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Categories: Beauty and Spas, Bed & Breakfast, Accessories
Neighborhood: Ukrainian VillageA place to gather. A place to heal. In a guided meditation, you'll learn how to send & receive healing.
Division (Blue)
Mon-Fri. 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
"i have been a customer of the Silver Room since its inception. Eric, the owner is one exceptional young man. He literally started from the…" read more »
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The only reason I am giving the Ruby Room four stars instead of five is because it can be pretty difficult to schedule an appointment there without more than two weeks notice, but beyond that, I absolutely loved my experience there.
I had a Groupon for services up to $125 which was perfect as I was going to Vegas the next week and it wanted to not have to worry about anything.
Karma was absolutely amazing. It was my first time adventuring into waxing land, and she was very good with explaining what she was doing, and why, and taking my mind off everything, especially since I was pretty burnt from tanning.
I would highly recommend booking any type of appointment with Karma! I will definitely be back when I have a little extra income and most definitely before I go on my next big trip.
Thanks Ruby Room!
I too was a groupon client. I had a cut and color with a stylist there. The place is nice and relaxing, so walking in I was pleased.
I sat down in the chair and was asked if I'd like water or tea. I asked for some water, but was told after she checked that the 'filter' needed to be changed. She asked someone else to change it and started on my hair. I never did get my water and was there for a couple of hours.
The cut was horrible. It was nothing like I described and it was so uneven. I had a big chunk of hair on the right side of my face and nothing close to it on the left side. I ended up cutting the chunk (to the best of my abilities) to try and match the other side when I got home. I asked for very light bangs (fringe) and got a whole lot of bangs. I almost stopped at a cheapie haircut place on the way home to see if they could even it out.
While I absolutely love the color, my hair is now fried. I have colored my hair off and on for 15 years (most of it was lightening). I've always been told that I had very healthy hair from stylists. I would think they would say otherwise if nothing else to get me to buy products. My hair has never felt like straw before.
I'm so glad that I only paid the groupon price for this visit. I was hoping to a regular patron for a good haircut and color, but not with those prices and the results I got.
I was really impressed that Ruby Room extended my Groupon deal to January so that I would be able to use the 2 coupons I bought on massages for my boyfriend and I in the couples room, which was why I jumped on the deal in the first place. I had to book the appointment a month in advance to get the room at a time that worked in my schedule. Day before the massage, the Ruby Room called to remind me of the appointment and confirmed that we had the couples room reserved.
We were taken back to the waiting room, our coats and bags were hung up in the coat room, we were offered tea and water, filled out our paperwork, did a chakra reading with a bit of aroma therapy.
But when it was actually time to start the massage, I was taken to an individual room. Turns out the couples room had been taken by another client at the time I had reserved. No one told our masseuses that we had originally booked the double, and no one told us that the double was not available. So we had to completely break from all the previous attempts at relaxing and figure out what the heck was going on. They gave me the option of rescheduling for another day, and I should have taken it, but after already having waited a month to get the room in the first place, I figured it wouldn't be worth waiting another month.
Unfortunately, though, I couldn't shut my mind off during the massage. I kept thinking about how long we had been at the spa with no one telling us there had been a change, etc. I read that someone else on Yelp had the same experience of booking the couples room but then having it be unavailable when they showed up for their appointment; I'm not sure how the Ruby Room keeps making this mistake, but it was really frustrating and I ended up feeling a lot more stressed out when I exited the Ruby Room than when I came in!
As far as the spa itself goes, it was nice, but I have definitely been to better, especially considering what Ruby Room charges for its full-price services. I could hear everything that the people in the next room were saying during my massage (actually it was just one room with a divider extending up to the ceiling), and there was a good deal of noise coming from other rooms as well. My room was very basic and quite chilly (they give you an electric blanket during the massage, but you get dressed again on an ice-cold tile floor).
I had the pleasure of finally mustering enough courage to visit Ruby Room. I say courage as it always struck me as a place that primarily catered to the female demographic; however, despite this, what I partly assumed it was all about and partly what I heard from others, I felt the products/services were those that would be of great interest. So I gave it a shot.
Results: Extremely Impressed from the moment I walked in the door to the second I left the premises.
I was initially/immediately greeted by a group of lovely ladies and the best part, it was a greeting that was genuine and the best I can describe, lovely. And for someone that already had some reservations or honestly intimidation about entering a place I assumed it to be, it dispelled any of those previous notions and I immediately felt at home.
From the extraordinary detail, the layout, the 'beyond cool' design, the energy, the quality oriented service, it was essentially 'bar non' for me. As a result, relishing in the experience, I decided I'd get a 10 minute intuition reading. Although an open-minded person, there's always that natural human skepticism for what's unknown and unfamiliar. What resulted was me being blown away of how spot on my Reader was and how amazed I was that she was able to open up a well-protected/fortressed me. And she was incredibly personable, non-threatening and respectful. I left extremely relaxed, kind of confused in the what in the world just happened type of way (good thing) and quite honestly less stressed and emotionally good.
I've since recommended to my immediate/closest friends, one of which visited a few days later with his girlfriend and her mom and, although in their own words, I gathered that their sentiments regarding Ruby Room was no less different.
I'm hopeful this helps, especially for the male population, it's a pretty cool experience.
I used my Groupon coupon for hair service with Laura. I love that she works on Sundays. My hair turned out really nice, but without a coupon it's more money than I want to spend getting my hair did.
They have a full line of Aveda and Bumble and Bumble products to select from. I went upstairs to their gift shop and they have a bunch of great books and neat stuff to check out. I bought a couple of gifts for my friends for the Holidays. I could have stayed longer but I needed to get out of there before I spent anymore money.
If you can afford the price point, it's a great place to see and be seen! Enjoy!
A truly great spa experience, but I have to say that I was disappointed when I called Ruby Room and they were plum out of massage appointments for the Groupon usage. The woman on the phone could not have been nicer though and went through a list of services I could try and I was extremely happy with the selections I made - an energy healing and the cold stone headache treatment.
Ruby Room is a beautiful spa and the relaxed atmopshere boasts some very friendly staff. I'm not giving my experience here the full 5 stars solely because of things that happened before my treatments. I was escorted to the second floor and told to sit in a chair but not offered any water or tea. I would have gotten it myself but there weren't any cups. Instead of a professionally friendly atmosphere I expected I was just kind of left waiting for my service to start.
Luckily the experience improved from there out. The energy healing was amazing (I would not do the service justice by attempting to explain it here but it was similar to Reiki and was much more emotional than I'd anticipated) and I was relaxed and utterly calm for my cold stone headache massage. I would highly recommend the second treatment for anyone that suffers from migraines. Cold stones, light massaging of the face as well as hand and foot massages were invigorating.
Overall a very positive experience and I will definitely go back to give some more of their services a try. I would have just opted for the *safe* massage but now I will try expanding my horizons with some more healing or intuitive services!
My highly awaited massage/brazilian Groupon combo! I needed a massage, badly. My back has always given me problems. I have been through rolfing, physical therapy, etc., but always look forward to a good massage from time to time - something with less pain!
My masseuse, Amy, was incredible. Really, she knows her stuff. My half hour massage was perfect, just what I needed. Before that, she did my brazilian waxing, too. Ruby Room uses a combo of hard and soft/strip wax. Now, I find it strange that in this city that so many folks use strip wax and only strip wax...everywhere! Um, no. That is too old school for me. OUCH! Yay for Ruby Room!
Best brazilian I have had in Chicago. She took her time, was super nice and chatty, and did a great job! Now, only if this place were more affordable. $100 for an hour massage is quite steep. I can't be a regular for that reason, but maybe for a splurge...
After hearing great things about this place I finally got to experience it first hand. It's gorgeous inside, they have fabulous product lines, the decor was so relaxing and it had such great energy. It was truly a healing experience...and I can't wait to try a service here.
So yes, I never can seem to get an appointment here. Even if I call or I try to be a walk-in guest, they never have anything open which stinks so that's a downfall.
I decided to shop around and I found tons of things to buy, they have a great line of their own aromatherapy sprays bcreative, bgrounded etc. I loved them! They have a custom candle that I had to have it smelt to amazing. I purchased some healing crystals & gems that reflect the different chakras.
I had a reading done by Ryan and I was blown away, I felt like he new everything about me, it was crazy and that was in only 10 minutes I should have paid for more time. I don't normally believe in this stuff but he was spot on!
I hope to get in for some services sometime in the near future.
I was so disappointed that I wasnt able to use my groupon for a massage because the appointments were all booked through the expiration of the groupon. This tells me that they must be great and I should have made my appointments right away.
My wax was great, if that can even be said about a brazillian. Karma did an excellent job of keeping me entertained with her humor and reassuring comments that I was doing great. It seemed to go by fairly fast. She used a hard wax which I had never experienced before. There are no strips involved and the hair seemed to come out easier.
Next I had a scalp massage. This is never something I would have gotten without a groupon because It's $75.00 (I use groupons because I am cheap)! It wasnt really what I was expecting. The massage part is kind of short and it was done sitting up in a chair. I was expecting it to be an extension of when I'm getting a body massage and they throw in a little head massage. Kristina used very awesomely smelling oils and a nice conditioning treatment on my hair. She was very cool and nice to talk to. my hair looked and felt great afterwards.
If you are not into alternative healing and stuff I consider a little "out there" this might not be the place for you. I cant say that I am completely sold on the whole chakra balancing thing and this salon will incorporate that into your service. Before my scalp massage I had to pick a card which told me which chakra I was supposed to work on and then sprayed with balancing mist and given an affirmation to read. I appreciate the whole wellness therapy but it really isnt for me.
Very relaxing and interesting array of services. I recommend to all my friends.
I am pretty impressed with this place, but they lost 2 stars with me for a couple of reasons.
I went here because they had a groupon for a $50 for $125 worth of services.
The bad: The woman on the phone was kind of snotty. And this was after I waited 15 minutes to talk to someone so I could get a simple question answered. I was put on hold 3 different times, which was way too much. The $125 worth of services also didn't really exist because massages cost $100 for 60 mins and $150 for 90 mins. Well, you had to use it all in one service, so either way they were sort of telling you you either have to pay $25 for an upgrade of time or lost $25 worth of your groupon because you have to use it all in one visit. Kind of annoying. This was what took away a couple of their stars.
The good: Amy, my masseuse, was amazing! I was almost 15 minutes late due to lovely Chicago traffic (and getting all the way to effing wicker park! Seriously, there is NO good way to get there) She went ahead and still granted me my full 60 minutes and went over during the scheduled time. I really appreciated that. She did a great job and it was very relaxing. She was a little hard though, so be clear on what kind of massage you want. Being sore the next day from something that is supposed to relax you is kind of odd.
Overall, I would go back again. Unfortunately though, my current financial situation doesn't really allow for multiples massages each month!
Laura was really fantastic. She was super friendly, gave me some great advice on cut, color and products...and I felt like she really listened to what I wanted. My color turned out perfectly. I would definitely recommend her. The space is also super cute and the receptionist was really nice and helpful.
I visited the Ruby Room, for the first time on Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 2:00pm. I planned to treat myself to a Chakrassage for my birthday. I don't recall the name of my massage therapist, but her name began with an "L". She was a skilled massage therapist, but she lacked tact. As she began to massage my thighs, she INAPPROPRIATELY told me that I needed to get to a gym and tone up my inner thighs! I cannot count how many body massages I've had and enjoyed without incident. I have never felt as though I had to have a toned body in order to get a massage. A massage is about a relaxing, healing experience, not demeaning in any way. Needless to say I got hot all over after this comment. My relaxed state was interrupted by anger. I didn't complain after the service because I didn't want to escalate the situation and totally ruin my day. My massage service was followed by a nice make-up application by a very nice make-up artist. This helped ease my discomfort. The massage therapist whose name begins with an "L" needs sensitivity training. Her job is NOT to criticize her clients. She is to keep negative energy out and bring positive in. I will NOT visit Ruby Room again and I will share my experience with others.
Millicia
Yelp! I'm back! And I wish I had something better to say. I bought the Groupon that others have mentioned, tried to book a massage and was told that there was NO availability for a massage until January. I've had lots of massages and I've never had to wait over a month to book a massage. The staff has obviously been told that they cannot make any exceptions for this special and that's too bad. I'm not particularly interested in their other services, which don't even come close to the price of the groupon. In short, I feel ripped off. If I go for a massage or other service, I will update my review accordingly.
I went to the Ruby Room thanks to Groupon and I was thoroughly impressed. I got a 90-minute massage and the therapist was attentive and thorough. The staff there was all very helpful and I would recommend their massages to a friend. Their prices were high, but I wouldn't say that they were unreasonable.
i went a few weeks ago for a full body massage (thanks to groupon), and had kimberlyn as a massage therapist. she was incredible--very attentive and responsive. i've gotten several massages in the past from other spas, but kimberlyn's stood out because she assessed my overall wellness, and paid attention to parts i didn't even realize were sore.
i would definitely recommend this to almost anyone looking for a spa in chicago. they have a great range of services and techniques, and really make sure your experience is ideal.
the one exception to this would be people who aren't interested or convinced by things like energy crystals, energy healing, or chakras. it's not a central part to the massage, but was brought up a few times.
I decided to get my haircut from Ruby Room because of a 50% off coupon I saw at the http://StyleChicago.com website. I ended up getting my haircut with Laura. I wasn't happy with my haircut the first time, but then I called in asking if she could recut my hair and they were more than happy to accommodate. The cut was a lot better than the first, but it still was just OK. There is something about my bangs and some of the layers that don't look like it was cut like at some of the other trendier wicker park salons I have been to. At least I didn't pay full price!
I found this hotel after a last-minute Google Maps revelation. I was in the first few days of a road trip and my boyfriend and I would be passing through Chicago for a night. I'd booked a room at the South Loop Hotel in Chicago, but after checking out the location it didn't look like it would be nearly as fun as staying somewhere else. I found the Ruby Room and, although the prices weren't as good as I'd hoped, I went to their website to get more information. I was surprised to find that their direct rates were at least $50/night lower than those advertised on http://hotels.com, so I booked directly through them on their website and was so glad I did.
We arrived and parked in the loading zone in front of the spa. Kelly at the front desk was extremely nice and helpful from the minute we walked in, and worked with us to schedule an energy healing session with Ryan later that afternoon. We got our keys and parking information and hauled our stuff up the long, steep stairs to our room - with the help of another employee, who carried some of our bags up the stairs and showed us around before leaving us to relax. We took a nap, got some coffee and pastries from the great bakery right across the street, and then went to the spa to meet with Ryan. We both had wonderful experiences with him and were left feeling relaxed and ready to take on the rest of the city for the night. Kelly again helped us with detailed directions to the places we wanted to go and gave us some great restaurant and bar suggestions. After dinner and a movie, we walked the blocks surrounding the hotel for an hour and enjoyed the neighborhood.
In the morning, we reluctantly got out of our VERY comfortable bed and enjoyed the marble steam shower in our suite before heading across the street to Milk & Honey for one of the best breakfasts we've ever had. We hated to leave the hotel and wished we were staying for another week! When we got home, we had a very nice postcard from the staff thanking us for staying with them - they even made a personal note based on what we'd told them about our plans for the rest of the trip.
The Ruby Room was one of the highlights of our trip and I'd stay there again (OR MOVE IN!) in a second and advise anyone else to do the same.
I had a great experince here over the weekend. I went in for a brazilian with Karma. She was so friendly and welcoming and really took her time. I enjoyed my conversation with her and was impressed with how little the whole thing hurt. The spa was calming and I never felt rushed or pressured to buy anything or sign up for any additional services. The whole thing took about 45 minutes. I will be back.
CAVEAT: This is about the hair salon - I haven't tried any other services yet. They have 3 stylists. I saw Toni and she is awesome.
I live in the neighborhood and walked by Ruby Room a ton of times. I even stopped in to shop, but I never got it - I honestly did not really understand what it was about. So I never bothered to book anything here.
But I saw a Groupon as many of the other reviewers noted and I decided to find out what this little mystery shop was all about. Besides I lost my hairstylist because of some drama in the old salon and I was looking for a new colorist and hairstylist.
I called on Monday to book an appointment. The woman who answered the phone, Kelly, was very accommodating and friendly. I asked her a bazillion questions and was concerned with the salon having a stylist who knew how to do "ethnic" hair (I am Asian with stubborn and very thick hair that is also prematurely gray). I was able to book a consult on Wednesday and appointment for Friday. Kelly called me on Tuesday to remind me about the consult and I asked her if anyone canceled on Wed - and lucky stars! A cancellation - so my consult turned into the real deal.
I was scheduled with Toni - she is new there, but has been a hairstylist and colorist for 6 years I think. She was very cool and nice. Most importantly, she knew what I wanted and what I needed. She corrected my color and gave me the shades I wanted (I got an all over color and some kind of highlights). The cut was perfect and so was the blow out. Yes she did her product pitch, but hey its business and a girl has got to make a living, besides I like suggestions on products and yeah the products are high end and not cheap (this is a high end salon with a laid back attitude not Super Cuts).
Toni also specializes in ethnic hair! Anyway, she did a great job and even offered a free makeup touch up, which I really appreciated. While she was touching up my makeup, I was lucky to chat with some of the staff there and they were all very friendly.
The haircut, color, highlights were around $150 - but this is what I normally pay for such services. The salon uses Aveda haircolor and I tell you that it doesn't burn like other dyes. I am planning to go back because I think I found my new hair stylist and bonus, she is in the hood.
They also do some kind of frequent customer bonus points plan - which I think is kind of cool. Its a good idea to award your regular clients.
I am intrigued to try some of the "healing" services, but I am somewhat skeptical. I'll try some out and update my review.
All in all, the service was great, price was in-line with similar high end services, and the atmosphere was calm, clean, and professional. I did not experience any attitude and I love that its not all chaotic as some salons can be. But maybe its because I was the first customer of the morning.
Oh yeah I liked the place so much, I bought a gift certificate for a birthday present to my friend!
I had a wonderful experience at the Ruby Room today. My massage therapist, Kimberlyn (sp), was amazing. She listened to me as i described my problem areas and she did her own analysis by assessing my posture. The massage was then focused on my problem areas. She also told me different exercises to do in the gym to balance out my weak areas. It was the best massage i've head in Chicago and i've been to several places in the loop and Wicker Park/ Bucktown area.
I also received a gloss in their salon and my hair looks great! The only downside is getting on the schedule! You have to book your appointment far in advance.
I will be back!
I purchased a Groupon and scheduled a 90 minute massage. While the massage was awesome (loved Amanda!), I had to dock a star because it was not fully 90 minutes long. My massage was scheduled for 2:15, and I waited in the waiting room as three other clients came and went with other therapists. I was really starting to think that they had forgotten about me. Finally, about 2:30, my therapist showed up and accompanied me first to the flower essence area, then to the treatment room. The massage was over at 3:55 (yes, I looked at the clock). Allowing for the time to get undressed and situated, the massage could not have lasted more than an hour and 20 minutes. I loved the massage, but I really believe in getting what I paid for. That said, the massage was truly excellent and I also really enjoyed the flower essence aromatherapy aspect and believe it helped with the relaxation. I would go back again... but I am watching the clock.
I'm pretty thrifty n i don' often indulge in pampering myself. I bought the groupon offer 2 ruby room cuz i thot it ws a gr88 deal n the reviews were impressive. I fixed an appointment for partial highlights n a hair cut. Kristina was the one who worked with me. She ws very friendly n made me feel very comfortable n ws really helpful in guidin' me through the process of choosin' the right color and hairstyle. N yes, i ws suggested abt 5-6 products out'a which i thought one might help me keep my hair smooth n so I bought it. (for $21)
The only drawback (for which I don' gv it a full 5 star rating) is that its expensive. The groupon was for $50 (valued at $125) and further paid a difference of abt $50.
The haircut n color, I've fallen in luv with but, I hope I don' feel guilty for spendin' such money to go bk there in the future.
I've been to several spas (still partial to many in Ohio and/or out west) and there were a lot of things the Ruby Room missed. First of all, they messed up my apt. I drug my poor BF in this house full of women for a couples massage ( with a Groupon ) and we ended up having separate rooms because they double booked the couple's room. Ok, not a big deal, however, I felt everything was a little rushed. There was NOT a good meditation or relaxation area... which considering they focus on this aspect of the spa threw me for a loop. I found myself sitting on a couch next to the blow driers and hair salon...... not my idea of a day at the spa.
The massage itself: Mine was fantastic. I told her exactly what I like and she did a great job. I think I even fell asleep at the end!!!
HIs massage-- well he said he liked it. He didn't rant and rave about it-- but what guy really does. However, when he woke up in the morning he had huge blisters on his back from the hot stones! These were bad! Needless to say, we'll skip on that the next time!
So all in all, It's way overpriced for the service you receive. I have no problem paying a premium, but it better include all the bell and whistles! RR didn't have any special features to set itself apart; esp in the decor, comfort, etc. There wasn't even a locker room-- shower room, anything! I went to dinner afterwards with greasy, nasty hair!
I don't know what their service is like, because I didn't get to use it. Bought their Groupon and then when I went to redeem it, they refused to allow me to use it for the massage I purchased it for. The Groupon was for "services" with the only restrictions of no Saturday appts and no use for facials or retail products. I found this to be a bait and switch and was very upset by this. While the woman was very nice and tried to offer me other "services", they were not what I wanted or needed. I will never go ther and suggest others be cautious because of their poor business practices. They should honor their commitments without adding addition restricitions. I was able to get a full refund from Groupon.
it is unfortunate that I have had so many bad experiences with the receptionists at this place, because otherwise it has the potential to be a really fabulous place. if you can somehow sidestep them, the services are quite good. they are cold, rude, inconsiderate (even to the other people who work there) and have no clue about customer service. I put up with it for over a year because of Amy, but sadly a situation of non-loyalty from all involved was the final straw. I left work two hours early because of inclement weather (it would usually take me about 45 minutes to get there); after my train broke down, a cab driver going the wrong way and sorely choosing the path with all the traffic jams, I got out of the cab, in the pouring rain, ran 12 blocks and ended up being 15 minutes late. oh, and by the way, I called in the cab that I was running late. they wouldn't take me. they said I was too late, Amy had already gone home (already gone home in just 15 minutes!!!! clearly she was tapping her foot at 5:00) and that I would have to pay the FULL service fee for "cancelling" on late notice.
bottom line is they expect loyalty from their customers but clearly do not believe in the return. there are way too many good places in Chicago to go to for an eyebrow wax and Arcona products for them to treat their customers like they are nobody - I for one have said after a year and a half of walking in that door and feeling like crap, I've had enough.
(I would give more stars if you could just go in and get the services; although Amy was a disappointment in the loyalty category; I had been going to her for over a year and she couldn't even wait until I got there to talk with me about my options for running late).
I've been salon-hopping for awhile now, so when my sister gave me a gift certificate to Ruby Room, I decided to use it for my hair and see if I'd found a stylist I'll stick to. If I can do a good job of saving up for my haircuts and dye jobs, I will be staying with Rylee at Ruby Room.
It's a little pricey for me but I am cheap and it's definitely not steep for the neighborhood. And if one so desired, one could get some spa treatments, get their hair done, and take a yoga class and make a day of it, so that's nice.
I'll probably stick to the salon because I am not a baller. The space is beautiful and it was the first time I've been warm rather than freezing while getting my hair done (what is that with the salons?). They are open on Sunday, which was amazingly convenient for me, plus I was the only client so I felt really special.
Rylee took her time; my (now very, very short!) haircut was based upon a picture and we went over what would work on my head, with my pre-existing bangs. I love the cut and the color is awesome too. Also, I normally hate being forced to make conversation with strangers, but she was really sweet and easy to talk to.
Overall, I actually had an enjoyable time during my salon visit, which is amazing because I usually do this for the results and dread the process.
It must've been my stylists' first day cutting hair...ever. First off, yes I was disappointed with my Groupon like countless others on here. I'm glad RR decided to extend the coupon for some of you. I was not one of those lucky few. I ended up settling for a $55 haircut and wasted the remaining balance of the Groupon. Moving on. Cassandra was my stylist. She offered me a glass of water when we walked in. We both stood there awkwardly because I think she expected me to pour the water (which is fine, but I thought that was part of the pampering?! No?). I told her I wanted to 'clean up' my current cut. She seemed to understand my wishes and we moved to the shampoo station. I should've gotten up and left after she washed my hair...It was like a cat clawing on my head. No joke--my eyes were watering by the time she rinsed the conditioner out of my hair. Needless to say, her feline technique did not include a relaxing head massage (the part I was looking forward to the most!). She dried my hair in a very haphazard way so that my hair follicles were poking in all sorts of directions. She told me she was having a hard time drying my hair because I had some static. A lot of people have extra static in the winter. It shouldn't hinder your ability to properly operate a brush. At this point I was on the verge of walking out. I decided I did not want her to cut my layers so I asked her to slightly trim my longest layer. She sprayed Air Control right in my eyes and sounded appalled when I told her I used Aveeno shampoo and conditioner. Seven minutes later she was done and I was free. I can't believe I paid $50 for this (price of the Groupon). It was awful. I left feeling very tense. For a sec, I thought I was on the show Boiling Points (I would've won the hundred bucks). I immediately called Art+Science and made an appointment with them. I honestly cannot venture to that strip of Division without cringing.
I wouldn't go anywhere else ever again for a spa treatment. If you need a massage or are feeling down, GO SEE ASLANA. She is amazing. Don't even worry about telling her where it hurts because she already knows. I have all seen Colleen for a radical forgiveness session. I feel the best I have in years!!
They don't mess around w/ massages here. I had a GREAT massage experience. Would highly recommend it. Have not tried their other services, but was very impressed with what they do have to offer. Get a massage and ask for Gladys. The only minor flaw was that it was a little difficult to schedule an appt and get on their calendar--even during the weekday. That's how good/busy they are, I guess!
After relocating to Wicker Park last month, I found myself in need of a new stylist. Every girl knows, a good cut can make or break you. I knew a couple of friends that had visited The Ruby Room for haircuts and were pleased with the results so I decided to try it out as well.
I called on a Friday and got in with a same day appointment. This made me very happy. I am normally not a last minute appointment maker, but the need was there. I was given the choice of a jr. or sr. stylist. For the $30 price difference, I chose the jr. stylist. The receptionist was very accomodating on the phone.
I arrived for my appointment and the receptionist was equally accomodating in person. I was honestly treated like I had been their top client for 10 years. I was taken back to the salon area and Toni was ready for me. Toni was very warm and friendly and from what I learned, a recent addition to the Ruby Room staff. Toni sat down with me, got to know me and really listened to what I wanted. Once my experience was complete, I had just the haircut I wanted. And, to top it off, the blow out was AHHHMAAAZING! I hardly ever leave a stylist and like my hair. Not sure why that's the case, it just is. I told Toni had I known it was going to look that good, I would have come in the next day so she could have done her magic for my birthday party.
My only hesitation in writing this review is the fear of not getting in to see my beloved new stylist. :)
Ruby Room is about a half dozen things in one: salon, spa, yoga studio, shop, crystal bar (whaa?) guest house, and more.
I didn't get a chance to check out a yoga class or utilize the spa services. However, as a place to stay, it's pretty ideal. The location is a big factor. Stumbling distance from Pizza Metro, Milk & Honey, Rainbo AND Dusty Groove? Big chain hotels, you can have your Michigan Ave. I will happily take Ruby Room's spot on Division and its proximity to both Wicker Park businesses and the Blue Line!
It's not just the location that's appealing here, however. The space is surprisingly quiet (outside of some weird construction noise on my second morning there), and the rooms are tastefully appointed. Everything is sparklingly clean, with a neutral, calming color palette and dimmers (love this!) on all the lighting.
The bed is so comfortable, you'll melt right into it -- with pillows and a giant down comforter to complete your cozy cocoon. To add to the home-away-from home factor, there's even a little shared kitchenette where you can make tea or pop some leftovers in the fridge.
Only 2 (pretty insignificant) gripes:
Because it's a historical building, there's no elevator. In other words, pack light -- you'll be haulin' your stuff up a few flights of stairs. They do warn you about this ahead of time, though, so just plan accordingly.
I'm a lover of super-hot showers. There is a little button that you push on the temp. dial to increase the hot water past a certain temp. However, even with pushing that, I couldn't get the water quite hot enough for my tastes.
I drop into RR when I visit Wicker Park, and pick up some incense or Arcona products. I can't afford this place, normally, but I would visit for a facial or a haircut. I see the reviews are hit and miss around the yoga studio--I wouldn't know about that. I have also seen the whole retail therapy thing that they have going in there. It is fair to say that myself and the other poor people who used to live in the hood could not afford this on a regular basis.
I got a facial on my birthday, and it was the best facial I've ever had. However, points off for not having budget options, and a point off for trying to be too many things to too many people.
The day after I graduated law school, I got a massage at the Ruby Room. The masseuse, Amanda, was great. More than great. At first I was a little put off - Amanda was pulling my arm in odd ways, and I sort of thought "What is this BS? It's not doing anything," then suddenly the muscle tension in my upper shoulder was GONE. She also massaged me under my arm, which most masseuses I've had stay away from. It's logical for them to do that since most people are too ticklish, but it's key to working out the upper back & shoulder muscle tension that results from being on a computer or sitting reading a textbook all day, every day. Really. Best massage ever, even better than the great one I had at Exhale a few weeks ago.
I went for yoga, I won't go back. The place is beautiful, but really gimmicky. I suppose these places all are, to a certain extent. But seeing as how I don't really go for all of the swami charlatan bs, the posters explaining how paying for your yoga session ensures proper energy flow annoyed me. You mean I'm not paying them in exchange for a service, but because they need my positive energy? Give me a break. And the thongs for sale? Um, okay.
More complaints:
It was loud in there! Lots of noise from the street (i.e. sirens) and from the doorbell to the place, which in a robotic voice announces when the door opens.
I also wasn't thrilled with the instructor. She pushed the movements along too quickly--I didn't have time to breath. And that's not to say that I was excessively challenged or anything, It was quite the opposite. She just seemed like she wanted to get it over with and she skipped a step at one point and was like, "wait, where was I?"
She seemd like a sweet girl, but I didn't like her style. She kept having to stop to gather tools for us to use too, which was annoying.
YEA...Wendy Beyer is back, and she is better than ever...or should I say after having a colonic done by colon hydro-therapist Wendy Beyer I feel better than ever! She is a true healer and loves being the sister-goddess of healing; a wonderful and long overdue treatment and I was so happy to buy a package(best deal price wise and results wise).
I genuinely enjoyed my stay at Ruby Room: it's a little different than your average hotel, at least the average hotel that I've hit when staying in Chicago, and you can tell the place draws healty (pun intended) amounts of juju from the fact that it sits on top of a like-owned spa.
In my experience, it was a great launching pad to check out some of the fun boutiques and cool eateries in the area, and the place was mouse quiet at night, at least in my room. And the rooms, such as they are? Spacious, upscale, even a little potentially ornate. One downside was the lack of elevator here. I stayed on the 4th floor, and if you've ever dragged your bags up four flights, that is a special breed of suck. At any rate, that aside, I can't complain. I had a great stay here, for a comparatively reasonable rate, in a fun part of town to boot. Definitely worth considering if you want to park it some place outside the downtown epicenter.
I have only ever visited the yoga studio at Ruby Room and I am love the studio space and the instructors. The studio is minimalist in design and aesthetics and I really liked the calming effect it has. I know some complained about street noise but I actually really like the buzz of the city, it is something that has become a comforting white noise that I mostly tune out.
I have been to 3 community classes and 1 regular class. My favourite teachers so far have been Jessica and Vicki, both for different reasons. Jessica was very attentive to each student, helping us get deeper into some of the poses and she ended the class with some aromatherapy which was a nice touch. Oh, and she handed out cookies. Vicki was rapid and had a great flow of movements and I didn't notice the 90 minutes fly by.
I have never done Vinyasa yoga before and had practiced Bikram yoga on-and-off for years and I realize that I feel more of a cathartic release from Vinyasa yoga and Ruby Room is my new go to spot!
My only warning is that there is only 1 bathroom so come dressed and it will make your visit easier.
I loved the hair color they gave me, but what I DIDN'T love is that they charged me $130 to do it, claiming they needed to charge me $30 extra for more hair dye. Which doesn't make sense, considering my hair is the same length as a place that changes me $60 to dye it. They also CHARGE you to dry your hair after they dye it. Who does this? I will not be back. I only went here because I had a coupon, but overcharging customers is not cool.
We went here as a group to get our hair/makeup done for a wedding. I didn't select the salon but the bride did. We worked with Kristina (I think?) and a nice lady named Toni. It is very rare to find a salon that has experience working with asian hair and makeup. We were all very pleased. Because I was there just getting done up for a wedding, I was a bit put off by the push for their amazing products that they also sold. I was there be made pretty, not to go shopping for more stuff. Overall a lovely place, quite dreamy actually. Smelled great, kind of woodsy candles or incense. I might go back sometime when I am in the neighbourhood.
Free haircut with color…
Neighborhood: DePaul
Walentine" Day Special
Neighborhood: South Loop
Neighborhood: Ukrainian Village
Category: Yoga
Neighborhood: Near North Side
Category: Hotels
Neighborhood: Ukrainian Village
Category: Yoga
Oak Park, IL
Category: Bed & Breakfast
Neighborhood: Bucktown
Category: Restaurants
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