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Joseph Michael's Salon and Spa
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Massage Beauty and Spas Day Spas Hair Salons, Massage, Day Spas [Edit]
1313 N Ritchie Ct(between Banks St & Goethe St)
Chicago, IL 60610
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, Gold Coast
(312) 482-9800
- Nearest Transit:
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Clark/division (Red Line)
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 10 am - 8 pm
Sat 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
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$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Validated
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Allison M. said: "This is a great salon, with friendly and helpful staff and an adorable puppy running around. Amy is my colorist and she does a fabulous job translating my random ideas or examples into a vision. I absolutely recommend!" read more »
59 reviews for Joseph Michael's Salon and Spa
59 reviews in English
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Review from Julie B.
12/1/2011
I went to Audrey for partial highlights, a cut, and blowdry. My hair turned out exactly as I wanted it! She talked to me for a while about what I was looking for - which was for natural looking highlights that are bright but blend well, and for my layers to be better blended but to not take off any length. I've encountered one too many scissor happy stylists, and the last one (at another salon) had left me looking choppy. Audrey cut a great style but kept my length. She even added a complimentary color gloss so my hair is nice and shiny. I would definitely recommend her!
The salon is touted for having "the most comfortable atmosphere in Chicago". I would have to agree. It's a nice, upscale salon, with great service and products, but without the snooty attitude. They have a ton of beverage options, including wine, and comfy chairs where you can sit by a fireplace while you wait. Oh I also have to add that they squeezed me in the day that I called! I was thrilled because I really needed a touch up. My stylist was in line with the general feeling of the salon - very nice and accommodating. I shall be back :) -
Review from jen a.
Chicago, IL
8/27/2011
Visit #1: I had longish hair and got a basic cut. I was happy (which is the reason I'm giving 2 stars instead of 1). I decided to go back. MISTAKE.
Visit #2: Worse salon experience of my life (that's really saying something! I've had some pretty awful cuts in my life..like the Carol Brady Mullet Incident of '06).
Cut:
I wanted to lose my length. I brought in a picture of a very cute razored, shoulder length bob. I specified that is what I wanted, only a bit longer. Lauren looked at the picture for approximately .4 seconds. I was impressed that she "got it" that quickly. Turns out she only saw "bob" and decided to give me a pageboy. I should have realized everything was going horribly wrong at the first cut. She was making the layer of hair that touches my neck the shortest when even I could tell that in the picture that was the longest layer (not a traditional bob which is why I chose it out of hundreds of pictures in the hair mag). I ended up with a too-short pageboy.
Awful, awful. I went back the next day to see if she could make it look even a tiny bit like the picture. She took some weight out of the bottom which actually made it worse. Too short to fix.
Color:
I wanted to go decidedly RED. I was very clear that I didn't want that fake looking ruby/purple hued red but more of an orangey red (she taught me the term is "coppper"). I have medium brown hair with coppery highlights naturally. What I ended up with was BLACK CHERRY much darker than my natural color.
So awful.
When I went back the next day I said I'd be okay stripping it if need be but instead we went with a clarifying shampoo and recolor. I walked (ran, really) out of there with black cherry hair that in direct sunlight would have a coppery sheen in some places but mostly still the black cherry horrible purple/ruby. But overall my hair was still much darker than my natural color. How is this red?
You would think anyone doing hair knows that you can always go darker but you can't go lighter. Why not err on the side of caution?
Horribly botched cut, worse color.
I debated for a long time about reviewing because I really like Lauren as a person. She was very sweet about my returning to try to fix everything the next day, too. The thing is, I ended up on something of a hair Odyssey trying to fix what she messed up and it's proving so very challenging, even a month later. Literally nothing she did worked. At all.
Moving on to The Fixing of the Hair which brought me to Strange Beauty Show and Black Hearts Hair House. Those are next.
UPDATE: I received a letter from the manager along with a check for the full amount I paid for my services. VERY classy move. -
Review from Cheryl W.
Chicago, IL
8/17/2011
I can't believe I haven't raved about Megumi on here! Megumi does haircuts/styling/coloring and does the best job of anyone who's tried to defrizz me yet. I think the first time I walked in (several years ago), I was like, "do something with this" and let her at it - I'm still a fan to this day! And she didn't even yell at me for getting a $5 "bang trim" at a chop shop close to home - and fixed the damage! She's pretty much the only person I would trust to razor cut my hair...
My five stars is for the hair. I've only had one other service here - a facial (deeply discounted for a charity event or groupon or something like that, I believe). It wasn't stellar, but my face didn't fall off either.
It's typical Near North pricing, and hurts my wallet, and takes me forever to get there....but I'll continue to go because my hair just rocks! -
Review from Nicole L.
Chicago, IL
2/8/2012
I just have to write a review for Alycia at Joseph Michael's, she's so amazing!! So I moved to Chicago about 3-4 months ago, and of course my biggest fear was finding a new hairstylist (so many other things I should have been worried about, I know, but being a blonde who has been turned orange in the past I am VERY picky about my hair and get extremely nervous about seeing someone new). Searching for a salon was a nightmare: just thinking about paying those prices for a haircut/highlight that I might not even like made me willing to drive 3.5 hours just to see my old stylist. I heard about being a hair model for salon apprentices, and decided to give it a try: being so inexpensive, I figured I could afford to try different salons to find one I liked. And I am SO glad I did, because it led me to Alycia at Joseph Michael's. I was of course beyond nervous, but Alycia was super nice and friendly, which helped put me at ease. But what really sold me was my hair when she was finished! The color was absolutely gorgeous and exactly what I had asked for... she barely even had to look at the picture I brought in, and didn't try to convince me that I should do something else or worse, tell me what she was going to do. And after her perfect blowout, I left wishing I had someplace to go, my hair looked so good! My only regret is going to an apprentice at a different salon for my cut: she did exactly what everyone complains about stylists doing: telling me how she was going to cut my hair, despite me telling her how I wanted it. The cut was fine, but I was definitely glad when it was time to go to Alycia again so she could fix it. And she didn't let me down. She is so talented, and such a cute and bubbly person on top of it. I've already referred 2 of my friends to her and they love her just as much as I do. She's no longer an apprentice, so her prices have gone up but I am willing to pay the price! Now that I've experienced what Alycia can do with my hair I won't go to anyone else.
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Review from Sarah G.
Chicago, IL
1/28/2012
I'm here to leave a rave review about Edwin. He is by far the best stylist I have ever had. The price is definitely up there, but I have never been disappointed walking out of the salon. I've been going to Edwin for almost 3 years now, and every single time he knows what looks good on me far better than I do. Joseph Michael's would do well to keep him because is amazing.
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Review from Christine G.
Chicago, IL
12/28/2011
I have been going to JD at Joseph Michael's for 2 years now. I love JD. He is the best hairdresser!!! I have very long hair. JD cut and layer my hair nicely and he colors them with highlights and lowlights perfectly. JD is also a wonderful person. He has written a fiction"Mafia hairdresser." I definitely recommend him.
As far as the Spa part.... its ok. Nothing stunning. I had my eyebrow done. It was alright. -
Review from Elle E.
Chicago, IL
11/29/2011
Danny is a dream come true! I had received an amazing Lomi Lomi Hawaiian massage in Hawaii and I was super excited to learn that Danny at Joseph Michael's offered Lomi Lomi massages here in Chicago! I prefer the Lomi Lomi technique to the traditional swedish massage and find it to be more relaxing.
Although I was a bit skeptical that it wouldn't be as good as Hawaii, Danny did not disappoint! It was absolutely amazing! I had purchased the groupon for mine, so it was only $75, but full price is a bit expensive, but trust me, its worth every penny! -
Review from Emily C.
Sammamish, WA
5/3/2011
I am a broke college student, so I really love taking advantage of things like SalonApprentice.Com in order to keep my hair looking decent. So I've done a lot of hair modeling at all sorts of different high end salons in the Chicago area. You can learn a lot about a salon from the way they treat their students and hair models... I know which salons are awesome, and which are only so-so. To date, the only truly outstanding salon has been Trio Salon (I've been there 3 times... love it)... until yesterday, when I went to Joseph Michael's.
I went to Joseph Michael's yesterday to get a haircut from Alycia, who is currently in training there. I got the best haircut and blow dry I've ever received, EVEN taking into account previous salons I paid full-price for, for a cut from an experienced stylist!
Alycia and her instructor (sorry I forget her name) took a lot of time and care on my hair. They really looked into the details and treated it like an art form. They both went with what I'd wanted, and got a little more creative too, and it ended up looking fabulous. I got so many compliments the minute I got home and saw my friends that night. All my friends want to know where I got my hair cut.
So now my top salons (and I've been to A LOT, trust me) are Trio Salon and Joseph Michael's (with Alycia). I'm asuming Alycia will only get better as she progresses in her training and becomes a full-on stylist.
Seriously, if this is the experience and quality I get from a stylist-in-training, think about the kind of cut you could get from an experienced stylist there. -
Review from Angie S.
Hoffman Estates, IL
12/28/2011
Aquiles at this salon is just awesome and is very much worth the money and trip to the city. He listens to what you ask for and delivers awesome results. I recently came in for highlights and lowlights and a trim and am just in love with what he did (once again). The lowlights haven't faded a bit either. I would give the salon 5 stars but have to say the front desk girls this last time didn't leave me with a good impression. I will always come back though to see Aquiles!!
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Review from Tiff W.
3/9/2011
I originally came here last summer to get a hair cut. This salon is really nice and classy...but honestly, Gregory was the only reason why I would have returned.
I called a couple of weeks ago asking to make an appointment with him, and to my surprise, the guy answering the phone said that Gregory was no longer with Joseph Michael's (he's now at Strands & Trends). Fine, I ask if he knows where Gregory has gone or if there is any contact information for him. Receptionist man then rudely answered "no" and proceeded to push me to make an appointment with another stylist. I'm sure all of the stylists at Joseph Michael's are good but I am NOT going to get pressured into making an appointment...it was completely unprofessional. Nooooo thank you. -
Review from hapa l.
Chicago, IL
8/21/2011
I finally got the haircut I was looking for!!! I was looking for someone who could cut my hair like they do in Japan. Megumi knew exactly how to make my hair lighter but with lots of layers. I still have the length in the back but shorter layers everywhere which give my hair a lot of movement and volume. I love it!
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Review from Elana L.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 2/25/2011
I am writing an update to a review that I wrote four years ago.
I was a long time Joseph Michael client until the colorist I had seen for many years screwed up my hair two times in a row. First over processing my highlights so that my hair cracked off and then reformulating my color and not having it turn out the way it was supposed to.He made no apologies for it nor did management do what was right to solve the problem. Perhaps they should not allow there stylist to come in drunk and stoned. The owner is wonderful but he really needs to see how things have fallen apart since he gave over management of the salon.
It took me three and a half years to grow my hair back and have it be healthy. If I could have sued them I would have.
To bad we can't give negative stars. If you are looking for a great hairdresser/colorist you should see Deann at Pixie salon.
JM should be skipped.
Edit Remove1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/1/2007
I was a long time Joseph Michael client until the colorist I had seen for many years screwed up my… Read more »
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Review from Kelly M.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 6/3/2010
Years ago, my father got me a wall plaque that says "The only man a girl can trust is her Daddy."
Well I find that to be not entirely accurate. A girl needs at least two men she can trust in life: Daddy, and her hair stylist.
Which is why I follow JD wherever he goes. As much as I liked the physical space at Dennis Bartolomei, and even at the old Jospeh Michael's before that, neither experience would have been 5-star-worthy without him. I get raves about my color all the time and wouldn't trust these strands in anyone else's hands (when let's face it, lots of colorists think big, chunky, obviously highlighted streaks look good since you see it everywhere. Blech). I don't have great hair to start with (baby fine and straight) so I don't know how he manages to cut it so it seems to have some life! All I know is, the one time I strayed, I was told by my secretary, the most brutally honest person I know, that I needed to go back to him. Enough said for me; I'll never cheat again for the sake of convenience!
Then again, the new Joseph Michael's has learned a few tricks that makes it special itself. Like say, the bar up front with wine chilling, a few liquors, coffee (Starbucks, magically not burned-flavored) and snacks like mini brownies and cheese and crackers. How's that for a nice touch? I mean, who doesn't want to have a snack and some alcohol while spending significant amounts of time in a chair being pampered and/or wrapped in foils sufficient to block the most determined aliens from reading your mind? Good call JM, a very pleasant surprise. I actually didn't take advantage of it this time because I was so surprised. No worries, I'll make up for it next time.
While I don't think the space itself has the same quality as DB did (since it had the upper hand with the second story, relatively quiet and upscale space) it is still improved over the old JM space. A tad bit out of the way for me now compared to the old location or DB, but in a gorgeous Gold Coast neighborhood, with a fireplace (electric?) in the front seating area. I'm sure some would love the vibrating chairs for their shampoos (didn't turn it on). I got a peek at the spa space and pedicure chairs and they all around look snazzy. I'm not much of a spa or pedicure girl myself, but maybe sometime for the hell of it. I think the next few months will be telling as they settle into the space.
Glad to be back Joseph Michael!Listed in: There is No Such Thing as…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/30/2006
I came here on the recommendation of a friend- she had been getting cuts from JD for some time, and… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer Y.
Cincinnati, OH
4/13/2010
Ahhhhhhhh, my hair saga ...
So it all began once upon a time when at the tender of age of 15 I realized that Mommy cuts (yes, my mother cut my hair until I was 15) were no longer cutting it (haha, get it? cutting it ... ok).
Since then, I have been a total salon slut. I've had more one night stands with stylists than I care to remember. There have only been two stylists who I've been able to have a true relationship with: Armand (in NJ - died of cocaine overdose -RIP) and ... Gregory Dickinson.
Gregory just GETS IT. For example, at my last visit, I was distraught because my hair simply wasn't getting enough ATTENTION. I am an attention whore. I like people to stare and compliment. I was getting nothing. I felt like a wallflower. Gregory had moved to Miami and I had been spiraling downward for two years.
So, Gregory goes to work on it, snip snip, cut cut, chat chat and ta da! A nice cut. But just NICE. I wanted BAM SEXY WOW! He sensed that right away and next thing I knew, my hair was wet and he was starting over. I was at the salon for two hours for just a cut. I was his last customer. Poor guy probably hadn't eaten in 12 hours. But he really cared and wanted to give me the best cut possible ... and keep me happy. :)
The midwest has a certain "style" and the east coast has a certain "style". As a native east coast-er, I'd have to say that Gregory understands what I want (probably because he lived in NY/NJ for something like eight years).
I was distraught when he moved to Miami, and sorry Miami, but I am SO GLAD he is back in Chi-city.
Oh, and the salon is nice too. They had brownies. Yummy. -
Review from Aurore L.
Updated - 5/30/2009
Neung rocks my nails.
And no - it's not painful (!)
The manicure here is much more expensive than at your regular nail salon.......like 50% more. There is no TV, it is not BYOB and nothing fancy schmancy.
BUT I left the salon delighted and stared at my nails all night long. Believe me, in the darkness of a concert theater, it is pretty Mission: Impossible...but not if you use your phone light!!
(I didn't. No, really.)
The pluses:
- she really buffed my nails and got a super clean and smooth surface. Took her time.
- she cut all the little ugly skins around. Painlessly
- awesome hand lotion - orange-blossom flavored. Fantastic.
- customized color!!!!!!!!! I wanted something pinkish, subtle but still noticeable....she combined two and I love it!!!!!!!!
- impeccable result. Like perfect.
I might become addicted...Listed in: Feel good in your own skin!, The big ta-da, Get out of my hair!!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/1/2009
I was in agony to choose my hair-dresser for my wedding day.
The worst thing is - I didn't even know… Read more »
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Review from Aisha C.
Indianapolis, IN
11/11/2008
Please read all the way through.
I just called Joseph Michael's Salon & Spa. four friends and I want a total of:
2 - manicures
4 - pedicures
3 - 30 minute massages
1 - eyebrow wax
1 - brazilian wax
I was very honest with the lady. "All your prices are fine, except the $50 regular pedicure. Do you guys have any specials or anything happening to alleviate that cost?" and let her know we were also doing all of the above treatments. Her answer: No. Not, let me see if we can accommodate you. Not, we can incorporate those into a package for you and maybe save you guys a little money, or even, we can include the parafin at no additional charge.
So, obviously they don't care about gaining more business. They won't be gaining ours. $50 for a regular pedicure is crazy and since we have a few people who are coming especially to have their first pedicure, it's a service we can't just eliminate. I'm seriously disappointed.
***** I just called JM back and asked to speak to a manager. Allison, was a lot better at spinning things than that first person, I spoke to. Just to clarify, I still did not get the discount off the pedicures, and we still are not going to go there for our spa outing, however, knowing that there is someone in that establishment who understands what I was saying and took the time to explain why they couldn't do a discount, encourages me to possibly visit them when I have more flexibility in the services I choose. So, I'm still disappointed, but at least I'm not disgusted as well. -
Review from Robin W.
Chicago, IL
2/13/2009
How amazing to find a student stylist that is talented and getting better everyday! Seriously, I never thought I would answer a craigslist ad for a salon student and end up so in love.
Luti is her name, and I think she mentioned she needs some long haired ladies to cut and style for Mondays. She works as an assistant every other day, but just call and schedule.
Seriously, she saved my brassy faded hair, and found an amazing color that matches my skin. And for such a nice salon and spa, I paid the student price of $25! woo -
Review from Christine M.
Chicago, IL
11/25/2007
I have been going to Joseph Michael's for about 3 years which is truly a personal record in the hair salon department. Renata is a sure bet for the best waxing job you will get in your life. She's not shy and you shouldn't be either! I go to Laura for my cuts and she's followed me through extra long hair to short - always doing a really great job. One time we messed up on the bangs, but she was totally cool with me coming in the next day and fixing it up (look great!)
I wince a little bit when the bill comes around after a full afternoon of services, but I always walk out (or kind of limp haha) feeling like a million bucks.
I would recommend appointments, as it's always packed - especially after work and saturday hours. If you can get in during the day you'll have a less hectic experience with the crowds at the reception area.
Plenty of guilty reading materials in the waiting room, free coffee and drinks and usually cookies! -
Review from Amy M.
Chicago, IL
4/8/2008
I've been going to Patrick at Joseph Michael's for longer than I care to admit (we're talking double-digit years, people). I've never once had a bad cut. Never. I had looked around for another stylist when I was younger and broker, but I always came back to Patrick. The cut is great, and he's just a hoot to spend an hour with.
The other staff at JM is always courteous, professional, and very attentive. I give them very high marks. -
Review from Nikkie H.
Chicago, IL
9/4/2007
I have been going to Joseph Michael's for over a year now and would give it five stars based on my experience with my stylist Anna, but I was a bit disappointed with my spa service. I'm going to talk waxing so stop reading if you don't want to be uncomfortable!
I went online to get pricing on waxing services, because I wanted to consolidate all my salon services into one location. The website gave prices for different services, but the descriptions were vague (e.g. wax, partial wax, full wax - what's the difference?)
Since I was on a budget I chose the partial, which turned out to be what I always considered a traditional wax. When I told her what I envisioned she went ahead and did it, but charged me for a total - $70 plus tip! I almost threw up.
The experience was much more painful than any other place I've gone too, she did an okay job, but the price was just crazy. I'll definitely go back to my other salon and get a much better job for only $50.
On the bright side - Anna is awesome! She recently chopped my hair off and colored it a very dark brown and didn't blink twice. I've had other stylists who were too scared for such a dramatic change, but I love the way it looks and get tons of compliments now! -
Review from Angie P.
Chicago, IL
7/14/2008
My hair stylist Michelle is awesome - she recently calmed my fears about trying bangs for the first time since I was 8 and I'm a big fan now! Couldn't live without them. She's also great at suggesting hair products and styling tips. Edwin's shampoos are like mini spa massages...I wish I could take him home with me!
Less impressed with the front desk service - they seem disinterested. Michelle and the staff behind the curtains will keep me coming back!
PS - Wednesdays they serve free Margaritas and snacks...love! -
Review from JA Y.
Chicago, IL
7/12/2010
Joseph Micheal's 3.5 Stars
Vesna at Joseph Michael's 5 STARS!. After my former hairstylest went Hollywood on me (literally I called to make an appointment and was told he was booked at the MTV movie awards) I decided it was time to stop flying to Ohio just to get my hair cut. The first two years was like bad dating with an ok couple first dates only to land in disasterous second of third dates. That was until I found Vesna.
I starting going to Vesna's in my early 20s and have continued into my 30s. Having a very conservative job but never wanting to look like I was 26 going on 50 Vesna has helped me manuever the trends to keep me current while always looking classic and professional. She is also a master at color teaching Aveda color classes to other professionals. Tired of highlighting Vesna has helped me find an all over color combination that works, which no other stylist has been able to do without me ending up looking like the great pumpkin.
The best part is she is patient and listens. Over the years I've had one or 2 cuts or colors I have not loved (by no technical fault but by my own preference of wanting to "try something new"). One call and she's had me back in her chair with solutions to address the issue with me always walking out happier then ever. Instead of me flying to Ohio I know have my mom flying to Chicago to see Vesna.
As for Joseph Michael for the most part the salon is very nice. The drink bar is a nice extra. There are a few stylist and receptionists that have come and gone who sort of had that "salon" attitude (no thank you) but the owners seem very aware of the situation and seem to make adjustments when needed. Their prices are a little high but not out of this world and if you have a car you can suprisingly usually find street parking right out side during the week. If you can find a stylist you work well with its a good choice. -
Review from J T.
New York, NY
2/15/2009
Megumi came highly recommended to me by a friend with fabulous hair. At first, I held off, refusing to pay $90 (with tip included) for a haircut.
But after having a bad haircut for $65 and then 2 others in an attempt to fix the first = grand total for my haircut(s) was close to 200 bucks ( I make expensive mistakes).
Greatest lesson learned: Shoulda just gone to Megumi in the first place.
Haircutting is just her craft. Her reason for living. She magically cuts your hair (mainly with a blade, which I love) perfectly suited to your face, head shape, and personality.
I love her.
So much so, that I've moved to New York and now pay for airfare just to come back and have my hair cut by her!
Megumi is definitely worth it! -
Review from Shannon C.
Chicago, IL
5/15/2010
The awesome and talented JD is now back at Joseph Michael's, so I followed.
First things first - drinks are not limited to water or tea, but there's actually wine too. I love the idea of red wine while my hair is being done. Next up, the shampoo bay - the shampoo chairs can be set to massage. This was a first for me, but I loved it. It was so relaxing, I didn't want to get up!
Next the cut -- JD is a genius. I went in with a crappy haircut that I got in a teenager-like fit of anger (you know the 'i hate my life so i'm going to go to the first salon I see and get a cut' kind), and fully expected that JD was going to have to cut it to shoulder length to salvage it. JD however was able to make quick work of the disaster and turn it into a nicely shaped style without sacrificing too much length. It'll now grow out nicely over the summer - yay!
The salon is very spacious, bright, and colorfully decorated. It gives the staff room to move with nice spacious stations. There are handbag hangers at each styling station so you don't have to but your bag on the floor -- this is major, since I gave up on bringing anything more than a clutch to salons because I *hate* putting my nice bags on the floor.
Everyone seemed friendly and I am eager to go back. -
Review from Polishbadger d.
Chicago, IL
10/2/2009
This would be 5 stars if it were not for the PRICES. 20 bucks for an eyebrow wax. I decided on a whim that I needed an one. I work near this salon so I went in to see if I can get an appointment as a walk-in. The front desk girl was very nice and said she could get me in no problem. SCORE.
So I was walked back to the waiting room which was calm and had a warm setting to it. I literally waited for 30 seconds and the wax girl Margaret arrived. I love prompt service. She took me into a clean and well lit room. It turned out she was Polish so we chatted in her native tongue.
She did an immaculate job. I was probably in there for at least 15 minutes. The wax itself was not at all painful. I have experienced some harsh eyebrow waxes, and Margaret had the delicate touch. She also spent a good amount of time plucking until my brows were perfect. She finished off with some aloe to help the redness.
If you work in this area, this is a great CLEAN salon. It is a little pricey, but worth it for the extra time they spend on your wax, at least with Margaret (: -
Review from Saba A.
Aurora, IL
4/30/2011
Megumi is FANTASTIC! I have scalp issues that make me very self-conscious, but she was so professional and made me feel really comfortable. She even did a special scalp treatment for me.
As for my haircut, she's absolutely fabulous! I had no idea what kind of cut to get that would work with my face shape; all I told her was "short, but not a bob, and edgy" and Megumi was off! She gave me a great custom haircut that I've gotten lots of compliments on, and she even gave me tips on styling and made sure the cut was something I could work with in the mornings.
I highly recommend this salon; everyone is knowledgeable and gracious. Just a note, though--make sure you have cash on you, as they only accept cash gratuities. -
Review from Jennifer B.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 9/10/2011
Lauren is AMAZING! I have been going to Lauren for for cut and color for a year and a half now. Each time I see her, she educates me on color and spends time showing me different options while supporting me as I obsess. After each appointment, Lauren asks if I want anything tweaked/changed...never had I had to take her up on her offer since the end result always exceeds my expectation. I have referred several friends to Lauren who have been extremely happy as well!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/23/2010
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Joseph Michael's Salon and Spa! I am so lucky to have found Lauren, who is… Read more »
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Review from Michelle C.
Chicago, IL
4/10/2009
I was desperately in need of some stress relief and recently got a 25% off coupon for Joseph Michael's, so I thought I'd give it a shot and came for a massage. Overall, I thought it was a nice experience, but I think I'll do some additional exploring and see if there's a place I like better.
Upon arriving, the hostess at the front desk took me behind a curtain and had me fill out a questionnaire. They had water and tea if you wanted something while you waited. My Swedish massage was with Nicole. She was really nice and did a great job. I felt myself relaxing more and more as our session progressed, and my 60 minutes passed way too quickly.
After the massage, Nicole asked if I wanted to take a shower. I paused for a minute, since I figured this was kind of a given and was a bit confused, but I replied, "Yes." She got me a glass of water, and brought a robe and a pair of slippers for me so I could make my way to the shower. There is shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner in there. The facilities were fairly clean, though the area was dimly lit so I guess that hides the grime. There are also cotton swabs, cotton pads, and a hair dryer.
Regular price was $95 for 60 minutes, which is pretty much on par with other spas in the area. The tips are cash only here, so make sure you have adequate cash on hand to stuff in a little envelope. -
Review from Daneen H.
Chicago, IL
8/31/2011
I discovered LAUREN about a year ago, when I saw a JM customer leave the salon with amazing looking hair (and asked her who she has just seen). I have been going back to Lauren ever since. I have long, layered hair-which requires a skilled cutting technique AND patience. I also have Lauren color my hair, taking the gray out, but keeping it natural looking. I LOVE that Lauren not only listens, but WORKS to make sure that I am extremely happy after every visit. She truly cares about her clients!
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Review from Christine W.
Austin, TX
12/19/2010
Great attention to detail in both the salon and spa. Amy's my gal! New location is a bit tougher to get to but that's just my issue.
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Review from Lima K.
Royal Oak, MI
9/27/2010
I got a swedish/relaxation massage for 90 minutes. Occasionally they have the weekday discount, which runs from monday - friday, so I decided to take advantage of having a random weekday off! I had my appointment with Danny. He was great! They had a small sitting area with delicious cucumber water, and three changing/bathrooms. They had robes & slippers to use, as well as decent sized lockers to put your clothes/belongings into. Danny made sure to ask me if the pressure was alright, and also asked if there were any areas he should work on that were especially tense. It was a great massage, and would go back again! The doorman even hailed a cab for me on my way out.
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Review from Lou W.
Chicago, IL
11/19/2007
I'm not a "strike up a relationship with my stylist" kinda gal, but over a year ago, I visited Leland and was completely in love (you know, straight girl stylist soul mate love). "Do whatever you want" was my direction 9 times out of 10. Great colorist, great stylist, super fun woman. Then she moved out of the state. But, she made sure that I was passed off to someone else and I'm hoping that my experience will be good. Also, Renata does great eyebrows. And... for a city salon, I don't think they are too over-priced.
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Review from karen k.
Chicago, IL
7/24/2006
I had a facial with Charmaine and it was wonderful! The moment I stepped in to the Spa, I was greeted with a bottled water and offered delectable snacks. I was ushered back to a gently scented, softly lit area, outside of the spa rooms where I was to relax prior to the facial. Charmaine, the esthetician, was obviously very knowledgeable, beginning with a thorough skin analysis followed by a discussion about my daily skin care routine. She then began a facial treatment customized for my skin type, explaining each phase of the facial, and while the mask dried, I received a gentle head and shoulder massage~ it was all very relaxing! I highly recommend this spa!
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Review from Rob J.
Chicago, IL
8/2/2008
Went here with my wife for a haircut right before our wedding and found out the what the difference between a $20 and $50 haircut. Now I'm a fan. Michelle is great and is probably the only person I know that loves roller derby. Don't forget cash for tip...for some reason you can pay with a cc but not for the tip.
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Review from Kate B.
Plantation, FL
7/24/2007
I have mixed reviews. I get my hair cut there and love my stylist (Leland) so I thought I would branch out to some of their other services. I booked a massage/facial package. Overall, I was pleased with the experience. My first facialist (Nicole) was helpful to explain things and guide a newbie like me through the process. She even tried to relax my sensitive red skin before walking out looking like I was beat up. Even a tad bit of makeup which I very much appreciated.
I have since booked 2 facials with a different person leaving me with the mixed reviews. First facial with Renata was nice, spot on and man does she love doing extractions! The second appointment was rushed, not prepared and in the end left me red and splotchy with no kind attempt to soothe my skin (even if it was in my own mind and nothing was gonna help). The appointment did not last the full time. We even had interruptions that she in no way tried to make up for or fully apologize for.
I am continuing to break out after this facial and feel that a few areas were due to improper extractions. I don't believe I will be going back for facials. I do not feel cared for as a client and it's definitely not worth the price in the end for that service. -
Review from Daryl N.
Chicago, IL
6/20/2008
Best hair color in town. Patrick Russo, hands-down, does the best job on hair color in Chicago. He is creative, personable, and up-to-date on current styles and trends. He has fixed my hair when I, in a drunker stupor allowed someone else to color it, and he has fixed the problems of many other people I know. On top of that, he is great at just giving you a "new look" or a "summer style." I could not be happier. (Note: Patrick now has his own salon in Arizona. I now use Michael Mullen at Fringe on Milwaukee Ave.. He is just as great as Patrick. Parking is easier as well.)
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Review from Cristina G.
Chicago, IL
7/23/2008 1 Check-in Here
I've been going to Stevie for about ten years. She did my hair for my wedding and she did a great job!! She also cuts my hair and always does a great job. I'd follow her to any salon she goes to. I'm not a huge fan of Joseph Michael's since I only go there because Stevie is there. I do not get any other services done there. The receptionists are friendly enough. It is a bit out of my way, but like I said Stevie rocks!!!
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Review from Denis F.
10/9/2007
I cannot speak too horribly much on the salon itself, but I followed Michelle here from Fringe in Wicker Park. I do not regret the decision, as she is quite the delightful person and will politely discuss and suggest what to do with one's hair, and we will often continue speaking on various topics we may have touched on my previous visits (I frequent this place perhaps every two months or so). The environment is rather clean and the staff has always been rather friendly and accommodating.
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Review from Heather D.
Chicago, IL
8/14/2007
I am a fairly new customer to Joseph Michael and am extremely happy there. I actually followed Michele from her previous salon.This place is am improvement and Michelle is the same as before, fantastic.
I really love the changes she has made to my hair, she has given me bangs when I wanted them and made them look great with lots of layers to go along with them. I usually wait too long in between cuts, but it grows out great which is just as important as the initial cut, I think.
have had some great color done by her and it is a pleasure to sit in her chair, I am never uncomfortable or bored because she is lots of fun, which is refreshing when you spend an hour with someone.
I have referred a bunch of friends to her and have heard nothing but great things about her when they thank me for the tip.
Aside from Michelle, I had a fantastic pre bachelorette party mani pedi here as well. -
Review from Kristina B.
Los Angeles, CA
3/27/2008
Finally, a stylist who actually listens to what I want! Jason is amazing and cut my hair with such skill. He is smart and super talented--a great combo! I received lots of compliments on my hair after!
