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Nirvana Nail Salon
Categories: Beauty and Spas Nail Salons Beauty and Spas Massage Nail Salons, Massage [Edit]
3356 N Broadway(between Buckingham Pl & Roscoe St)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 697-0004
- Nearest Transit:
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Belmont (Brown Line, Purple Line, Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Wed 10 am - 8 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat 9 am - 7 pm
Sun 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Marla Shuman
Get 50% off your purchase at Marla Shuman
94 reviews for Nirvana Nail Salon
94 reviews in English
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Review from Kristin R.
Chicago, IL
10/24/2011
OMG. I LOVE Neville. Not only does he give one helluva massage, he is such a sweetheart. The deal is unbelievable; only $50 for a full hour. And it was one of the most relaxing hours of my life.
I had a friend in town this weekend, and we got an itch for some reasonably priced massages so as not to break the bank. We came across Nirvana, read the reviews, and it seemed pretty legit. It's very clean inside, the receptionist is very friendly, and the massage room is super clean and cozy. Loved the music. Crashing waves? Yes please.
Neville was extremely attentive as well. He asked if I had any problem areas, how firm I wanted the massage, and then he checked in at the beginning to make sure the pressure was OK. He gives a nice firm massage. It was in between a relaxing swedish and a deep tissue. There were parts that were a little uncomfortable, but I powered through because I knew it was good for my muscles and would do wonders later on. And, the entire rest of the day I had boundless amounts of energy, and I'm pretty sure it was due to my awesome masseuse.
In summary, please go see Neville. He'll work out any kinks for you, and you really can't beat the price! -
Review from Jessica L.
San Mateo, CA
11/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
Neville. Is. Awesome.
He give one great massage, he is super sweet and its a steal at $50 for a full hour massage.
Neville gives a very firm massage - close to deep tissue but he is attentive to comments and its very relaxing. I would def come back!
This place is a little random - its a nail and hair salon with a small room in the back - don't expect amenities. -
Review from Beata P.
Chicago, IL
8/27/2011
I love going to get my facials with Sabina. She is very professional and tells you step by step what she is doing and what to expect. I also like that she stays in the room the whole time - i've had facials before where they leave you in the room under a steamer or mask I always freakout a bit - what if the machine goes berserk?!
Her space is very clean and I always feel refreshed after leaving a session. I don't have the greatest skin, but I have noticed a big difference in going to her on a consistent basis.
I also appreciate that she doesn't push her products on you (again, like I've experienced at other places). However, I do like Dermalogica and that is what she uses. She gives you a discount if you buy something the same time as your facial and it's actually cheaper than somewhere like Ulta. If you go during the week, there are some specials to, so check that out.
In terms of cost, its reasonable if you go during a special. It's definitely a splurge thing for me to go. But it's convenient and I see a difference, so worth it for me! -
Review from Chuck M.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 1/1/2012
Brian is at Robert Jeffrey Salon on Halsted now, doing both manicures and haircuts.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/22/2008
I'm always pushing papers in front of people at work so I get a regular manicure. After going to a… Read more »
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Review from Erick N.
7/11/2011
My wife and I have been periodically having treatments at Nirvana for a few years now and are very happy with the services we have received. The prices they charge are akin to prices charged by some of the most inexpensive salons in the area, yet Nirvana is much classier than other similarly priced salons. While nobody would mistake Nirvana as a high end salon, they do provide consistently good service at hard to beat prices. On top of this they often run specials and/or packaged treatments that bring down the pricing even further. The manager is also flexible and allowed me to substitute one treatment for another in a spa package.
If you are used to being pampered at luxury spas you may be disappointed in Nirvana; but if you are seeking good quality treatments by friendly personnel in a clean environment, I highly recommend giving Nirvana a try. Between my wife and I we have had manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing and massages and have yet to have a bad experience at Nirvana. -
Review from Drew B.
Chicago, IL
4/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been coming to Nirvana for quite some time and have always been impressed by the service and quality of work. The esthetician is very thorough passionate about her work. Plus, Nirvana offers ultra competitive pricing that you just can't beat; a men's facial will run you about $50 and a chemical peel $20.
Give her a go! -
Review from Colleen C.
Brooklyn, NY
12/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
Frankly, cheapie nail salons are a dime a dozen in Lakeview...and even moreso on Broadway. You can barely walk a few doors before hitting a nail salon or a baby stroller, and THAT my friends...is the truth.
So what can set one of these nail shops apart? (because all the baby strollers look the same to me, so we won't even go there!). Well, super nice, clean, stylish, modern, great color selection, waxing and skin services, great customer service, reliable appointment making, and a manicure that lasts a solid 4-5 days in this terribly dry, wintery climate.
'Tis what I received at Nirvana for $15 + tip. Yes, you can get a cheaper (maybe $12 manicure) at other spots up and down Bway....but this one is heads above the rest in terms of atmosphere and style. This is a place you'd spring a few extra bucks to bring a friend, or your mother, or sister...a nice little treat without nail fungus, crazy ugly nail art, or tumbleweeds. Super clean.
A special thanks to Miss Annie D for tipping me off to this place...I throughly enjoyed and will absolutely be back when in need of a nail place in Lakeview. Because yes...they're a dime a dozen or a nickle a natch...but some just stand out. Nirvana is one of them.
10 fingers up!
*Also sell Dermalogica for those that prefer this line.
*Metered street parking is typically quite easy, save weekends.
*Limited pedicure chairs, not great for large girl gatherings.Listed in: Manicures & Pedicures!
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Review from ambir b.
Chicago, IL
1/22/2011
I have been getting a lot of massages lately and have finally found a salon that I am going to stick with. It usually takes me a while to find someone/an establishment I like. I am a creature of habit and when I find something I love I stick with it.
I love the massage I received from Neville today at Nirvana Nail Salon. I asked him to use harder technique than maybe most people would prefer and he did! In the past I have always made this request and I have felt like the massage therapists were afraid to hurt me and never really did it very hard to hard, at least to my standards.
Neville gave such an intense and hard massage I feel the best I have ever felt after a massage. I am not going to lie, it sort of hurt while he was doing some parts of it, but it was a good hurt and not the kind that lingered. He also continued to ask me if it was to hard and I continued to tell him NO WAY! I loved it. Any (good) pain if that makes sense, went right away after he started rubbing gently, which is what he would do after each intense rub, after it felt like such a wonderful release of toxins and to explain the level of relaxation is impossible.
I feel wonderful what an awesome salon and very reasonably priced! I also felt like I was in professional hands that really knew what they were doing! I think I may have a new addiction.
A negative to me but probably not to most of my gender; Sex in the City is playing with captions on maybe 5 t.v.'s because of this I would never get a service like a manicure done in the salon, it would be so annoying, no matter how awesome the staff must be! i just can't stand that show! I know, I know, I am in the minority. Just a heads up to anyone that may be in it with me!
Sabina the manager is sweet and I can't wait to get a facial from her (I think she is the manager because she seems to busy making everything run so smoothly) I am sure she does facials and was able to tell me a lot about them, very knowledgeable!
Also a plus, the last time I was there Sex and the City wasn't playing! :), -
Review from Melanie V.
Chicago, IL
11/22/2010
Ya know how Broadway has a billion nail salons? It's like, how do you know which one to go into?? My mission was simple: mani, no wait, out in less than an hour.
I ducked into Nirvana because it seemed the most inviting when I peered in. The salon is decorated nicely, although I think it's a little strange that there's 2 pedi stations kinda near the door - not at the back. But, whatever.
Luckily, there was no wait, so the manicurist got started on my mani right away. Pretty standard job - nothing outstandingly good or bad about the experience. My mani looked great and that's all that mattered. (Although she did question my choice in Essie's Ballet Slippers. Should I have taken that as a hint? Whatev.)
Lowdown:
*$15 mani (a little more expensive than the $12 at most other places)
*Pretty good selections of OPI, Essie and China Glaze colors
*Small tv's with SATC playing at the end of each nail station
*Quick mani - out in less than an hour! -
Review from Andrea P.
Chicago, IL
10/1/2010
I got my eyebrows waxed with Sabina today and all I have to say is WOW, she is amazing!
I have always been hesitant about letting anyone near my eyebrows because I am very particular about how I like them done. One of my friends recommended Sabina and although I was hesitant walking in I walked out feeling fabulous! -
Review from Alanna S.
Chicago, IL
4/13/2011
I swear by this salon!!
I started coming here after work when I needed my quick bi-weekly mani, but then it just unraveled. Now I have gotten plenty spa mani/pedi treatments, my eyebrows waxed (Sabina is a GODDESS) and a massage from Neville (I will never stray).
I took my mom here the day before NYE for a spa mani/pedi and massage. They were so accomodating even though they were packed. They made sure she was comfortable every step of the way-- especially for her first massage EVER. Neville made her feel super comfortable and even let her know things she could do to help her neck. We are now going back next week for her Mother's Day present-- she wouldn't have it any other way!
They have always made me feel comfortable and as relaxed as possible. All of the girls are super nice and do a wonderful job! -
Review from steven l.
Chicago, IL
8/3/2010
I am usually fairly loyal when it comes to spas/salons that I frequent, but I was out with a friend of mine and we decided to hit this place for an impromtu mani/pedi.
At first, I was actually pleased with the experience. We both had a mani/pedi with parafin wax treatments on both hands and feet. I felt at one point the lady who was doing the manicure was overly aggressive with jamming her metal tool down toward my cuticle area. Nonetheless, things SEEMED ok and I even tipped her 40%.....
Well, I ended up getting 3 nail infections. One was on my left hand and cleared up just using hydrogen peroxide, the one on my toe nail went away using epsom salts and bactine but the piece de resistance is my lovely right index finger which now after a month is essentially shedding itself and growing a new one. For nearly two weeks I was in agony as a membrane or something from underneath my nail bed became exposed. I could barely write or utilize any motor skills in my right hand.
The friend I was with, felt like something was happening with one of his nails also, but his situation corrected itself quickly. I am so aggrivated that I decided to allow myself a small luxury 5 weeks ago and am still dealing with the consequences now. I would give 0 stars if I could, I walk by this place on my to work nearly every day and it makes me mad.
If you live in Lakeview check out Get Nail'd, I've always had a nice experience there! -
Review from Kate M.
Updated - 8/15/2010
Fishnet Stockings, Sugar Daddy, and a foot massage are a great way to relax. I'm talking about nail polish colors of course, a couple nice Essie colors for my fingers and toes.
My last pedicure at Nirvana Nail Salon was pretty bad. Makes you wonder why I'm keeping the 5 stars doesn't it? I let the nice gentleman at the desk know that I was not happy with my pedicure and he had the manager call me when she was free (she was with a client at the time). She called, offered me a free pedicure, and gave me the names of 4 different nail techs to ask for. I went back, and had a terrific manicure and pedicure.
I've been to Nirvana at least 10 times and I've only had 1 bad experience. 1 out of 10 ain't bad, especially when they make up for it so well.Listed in: High Maintanence, Nails Nails Nails
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/2/2010
I'm so glad I found Nirvana Nail Salon. It's close to my place, quick, clean, inexpensive, and they… Read more »
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Review from Katie R.
Chicago, IL
8/18/2011
This is THE best salon in Chicago. Super clean, comparable prices, friendly staff, great color selection... the list goes on and on. The owner is wonderful - ask for her if you're going in for a waxing. I recently had my bridal party go in for a party the day before the wedding and we had such a good time!
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Review from Grace D.
Chicago, IL
2/18/2011
I scheduled an massage online but was not available for the time I wanted, so i got a phone call from the receptionist and she left a message that they only have openings for 4:30 to 5:30 I called her and scheduled the massage over the phone, so today I get to my appointment and someone else name was there!!!!
The receptionist had me down for 7 pm, do you think she apologize or did something for me to come back later, no she was more like whatever, do you want it or not.
Nasty service and never will try to get into this place ever again.Comment from Victor A. of Nirvana Nail Salon 2/18/2011
Hi Grace, I'm the manager at Nirvana. I truly apologize for… More » -
Review from Lauren K.
Chicago, IL
1/6/2011
I do alot of spinning classes at the gym and Christmas week I had some time off so I did it 4 times...great for the cardio...not so great for my back...I hurt it really bad and had it evaluated by a physical therapist. She told me my injury was muscular and I needed a really good deep tissue massage. I looked up places in my neighborhood and then read the reviews for this Salon.
I got an appt with Brenda for the next night. She was amazing!!! She asked all the right questions and I could tell by what she was asking that she clearly knew what she was doing!! She gave me advice on what to do that night and the next few days for my back. I'm feeling so much better today and I owe it to Brenda! The massage was only $49. I completely feel that this is going to become a monthly splurge for me! I just recommended her to a friend. -
Review from L G.
Chicago, IL
2/22/2011
I had my first experience at Nirvana after getting a stellar review from my mom, who had visited them briefly to buy me a gift card as a Christmas present.
She raved about the atmosphere and the calming presence when she walked in, so my expectations where pretty high, and when I walked in, the warmth struck me first - it was a freezing cold, snowy day yesterday, and coming into a clean, warm spa felt perfect.
I visited Neville for an hour-long massage, and he was fantastic. He was attentive, comforting, funny and strong, and I floated out of there feeling the way you should feel after a massage - tingly and brand-new!
I highly recommend visiting Neville for a massage - he's my new guilty pleasure ;) -
Review from Kate P.
4/11/2010
I've been here twice now for two different services, so I think it's appropriate to write my review of this salon.
The first time I was here was for a pre-vacay eyebrow wax. Sonia was sweet and made me feel very comfortable. I liked that she asked me questions on how I would like my eyebrows shaped. I told her that I didn't really know what I wanted but what I didn't want was to look angry. No frowny eyebrows for me either. They are scary. She laughed and said that she would shape my eyebrows in a natural arch so that it would accentuate my eyes and she was true to her word. Plus, since it was a Wednesday night, I received 10% off this service and left her a generous tip.
The second time I went into this salon was for a manicure on a Saturday afternoon before a fun girls night out on the town! Our manicurists were nice but kind of quiet so my friend and I talked amongst ourselves, while we received our warm towel and hand massages with our manicures.
Plus, at the end they have a cool ultra-violet drying area where you have to sit for ten minutes for your nails to finish drying. I liked that they don't use harsh chemicals and really oil up the cuticals with all natural oils and potions and what not.
Again the service was decent and everyone was so welcoming both times I've been here. Nirvana Nail Salon is close to my home, so I think this will become my go-to salon when I'm in need of an eyebrow wax, but as far as mani/pedis go, I think I'm going to stick with Paint.Listed in: The Spa & Salon List
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Review from Kelly C.
7/10/2010
I continue to go back to Nirvana for the eyebrow waxes with Sabina. She is the best that I've been to and is a perfectionist so you always leave looking great.
Recently tried a facial with her as well which I really enjoyed, so I'm sure I'll be back again.
I really like how you can schedule appointments online and select your person. -
Review from Anna H.
San Diego, CA
6/3/2009
This is my favorite nail place to go to in Chicago. I first learned of them during one of those random Sheque "girls night out" events they had around the city back in 2004. I was really impressed by their attention to detail and decided to go for the real thing at their nail bar about a month later and it still reigns supreme in my book of nail places to go.
What I like:
- clean, simple, comfortable and hip decor for a neighborhood walk-in nail salon
- PLENTY of colors to choose from, including the newest colors of the season
- Sex and the City in closed captions on various flat screens for you to view
- they do a great job catering to large groups as well as individuals who walk-in
- easy scheduling system through their website
- their attention to detail (this is what sets this place apart from the rest to me), they do a great job on manis
- plenty of gossip and fashion magazines for you to catch up on
What I don't like:
- location, parking is really hard to find because it's on Broadway (it's all about luck or time of day)
- cost, this is a little more expensive than your average neighborhood nail salon but a girl has the right to splurge every now and then right?! Plus, they do have specials going on most days of the week, so be sure to check those out before coming in.
Final thoughts: While I'd love to be able to come here all the time when I'm in Chicago, it is not economically feasible for me to do so. I usually will come here if I have a special event coming up and want my nails and toes done right or if I'm spending time with my girlfriends and we need a place to retreat to.Listed in: Health | Beauty
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Review from Rebecca T.
Marina del Rey, CA
4/2/2007
I agree with the previous review that the owner guy is useless. I had a special deal through http://ChicagoBeauty.com - which are great if you want to try new salons and spas - so thought I'd try it out. When I walked in from the snow and sleet - this was in early February - there were only 4 chairs in the waiting area, and he was sitting there taking up two of them with his laptop. He didn't move as more people walked in, and one woman had to stand and wait. Unbelievable... especially for a salon. You think a business owner would have a little more common sense.
On the other hand, the woman that did my facial was terrific. I forget her name, but she was amazing. The only reason I didn't give this place a higher rating is because through the quiet massage room we were in, you could hear the techno music thumping outside, so it was tough to relax and enjoy the service.
Not much ambiance at this place, which I was hoping for considering their services are on the expensive side. I bought a Valentine's Day package for $99 - includes massage/facial/mani/pedi - that I haven't used yet, so hopefully my second trip will be better... -
Review from Esther L.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 3/13/2010
Just an update: Victor, the owner of Nirvana Nail Salon has contacted me and told me Randy has been suspended until they figure things out.
I'm relieved to find that she's taking this seriously so it never happens to anyone else. Thanks Victor.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/10/2010
I had a terrible neck ache and my boyfriend finally made me do something about it. He booked a… Read more »
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Review from Melissa K.
Chicago, IL
8/8/2006
I was in search of a good nail salon when I stumbled upon Nirvana. I had originally set out on a journey to go to a nail salon I had found on Yelp, but much to my surprised they were closed on a Tuesday. Needless to say it was 100 degrees out last week and I had to get my toes done. I was hoping I could find a salon that wasn't the one closest to my house. Well I found Nirvana.
I walked in and there were a few ladies getting nails and toes done and luckily I didn't have to wait. I sat right down and they got started. I loved the chairs, I'm small and normally the massage chairs do nothing for me. I'm usually getting a massage that should be for my back in my neck. Not with these chairs. They were perfect. The whole salon was super clean and everyone was very professional.
Other then the slight pain I felt when she did the paraffin, it was amazing. I can't wait to go back. It definitely won't be a month like the last few times I've gone to get my toes done, it just felt too relaxing and wonderful to keep away for long. -
Review from Sar S.
Chicago, IL
6/27/2011
I went here for a massage. I thought the place was ok. The price was obviously worth checking out, but the massage I got was just mediocre. I like lots of pressure and even after the 3rd time of asking for more pressure the person just didnt seem to get it. But regardless, I would go here again. The price was good and it was fairly easy to get an appointment.
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Review from Sarah F.
Chicago, IL
5/15/2010
In the interest of full disclosure, I'm a massage therapist. I don't practice anymore (except at home, when the honey's lucky), but for years I made my living as a massage therapist. Which is all to say that I'm picky.
Yesterday, my ever-so-helpful back decided to have a big ole spasm that left me unable to much of anything except grumble. In desperation, I called Nirvana Nail Salon and at 8:00 last night, the amazing and wonderful Brenda made room for me. Today I am deliciously sore, as one should be after a good deep tissue massage, but I'm not in pain. I can turn my neck. And I can move. There may be hope for me yet.
Brenda is by far one of the best massage therapists I've encountered. She listens and like a good detective is looking for clues to solve the mystery of why you're in pain.
Things to know: the space itself is lovely. Simple and clean. The lights dim, which is nice when she's working on your neck and your face up. The noise from the salon is minimal. 12 very excited little girls were having a birthday party while I was there and I barely heard them.
That all this is yours for under fifty bucks is nothing short of a miracle. -
Review from Christine M.
Chicago, IL
4/24/2008
I came for a massage a couple weeks ago and then back the following weekend for a pedicure and manicure. They were pretty busy, but did what they could to get me in without an appointment. I was also pressed for time with the pedicure/manicure, so they did their best to get me out of there by a certain time.
I liked the Sex & the City reruns. I felt right at home! They also have a lot of promotions on their website. Most of them are for 1st time clients, but I was able to use a coupon for the mani & pedi because it was my first time there for that (even though I had been there for a massage). You just have to be sure to bring it in with you. I think they have different discounts on different days of the week as well.
The massage room was a little cramped with the table against the wall. The therapist was awkwardly trying to squeeze between the table and wall while ducking the shelf on the wall until I asked him if the table was on wheels and he moved it toward the center of the room. He listened to my preferences really well and adjusted his techniques accordingly. I would go back again.
I think the nail tech was a little annoyed about having to rush through my hour and a half manicure and pedicure, but oh well. I would have rather not been rushed either!
Despite the comments about the owner, he seemed pretty friendly to me. -
Review from Sara M.
Chicago, IL
6/11/2009
I've been going to Nirvana since 2006. Even after I moved to LP, I'd hop on the #36 bus just to get a mani/pedi.
Likes:
*easy to make an online appointment
*M-Thurs mani/pedi specials
*Sex & the City re-runs
*pleasant service
*recent OPI, Creative, and Essie colors
*my mani lasts about 5-7days before chipping
*my pedi looks great for at least 2 weeks
*easy to get walk-ins
Dislikes:
*techs are quiet--no conversation for the most part
*high staff turnover---I loved this one chick and she didn't stick around long -
Review from Stacy O.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 12/29/2008
I am going to continue to give Nirvana great reviews.
The party we had there was fun, successful and efficient.
Also, I had been training for the triathlon and lost part of my big toe nail before the triathlon (and before my wedding) and Jenny (bless her) fixed me up. I looked like almost a whole person after she was done with me.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/21/2008
I LOVE this place! I'm a regular there, and they have always been nice to me and get me in when I… Read more »
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Review from Jessica M.
Chicago, IL
7/8/2010
Everything about this salon is great. Trendy friendly ambience. Lowest prices on most services that I've ever seen.
But the reason I kept coming back are the eyebrow waxes. I don't know if she's still there, but Sabiya is an eyebrow GENIUS.
I've been getting my bushy Italian eyebrows waxed since I was 14.
After living in NYC for 4 years and having to deal with language barriers that left me with either a too-short eyebrow, one arched vs. one flat brow and extremely thin eyebrows, I thought I'd never find a place to just know what works. Oh wait, there was the $100 eyebrow wax at Bergdorf Goodman that was great but completely impossible to keep up.
I gave Sabiya one shot. She promised me she knew what to do. Somehow, she re-shaped my brows so they were identical arches. Somehow, even though they were too thin, after taking out MORE hair, they became the perfect size. And somehow, even though it took a year to grow back, I now have brows that reach the outer corners of my eyes the way they should.
Simply- I have perfect eyebrows (that even pass the "mom" inspection") and it's all due to this salon. I upkeep at home now, but the only reason I can is because of Sabiya's guidance.
Once they opened the Southport Spa location I was hooked. The massages and facials are top notch for minimal moola. Definitely give it a whirl! -
Review from Sarah L.
Chicago, IL
9/9/2009
I had a mixed experience here.
I needed a massage for a kink in my neck and was drawn to Nirvana by their low pricing ($49 for an hour massage), availability in 2 hrs, and ability to book online, as well as some good yelp reviews. I booked an appointment for a 1 hour massage online and was presented with a grid of available employees for a one hour massage at various time slots. (spoiler alert) OR SO I THOUGHT! (end spoiler). Out of Bogi, Karolina, Jenny, and Justyna, I selected Karolina because I was pretty sure she was female and I prefer a female masseuse.
I arrived a few minutes before my appointment, found the shop and parked nearby easily, and was greeted by a friendly woman (who may be the owner?) at the desk. she told me my therapist was running late and would be there in about 5 minutes. She apologized profusely and offered me some water.
half an hour later (and half an hour late) my therapist arrived. Randy. a dude. not what I thought I was getting, but whatever. I needed to put more money in my meter (since I was going to be there half an hour longer than planned) and the woman at the desk gave (not changed, gave) me quarters, which I appreciated.
Randy listened carefully to my trouble areas and inquired as to any changes that may have caused my neck kink, and made me feel comfortable. I'm not sure how well he listened though, because he did not really end up focusing on my neck so much and I still have the kink (to be fair, I didn't remind him, which I know I could have). The pressure was perfect the whole time - very firm just to the edge before it starts to hurt. I have to say, he was bolder (in terms of how far up my leg he'd go, for example) than any other american massage I've ever had, but he remained professional and worked on my hips, which needed work. he also did a lot of rocking/shaking of my limbs, which seemed shiatsu inspired and I didn't expect, but enjoyed.
I asked for an additional discount since my therapist had been late, and received it, so I appreciated that the owner/desk lady was willing to make an effort to keep me as a customer.
I asked about the Karolina/Randy mix up and learned the following: the 2 massage therapists are Randy and Brenda (who has been mentioned in other reviews). Apparently the online appointment grid shows all available employees at a given time? which is misleading. The woman at the desk suggested that I call in the future and ask for Brenda if I care about having a female therapist.
pros: price, nice staff, great pressure, same day appointments
cons: very late therapist, confusing online appointment system -
Review from Julie R.
Cloverdale, CA
3/12/2009
Just saw/started going to this place last week. And I plan to continue going.
Enough staff to get you in right if you're a walk-in .. which I have been for two manicures. I have been in there on a Monday afternoon and a Wednesday evening and have been sat down immediately.
Great prices for great service. And having Sex and the City to watch is sort of fun too. -
Review from Sara D.
Naperville, IL
1/7/2009
Wonderful neighborhood spa. Friendly staff, clean/trendy deco, and weekly specials on various services.
Anyone looking for a fantastic massage therapist should ask for Brenda. She's been my therapist for almost a year now, she's great! Very knowledgeable and can offer specific exercises and postures to help alleviate pain. I have only had the deep tissue/therapeutic therapy, but I imagine that swedish would be equally satisfactory.
In an area where mani/pedi places are plentiful, this one is tops. -
Review from Jennifer N.
Chicago, IL
3/30/2010
I've been coming to Nirvana for a while and thought I would finally give them a review. I've had just about every service and I can't say that I've been unsatisfied. The prices are very reasonable and they offer great specials and discounts on their already low prices.
Massages - I've had a couple different people. All of them have been pretty good. With the prices at $49 for an hour you can makes this a month habit.
Facials and Waxing - I usually always have Sabina and she does a nice job. She is very friendly and always pays extra attention. I usually do the facial and massage combo for $109. I also get my eyebrows waxed on a monthly basis and they always look good.
Nails - I really enjoy both the regular and the spa mani/pedi combos. The prices are very reasonable and most of the nail techs are pretty good. It's nice to get a paraffin treatment every now and again. The extra price for the spa level is worth it the only downfall is the high turnover in people. They had a nail tech that I loved and she didn't last very long.
Overall I would recommend this place to anyone, the location is great, the staff is friendly and the prices for the ser vices you receive are great. -
Review from Becky S.
Chicago, IL
7/2/2008
Nirvana is great! Very cleanly and in a relaxing atmosphere. I've had many different people do my nails there and always with great results. They have $40 mani/pedi specials Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday as well.
I don't mind the sex and the city reruns either. -
Review from Emily C.
Chicago, IL
8/14/2008
Really great pedicure. I made reservations for me and my friend at the last minute and they were able to squeeze us in.
Really great atmosphere: calm, clean, relaxing. None of that funky nail elixor smell either. Oh and none of the nail techs wearing masks either. That is always a troublesome site right?
I ran a half marathon the previous weekend so this was a little reward pedi. And this place does a job on the pups: great foot bath, cleaning the nails, massaging feet and legs. So relaxing. The polish was spot on and they took their time to make sure it looked great.
All of this for 30 bucks, well 35 with tip...so worth the money.
Will for sure be back. -
Review from Sara B.
Chicago, IL
12/7/2007
I used to live upstairs....I like the place. They are nice and do a good job. That is a tough combo to find in the plethora of nail joints in Lakeview.
I got my eyebrows waxed a few times to and was always pleased that she knew what she was doing and they turned out well every time.
I also went here for a massage and I really liked it. I wish it had been sooner then right before I moved out of the area but I recommend the place to others....with their various package specials it's worth upgrading to one that includes a massage. -
Review from Yvonne C.
Chicago, IL
12/18/2009
Nirvana seems like a nice place, but this review is based exclusively on their massage therapist, Brenda, because I've only gotten massages there from Brenda.
Brenda is amazing. She is a true healer. I've gone to her twice and each time, I leave feeling like I'm floating! She is really strong, kind, and a great listener. She'll focus on your trouble areas and ask questions along the way to ensure that she's focusing on what you need. She is the best massage therapist I've ever gone to, and she does acupressure and reiki as well. I go for the deep tissue massages - they are superb! -
Review from Myndi S.
Chicago, IL
2/20/2010
My birthday is on Valentine's day, and I always try to get a massage...this can be difficult because EVERYONE gets a massage on Valentine's day. Someone had suggested Nirvana Nail to me on twitter as a great place to get my nails done for cheap, I saw their amazing prices and thought of them for my birthday pampering.
I booked my appointment online (a feature I LOVE) over two weeks in advance. I called on February 13th to see if they had a later time slot available. I was informed my appointment was booked for 2/7. I started to raise hell, it was my birthday, I know I booked it on the right date (checked my email later, and the confirmation read 2/14) Antonio (the receptionist) was gracious and offered to speak with the massage therapist to fit me in, she offered to take me during her lunch break. Amazing of her, but they shouldn't have messed up date in the first place. I wanted a facial/massage/mani/pedi package, but because of the reworked time, I'd only have time for facial/massage/mani OR pedi.
Brenda, the massage therapist was amazing. She gets five stars. She listened to what I wanted and asked a lot of questions about my life style to better give my body the attention it needed, but she didn't talk too much during the massage.
I have nothing to complain about my facial, but nothing to rave about either. It was more relaxing than it was skin clearing, but I don't have many skin issues.
The pedicure was a basic pedi, it's been a week and it still looks perfect.
What I didn't like is that there was plenty of time after my pedicure to fit me in for a manicure but the service wasn't offered. The space is small, but I'm guessing because it was Valentine's day it was extra busy. It's a very laid back atmosphere and not extremely professional, but the value is worth it.
You cannot beat the prices, and I will be back for my nails and probably a massage in the near future. -
Review from Emma K.
Indianapolis, IN
1/5/2008
Clean, Nice, Cheap, Trendy.
They are friendly, the ventilation is great, and the job is great. They do an excellent job and I love going. Its so relaxing and totally takes me away from the stresses of life. -
Review from Cam A.
Chicago, IL
1/1/2011
I first stopped in for a "cheapie" mani/pedi. I paid $42 (few bucks more than others), but I found CAROLINA! Her manis last 6-7 days and cuticles are perfectly groomed, nails beautifully shaped, and my toesies have never been in better shape. Plus, she usually has me in and out in about an hour. (NOTE: If she's not available, see Oiyo)
After a few visits, I decided on a weekday facial special (you also get 15% off Dermalogica products during the week or with a facial - BONUS!). I've had three facials with SABINA in the last year, and my pores are completely clear. Her waxing is awesome, too. She knows her stuff, even saving me hundreds by avoiding the dermatologist.
I was doubtful about the massages since it's just in a tiny room to the side (I usually go to spas), but after seeing great talent, I thought I'd try it for $49. I'm not kidding when I say it was the most effective massage I've ever had (cute, tiny blond girl - sorry no name). She had me do resistance exercises while she held pressure, telling me it was so I'd walk out of there with perfect posture. They all say that, and yes, it's generally a bit better. But this time it actually happened! She knew where to go to target the issues and every one of them were resolved. I've never seen more results from a massage. Can't believe the difference she made!
EXTRAS:
Appointment scheduling (also avail online) for this type of salon (recommended). ALWAYS on time. The manis/pedis are a few dollars more, but who wants peeling polish or splitting nails? No franks - I'll pay the difference.
Top talent for sure. One stop for aesthetician, masseuse, and manicurist.
Fast, friendly, effective. What more can you ask for? And it's always good to get what you pay for!
