On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.

Spa Bar

4 star rating
based on 110 reviews

Categories: Massage, Day Spas, Hair Removal  [Edit]

Neighborhood: SOMA
246 2nd St
(between Clementina St & Tehama St)
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 975-0888
View All  |   1 of 4 Previous PhotoNext PhotoStart Slideshow
Hours:

Mon-Thu. 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Fri-Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price Range:
$$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Accepts Insurance:
No
By Appointment Only:
Yes

110 reviews for Spa Bar

Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
This business is a Yelp Sponsor

One of Spa Bar's Favorite Reviews What's This?

Photo of Rosalynn D.

 

58

134

Rosalynn D.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
7/27/2009

i totally took advantage of their $50 one hour massages during their "Hawt on Yelp" week!!!

I love how once you walk past the hair stations, you walk into this back hallway full of massage rooms. It's super quiet, dim and zen. My massage therapist (forgot his name) was very attentive by asking what my needs are. He really focused on the areas I needed attention on and made sure i was comfortable the entire time.  He also had the SOFTEST hands ever!

I felt great after my massage. VERY much needed...esp midweek on a Wednesday. I wish i could come back so often to do it every week!!!  I wanna come back soon to try the rest of their services and for sure another massage.

:)

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Nancy N.

 

18

36

Nancy N.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
10/28/2009

$40 for a painless and fast bikini wax! They ask how much you want to remove before doing so. Tell them how you want it, and you'll receive.

Very relaxing music and there are individual rooms for privacy.

If you're making an appointment and decided to change/cancel, notify  them within 24 hours to avoid any charges, but they are very accommodating.

Photo of Carol Y.

 

13

34

Carol Y.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
9/14/2009

I came in during the Hawt on Yelp promotional period for a 60 minute massage with Megan. I had been here once before a few years before for a couple's massage, but I remember very little about the place. Street parking in that area is hit-or-miss, but there is a parking lot on Clementina which charges a $9 flat rate. I lucked out and found free 2-hour street parking (score!).

The place looks much more like a trendy hair salon than a spa (or bar). The receptionist was friendly  and I wasn't left waiting very long before my therapist came out to greet me.

I was brought to the back massage area behind a glass door into a dimly lit hallway where all the massage rooms were. I was pleasantly surprised at how relatively quiet this back area was compared to the bustle of the salon with it's hair dryers blowing and high-pressured faucets running.

The bathroom was spacious and clean.  My only complaint would be that they do not provide showers.  It's a huge pet peeve of mine to walk around feeling greasy--especially when it comes to my hair.  It would also serve them well to have jacuzzi and/or steam room.  

My massage therapist for the day, Megan, reminded me very much of Mina Suvari with her soothing, almost seductive voice. She spoke to me for the first five minutes of my massage, but soon stopped and allowed me to enjoy the rest of it conversation-free. She had good technique with a firm yet smooth touch.  She spent much of the time focused on the spots I had indicated as being my most sore, and I walked out satisfied... Greasy, but satisfied.

People thought this was:

  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Phillip H.

 

1

25

Phillip H.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
10/2/2009

I've been getting massage treatments from Spa Bar for the past five years.  The therapists are very professional, courteous and also do any excellent job.  I would give this place five stars if it offered a loyalty program, like Supercuts used to do.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
Photo of Anh P.

 

88

135

Anh P.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
6/16/2009

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!

thank you yelp's "hawt week"!! my gurrrfwen and i decided to pick spa bar for our hour massage during hawt week ($50) and i was surprised that i've never seen the place even though i walk by everyday! but now i know what to look for, or smell for rather. they have a table outside with the yummiest smelling candle that's sure to lure you in

came in on a wednesday after work, didn't have to wait long (yes, we had an appointment) the space is large and creatively used. there are comfy brown velvet benches along the front of the spa, a few salon chairs towards the back right and products to the left. we were greeted warmly by whom i later found out was the owner/manager(?), he was really nice : )

megan came out to get me for my appointment and walked us back to the massage rooms in the back. i was taken by surprise, it was a long hallway lined by candlelight, the most relaxing and romantic setting. the room she put me in was also lit by six tea lights, the decor minimal, some bamboo in a vase, completely void of any clutter which i found to be very calming. definitely had me feeling like i was away from work&city life. put all my stuff away and used the bathroom before i got down and dirty with the massage (bathroom is immaculate by the way)

megan was such a great masseuse. she had a strong hand and made me feel so relaxed (well as relaxed as i could be, somehow i can't get my mind to just stop thinking during massages. anyone got any tips for that??) it felt fantastic. by the time we were done, i wanted to stay there and take a nap. megan brought me a nice hot cup of tea and told me to take my time, i sure did.

definitely coming back here for another massage and all the other awesome services they offer. problem is, i just need the funds to do so, anyone want to donate some money to the "anh needs a massage once a month" charity?

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Adrienne L.

 

31

156

Adrienne L.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
7/4/2009

Mixed feelings about this place. I tried it out because I live very, very close and I thought - why not? Close salon, what could be more convenient?

Color - Enjoyed my experience with Tyress. She didn't try to over-chat me, which I greatly appreciated, and picked just the right color so I look like I have my natural hair color w/o looking like Morticia Adams.

Cut - Did not enjoy at all. The guy was too chatty, too hyper and the front was extremely uneven (If you want the name, just msg me - I don't believe in blasting a single person on Yelp). I was very unhappy with my front layers and just spent 30 minutes cutting them myself so that they blend in.

I may give this place another try, just because of the close proximity and the great reviews, but will definitely try another person the next time I need a hair cut.

Photo of Nenette Y.

Elite '09

69

441

Nenette Y.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
6/9/2009

I've been here twice, most recently yesterday for the yelp promo.

I had a massage here last night and absolutely LOVED it... they offer you wine, water or tea when you arrive and have a nice/modern seating area for you to wait.  I do wish they had water services (wet sauna, baths, etc) to enjoy before the service, but am happy to look past that since it's so close to my work.

Photo of annie l.

 

7

11

annie l.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
8/16/2009

note: this review is for the spa bar's massage services. i've never had my hair cut there.

my sister recommended this place to me when i wanted to indulge in a post bar-exam massage and was trying also to think of something local to do with my boyfriend over the weekend. what distinguishes spa bar from other massage places is that they have a room set up for couples and don't charge extra for a double massage.

the receptionist was polite and prompt when i called her to set up the appointment. she also gave me a 10% discount since it was our first time. i wasn't sure about whether to book the appointment since it was a big investment, but the discount encouraged me to lock in the booking.  

our appointment was on a saturday evening, so the place was empty when we arrived. the receptionist seated us at the impossibly hip and modern row of couches, and we were given glasses of chilled white wine. we were then introduced to our massages, who led us to a dimly lit back area with a calming blue theme. there were separate wooden cabinets for us to hang our clothes after we had disrobed.

and i don't remember the names of the masseuses who were assigned to us, but mine somehow gave me the best massage i have ever had.

Photo of Natalie S.

 

1

7

Natalie S.

Mill Valley, CA

4 star rating
8/6/2009

Sometimes I feel that I am not "hip" enough for the Spa Bar, but it is close to the office and after being very frustrated in my search for  a new hairstylist, I went for a treatment and style courtesy of Keratase.  I was lucky enough to book with Chanin and was comfortable enough after the style to schedule a haircut .  I went back for the haircut and was so very happy.  I am still trying to grow a cut where my stylist gave me a horrible shag, when I'd requested just a few layers.  Chanin was great in consulting, coming up with an interim hair style that doesn't look like I am waiting for my hair to grow.  

Fast forward to mid-July, the Mr. and I decided to elope and I had about a week to get things together.  I knew I was gonna only have a few hours from getting of the plane in Hawaii to being on the beach for our ceremony.  In a bit of a panic I called Chanin for advice.  She shifted an appointment so I could come in for a 15 min. consultation.  Her advice was spot on, she gave a few pointers on getting the curls and pinning my hair up and it worked out so well.

5 stars for Chanin
4 stars for Spa Bar
3.5 for prices.....eek

Photo of Lindsay A.

Elite '09

22

105

Lindsay A.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
12/31/2008

I'm torn on what to give Spa Bar, I think it would really be 3. 5 stars but that's not possible so let me tell you why.

I went there with a girlfriend for a relaxing afternoon of getting facials. I was a bit dissapointed that there isn't a separate area for the spa from the hair salon. So we waited amongst the styling chairs and blowdryers before heading in for our facial. I thought, maybe they would at least have an area in the back to put my purse and change into a robe, but I was wrong again. I literally went into the treatment room and was told that I should just strip down while she stepped out of the room and I could leave my clothes on the chair. It made it feel a bit more like a doctors office.

Having said all of that the actual facial was really good. I had Shelly and she did a great job and my face felt fantastic upon leaving. I also got to sip on some wine while waiting for my friend.

So, I will be back for another facial with Shelly, but I know what to expect now. I don't think I would plan for this to be a destination with a friend, it's more like in and out service. I wish they had more amenities like a locker room or steam room so that's why they only get 3 stars.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
Photo of Yosie G.

Elite '09

46

257

Yosie G.

San Francisco, CA

2 star rating
9/30/2008

Unfortunately slightly disappointed.  From the outside, this place looks more like a hair salon.  When you enter the spa area, it's just a bunch of rooms in the back.  No nice locker room, one shower, no area of retreat for private parties.  

So why is it named spa bar when it appears that the focus is hair salon?

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Mrs. B.

 

1

18

Mrs. B.

Northern, CA

5 star rating
9/27/2008

What would I do without Spa Bar???

First of all I love the location, there is always a parking spot waiting for me right in front!

The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable AND they treat my husband to a glass (or two) of wine while he patiently waits for me!

My favorite treatments:

Facial -- they are amazing and the Jan Marini cleansing regime they recommended has done miracles to my skin!
Massage -- unique, relaxing and stress reducing. I recommend the couples massage too.
Waxing -- they did a great job and comforted me through the pain. :)
Oxygen Bar -- I love the various flavors!

Spa Bar is as good as it gets!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Juicy S.

 

74

45

Juicy S.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
Updated - 10/1/2008

I finally decided to try out getting a facial at Spa Bar, and I have been completely thrilled with the results.  I scheduled an appointment with Marissa and didn't bother to specify what kind.  It turns out her specialty is fixing problem skin, and she told me 90% of her clients find their skin is completely cleared of problems in 4-6 weeks.  Really??  You don't say??

Really.  I've been to Marissa twice and have been religiously using the products she recommended and I have never been happier with my skin.  This is quite a feat on her part, because I am rarely happy with my skin, but it truly has been virtually problem free since our first meeting.

Lastly, Marissa has been able to just follow Lamai's lines for my brows and keep them looking just lovely.  I am a happy camper.  In fact, I'm thinking about scheduling another appointment one of these days in the not-too-distant future.  

If only Spa Bar did nails, then they would be absolutely perfect!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)

1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    4/21/2008

    When I decided, some time ago, that I needed a professional to do my brows (again) I looked up "the… Read more »

Photo of Michelle N.

 

7

49

Michelle N.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
10/14/2008

The best brazilian wax I've ever had!  

Thank you Spa Bar!  

Sincerely,
Michelle and Michelle's Man

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Suzanne S.

 

11

42

Suzanne S.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
7/5/2008

I went to Spa Bar today, and did I ever need some tender-loving spa-deliciousness.  

Spa Bar was a new place for me, so being the excited girl that I am when it comes to trying out new spas, my hopes were high!  Spa Bar does not fail to disappoint-- except in ONE area: there is no real changing room, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, or even any hair products to freshen up with.  These elements make up a great spa experience; however, this was the only area where Spa Bar was lacking.

The spa itself is chic-- candles are everywhere, and the warm woods and soft neutral colors made me immediately relaxed.  I had a package...I forget the name....but it included a facial and a massage.  I had the massage first.  My therapist was good.  I would see her again, but I would be more clear on my pressure expectations.  I prefer my massages to be firm to deep, and this one was much more on the medium side.  Also, she could work on her draping technique as the blankets were all over the place. (Not that I care if anyone sees me naked.  I went to camp for Christ's sake.  But if you're going to make a big deal out of having 100 blankets and sheets on a massage table, then you should know how to manipulate them.)

The facial was second, and that was spectacular.  I have been having problems with my skin, and my skin care specialist (can't remember her name) diagnosed my skin and gave me a great peel.  Most of my problem areas have already (!!!!) healed up since I saw her this morning!  She also included lots of massage, which felt really, really nice since the peel was burning off the top 4 layers of my skin.  But who needs those anyway?

The salon part also has lots of great products and all the people were very nice.  This place also has night parties and events, which would be really fun for a girly party.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (3)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Stella M.

 

0

10

Stella M.

San Francisco, CA

1 star rating
11/18/2008

Gave them 2 chances

1) WORST WAX EVER. EVERRRR. I kid you not, the woman took an entire hour and then tweezed for about 10 minutes. And no, i'm not bigfoot or have some sort of weird hair growth condition. Ive had several waxes in several states and this was by far the most painful, over priced and ridiculous experience ive had or heard of. My friend who said she swore by their waxes still stands by them.

2) Had the Thai Massage and was not feeling any better afterwards. The woman told me afterwards my back has real problems and needed xrays. I admit I was tense, but other than poor computer posture i'm not crippled with back problems. I sort of thought the job of the massuese was to work that out during the massage. I would never return to this "spa" again.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
Photo of Ellen O.

Elite '09

5

84

Ellen O.

Oakland, CA

4 star rating
7/27/2008

Spa Bar saved my life when I had the color job from hell.  Of course, you get what you pay for nowadays, so should I have been surprised?
Back to Spa Bar:  Perry and Laurel are outstanding colorists. I have not worked with the others or massage or estheticians, but everyone walking in seems to walk out very pleased.
The location is convenient to Montgomery Bart, and it's just a few blocks south of Market.
Be sure to save up for your color for it's not cheap but it is so exquisitely done, you will want to reserve the money.
I have enjoyed Spa Bar for over a year and can recommend it highly.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Janet S.

 

39

252

Janet S.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
Updated - 7/9/2008

Updated on July 9th.

Private I Salon really F**Ked up my hair, so i went back to Channin to fix it.  She did a perfect job.  I love my new haircut and so does everyone else.....

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (1)

1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    5/11/2008

    I have been getting my haircut here for about 2 years now.  My stylist name is Channin (its… Read more »

Photo of Betty H.

 

32

16

Betty H.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
8/6/2008

I LOVE Spa Bar not only for the excellent customer service, but the comprehensive line of hair, facials, massages, nail service, oxygen bar...and you're greeted with complimentary wine! (It doesn't get better than this!) The Shiatsu massage is AMAZING and the facials are so super relaxing I fell asleep so many times!
They're also part of the $50 Spa Week special for massage/facial which I recommend you book asap!
:) B

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Aimee G.

Elite '09

270

229

Aimee G.

Orange County, CA

5 star rating
4/17/2008

Love this place. I come here for my cut and color and the occasional massage and facial.  I have been coming here for years and have never had an experience less than awesome.  I used to see Perry for my hair before he moved (I think he's coming back soon) and Mari is a hair-cutting genius!

Update: Perry is back and just as fantastic as ever.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (7)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (6)
Photo of Yukte O.

 

6

5

Yukte O.

Santa Clara, CA

4 star rating
7/23/2008

I love this place. Its amazing.. I almost always get an appointment like if I call a day or two in advance. I think thats why I love going here, coz I know they will accommodate me in a short notice, though its wise to make an appointment.
I go to Sandy for my facials... she is absolutely awesome.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Lola L.

Elite '09

69

298

Lola L.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
3/18/2008

If i could i'd give this place more stars! I'm hesitant in writing this review in fear of people booking Tyreese to the point where I have to wait a month to see her!

Three years ago someone screwed up and instead of giving me highlights they gave me chunks instead! WTF! In comes Tyreese...she listens to what i want and takes it to another level.  

After 2 hrs and enough foil in my hair to get a HBO reception, she washes my hair and out comes golden brown and honey highlites! Instead if using one color, she uses three colors in my hair because god forbid my hair end up looking like zebra stripes! She blows it out so when i wake up the next morning people think i wake up with my hair looking that good. for around $120 -/+ she can turn so-so hair into FABOLOUS hair!

Lamai can wax and tweeze your brows into shape. It lasts up to two weeks so i can maintain it with plucking here and there.

They don't push products, they suggest and leave it up to you.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (4)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Kelly C.

 

8

30

Kelly C.

Alameda, CA

2 star rating
2/6/2009

I can describe my experience with one word, Shock.

Massage. This place is upscale. It caters to the 6 figure market so I guess I should have expected it. But anyway. You arrive and you sit and wait in the styling area for your masseuse to come greet you. She comes out and then leads you to the back where the massage rooms are. It's all very upscale, did I mention that? She asked me what type of massage I wanted and I just said you know a regular deep tissue massage. So she instructed me to get undressed and put my stuff in the locker and then get on the table. I did.
She came back and began massaging me.
What I liked was that she didn't try to talk to me. I like to relax when getting a massage, and my hair done for that matter, I don't want to have a conversation. I like that she left me alone.
But then SHOCK
That girl climbed up on my back and walked all over it with no warning. Just like the time the gyno put her finger you know where with no warning. These are things you just don't do without a proper warning. I nearly screamed and ran away. It also hurt like a pepper in the eye that day and the next
When I left I received my second SHOCK in the form of the bill. Holy cow I know some people like to pay to be abused but not me.

To sum it up spam bar is upscale, hoity toity over priced snobbery. I'll pass.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Funny (2)
Photo of Pippi L.

 

59

296

Pippi L.

South San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
4/20/2008

Came here for spa week and I really wanted to try the massage, but they were already booked so I got a facial instead.

The spa is nice but I think it has more of a salon feel. The treatment rooms are located in the back and they do not have locker/shower facilities.

I received my facial from the lead aesthetician, Marisa. The facial was really relaxing (except for the extractions, but that's ok) and I think I started snoring a little bit so that's a good thing. She was really informative and answered all the questions I had for her. They use Sothy's and Jan Marini so my super sensitive skin responded well to it.  

Since it was spa week, the facial was only $50, but looking at the menu I think it's normally $90 which isn't bad at all. $120+ for more advance stuff which is typical for most spas.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (2)
Photo of Scarlet L.

 

18

118

Scarlet L.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
3/17/2008

No one will touch my hair again... except Chanin. The end.

okay, i'll elaborate. I was afraid of getting my hair cut due to a previous stylist who made a mess of my hair cutting it into all different lengths.

Until.... I had a job interview and I wanted to give off the carefree, low maintenance vibe to my would-be boss. so I ventured into Spabar. Chanin is amazing. She listened to everything detail I liked and not liked. She cuts very conservatively, and constantly explains to me what she is doing so I felt at ease. She looks at your hair texture and your color to determine what suits you best and give her suggestions to enhance the look you want.

Anyway, I can't rave enough. Chanin is the only person that will cut my hair again, and I've told all my friends. Now we all have pretty hair. Beat that.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (2)
Photo of Kristy H.

Elite '09

26

86

Kristy H.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
3/31/2009

Lamai is amazing. Go see her for your eyebrows immediately. She is THE BEST. I followed her from Nordstrom back when she used to work for Anastasia brows. She is the nicest and kindest person ever. Not only that but she is gorgeous. She is seriously the 1/2 asian version of Kate Moss I kid you not. I adore her to pieces. I was so bummed when she left Nordstroms, but glad I tracked her down to this lovely location. She was even featured in Allure for being one of the best brow experts in SF.  She is the real deal, trust. It is reasonably priced, and easy to maintain once she shapes them for you. She is a pro, and it's painless and worth every penny.

Photo of Gina K.

 

3

24

Gina K.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
2/3/2008

Spa Bar is a place that never lets you down.

I go here for all of my massages and facials.  They are excellent.  I've been going to them for years.  

What really impressed me was that the massage therapist (I forgot his name) highly recommended that I see a Chiropractor, as he thinks there might be some connection as to why I've been having back pains.  And he was right.  About 2 years ago, I found out that I had scoliosis.  It was shocking, but at the same time, I was pleasantly surprised that he took the responsibility to go above and beyond to recommend to see a Chiropractor.  Had I not gone, my condition would have been worse, and I would have experienced more pain.  I was so grateful.

I've also had a facial there a few years ago, and the woman was excellent.  Even threw in an extra mask since she really cared for my skin.  I haven't been back since I lived away from SF, and am now back.  I'll have to call in for an appointment to see her again - that is, if she's still there after all these years!!

I've also purchased massage gift certificates for my friends, and they've always been so delighted to go, especially since the service there is above par.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of J A.

 

354

266

J A.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
5/18/2007

This review written while at home after drinking French forty proof wine....
Tia did a fabulous job. I'm all shiny like an ice cube at an elite event.
The massage was delicious and made me drunk. When I get drunk I get sleepy and all relaxed. Yesterday night at Cantina-lots of compliments= your skin is soooo glowy! Glow worm status. Bling!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (3)
  • Cool (6)
Photo of Marcella N.

 

127

86

Marcella N.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
3/16/2007

I wasn't impressed with my massage at all..  it seemed so mechanical.  

My mom loved hers- I think more for the overall spiritual experience (with Pam, Pat?)  and energy cleansing hippie stuff she was raving about.

She went back again a few days later and I sat at the oxygen machine for what seemed like forEVER.  Extra star for letting me go way over my allotted time on the O2.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (3)
  • Cool (5)
Photo of zac c.

 

0

9

zac c.

Tulsa, OK

1 star rating
1/31/2009

If I could give them zero stars, I would; only bright spot is Chanin.  

Spa Bar has rude, uninspired, poorly empowered administrative staff with poor regard to customer satisfaction or retention.  

My wife and I have been going to Chanin for years and believe her to be a wonderful stylist, but the staff have driven us away!  Tough choice between a great stylist and a bad experience.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
Photo of Nancy L.

 

77

88

Nancy L.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
9/16/2007

Like many people, I have stress.  I keep all of this lovely stress in my lower back and at the base of my neck.  There are a couple of ways to take care of this, working out and going on vacation.  Lately I had not been able to do either, and to top it off, I had been having a hard time at work.  It had gotten so bad that I didn't have full mobility of my neck - it was time to seek professional help.

I found Spa Bar through Yelp of course.  It seemed to be a full service salon, but I already have a place I love for most of my salon needs (see my Cinta review).  They have a full complement of massage options, I decided on the "Remedy" massage since I had a couple of problem areas that I knew I wanted someone to focus on.  I arrived a few minutes early to my appointment and was greeted by a nice man offering me magazines and various drinks.  My masseuse, Dawn, arrived about 5 minutes prior to my appointment to lead me into a warm, sweet scented candlelit room.  She spent a few moments talking to me about my previous massage experiences (none - I was a massage virgin!) and what exactly I wanted to accomplish, then she left me alone to disrobe and get on the bed under the sheets.

I spent one delicious hour in that little room.  Dawn spent plenty of time on the areas I had specifically mentioned, while still managing to provide a full body massage.  Her stroke and pressure were heavenly and the oils she used were strangely calming.  I never heard her utter anything above a whisper, whether instructing me on how to move, or letting me know that she would be back with this item or that item momentarily.  It was wonderfully peaceful, and I'm only sad that the hour was up so soon (though it was definitely a full hour - I checked!).

I am happy to report that full mobility has been restored and I can't wait to see Dawn again!  Don't know how soon that's going to be though, because this service isn't cheap.  My massage was $100, plus tip.  But *SO* worth every cent!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Sylvia C.

 

3

14

Sylvia C.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
3/23/2009

They're pricey, but you get what you pay for.  I've never had a bad service here.  The atmosphere is great - clean, cool and inviting.  They have a huge selection of products too, including bumble and bumble which is not necessarily easy to find.

Photo of Clothilde J.

 

2

14

Clothilde J.

San Francisco, CA

2 star rating
3/8/2008

I didn't have the best experience here.  I got a decent waxing that I would give 4 stars, even though it's pricey.  However, the facial I got was what I'd call sub standard.  

She didn't really tell me what she was doing which made me worry a bit.  When she extracted me I nearly cried, and I have tough skin and am used to thorough extractions (see my review for Equinox in LA).  And, and, the extractions left red marks all over my forehead.  Not ok.  Not ok at all.  That means to me that she went way too hard.  I think she even broke the skin in one place.  Yikes.  

The ambiance is fine, the people are fine, but all-in-all I think I paid way too much for some pretty average and below average services.  I'm not going back.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
Photo of Shalom G.

 

0

32

Shalom G.

San Francisco, CA

1 star rating
12/24/2008

I had 3 massages here.  The first one was good and when I tried to get another appointment with the therapist I had, I found out she quit.  Major bummer, so I tried someone else- it was bad.  I thought, okay, one last time.  Again, another bust.  The "deep tissue" massages felt like someone was lubing me up with lotion and not putting any muscle into it.  This was awhile ago, so they may have brought on some new therapists, but it was not worth the $100 when there are other places in SF that are the same price but actually massage you.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
Photo of Lione B.

 

0

10

Lione B.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
1/4/2006

Always go back to this place! Great $ on 90 min massage.
Everyone has been great.  I reco Paula  & Gabrielle.
Only wish there was a steam room.
Friendly, clean- easy to park.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Jennifer W.

 

10

35

Jennifer W.

San Francisco, CA

1 star rating
8/17/2007

Let me preface this review by saying that I have been to Spa Bar many times - I even organized and held a friend's birthday party here where we spent a lot of money and left a generous tip. Too bad I'll never go back.

Here's my story: I got the day off of work unexpectedly, what better way to relax then to get a facial - or so I thought. I called in the morning to ask if there was an appointment and I was told that there was one facial appointment at 4:45pm, but that if I reserved it and decided I couldn't make it on the same day I would be charged full price (more on this later). So, I asked if I could call back to confirm in 5 minutes after checking with my husband regarding plans to leave out of town that evening. When I called back there was no answer so I left a message on their voicemail confirming my appointment. It was 9:45am.

The day went on, no word from Spa Bar. I assumed my facial appointment was set. For 45 minutes I sat in rush hour traffic to get to Spa Bar. I felt sweaty, gross and annoyed to have to go into financial district on a friday night but it would be totally worth it once I sat back to relax for my anticipated treatment...

When I showed up I was told that they double booked my time slot and that they had called to tell me this at 4:30pm. The manager explained that she had a busy day and hadn't been able to check voicemail despite her suggestion that I call back to confirm and that the slot was mine. What kind of hypocritical rule is it that customers are charged full price to cancel same day appointments but the establishment can cancel 15 minutes prior and hand you a card worth 15% off next time. This is bullshit.

I will NEVER return to Spa Bar and strongly discourage others from going. The treatments aren't bad but why risk getting cancelled at the last minute (or something equally as off-putting based on other reviews in this thread). Ultimately poor customer service ruins the whole operation. Any suggestions for a new spa are welcome...

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
Photo of Joanne L.

 

12

51

Joanne L.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
4/30/2008

I came here for Spa Week and got a massage. I was looking forward to going here after reading all the good reviews, but I was a bit disappointed. The spa is clean and its nice, but the decor in the room I was in was very plain.

The massage itself wasn't the best massage I had. The masseuse used way too much pressure for someone my size, at certain points I felt like I was going to die. But otherwise, I'd say the massage was decent for only paying $50.

I would probably never come back here unless they participated in Spa Week again.

Photo of Kristen B.

Elite '09

69

141

Kristen B.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
11/27/2006

Great brow and bikin waxing. I used to go to Flying Beauticians (check review) and found Sandi over at Spa Bar and she is fantastic! I'll be going for a facial with her this week and will report back.

UPDATE:  11.30.06 Okay just had my facial with Sandi and it was one word: AMAZING!!! The best facial I have EVER had.....and this means a lot because I am a spa whore. Seriously, this was the most relaxing, deep cleansing, incredible massage facial i've ever had and my skin is glowing. I am like a beam of light walking down 2nd street. People had to turn away because my skin shines so brightly with truth.....a truth that says "MY SKIN LOOKS AMAZING BITCHES!!!"

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (2)
Photo of Joella A.

 

19

30

Joella A.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
8/30/2008

The five star may not be so much for the establishment but for one woman there PAULA!  If you want an amazing massage...Paula is your girl;))

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Missy C.

 

0

13

Missy C.

Foster City, CA

5 star rating
11/11/2007

It's all about Paula.  

I got a 90 minute Deep Tissue/Thai massage.  All was going well -- nice deep pressure, soothing music, starting to drift off... then... what the?  Is she actually climbing on my back?  Are those her knees in my butt while she plays the kettle drums on my upper back?  Did she just flip me over and crack my back with her feet?  Wait, I'm supposed to lean back and she'll balance my entire body on her knees?  Whaaatt?  

I left feeling amazed and amazing.  This is the kind of massage that will change your life.  I felt more centered, rejuvenated and alive.  I've seen her 3 times now and each time is excellent.  I leave feeling great.  Be open to experience and go for it!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Funny (1)
  • Cool (1)
1 to 40 of 110 |  
Page: 1 2 3
Write a Review

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...

  • Photo of Remede Spa

    Remede Spa

    4 star rating
     45 reviews

    Neighborhood: SOMA

    Category: Day Spas

  • Photo of Cocoon Urban Day Spa

    Cocoon Urban Day Spa

    4.5 star rating
     106 reviews

    Neighborhood: SOMA

    Category: Day Spas

  • Photo of Kamalaspa

    Kamalaspa

    4 star rating
     89 reviews

    Neighborhood: Union Square

    Category: Day Spas

  • Photo of The SPA at InterContinental

    The SPA at…

    4 star rating
     43 reviews

    Neighborhood: SOMA

    Category: Day Spas

  • Photo of Mizu Spa

    Mizu Spa

    4 star rating
     163 reviews

    Neighborhood: SOMA

    Category: Massage