- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Rescue Rittenhouse Spa
Category: Beauty and Spas Day Spas Day Spas [Edit]
255 S 17th St2nd Fl
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Neighborhood: Rittenhouse Square
(215) 772-2766
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 8 pm
Sat 9 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Igal K. said: "First of all I have to say that I'm a no nonsense customer, I don't expect spas to be like the Ritz-Carlton, I actually don't like this stuffy over the top atmosphere so this place is right on the money. I was passing by from my…" read more »
96 reviews for Rescue Rittenhouse Spa
96 reviews in English
-
Review from Claire O.
I'd just like to reiterate that Tirzah is the most wonderful woman on Earth. So pleasant, funny, accommodating, thorough with her work, and she just seems so all-knowing and wise. I will never go to anyone else, again, ever.
She is always fully booked though, so I always make it a point to book my next appointment (something like five weeks later) when I leave.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
12/2/2009
I've tried a number of different spas for waxing here in the city since I moved from the suburbs… Read more »
-
12/2/2009
-
Review from Olivia K.
Philadelphia, PA
I've been here about a half dozen times to get a full Brazilian wax (or Lotus as they call them) done. I've had all ranges of service here from extremely poor to fairly good. Their lack of consistency between estheticians always makes me hesitant to go back. I only go back if I can't get an appointment at my regular spa and will only get waxed by Connie.
One of the worst waxes I've ever had was at Rescue Rittenhouse from a woman named Jennie (I think). As a very experienced waxer (I've had 50+ brazilians in my life), she gave me by far one of the worst waxes I have ever had. The experience lasted no more than 5 minutes and was extremely painful. She ripped very large areas of hair, was rude, and left me bleeding and bruised. Yes, I was bruised from the wax!! I have a pretty high pain tolerance, but this was just awful. I immediately got dressed after the service and went outside to pay. I was shaking from the shock of the whole thing. As I go to pay, I complain to the receptionist, who only took $5 off my service! She wouldn't budge with her price and tried to make up excuses as to why it would hurt so much. What a freaking rip off. -
Review from Caroline S.
Philadelphia, PA
As an alternative to shaving and all it's troubles (razor burn, ingrown hairs, follicitis), I decided to give waxing a try. After seeing Rescue's fairly decent reviews and comparable prices, I booked an appointment for a "lotus wax". If you're not familiar with their terminology, a lotus wax is a full Brazilian where all hair is removed from the front and back. Upon arriving, I was greeted quite warmly by staff (I noticed others reviewed their staff as rather rude; not true), offered a beverage, and directed to the waiting lounge. I waited only a few minutes and was again greeted warmly by my waxer, Kelly.
Once in the room, I was directed to undress from the waist down.. However I had no privacy doing so. Not too big a deal as she would be seeing me bare in just a few seconds. I laid down on the table to begin the wax and she immediately commented on how short the hair was and she'd do a test wax but she may need me to come back, okay fair enough. She began waxing and kept conversation which was a nice distraction from the pain. But once she got to the labia, she stopped waxing and said she'd like that to grow in more before further waxing. She also never went to my backside at all.
After paying full price for a service inwhich I received maybe 1/3 of, I was kicking myself for not speaking up. The next day I called the salon and asked to speak with Kelly directly to voice my displeasure. She seemed rather defensive even though I was basically apologizing to her. She said I was "insistent" and that's why she even went about waxing. She also offered to have me return to the salon to "see what she can do". However the skin is now too bruised and broken to be waxed over and the job was poor.. Feels like a bad shave. I'm not sure if I'll return, the customer service is on point - it's the quality of service that's lacking. -
Review from jin j.
Philadelphia, PA
Rescue spa comes to rescue...or not... I've been to Rescue Spa a few times getting various different services(waxing/message/mani/pedi). I think it was worth the money for the Swedish or hot stone message but the rest was about average. The spa atmosphere is good, they do really make their space comfy and inviting. Some of the products (esp. candles) they sell are amazing. However, none of that ever makes me feel.. completely satisfied... I can't put a finger on what but it always leaves me feeling....something missing. You won't get bad service, it's just that it won't blow your mind either. Maybe it's just me...
-
Review from John M.
Philadelphia, PA
I usually like to read reviews and never write them, but this one is well deserved. I have been going to Rescue for over 3 years regularly and I see Samantha every time. She has transformed my skin.
I came to her in 2009 with red, dry skin, that no one else could figure out and take care of. After the first appointment it significantly got better, and I have not had any recent breakouts. My skin is just perfect.
She is not only great at making your skin look good but also a wonderful person and very pleasant. If you ever wonder who you should make your appointment with-just go to her-you will not regret it! -
Review from Molly R.
Philadelphia, PA
I finally found my Philadelphia Spa! Was very pleased with the services I had earlier this week.The front desk staff is attentive & efficient. Michelle is very nice & professional & talented. She re-shaped my brows & I haven't been happier with they way they look. It smells amazing in the Spa & its hard to walk out without a soap or candle for yourself. Their "beauty boutique" is surprisingly a great place for a hostess gift on the fly!
-
Review from Artsy P.
Philadelphia, PA
Ok, let me start by saying the the actual facial was nice and was exactly what I was looking for in the end. But the part that I don't like about this place is the customer service. My esthetician was named Erika and she was actually late to my appointment. When she did arrive, she barely apologized for her tardiness. But I'm a pretty flexible person and and understand that stuff happens.
Then when we I was going through the facial, she didn't take the time to tell me what she was doing and give me any insight about my skin. Her attitude was rather snobby. I know it's Rittenhouse, but seriously? When we were done with the facial she recommended some products. When I went to pay at the counter and was looking for her to give me and explain to me how to use her recommendations, I realized that she had just left them at the counter for me to pick-up. I just didn't think she cared all that much.
I think I'll be back, but I'm going to request someone else. If I'm going to spend over a hundred bucks on a facial, I want to leave feeling good about the experience. -
Review from roberta b.
Philadelphia, PA
I went to Rescue Rittenhouse, the first time, as a mini-vacation because I hadn't had a real one in a long time. I went back the second time because Andrew(massage) and Jenny(facial) were that good. I'll be back a third time... Andrew is intuitive and professional, Jenny is gentle and thorough. The atmosphere is friendly, the rooms are warm, the music is calming and everything is clean.
-
Review from Jacqueline B.
Philadelphia, PA
I have been waxing for about 10 years now so needless to say, I've been to a lot of salons. Tirzah is the best by far! She is so sweet, kind, and professional. I cannot recommend her enough!
-
Review from Catherine F.
Philadelphia, PA
Went here yesterday for a wax and had a wonderful experience. I don't feel like I need to go into the gritty details of my history with waxing... but I will just say that everyone at Rescue was courteous, professional and made me feel comfortable and welcome. Tirzah was incredibly kind and calming and I actually enjoyed talking with her during what is usually an awkward experience for me. I have already booked my second appointment and I can finally understand why so many of my friends swear by waxing instead of shaving. Thank you Rescue Rittenhouse!
-
Review from Valerie R.
New Brunswick, NJ
Andrew did my massage it was relaxing. He did a good job stretching my legs since I jog. Ana did my nails. It was fun talking to her, I enjoyed the pampering. The spa is a little noisy but it is in busy area. I would definitely return. I liked the snacks too.
-
Review from Michelle C.
Philadelphia, PA
I've been here twice now, the first time for a manicure and the second for a pedicure. For a manicure, it's a very nice place and you'll certainly get your money's worth. But for pedicure services, no one can match my regular guy Thom from the salon I frequent in NJ.
The pedicure chairs are not comfortable. Basically, you are sitting on a cushioned bench against a wall. From this angle, lifting your leg for certain parts of the service feels more like exercise. For the cost of a pedi at Rescue, I want to relax and zone out, not pull a muscle trying keep from sliding off the bench as I hold my leg in a 90 degree angle.
I would certainly return to Rescue for another manicure or some of the services they are better known for, but for pedis I'll stick to my usual spot.Listed in: Get Dolled Up!, Salons and Spas
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
1/12/2011
My nails were having an emergency situation (aka, looking like a frightful mess) and I had to take… Read more »
-
1/12/2011
-
Review from Shira G.
Philadelphia, PA
I know I'm one of the few who seem to have had a bad experience at Rescue, but I left Rescue tonight with such a bad taste in my mouth that I will never return.
I booked a 60 minute prenatal massage that I was very excited about, and would cost $100. When I got to rescue 10 minutes before my appointment, I was told that they were running 5 minutes late. no biggie. 25 minutes after my scheduled appointment time, and still waiting to be taken back I told the manager that I no longer had time for a one hour massage. She kindly apologized and offered to give me a half hour massage at a discounted price. That seemed reasonably fair. I was finally taken back for my massage over half an hour late. The massage was decent, however, once my shortened massage was over and I went to pay, i found out that they charged me $65 for my "discounted" half hour massage. When I expressed my displeasure, the manager informed me that that's what a half hour massage costs. After pleading with them that I didn't book a half hour massage and that it was their fault they were running over a half an hour late, she begrudgingly agreed to charge me $50. Still, barely a discount seeing as the hour would have cost me $100.
If they had any decent business sense they would have charged $40, or given me an incentive to return for a full hour long massage. They did neither. My gripe with rescue is solely based on their customer service and has nothing to do with the quality of the massage. -
Review from Michele H.
Moorestown, NJ
This was my second visit to Rescue and it was a bit disappointing. The first time I was lucky enough to have the owner who was fantastic and I had an excellent facial. This visit I had an Esthetician by the name of Samantha L. She was a bit abrasive to say the least and seemed annoyed from the start. She didn't discuss my skin, provide any samples or make any recommendations.
I had a great body exfoliation by another individual that made up for the first half of my experience. Sorry, I do not have her information.
I booked the same exact appointment for my friend and I and mine was $50 more than hers. When I inquired at the front desk, they stated I had something different than she did.
Overall, I would recommend this as the atmosphere is lovely and 90% of the staff are great. -
Review from Lola P.
Long Island City, NY
I had a very relaxing afternoon at Rescue Rittenhouse. It is a lovely, conveniently located spa. All of the services I had were excellent. I especially enjoyed my facial with Shannon, who was very sweet an knowledgeable. My only gripe with this place is the locker room/bathroom situation: it is too small and really only comfortably fits one or two people. This place could be much more successful if they increased the size of the bathroom and added stalls. It's definitely worth a trip here for a spa day, however.
-
Review from Alina K.
Philadelphia, PA
If I could give this place less then one star I would! Had a few issues with the place: signed up for one type of facial, they did a different type of facial to ended up paying additional $100. They never asked if it was ok to do. I have sensitive skin and they polished the hell out of my face to the point that when I got back home I had red patches all over the face - looked like chicken pox! Lastly when asked what products I should use they sold me this super expensive lotion and cream, after using it at home for a few days my skin started breaking out like crazy!!! I did research online and it looks like the creams that they sold to me cost a lot less then online and are not recommended for people with sensitive skin. If I were you I would give it a thought before making an appointment at this place.
-
Review from Kathy M.
Chicago, IL
I am forever indebted to my mother-in-law for giving me a gift certificate to go here when I moved to Philadelphia. I wouldn't have normally splurged on such a place but once I got a facial from Tirzah I was hooked and worked it into my budget to go here every 2-3 months.
Over the past year she helped me change my skin. I'm sad that I just moved cities so can't continue to go to her but I'll keep using the p50 and hope to find someone like her in my new city. I also now realize what a bargain the facial was considering it incorporated deep-cleaning, microdermabrasion, and relaxing elements like massage too.
If you do go for deeper cleaning and extractions, make your appointment for an afternoon or night where you don't plan on going out -- my face would be red that night but it'd pay off in future weeks. -
Review from Meghann p.
Philadelphia, PA
I received a gift certificate for the Ultimate Manicure, Anna Marie did an amazing job...and I loved my Chanel paradoxal!
I really enjoyed the spa environment. It was tiny, but had everything you needed. I loved that I walked in and they sat me down and offered me tea, cappuccino, and/or water!
Love the decorating!
Bathroom was filled with lots of wonderful products-lotions, mouthwash, etc etc etc!
The only downside, prices are a little steep...but looking forward to checking out the facials (soon) -
Review from Jessica M.
Philadelphia, PA
I recently had a Brazilian wax here (what they call the Lotus) and a Zoom facial.
Pros: I called pretty much the day before and they were able to get me in for both, which I thought was really great. When I got there everyone was very nice and professional. The overall decor was very pleasing and relaxing and they did offer me water. Overall, the prices was extremely reasonable.
Cons: The reason that I feel this spa is only slightly above average is because the room that I had my services in was literally right off the "lobby" of the spa so there was a fair amount of background noise. The other reason was because while my wax was very very fast (which I appreciate, but would really not suit a first timer) my esthetician left A LOT of strays...simply saying my hair cycle was off and they were too short to get with the wax, but then she did absolutely nothing about them. And believe me, there were a ton...I was fairly disappointed. I have been at upscale spas plenty of times in my life (although I have never been a "regular" at one) and have really not had anyone leave so much.
Overall, I would definitely go back here and my overall experience was above average (compared to some places I've been waxed). I guess I just didn't feel totally pampered and like I was indulging in something really special and decadent...however, it was a very good effort on their part. Considering the price, I think this was great. -
Review from Caroline C.
Philadelphia, PA
With beach time approaching, I thought that a little touch up 'down there' might be in order. I called just two days before my departure and had a very narrow window for when I could make it to the Rittenhouse area. They were able to fit me in without any fuss. The space is nice; perhaps a little overdone for my tastes, but I only sat and waited for about five minutes before being ushered into another room.
The woman who waxed was quite nice. We had a steady stream of conversation that didn't feel entirely forced or awkward and I was in and out of there in about 20 minutes. The woman who rang me up was also happy to answer my questions about the line of perfumes they have and encouraged me to take a sample ... but let me smell almost all of them before I made my decision without seeming impatient at all. I'll go back when the need arises. -
Review from Christina P.
Philadelphia, PA
Jeni is the Brazilian wax whisperer. I have never had a wax that was so painless and free of awkwardness before in my life. She was super nice and talked with you the whole time to take your mind off of what she was doing. I'm not sure what kind of wax they use (it might have been hard wax), but it really didn't hurt at all. I have actually gotten pretty good at handling these but any girl could tell you how horrible (and horribly painful) this experience can be. She got everything, and encouraged me to make another 5 week appointment, that I could always change or cancel. The spa itself is really open, clean and relaxing.
I have unfortunately not been back here in a while because while the service is amazing, the $60 price tag is something my budget rarely allows for.Listed in: Treat Yoself
-
Review from Lisa G.
Chesterfield, NJ
Another good experience at Rescue Spa. On this trip I decided to once again go with a facial than follow-up with an exfoliating body wrap. Both treatments were very relaxing and effective. The treatment rooms are calming and very comfortable. The one area they do lack on is organization. There is a bit of inconsistency but I believe it to be more on the business end and not on the quality of services. Always follow-up and reconfirm your appointments in advance your self!
-
Review from Jade P.
Miami Beach, FL
This spa's award in InStyle magazine for "best brows" is well-deserved. Though the $40 "designer" brow treatment is pricy, it is well worth it. I left with dramatically improved brows that I continue to get compliments on!
The space is small, but incredibly chic and modern- it really is a sanctuary away from the city. They have a cool "water bar" with a variety of refreshing flavored waters and all of the staff are really helpful and gracious.
The brow specialist took her time and was very skilled in making the treatment as precise and painless as possible. If you have problem brows or just need a good reshaping, go to Rescue. You won't regret it!! -
Review from s k.
Philadelphia, PA
i admit I'm a little uppity. its not being uppity for the sake of uppityness but I'm just really into hygiene and am willing to spend the extra money to ensure that my experience doesn't worry me at all. Hence i spend the money and go to rescue rittenhouse. I'm by no means a "regular" here but if i were to be a regular anywhere, it would be rescue rittenhouse.
Obviously this place is high end but you don't have to worry where that nail file has been. The staff is friendly and nice. The colors are always the newest season and they have great brands like essie and zoya and CHANEL (how fancy!!!). The manicurist was awesome at helping me figure out a chic new color to try.
The reason this place didn't get 5 stars is because that pedicure bench is not comfortable! I get that its very au naturale for the decor but can we get some incline for the back PUH-LEASE. in any case, the weird seating hasn't affected my decision to go back to rescue. I haven't tried any of their other services but as I was writing this my friend told me that she loves their brazilian waxes (my friends and i don't really have boundaries :P)
Anyways if you've got $60-65 on mani/pedis, def should give rescue rittenhouse a try. haven't found a place in the city i like as much as them. -
Review from melissa M.
Philadelphia, PA
I too am an esthetician and work at a spa in the city. I got licensed in 2004 and worked for 3 years but later resigned and worked as a bartender. I have recently gotten back into working at a spa and I am reminded at how much I love what I do. As an esthetician it is important that I take great care of my skin and keep up with the latest products,etc. I found Rescue spa online and I also live in Rittenhouse so it's very convenient.
As an esthetician I can honestly say I had never had a Brazillian bikini wax before and I wanted to experience exactly what my clients experience so I booked an appointment at Rescue with a girl named Shannon. Upon arriving she was very well manicured and very professional yet not stuffy. There certainly was a "realness" about her that made me feel comfortable during the wax. The wax was a success and I plan on returning regularly instead of shaving.
Three weeks later I returned for a facial (of course I booked it with her). It was fabulous!! I can only hope that I will someday be the esthetician she is; knowledgable,great rythmic flow during massage;extractions I couldn't possible do myself. She explained what products she was using as well which I enjoy. After numerous facials with minimal results, this one was different. Two days later and my skin is noticeably clearer. I purchased the P50 exfoliant as well and It's made such a huge difference already. Both times I have been here the spa has been immaculate. Receptionists are not texting away and ignoring you (ahem ahem,Toppers). I also am impressed with the extensive Spa menu (Bio-lift ,Oxygenating,Manual lift facials) These are all extremely fascinating to me.
I think whoever owns this business/runs it really cares about what they do and really aims to please. A big thank you to Shannon for making my face beautiful! I will be back regularly. -
Review from Goa K.
Philadelphia, PA
I HATE HATE HATE making an appointment, calling, being rung out anything that has to do with talking to those bitches at the front desk. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt if they're having a bad day or something..but there is this blond chick there with an accent that is so awful to talk to. it's like you have such a relaxing time and then *boom* ruined. Multiple occasions with her-very short attitude, doesn't even ask if I need a bag, acting like she doesn't have time for you kinda customer service.
Actually the ONLY reason I still go to this place is because Tirzah gives the most outstanding facials in the whole world. I would follow her wherever she goes and just buy those products online (because they do carry amazing products). She is such a sweetheart, makes sure you have the most relaxing time, and is amazing with her work. She has changed my face completely and made me a more confident person. People compliment me on my skin all the time which has never ever happened to me before in my whole life. I tell everyone to go to her but always warn them about the service. so good luck ! -
Review from Meg B.
My mom and I had a wonderful experience at Rescue Rittenhouse Spa. My facial with Samantha was top notch. She was educated and skilled. When I sulked about my suffering eyebrows, she offered to touch them up for me just to get them back on track. The only minor complaint I had was the assumption that I would buy one of the products that she used on me , but other than that, the experience was amazing.
AnnaMarie did a great job on my mom's mani and pedi. I had a mani too and would eat the fun Chanel Paradoxal shade that I picked if I could! It's a fun vibe, gabbing with your friends/nail tech and feeling very chic at the same time.
I don't know what the other reviews were talking about but I thought everyone there was friendly and attentitive.
Rescue Rittenhouse is topping my list for the go-to facial place. -
Review from Dena M.
Philadelphia, PA
The space is clean & cool; this isn't a day spa, the estheticians at Rescue want to heal your blemishes, not massage them into hiding for a few days. They offer a full line of services & products, as well as sound advice, that will truly help treat your complexion insecurities. Facials are extremely personalized. The waxing services (Rescue features 3 different types of wax for a thorough job) are unparalleled & reasonably priced. Samantha is the go to girl for a bikini line you'd be proud to flaunt in Rio.
Extreme amounts of continuing education keeps the Rescue team on top of the skin care field. Splurge on P50, the 'exfoliator' featured at Rescue, in any of its amazing forms, to keep your skin fresh & blemish free.
BEST Mani/Pedi (Sally): Rescue offers the latest season's Chanel polishes! (I chose Insolent...)
The ladies at the counter are as beautiful as they are personable; I have always been greeted with a smile & offered a glass of water with either cucumber or citrus, which is a nice touch. Magazines in the waiting area are high class, domestic & international fashion. The changing rooms are stocked with luxe products & supplies to shower up after. -
Review from Lauren H.
You could come to Rescue for a wax or a mani/pedi, but you probably don't need to be paying Rittenhouse prices for your nails. Skincare is what Rescue is famous for, and that's where they're worth every penny. This is why they're one of very few places I will let anywhere near my face.
The last time I was at Rescue I had a facial with Michelle, and she was great. She gave me some good advice about my skin and the types of products I should be thinking about (without pushing their crazy-expensive line), was great with extractions, and overall made my appointment worth the admittedly high cost.
The one downside: "ambiance" isn't Rescue's strong suit. I've always found the staff to be friendly and professional, but you don't get a particularly zen relaxation vibe while waiting for your appointment like you might find at a day spa in the suburbs. For example, there's no sauna or steam room, and the "waiting room" doubles as a hallway. I felt somewhat in the way while I was waiting for my appointment, and I could hear noise from the lobby during my facial. Not very relaxing. In terms of the services they offer, though, Rescue is top-notch. -
Review from Jessica S.
Philadelphia, PA
Linda = MIRACLE WORKER!
I've never had great skin. It's sensitive, break-out prone, and has certainly never had that dewy glisten...until now, that is.
With my wedding coming up in June, I made my first appointment last month and had my second facial today. The difference after just two treatments is remarkable. She has unclogged a bunch of blackheads and sloughed away a lot of dead skin. Like many others have mentioned, the P50 lotion she recommended is a great product and worth the hefty price tag.
I completely trust her to make my skin beautiful for the 'big day'--which is huge because I've tried a lot of different things throughout my life and nothing has ever worked like this. I highly recommend it! -
Review from Alice L.
New Hope, PA
My friend Anne took me here for my birthday where we both enjoyed facials and massages. It was such a relaxing, luxiurious experience. The staff couldn't have been nicer and both treatments were wonderful.
I had the bio-lift facial from Danuta which left my skin feeling awsome. She also made some product recommendations - which are expensive -but which I am using and loving.
Can't wait to go back. -
Review from Hayley Sara B.
Philadelphia, PA
Despite my encounter with the horrid esthetician who shall remain namelss, I went back to Rescue for a pick-me-up facial because their products are just so darn good. I requested a different esthetician, and they scheduled me with Jeni who couldn't have been nicer! She was truly concerned about me having a pleasant experience, and I let her know that everything was fine, and that I'm not usually a person who complains, but getting *yelled* at for using over-the-counter- skincare products was just unacceptable. I have to agree with Jaimie Z., Jeni was excellent at extractions and gave me the most amazing shoulder massage. I felt like I was melting into the bed.
Here is Rescue's deal: Their staff can be hit-or-miss, but their products and services aren't...they're awesome. So, I guess if you want gorgeous, glowing skin, you just have to deal with a little front desk and/or esthetician attitude from time to time.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
6/28/2010
Rescue gets 4 stars for their services, and 2 stars for their attitude (it's serious, and it needs… Read more »
-
6/28/2010
-
Review from Christine B.
Philadelphia, PA
Had a bikini wax with Michelle. She did a great job. She was friendly and chatted with me the whole time. She was thorough, and super quick, which made the process relatively pain free. At $30, I also think it was a good deal for a spa. I've paid much more for a wax, without such great results.
I also thought the front staff was friendly. After I checked in, I was immediately offered some water, and then while I was waiting, another girl came by and offered me some water again. I will definitely be checking out some of their other services. -
Review from Gina F.
Philadelphia, PA
This spa is top notch. I've had waxing, mani/pedi, facials and massages here and everything has been great. Kelly is my go to for waxing and she's fabulous. I've rotated around for the other services and everyone is equally excellent. Definitely a great place for some relaxation and pampering.
-
Review from Dan F.
Following an painful, shaming, personally violent waxing encounter elsewhere, the likes of which I hope you never have the misfortune to experience, my (deleted), (deleted), and even my (definitely deleted) were in cosmetology shambles.
My prettiness had been stolen, replaced by rough ruin. Hair patches as sad as the tuft of Eeyore's tail.
That's why a friend who swears by the healing arts of Rescue Rittenhouse Spa directed me (through a series of increasingly strident text messages) to head there immediately and request a particular roll-on product designed to take the trauma out of bikini life.
I was not terribly eager to go. Mainly because most spas make men feel like they've just stampeded in on a hushed tea party. Even though any accountant worth his salt would take one look at my financial pie chart and see plain as day there's a giant pie slice dedicated to the relentless pursuit of beauty. With each new place you visit, you have to softshoe your way in, tee-hee with each passing pedicurist (do you want buff? tee-hee) and warm up the staff to the concept of Men are People Too. It gets old.
So I'd hoped to enter Rescue quietly, in shadow, unseen. As I discovered this is not possible here. The elevator opens directly into the main area, more or less facing the counter staff.
In short order a woman behind the counter lent me her gaze.
"I've had a waxing accident," I said.
Next thing I know she's swooped around the counter, I'm nervously unbuttoning my blouse, and she's applying onion-scented toner to my aggrieved bust in a disciplined, serious, science-y way. "You'll never use anything else," she said.
And you know what? She's right.
P50, ladies. Learn it. Live it. Nosebleed price of $60-something dollars, worth every fresh-faced penny.
I was sent off with an assurance that men are in fact very much welcome here, plus a guide of services on good cardstock to prove it.
The ladies-only vibe remains extra strong in my mind, but I will try to take them at their word and return for services. Not yet sure I'd feel comfortable lingering here, pinky aflare and teacup in hand. But from a technical standpoint, I feel pretty convinced that Rescue lives up to its name.Listed in: Gay Guide to Beauty
-
Review from Maura G.
i was treated to a birthday massage and mani/pedi here, and i had a great experience. this place is VERY clean and the staff is very professional. we started with the massages, and mine was perfect. the therapist had the right pressure, the music was soothing, and most importantly, she wasn't a chatty kathy (i like silent massages, personally; more relaxing). after the massage we moved onto mani/pedis. i agree that the pedi bench is not very comfortable, but i was still glowing from my massage so it didn't bother me that much. i found that the bench wasn't very conducive for short people...i kinda had to sit on the edge for my feet to be submerged in the sink. they had a rep from a product line visit that day and she left a bottle fo champagne, so the owner offered us drinks, which was nice. the girl who did my nails was so sweet, and she gave me a great tip on how to get my nails to grow, and it actually works.
this place is expensive because it's a spa in rittenhouse. great to treat yourself every once in a while! -
Review from Katrina S.
Washington, DC
I've been here twice now and have had a facial and the harmony essence massage (Spoil me package, $180), and a mani/pedi (the summer open toe special for $70).
My first experience (the package) was pretty good. I was greeted when I entered and was shown around the changing area. They have infused waters which are great and they're also willing to bring you tea/other drinks. I changed into my slippers and robe and waited on the couch. My facial was first and it was my first "real" facial (I have only had mini facials in the past. My aesthetician was very nice and did a good job on my face. I could hear people talking in the waiting room while I was in there though which definitely detracted from the spa feeling. The bed was heated though... and that definitely hit the spot :) I did have a bit of a breakout after the facial though which was unfortunate. She also recommended a product which I'm still debating buying...
My massage was great. She used hot stones (love!) and just did an overall great job. The rooms on this side are much quieter and I left feeling relaxed.
Finally, the Mani/Pedi yesterday with Kelly Jean. I am (was?) a regular at Ba Si for about a year, but my favorite person is on an extended vacation and the temporary replacement is not good. So i went in search of a new place for my nail addiction and decided to test out Rescue since I had a good experience here before. I was worried about the selection of colors since I go for less subdued colors, but they had a huge variety and I had trouble picking between all the options. Kelly Jean was polite and super nice. I think she could tell I wasn't a talker (I'm in the middle of studying for the bar and any down time I get I like to just relax!) and so let me do my thing with my book. Their pedicure station isnt the most comfortable (no massage chairs, and the ledge seems a bit short to sit on for an extended period). She did an impeccable job on my fingers and toes and even suggested colors for my mani once the pedi was done (I'm rather indecisive). Before leaving I made another mani appointment with her and have definitely found my replacement :) -
Review from Josh S.
Philadelphia, PA
BEAUTIFUL space. i got a full body massage from Andrew. request him. amazing experience.... very very professional and well-trained staff. i appreciate strong customer service, and i really got what i paid for. excellent staff.
go to rescue. -
Review from mer h.
Philadelphia, PA
So I have been to many salons and spa in the city and Rescue is by far the best. I have been trying to get my brows to look a certain way for years and things have never come out right UNTIL I met Samantha from Rescue. My eye brows have never looked better and I have never felt better about them. She also gave my the best brazilian/lotus wax Ive ever had. She is friendly and ensures that you are comfortable. She makes what could potentially be an awkward situation not awkward and does a fantastic job. She is a gem and I highly recommend Rescue and specifically Samantha to anyone who is in search of the perfect waxing experience.
The front desk staff was friendly and the atmosphere is lovely. I look forward to getting a facial or massage in the near future :) -
Review from Ritu K.
This is solely for the perfect 10 mani-pedi. Let me tell you it was perfect. The eyebrow wax I endured beforehand- totally meh!!! But the mani-pedi- awesome!!!!
They have a whole slew of fantastic Essie colors, a wide selection of OPI colors ( i like essie better) and the best part some fantastic Chanel colors... Who carries Chanel nail color?? (in my opinion the best colors!!!).. I was stoked. The whole experience was soo relaxing, my cuticles were spared the tortuous treatment they usually endure and my nails look beyond fantastic.. Thankfully I had a gift certificate but it may be worth the $65 price tag....1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/10/2010
Hmm can we say awkward. In my never ending quest to find the perfect wax I happened upon Rescue.… Read more »
-
4/10/2010
