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The Massage Sanctuary
Category: Beauty and Spas Massage Massage [Edit]
705 Broadway ESeattle, WA 98102
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
(206) 322-5549
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
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41 reviews for The Massage Sanctuary
41 reviews in English
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Review from Brian W.
Seattle, WA
12/4/2011
Went in yesterday for a 60 minute massage and have never felt better than when I left! My entire body was sore from running 13 miles, and today I feel great. Gregory did an amazing job! Will be returning soon.
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Review from Esther D.
Seattle, WA
8/2/2011
I went here after searching Yelp for some good massage therapists that could get me in quickly.
I was able to book a same-week appointment (probably could have gotten same-day, but hey, I didn't ask). This was the main good thing about this massage place. It's super close to my house, so I was really looking forward to becoming a regular.
However, I'll be taking my business elsewhere.
I asked for a firm massage, focusing on my back/shoulders/neck. But it was like the masage therapist (female, can't remember her name) was working off a script that she couldn't deviate from. Got a full body swedish massage-- which felt good -- but really wasn't what I asked for. I like my massages nice and deep so they actually do something vs. feeling nice at the moment. If she couldn't do deep tissue work, she should have said so.
Disappointed. Still looking for a great place on the Hill that I can go to at least once a month. The search continues. -
Review from Casey B.
Seattle, WA
8/23/2011
I got in here on a Sunday after I did something horrible to my back. Eva saved me from what the Chiropractor I went to on Monday was probably a popped out rib(what the? seriously?). After the hour massage I was able to move with little to no pain when the night before I'd had stabbing pain which had become a constant dull pain when I arrived at the Massage Sanctuary. She had the perfect amount of pressure that I could actually feel the massage and not so much it hurt(sometimes it hurt a little, but in a good way). She was also great about checking in with pressure and feedback about what she was seeing in my completely jacked up back(also confirmed by the chiro).
I really wish I could afford to do this more often as I'd go back to Eva in a heartbeat. -
Review from Dara G.
Saint Louis, MO
6/16/2011
A massage at the Massage Sanctuary = the perfect way to start my Seattle vacation.
I had the pleasure of receiving a 60-minute full body massage and 25-minute foot massage from Mem. She not only focused on the problem areas that I indicated on the consultation sheet but also took note of my off-handed remark that I had just recently moved, was about to start a new job, and had been traveling for a while - major sources of stress for most human beings.
From the warmth of the sheets, the zen-like music, the sound of Mem's South African voice, to an attentive massage that pinpointed and released all of my tension, it was a total success from start to finish.
My boyfriend had an excellent massage from Kurt, who delivered a suitable amount of pressure to an ailing back and was also just a super nice guy.
I can't recommend this place enough for a stress reducing massage - if I lived in Seattle I would make an appointment every other week! -
Review from Jennifer P.
Seattle, WA
9/2/2007
"Well, I'm off to go get rubbed by strangers!"
That's what I say every single time I head off to an appointment at The Massage Sanctuary... Are my friends and coworkers still amused by this? Eh. Who cares, I'm getting rubbed! And for a reasonable price! Woo hoo!
It's weird, but the second I walk in the door, I feel all smooshy and relaxed. Which is surprising seeing as this is not usually my reaction to sitar music.
The rooms are super clean, super comfy, super warm, and might I just add that they are super conscious of the fact that, Hey! I'm naked under here! And as someone who don't want nobody I'm not having sex with to see me naked, I appreciate this very much.
PS. I love Mem! And Stephanie! And Lea! -
Review from Liz M.
6/13/2010
I had been thinking about getting a massage for a few weeks now, and found the Massage Sanctuary on Yelp with its excellent reviews, but kept putting off making an appointment due to this or that.
Well, that changed yesterday morning when, upon waking, I turned my head and my neck popped in an OMFG way. When Advil didn't do much to dull the pain, I dialed the Massage Sanctuary, hoping they would have a same-day appointment available. Unfortunately, they were completely booked until today, but I decided to go ahead and make the appointment. They don't have a receptionist, so we ended up playing phone tag back and forth but that's why God gave us voice mail.
Woke up this morning and discovered that my neck felt mildly better, but that was only because the pain had moved down into my shoulder-blade and especially my lower back, making it impossible to even walk without pain. Fortunately, I managed to make it down to the Massage Sanctuary where I met my masseuse, Sarah, who is very friendly and cheerful. Another reviewer said she 'sparkles with joy' which I think is a very apt description. We talked about my prior massage experiences & what I was looking for, then she left so I could get undressed.
What followed was an absolutely glorious massage. Sarah was very sensitive and gentle with the parts that hurt, and also very adept at finding aches in the parts that I didn't think hurt until then! Her technique was perfect--firm enough that I could tell she was getting the knots out, but not so hard as to make me want to cry (at least not until the end, and only then because it was over).
At $75 for one hour, it isn't the cheapest thing in the world, but the value for your money is superb. Massages aren't part of my normal routine (the last one was probably 2-3 years ago), but the Massage Sanctuary just might have changed my mind!Listed in: Round the Hill, All-Time Favorites!
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Review from Jen P.
Seattle, WA
7/28/2009
Let's face it; I'm a wreck.
I called at 4:00 for a 7:00 appointment and they booked it without batting a lash.
I had Mem, the owner. First of all, her voice and demeanor is instantly relaxing. I could feel some of those knots start to unwind right away (despite being so uncomfortable from the heat outside).
I truncated the long list of maladies and just went straight to the serious pain in my lower back, hips, and neck. I mean, we've only got an hour. It's necessary to focus.
She gave the trouble areas some good attention, but turned on my arms, legs and feet; areas that really bother me as well, but just not as much as the back. I'm really glad she scoped out the trouble and took care of it. My ankles are basically scar tissue (7 sprains, one really serious), and it helped tremendously.
Overall, I left feeling more relaxed and pretty gooey, still with some of the back/shoulders issues, but really pleased with the massage.
Another plus: during the treatment, I learned that Mem has a background in nursing; so she didn't give me the awkward "What is THAT?" when she came across the lump on my forearm. I usually have to explain that it's a benign tumor; no, it doesn't hurt; yes, I'm embarrassed about it; no, removing it isn't really a viable option; please stop ogling it; can we please move along? She knew what it was and just asked if I'd had it checked, asked if it hurt at all, and moved along. It made me feel more comfortable and relaxed with her expertise.
So why not 5 stars? Well, I'm a little biased. My sister is an experienced massage therapist, with an emphasis on energy work and physical/emotional healing. I don't need to tell her anything that bothers me; she can find it, and work it out. All of it. Every time. And the effects last for a few weeks. I am still hoping to find someone with that ability (probably not a fair search, but I won't stop trying!) I would give this place 4.5 stars if I could, and reserve a half star for that magical massage next time...Listed in: Relaxify Yourself
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Review from Lily S.
8/7/2009 2 Check-ins Here
Speaking of last minute, I needed a massage...BADLY...yesterday after work.
The massage practitioner needed a massage.
And was getting turned down left & right b/c no one had open appointments.
Til I called the Massage Sanctuary.
Located in the cutie pa tootie building that looks like a freaking Bavarian village on Capitol Hill just off of the main Broadway street (this one is Broadway too, only...quieter), the Massage Sanctuary lives up to its moniker: high ceilings, gothic, quiet. I felt like I was in a castle.
My friend Cheryl actually works there and I wound up getting bodywork w/ her, which was a bonus b/c she's worked on me before. Only this time...my body was (ok...IS) WAY jacked & needed some extra digging in my back.
A rather painful but wondering hour later, I was able to move around w/o looking like I was doing the robot. And I got a discount b/c I'm also an LMP.
So YAY! I'll be back! -
Review from Susanna W.
Seattle, WA
3/21/2010
Decorated in Ashanti & Turkish furnishings, nestled in the catacomb-like historic Loveless Building, getting a massage at the Sanctuary is an Experience from the moment you walk through the door. I have had both an hour-long full body massage and a half hour chair massage. Mem, who is the owner, has a gorgeous South African accent & a zen-like calm. Sarah sparkles with joy. Both were wonderful. Both worked the tension out of my tightly coiled muscles. The $35 half hour massage is affordable enough that I'm going to start doing this on a regular basis. I love the setting just as much as I love the massage!
As others have noted, parking is atrocious in this particular section of Capitol Hill, but if you're willing to walk a few blocks, you can usually score free residential area parking, particularly during weekdays. -
Review from Jill C.
Seattle, WA
11/7/2006 1 photo
Cool hideaway across from Harvard Exit theater, located in the lovely Loveless Building. They have scheduled and *WALK-IN* appointments. Instant gratification!
Peaceful ambiance, super-clean facility, dreamy-scented. Comfortable rooms and a staff that really cares. The owner is very cool and sets the good vibe for the place.
I'm a long-time massage junkie and have found not just one, but two, massage therapists here to place on my Top 5 Ever list. Stephanie and Jeremy rock!! -
Review from Nicole K.
Seattle, WA
2/29/2008
I love this place. It is great if you need a sport massage, help with an old injury, help with after-surgery care, or just a relaxing massage.
I went in with an injury, and Lindsay ans Melissa got me back into fighting form within a week. I used to "tough it out" with injuries, thereby extending them for weeks. Now I know that if I get injured there is a place that will actually help me, and not by throwing Advil at the problem.
The Massage Sanctuary is indeed a sanctuary. It is quiet, warm, calm, and the best place to unwind or get unwound. -
Review from Hanafi L.
Seattle, WA
4/6/2007
I was in trouble. 3 hours on my feet at a concert, followed by 2 hours with my drum strapped on and accompanying dancers at Zen Circus. I thought it was just a great evening until I woke up in the wee hours of the morning unable to roll over.
I agonize over choosing health care/healing practitioners. This is because I have an uncanny ability to attract "learning" situations for said practitioners, where they manage to do something screwed up and then -learn- that perhaps a behavior or practice is best avoided.
First I tried to survive on maximum doses of ibuprofen, but finally succumbed to taking some oxycodone that was in the medicine cabinet. Then I called a few LMTs I know and either couldn't reach them or no appointments were available soon. The pain was NOT going away, so I turned to YELP!
I called several of the listings posted here, talked to a few people and finally concluded to take a chance on the Massage Sanctuary. It was probably the attitude and feeling of the guy on the phone that convinced me, particularly when he referred me to the other masseur, who he felt would better address my issue.
I can attest to the skilled manipulation and work of Kurt, who impressed me with his knowledge of the body and sent me out the door significantly better off for the experience. It was great. No unexpected experiences, just solid professional Beneficial help. You can't ask for more than that. -
Review from Robert W.
Seattle, WA
11/7/2010
Hands down the best place to get massages in Seattle. All of the practioners are fantastic.
I've had swedish, reiki and shiatsu done here. Compared to New Seattle Massage and all the others, this remains my favorite once I discovered it. It's nestled away at the end of Bway down by Quest Bookstore.
Call in advance by a couple days because they get booked up quickly. -
Review from Julie B.
12/25/2008
Sigh...Massage Sanctuary just inspires me to relax and sigh. Mmmm...
Conveniently located, courteous therapist, cozy room, affordable services that I will return to as often as possible...sigh... -
Review from Hannah W.
San Francisco, CA
7/7/2009
Ahhh-mazing.
Massage Sanctuary is relaxing, warm, inviting, no-frills, and simply wonderful.
I've been to a lot of different spas in Seattle, and Melissa has given me the best massages of my life. When my muscles need some love, she combines the best of relaxation and strength to get all the kinks out and make me feel ooey gooey. She is so good in fact, that I made the investment of purchasing a package of six massages for the price of five.
Their hours are great and people that work 9-5 on weekdays can still come in after work and on the weekends.
As I was mentioning before, this place is no frills. You won't find a rain shower and luxurious robes here. But what you will find are the best massage therapists and the best customer service all around for a price that is certainly more reasonable than other spas in Seattle. -
Review from Alex C.
Seattle, WA
5/10/2011
Just had my first time at The Massage Sanctuary today. Best massage I've had in, or near Seattle. So good I immediately made an appointment for a month from now.
Cleopatra was excellent. Can't wait to go again. -
Review from Nick B.
12/5/2009
I have never had as good a massage in Seattle as I've gotten here. Unfortunately I cannot remember the name of my masseuse but she was a really nice lady.
I had some lower back pain and some injuries from Brazilian Jujitsu. Most of the massage was really relaxing but at times she really dug in there. Which was great!!! Of course I felt horribly sore the day after (and I mean HORRIBLY sore) but the day after that, I seriously felt like I was made out of silly putty.
Excellent masseuse, great ambiance, and reasonable pricing = best massage parlor in Seattle. -
Review from Christen g.
Seattle, WA
2/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Really love this place. I see Kurt as a massage therapist and he listens, digs in and really works well with me. I didn't rate it 5 stars as they don't take insurance.
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Review from Hanna D.
Seattle, WA
10/12/2009
I love this place--it has become my weekly habit. A massage, then around the corner to the Joe Bar for a mocha and the Sunday paper. Ahhhh.
I wish the rooms were kept a little warmer, something I will ask about next time I go. I usually see Mem, who is lovely and has the perfect level of pressure for me--feels deep, but doesn't hurt. And she started giving me a discount after my first massage--not sure why, but I'll take it.
Loss of one star is for parking woes. Goes with the neighborhood. -
Review from whitney h.
Seattle, WA
5/15/2010
Wonderful establishment through and through. Just make sure you aren't too shy, like I was, to say 'harder!' I left not feeling satisfied because I didn't speak up but it had nothing to do with the service. The whole time I was horizontal I was jittery because well, a stranger was rubbing oil on my naked body. (They DO practice with covering techniques) I continuously wrote in my head a comparison of a first time massage to the first time in the sack. Next time I'll relax...and speak up about my 'needs'. Give this place a shot! You won't be disappointed. I'm definitely coming back for another go once I find the cash.
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Review from Jim B.
Berkeley, CA
1/29/2008
Thanks to Yelp I found the Massage Sanctuary and Jeremy. I was visiting from out of town and woke up after a night sleeping on my friends hard bed with my shoulder screaming in pain. After i read the reviews for M.S. I gave them a call and Jeremy was available within an hour. Lucky day. The office is very nice, very clean and calming. Jeremy really knows what he is doing and is very focussed and present as well. At the end of the hour, my shoulder was significantly better. In addition, I felt relaxed and well taken-care of. Not only that but Jeremy gave me a suggestion for a place to have lunch, a bar-type place around the corner, which was really great. Thanks Jeremy. Thanks Yelp.
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Review from Jessica S.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 9/23/2009
I just adore this place! The owner, Mem, is not only a fantastic massage therapist, but she's so conscientious and sweet! My neck has been killing me slowly over the last couple of months, and I finally had a little bit of time and money to go and see her. She always does a wonderful job, and has a bunch of suggestions on how I can keep myself from hurting so bad. I can't wait until I can go back.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/5/2009
The Massage Sanctuary is exactly as described-- a sanctuary.
I've had massages from both Melissa and… Read more »
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Review from Leah W.
Seattle, WA
3/22/2010
Wow! My gf treated me to a massage after a bad week, and let me tell you it was better than I had ever expected! It was my first massage in my 30 years, so I was nervous.
Mem, the owner, was my masseuse and she was wonderful to me. So calming and sweet. I loved her from the get-go, and all my fears subsided.
All I want to say is that by the end of that massage, I felt HIGH. I went outside with a big goofy smile on my face when my gf arrived to get me and I just couldn't believe what a massage could do for you! It not only helped my body, but my mind. I had so much energy that afternoon, i just couldn't sit down.
Thank you Mem! I will be back! -
Review from Shauna D.
Seattle, WA
5/30/2010
I absolutely LOVE this place!
When my boyfriend and I moved here 4 years ago, he bought me a massage for my birthday and it was great. I've been going there ever since and will never go anywhere else. When I leave messages, they always return my calls within a couple hours, and always try to squeeze me in last minute.
I just bought massages for my whole bridal party, and the owner, Mem, was super helpful and kind. I also got a 10% discount!
If you want an amazing, customized massage, go here...don't risk going anywhere else!!! -
Review from Dave L.
Fremont, CA
6/6/2007
I really enjoyed my massage here. Instead of playing meditation music like other places, my masseuse played mellow Latin music, which I thought was a cool twist.
I had a 1 hr massage, and my masseuse did a great job focusing on the problem areas I identified, shoulder blades, neck, and lower back. She used just the right amount of pressure and spent the right amount of time at each spot.
I'm definitely going back! -
Review from C S.
Seattle, WA
8/2/2010
I looked up a massage place on Yelp since I am new to Seattle.
This place had the best reviews.
I booked an appointment the weekend before I actually went for my man's birthday. Not alot of places do couple massage, I wasn't expecting but the lady on the phone nicely told me they can schedule two appts at the same time.
I had to call to cancel since we had to fly out last minute and no fuss, no problem, no attitude she canceled and rebooked me for the following weekend and if anything changed, not a problem, let them know.
Had a nice reminder call from the lady on their answering machine. I managed to surprise and trick the boyfriend for his bday massage.
We both really liked it. He was feeling much better and so was I. We had been having neck and shoulder problems that were escalating until then.
I quit the salon and spa business about two years ago which just makes you the most particular person about services you can either do yourself or are use to get at top quality. And they are clean, priced fairly and gave us a feel good enough massage that we will probably and want to return. I would recommend to try it. -
Review from Becca C.
2/17/2010
For my bday, I decided a massage at The Massage Sanctuary was the way to go. I love having anything to do at the Loveless Building, so that's a win-win situation. The small space is functional yet spartan, but the service was warm and welcoming. They frequently take walkins which is nice. Jeremy is a wonderful masseur, professional, and effective with his technique. They even surprised me with a birthday discount!
Listed in: Beautified in Seattle
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Review from Scott K.
Seattle, WA
1/14/2010
Yep. Just as everyone else said. Jeremy will send you to another planet. Quite possibly the best massage I've every had in my life. Go for two hours. You won't regret it.
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Review from Formica D.
Seattle, WA
2/27/2011
I've had lots of massage over my lifetime, but Mem is hands down my favorite massage therapist ever. She is warm and caring, and does amazing bodywork. The space she has created at the Massage Sanctuary is a wonderfully calm, quiet, healing environment.
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Review from Lauren S.
Philadelphia, PA
10/5/2007
By far the best massage studio I've ever been to. I'm hesitant to write this review to all of a sudden lessen my chances of getting an appointment, but I've never been to a better studio. It's simple, clean, and perfectly zen-like. The prices are amazing and worth every penny. This is the first massage place I've become completely dedicated to and wouldn't bother going anywhere else.
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Review from Patrick W.
Seattle, WA
12/6/2009
As the first massage I had ever received, this was a throughly enjoyable experience. The staff was extra friendly, and the location is beautiful. It was a very calming experience, and a friendly email about a week later included a coupon for 10% off my next massage. Thanks!
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Review from Christine H.
Seattle, WA
6/18/2009
Absolutely AMAZING! I came here for a massage for my birthday/because I've been really tense from work and got a same day appointment with Jeremy. When I was done I texted a friend and said: "I've found Heaven, it's name is Jeremy, and he's $65/hour."
Seriously, after having had many massages in my life, this was by far the best in terms of leaving me feeling 100% relaxed and comfortable. He incorporated a lot of breathing and some stretching which made a huge difference, in addition to the massage being fantastic itself.
Great facility, wonderful atmosphere, will definitely be going again! -
Review from Leilani M.
Seattle, WA
9/12/2010
inexperienced. not worth $75/hour. pleasant folks, but nice doesn't cut it.
I've been to a lot of massage therapists and spas and they are a "C" grade.
Went based on Yelp reviews and they were HORRIBLY inexperienced. Olivier and Melissa are both very nice, but they don't get the job done asked for. Pretty much got a superficial rub down for 60 minutes when the ask was for deep tissue. Upsetting because they are spendy at $75/hour and claim to be very experienced and good at what they do. Also asked to concentrate on trouble spots like lower back, and instead got shoulder/neck and other areas for a surface body rub.
Best massage therapists in the area include Carolina of Lake Union Massage and Glen of Eastside Massage. Both are massage maestros and help you achieve nirvana or something close to it. Save your $75/hour for Carolina, Glen and the ones worthy of earning your hard earned dollars.
Folks who rated Massage Sanctuary must be first-timers... branch out and then come back to your reviews. Hope this was helpful. -
Review from Brian T.
Seattle, WA
1/25/2009
Jeremy is the only massage therapist I will go to anymore. I always leave feeling relaxed and full of endorphins.
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Review from martha p.
Seattle, WA
5/30/2008
Massage Sanctuary is a quiet little Capitol Hill refuge. A lovely neighborhood retreat. I have been a regular there now of Jeremy who's level of professionalism and presence rewards me every time with relief of my pain and stress. He gives great deep tissue.
The space is peaceful, clean and not too spa-ey. It's got a homier feel. And the music is great. Not too new-agey. It's peaceful, but also thoughtful. I love Massage Sanctuary! -
Review from Emma W.
Seattle, WA
10/3/2009
After a really stressful couple of weeks, my boyfriend surprised me with a massage from this place. I'd never heard of it, but he dropped me off in front of this ADORABLE building and I got a little excited. I walked in, and Jeremy was already there waiting for me. I filled out the paper work and followed him into the room. I've had massages before where the initial part about taking off clothes and getting on the bed was made incredibly awkward my the masseuse, but not at all here. When I got home later, I checked out the Massage Sanctuary website which said that Jeremy started in dance and movement studies, which makes perfect sense because I felt that this was way more than a massage, it was very fluid and dance-like (don't laugh, it was!). I'm pretty sure I got so relaxed I drifted off, but when I was leaving I almost couldn't walk because I was oh-so-relaxed. Mike picked me up and I had the biggest smile on my face, and you can bet I'll be back to this place.
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Review from stacey d.
Seattle, WA
6/3/2010
I've had a gazillion massages in my life, and Kurt is HANDS DOWN the best therapist I've ever seen! Can we say, "Hands of God!!!"???!!!!! Seriously, Kurt is amazing. He is a professional therapist that is extremely good at what he does. I've never had a therapist that is so good at finding and tackling my issues. I highly recommend Kurt - you will never want to see another therapist again!
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Review from Allison S.
Seattle, WA
4/8/2007
What a find! I had literally woken up on the wrong side of the bed, and had a jacked up shoulder for my trouble. I was in desperate need of a massage, and all my usual places were booked. I finally decided to take a chance on this place, and I'm so glad I did. First off, just the fact that they have same day walk in appointments is a huge plus. I felt relaxed the minute I walked in the door. The interior was beautiful, serene and very clean. The massage therapist I worked with, Mem, was really wonderful. She carefully listened to my tale of woe concerning the aforementioned shoulder, and made sure she and I were on the same page concerning the treatment. She was incredibly thorough and gave a very deep massage, which is what I wanted. They have a lot of different services and price options, and I felt that $70 was completely reasonable for the service I got. I heartily recommend this place!!!
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Review from Richard U.
Seattle, WA
3/15/2010
This is a great place to get a massage! I do belong to the bargain massage chain Massage Envy but trying to get an open slot is getting pretty much impossible unless you schedule a day or two in advance. After a misadventure on an eliptical machine, I was desperate for a nice relaxing massage to loosen up. ME was all booked up and I didn't feel like doing the reflexology thing. The Yelping community highly recommended this place for good reason. First off, they are increadibly nice! Since they weren't that busy they kind of gave me a rough window when to show up. Even called to check on me as I made way on the bus. The place is in that cool Loveless building that also houses the Joe Bar and Olivar Restaurant. The masseuse I had was great. Was able to pinpoint the sore bits and tailor the session around that. A 60 minute session was $75 which not cheap but reasonable. Parking in Cap Hill is always a bit dicey but there are some residential areas for street parking w/o meters.
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Review from Jo P.
Seattle, WA
12/2/2009
I had a gift certificate from someone who couldn't use it and so was able to get a 60 minute table massage for $20. That said, I would gladly have paid the full $70 for the massage Mem gave me. I have been having issues with my shoulders and back, and Mem really targeted those areas and left some time for my arms and legs. The atmosphere of the space is great (I love the Loveless Building), and I booked an appointment just one day in advance. I will definitely be back for a 30 min massage to really work on my shoulders.
