they couldn't accomodate us because they had a party of 9 scheduled for 6pm and our appt was for 5:30p. I was pretty mad since we were supposed to have 4-6 technicians for the time we were there and now they over booked and wouldn't have enough techs. They would not accomodate us or even stay later. I was furious, this was my sister's bachelorette party and i wanted things to go smoothly.
Fortunately the concierge at our hotel was very helpful (hyatt grand regency on wacker) and found a salon 2blocks away that were going to 'stay open for us'. We went to Fashion Nails and the ladies there were very nice. It was not the luxurious evening i had planned but I was very thankful to find a salon who would accomodate us.
I would NOT reccomend Arbre as they did not want to help us out at all.
I understand that we were late, but wouldn't you think they'd like to take our money and maintain good customer service?
