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Tribeca Spa of Tranquility
Categories: Beauty and Spas Day Spas Beauty and Spas Massage Day Spas, Massage
462 Greenwich St(between Desbrosses St & Watts St)
New York, NY 10013
Neighborhood: TriBeCa
(212) 226-4141
- Nearest Transit:
-
Canal St (1, 2)
Canal St (A, C, E)
Franklin St (1, 2)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 10 pm
Sun 11 am - 10 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
58 reviews for Tribeca Spa of Tranquility
58 reviews in English
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Review from Jax W.
Brooklyn, NY
1/23/2012
I've only had the korean body scrubs here and have not tried any other service here, so I'm a bit shocked to see poor reviews- but hey everyone has their own experience. I've gone three times for a body scrub, each time on a deal found on Bloomspot or Lifebooker- despite other places they have never treated me less. Every time, I've been lucky to have Grace, who is wonderful. Her English is pretty ok but she's so sweet and hey if you've got to be laying on a table naked might as well be with someone nice. If you're wondering what a body scrub is it's basically someone scrubbing your either body with a loofa so no, this isn't for the shy.
I was asked to change into a pair of spa panties and towel in a small but not cramped locker room. Just a heads up, it's a one person change room with shower so you may have to wait if someone is ahead of you. After changing you're led to the steam room for five minutes- after a good sweat, I was greeted by Grace who gave me a refreshing glass of water and led me to the scrub room. It's a tiled room with table and several shower heads and faucets. After getting out of the towel, you're on the table and they place a towel over your chest. Then bucket after bucket of warm water is poured on you. They begin scrubbing, now when I've had the scrub with Grace she asks if I'm comfortable. The scrubbing can be slightly uncomfortable however they are scrubbing dead skin off you so for some this might not be their cup of tea. Once the scrubbing is done, they give you a cucumber mask and a nice scalp massage. After you're pat dry and led to the sauna and then you're done. The wait room if filled with cucumber water, fruit and crackers which is a nice treat when you're done with the whole treatment. My skin is amazingly soft afterwards and I look forward to every visit and can't wait to go back. -
Review from Mercy A.
1/9/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I absolutely love this spa for body scrubs, manicures, and pedicures. I would not recommend it for massages as I've had better elsewhere. But as far as a traditional Korean Body Scrub goes, this is by far the best. If you come with a friend, you can both be scrubbed in the same room. My favorite part of the scrub, besides watching the dead skin wash away in the drain, is that they wash your hair and massage your head. It's truly relaxing and awesome! Before the scrub you'll go in the steam room for a bit and after the scrub you'll be taken to the sauna. The shower and changing room/lockers are together so that can be a bit tricky. The etiquette is that if the door is closed (there is no lock) you should wait to enter. But that doesn't feel totally secure to me...someone could literally walk in on you coming out of the shower. Hasn't happened to me yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if it did!
Wait for a Groupon deal as they come around often. You won't be disappointed! -
Review from May L.
1/8/2012
If you remove all the reviews for the Brazilian waxing, I think you'll find that the average review of this place is probably closer to 3.5 or 4. I'm giving it 4 because despite that they are expensive, they regularly run specials. Also, they are open until 10pm with a legitimate full spa set of options for relaxation.
I had the mani-pedi-reflexology deal spoken about by others. Mine was performed by Angela, who did a wonderful job. They are a little light on colors but have quite a good selection. They probably should get a shelf to improve the display of the, so half a star for that.
The chairs are the type you'd find in a sitting room for the pedi. Water temperture is good and hot. There are plenty of magazines and the lighting is perfect. Very chilled out. Angela did a wonderful job on both the mani and pedi. The reflexology was just ok, not quite as much pressure as a proper reflexology.
I love that while doing your mani, they bring over something to start the drying process on your pedi. The drying station is essentially a chilled out lounge where they put a pillow on your lap and dryer that comfortable fits above. I fell asleep in the chair! I have never been so comfortable before while doing nails.
Other amenities to note: they have water and hot tea available readily. There are lockers for your coat, though you'll need to ask.
I would probably go back and try a scrub or massage. There is a good size sauna and steam room that suggests going with a friend as a chat or a healthy option to a party scene would be great. The website is always running specials, which brings the price down considerably, so considering it as a girls night event.Listed in: Spa & Related Services
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Review from Emma L.
12/4/2011
Getting a full body Korean body scrub is like getting a very detailed souped up shower (or scrub)... and Tribeca Spa is the place to do it. They always have deals with Groupon or Dealist so do not pay retail. The spa is clean and no frills, which I am fine with.
If you complete your online research and due diligence of a Korean body scrub, then you'll enjoy it as much as I have. If you go into it thinking there will be sea salts that smell like rosebuds and babes bottoms then you'll be traumatized for your life.
Research. Get scrubbed. Feel clean. That's what it's all about. -
Review from Audra M.
NY
10/12/2011
I bought a groupon for services here, and boy am I glad that I did. First, they were very flexible with me about the appointment and were totally great when I was 10 minutes late.
I got a body scrub--it's a more vigorous scrub, so if you think it's too hard, tell them. You have no idea how much you need a scrub until you see the skin come off. Holy moly. After the scrub and many warm water rinses, she washed my hair while I was wearing a cucumber masque. It was amazing. I can't recommend Grace enough.
The place is not huge, but it's just enough space to have a pretty peacful experience. It's not Exhale, but you're not paying for Exhale, so there you go.
In a few of these reviews on here people refer to the location as "not really TriBeCa" and more like "Chinatown." Not true. I live 3 blocks south, and while it is on the northern end of TriBeCa, it's not anywhere near Chinatown. Many of the workers here are Korean, so maybe those reviewers think Asian people only work in Chinatown? Regardless, for me the location is perfect.
I will go back as much as humanly possible.
ps My mani and Pedi were fine, but not epic. If you are a stickler about perfect mani/pedi, this isn't your place. No biggie, it's the scrubs that are magic here. -
Review from Steph C.
Brooklyn, NY
9/13/2011
I've gotten scrubs from this place twice.
The first time was great. I had a nice lady named Grace who was very sweet and tried to make the experience as comfortable as possible. She used one of those textured gloves and did my scrub with just the right amount of pressure. She was very thorough too. My skin felt silky smooth for a week.
The second time I went back, I had another lady whose name I can't remember now. KT? Katie? Something like that. She scrubbed me with a hard LOOFA, which was pretty much like being scrubbed with sandpaper. Ouch! I went with it, figuring that a little abrasiveness would mean softer skin later.
Instead, I ended up with a RASH ALL OVER MY BODY. Little itchy red spots everywhere!! And right before I was to go on my beach vacation. I don't know if it's the loofa or the water that was contaminated, but it was definitely not clean. I won't be going back. -
Review from Tamika W.
Jamaica, Queens, NY
9/4/2011
Had a great scub and mani/pedi using a Groupon. The spa is not huge but is big enough to get the job done.
The scrub was wonderful. I forgot to skip the lotion before the scrub, but I def will remember for next time. The steam room before the scrub and the dry sauna after had me feeling like a wet noodle!
The mani/pedi room is small and it was difficult getting in and out of the chair, but I had a great experience there as well. I probably would not have been as comfortable if I came at a really busy time but my experience today was wonderful.
I will definitely be back!! -
Review from Dayna A.
7/15/2011
I came for a waxing and wish I had read the reviews before my visit. A yelper should know better. Though my practitioner was kind and polite, she also did not wear gloves and reused the stick. Tribeca is added to the name, they are about 5 blocks west, and the prices are much higher, but this is basically, for all intents and purposes, a Chinatown-type salon. As I've said previously, there is a time and a place for such things--- but it really boils down to expectations. I not only expected more, I've experienced better from the latter.
The Korean scrub and the massages might be another story, but I will not be returning after my waxing experience. -
Review from jane l.
New York, NY
5/15/2011
I live in Manhattan so it's a lot easier, cheaper, and efficient for me to come here than trek all the way to Spa Castle in Flushing or Jersey (it actually costs more for the admission fee + having someone scrub you).
I got a coupon online and got a body scrub at Tribeca Spa of Tranquility for cheap. You really don't need all those different rooms to get the job done. Alternate between the dry and wet sauna till you rub your arm/leg and feel some dead skin roll off. In between the rooms, enjoy the fruit/nuts/crackers in the rest area. My only complaint is that I am used to being scrubbed till my body is red and I lose a pound of dead skin but the scrub lady did not use enough force.
I also got a facial here and I have to say it was pretty darn good. I don't have any skin issues besides a couple blackheads on my nose. The facial lady was extremely gentle and thorough. She does Korean-style facials which doesn't involve rubbing your skin so hard that you end up with more wrinkle lines on your face. She was gentle and my face was glowing by the time I came out of the spa :D
TIP: Do not use lotion for 1-2 days before you go in for your scrub. Using lotion the day of will make it difficult for your dead skin to get scrubbed off!! -
Review from J S.
Manhattan, NY
5/15/2011
When I see the reviews here, I'm rather saddened by the poor ratings because they're quite undeserved. On the other hand, I know it's because most people here (especially on the East Coast) don't know what a Korean scrub is. Given that, the spa should probably better explain it so that patrons aren't surprised when they actually get one.
So hopefully if you're reading this, you're doing your research before actually booking or purchasing a Korean scrub. I'm not going to explain it (you can just search Korean scrub or ddaemiri on Google or Yelp to learn more about it); I'd rather give my two cents about this place.
Pros:
- The facilities are very clean and nice. Not a hole in the wall type of place; a little more upscale than your standard Korean spa.
- Friendly service. My ddaemiri ajumma (the scrub lady) was very sweet and gave me water whenever I went into the sauna.
- No massage oil during the post-scrub massage!!! I hate having to rub off the oil afterwards.
- Good price if you book on Groupon or those places! $60 for a Korean scrub in NYC is such a bargain! They also have great deals whenever it's NY spa week.
Cons:
- On the small side - wish there was more space in the locker area where you get dressed. And the sauna/steam rooms have enough room for maybe a few people at most; otherwise, it feels crowded very quickly.
- Maybe it's because they give the scrubs to mostly non-Koreans, but the ajumma could have used a little more force in my scrub (but she was also very sweet).
- Unisex areas... although this may be a pro if you come here as a couple.
- Location. Tribeca?? So far with limited subway lines!
I will definitely come back again (esp since I have 2 more scrubs to redeem). I felt so relaxed after having my treatment here. I would also advise to come when it's less busy during the week; then you pretty much have the place to yourself! -
Review from A N.
Brooklyn, NY
7/11/2011
STAY AWAY: This place gave me the worst bikini wax I have ever had. I don't know what kind of strange "natural" wax they use--but it left my skin irritated and was extremely unpleasant. Yuck. Also--this is a biggie--the waxer did not wear gloves. This is totally unhygienic.
I had the Living Social Coupon and had the hardest time making an appointment in the first place. -
Review from S M.
New York, NY
5/10/2011
I like to indulge. Who doesn't?
So I came here one day for a spa day: Body scrub, massage, facial and a mani-pedi. I was given a key and a towel and slippers and shown to their locker room.
I started out in their steam room, which was really nice on that cold, rainy day. Next, was the body scrub, which was interesting. I was in a, what I can best describe as a, titled bathroom with a massage-type table, curtains and some buckets of water. I was asked to undress and put on disposable underwear and get on the table. There, under bright lights, I was washed and scrubbed head to toe - I think she even washed my scalp. While she did a very good and thorough job, I just don't know if scrubs are for me going forward. I also would have preferred dimmer lights and less of a bathroom setting.
I was shivering after, so thankfully, I was taken into their dry sauna and relaxed. The massage was pretty good and a lot of knots were loosened. The guy who did the massage was also nice and attentive. The facial was a bit more disappointing. She seemed a bit more scattered, inexperienced and just not quite as knowledgeable. The lady doing the mani-pedi was nice - while she spoke very little English, she did fix my smudged polish.
Overall, while the place was nice, nothing really stood out about it. The rating would be closer to 3.5 - just barely above average. -
Review from Gigi F.
New York, NY
3/22/2011
I got the scrub, which was great but definitely not for everyone! It's not the most relaxing thing in the world, lying on a table getting doused and scrubbed and doused and oiled and doused again...and patted dry while standing naked in the middle of a very clinical wetroom...but I loved it. Call me crazy. Then again, I'm not the least bit shy or modest, and I can't stop touching my now silky-smooth legs, a week later and just in time for bare limbs weather.
It wasn't perfect -- the room got a little chilly once I was soaking wet, and Grace, while lovely in every way, speaks with a very strong accent; I'm usually really good at figuring it out in that situation, but I was completely stumped 75% of the time. She was extremely gracious and attentive though, so I would happily put myself in her capable hands again.
The place is very very clean, quiet, and comfortable. The steam room before and sauna after were a nice touch. Front desk is fine -- not that friendly but helpful and welcoming enough. They frequent have specials on the liviing social groupon lifebooker circuit, so don't pay full price but do tip well so they'll keep giving us great offers! -
Review from Michelle L.
Manhattan, NY
9/2/2011
It was awkward, uncomfortable and confusing experience. And these are not feelings you want to be having when you're trying to relax and spending good money. I sat in the waiting room listening to the front desk girls chat loudly about parties or pictures or some non-sense. Then brought back to the massage room and was told to change right there squished next to the table and the wall. Sketchy. Then I get under the covers and mentioned it was a bit warm in the room, He immediately took off the thicker blanket, which made me feel like that white thin sheet was see-through or something. and the sheet movement and placement just made me more uncomfortable. Nothing was explained to me like "we will be doing a combination hot rock and swedish massage, does that sound good?" Nope, just has a shock of a hot rock on me. The masseuse asked me twice about pressure, but kept hitting nerves for sharp pain. After this I was briskly handed off to the next person for a facial. I've never had a facial but I will never get one again. It hurt so incredibly much and I didn't see any difference. except that nasty lotion they kept slathering on me.
After this, not being offered water or fruit or nuts I went to change and leave. Then at the front desk the girls asked if I would like to leave a tip. When I said no, they kept asking why? why not? I told them calmly, and then they went to go get whatever manager for me to explain it again. I'm not going to sit around and defend why I do not want to tip for a service. Sadly I already spent more than $100 on the groupon and didn't get anymore relaxed.Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 9/5/2011
hi michelle,we're so sorry you're not really enjoy the… More » -
Review from Amber A.
Astoria, Queens, NY
1/20/2011
I came here with a discounted mani-pedi-reflexology massage deal. The woman who took care of me (Helen) was AMAZING! She did a very thorough job, yet was surprisingly gentle. I usually find some of the pedicure stuff to be a bit uncomfortable (maybe because I don't do it often, so my feet aren't used to being touched by other people). But there was ZERO discomfort here. It was actually quite pleasant. And the reflexology massage part (both hands & feet) was SOOO much better than the general rubbing you get at most mani/pedi places.
She also took her time with me and I never felt rushed, in spite of the fact that I was obviously the last appointment slot of the day, arrived a little late, and I think I was even the last client to leave.
Definitely recommend them. (Or at least Helen.) -
Review from christine t.
Somerville, MA
2/5/2011
My masseuse was this little lady name Simone. She was awesome! I got a 60 min massage and she touched my butt! You'd be surprised how much stress is carried in your buttcheeks!
But seriously, she was very attentive to my trouble spots, neck, shoulders, and upper back. She wasn't chatty, which I appreciate, but she did ask if things were to rough, if something hurt, if that felt good. Very professional and efficient. There was some hot stone rubbing added into the massage and a little quiet time for yourself after the rubdown. I thought 60 mins would be too long due to adult ADD, but the time flew by.
They have nice orange or lemon water, nuts, crackers, fruits to munch on after you re-coupe from the sauna or your rub down. They're a full service salon/spa. The bathroom is unisex but very clean. It is kind of a small space, and the definitely used it economically, but I didn't mind. They seemed moderately busy, but I didn't have to wait to long for anything, and there were no awkward run in's with male patrons for any of the shared facilities.
Simone gets an A for my day. -
Review from Zigi S.
Manhattan, NY
9/25/2011
This might be a good spa but as a nail salon it def was anything but! I got a groupon for a mani/peti with reflexology and it was really just a normal mani peti. My nails looked good at the end, which is a plus; but the whole reflexology part, all they did was rub my feet with a warm stone. They also require you to stay for 20mins after the manicure for your nails to dry rather than giving you quick dry and having you on your way. Not worth the $$ in my opinion.
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Review from Christina S.
Ellicott City, MD
11/13/2010
Had the mani-pedi-reflexology combo for $52. The lobby is small, smelled great. The hallways, lounge areas, and bathrooms were nice and clean. Complementary water, crackers, tea, and fruit (like any other spa). BUT that is where the good review stops because the rest could have been much better...
Pedi was done by novice person who almost filed my nails down to the quick. Scrubbing of legs and feet were a joke. I could have done them myself with a pumice stone. She didn't scrub hard or long enough. Reflexology with stones was a bigger waste of time. The stone fumbled in her hands and she wasn't familiar with spots on the feet to really make a difference. Could and shoulda done without it. My friend had her manicure done in the pedicure chair because there is only one station! She had to awkwardly put both her hands on one arm rest so she could do hers.
My lady got up and had creepy Tom finish off my mani/pedi. Had creepy awkward shoulder massage that finished with a slap to my back! No joke! From looking at other reviews, it seems they are more well known for their body scrubs than their mani/pedi. -
Review from Cindy G.
New York, NY
11/2/2011
Worst Brazilian Wax EVER! I have ever had. The lady seemed like she didn't know what she was doing. She just pulled the strips with no caution and hurt me. I've gotten brazilian waxs done for many years and I went here because of a LivingSocialDeal but it turned out to be a nightmare. She didn't even do the full thing.
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Review from Jul B.
Brooklyn, NY
6/7/2010
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. NYC is home of cheesy, unprofessional, unsanitary spas. I love Tribeca Spa of Tranquility because it is the opposite of what I just described.
The location is perfect and inviting. Very modern spa with a great staff. If you add yourself to their mailing lists, you will save so much money. My first vist was during Spa Week - $50 scrub, $50 - 60 min massage, which was a steal then.
I got a body scrub which was in a private room..followed by a 60 min massage. It was a solid experience.. The prices are very reasonable. I planned a massage with my best friend & she also fell in love. Try it! -
Review from Nina S.
New York, NY
6/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went there on a groupon, not sure what to expect. The location is more like Chinatown than Tribeca, not too easy to get there, but I found it.
I arrived on time for my mani/pedi, and had to sit and wait for the technician to show up.
There is a waiting room out back with a makeshift bar, trying to pass themselves as a real spa. Milano cookies and water...wow, what a treat. Ok, I wasn't here to eat, so moving on...
She finally arrives, and I was ushered into this tiny little crowded room with 2 pedi chairs and one mani table. It was quite awkward to climb onto the chair since there was stuff everywhere. You're trying not to step on the box of tissues, a box of this and a box of that, while holding onto the wall for dear life. Ok, I sat down, and exhaled...the lady takes off and disappears for 10 minutes...hello? Not even a soak?
She returns and by then, there are a few people waiting. She tells me to start with the mani, so I have to undo the climbing exercise....ugh, I'm getting annoyed already. I had been there for more than half an hour.
The nail polish bottles were all dried up, I had to ask her to remove the nail polish twice. Think clumps and globs. Finally, I'm done with the nails, no drying time for me. She rushed me onto the chair again. Argh!!!!!
This is an exercise of irritation! By the time she was done with my pedi (horrible job btw), I was ready to go home.
I was so irritated, the front desk lady asked me if everything was alright. Yeah, whatever. Thanks for the value on the groupon, but I'm not coming back.Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 6/3/2011
hi ,nina i would say that in the spa business,feedback is… More » -
Review from Julie J.
Airmont, NY
6/9/2011
Like others who have commented, I did the Groupon mani/pedi/reflexology deal for $30. The main reason I'm giving only 2 stars is that there was no reflexology and only the most cursory of foot/leg massage- maybe one minute. And that is my favorite part of getting a pedi!
The mani and rest of the pedi themselves were fine, although my cloven hooves could have used a little more scrubbing. Had no problem with the small space or the technicians- all the ladies and the front desk girls were very nice.
I wasn't disgusted but neither was I wowed . . . a decent deal for $30 but would not have wanted to pay more. -
Review from Stella L.
San Francisco, CA
11/3/2010
My girlfriends and I bought the $29 mani-pedi-reflexology massage deal for this place and decided to check it out.
What I liked: the ambiance (very calming), free snacks while you wait, beautiful nails
What I didn't like: the not-so-great English skills of the ladies who do the mani-pedi's, the heat (they sure crank it up in there!), the space (only 2 mani-pedi chairs in the room meant only two girlfriends can get their nails done at the same time) -
Review from Rae F.
3/17/2010
As a princess in training, you sometimes have to do odd things to achieve this status. This is one of those odd things.
Yes - u get naked. Yes - you wear a black paper undie. Yes - a foreign language will be spoken during your service. HELL YES - your skin will be smooth like butter.
I'm not one to like strangers touching me, but let me tell you, after a point you just gotta let yourself get comfortable with the situation and understand that this woman is here to make your skin feel like you've never taken the NYC subway. Once i've accepted this, it wasnt so bad. The woman also asked me throughout the entire time if it was ok which is nice. The shampoo at the end was awesome and my hair was soft & smooth too!
I have dry skin regularly, and the scrub doesn't moisturize you, it just makes your skin a clean slate again. So don't get disappointed! Just put on your fave lotion at home and you'll feel the difference!
I also had a facial, which the lady was very good about telling me my skin pros & cons and things i can do to maintain. 30min isnt really enough for a thorough job, but my skin felt very clean and healthy afterwards. -
Review from A T.
Beechhurst, NY
7/7/2011
Area: It's a bit hard to find, and there is a bit of a walk from the train station depending which exit you pop out of. Head towards the Holland Tunnel sign.
Facility: It's a cozy place and it's clean. I like that they do have a steam room (which is rare) and a sauna. This place is unisex. Although I didn't see any men there, I can see how it can be problematic if someone was changing and all of a sudden the sliding door opens. "OOOOOPS"
Service: Everyone was very polite, so service was great. I got a scrub from Grace and a massage from Stella. Both were very good.
Body Scrub: This is a traditional Korean body scrub. I like how you are scrubbed in a private area. You definitely can't be shy though because they do scrub you EVERYWHERE. I guess if you're shy you can tell them not to go in certain areas but I didn't say anything so they will scrub every nook and cranny without getting too invasive. (They do scrub your breasts and butt.) The scrubbing is abrasive (in a good way) cause they are removing all the dirt on your body. I didn't even know I had that much dirt on me. She assured me it was because I was OD'ing on lotion but a girl needs to keep herself moisturized. They wash your hair with a nice scalp massage, give you a mini cucumber facial, and put seawood extract all over your body after the scrub.
Massage: The massages here use oil and hot stones. Very relaxing.
Lounge area: The lounge area is small but has magazines and water. I did not see food/snacks as mentioned in other reviews.
Discount: Check out http://www.spaweek.com/ for deals, as well as other sites. I currently bought some deals from http://www.buywithme.com but the spaweek promotion is 30% off any treatment!
Enjoy my fellow Yelpers. -
Review from Catherine C.
Elmhurst, NY
9/23/2010
Man what a long name lol
I got a package deal for a mani pedi and reflexology from scoopst. I get there on time for my appt but had to wait 10min because they had a schedule confusion. Apparently my guy was supposed to be Tom but he had a client 30min after so he didn't have time to take care of me. They had Meggie take care of me instead.
She's a cute little polite Korean woman. My mani came out perfect. She was so anal about it's perfection and had asked me a few times if it was satisfactory to me or not. She could've massaged my hands and arms a little harder and longer but it's all good; I was very pleased with my mani.
Onto the pedi. She did the normal scrubbing of the legs and feet. I wish she scrubbed the bottom of my feet longer tho. They've been beaten up by walking in flip flops and shoes. Then comes the reflexology. She massaged my feet and legs with a hot stone. Felt awesome because it was getting a bit chilly in there. Again, I wished it was harder and longer. Oh wells. Her pedi did end up being a little messy. She missed a few spots but I think she was in a hurry because she had a client waiting outside. I wouldn't mind so much since it was such a good deal but her tip was a little less because I wasn't fully pleased, especially with the pedi.
Their bathroom had free deodorant sample to take from Dove. Smells awesome. Score! -
Review from Sue N.
San Francisco, CA
6/27/2011
The result: when I run my legs against each other, feels like silk sheets!!!
Appt. time: 8:30 pm on a Sunday. It was quiet and relaxing.
The drill: Changing room where you're given disposable panties and a robe. Steam room for 3 rounds. It was a large room (sort of like a pool shower room), separated by a curtain. Lie on table with towel covering your face. She scrubs away, good amount of pressure, not more abrasive than a good exfoliation. Plus, I can feel all the dead skin coming off. She will scrub your tee-tas! She lifted around my panties. My friend was not so lucky. But at the end of the day, it's not more intrusive than a bikini wax. She rubs cool seaweed gel all over, washes you down with more buckets of warm water. Then, she washes your hair. Hot sauna after (p.s. no nakedness in the hot sauna)
The upside: Bought voucher for $59, $2.50 for tax, $20 tip; and I feel like a new woman.
The downside: Could see how there might be a language barrier. But the women were super-nice and friendly.
Tip: if you've never had a korean body scrub before, bring a friend (preferably one that speaks Korean) -
Review from Sambo D.
Newark, NJ
7/23/2011
Got a spa mani-pedi here and the service and results were way below average. The polish chipped off the next day!
Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 9/5/2011
hi samba, if the color chip off the next day - you're more… More » -
Review from Lans S.
Brooklyn, NY
4/16/2010
Taking advantage of the amazing deals Spa Wk offers, I decided to make an appt for me and a girlfriend at Tribeca SoT based on the reviews. The staff were all very friendly and accomodating. We first relax in the steam room, donning our towel skirt/dresses then move into the sauna. Next we split up - my girl into her massage room and I go to the body scrub wet room.
It is great! Lay on the bed and get hot water thrown all over you! The body scrubs they offer here arent your typical scrub using fancy or natural scrub concoctions. Instead, this Korean or Japanese style scrub involves a special scrub cloth designed to extra exfoliate! Grace, my ever so sweet and motherly scrub woman, took her time and thoroughly scrubbed the hell out of every sq in of my body. It felt wonderful. After about 45 mins of scrub, she lathers me in a seaweed gel, then rinse w/soap, then showers me down. It was lovely. It is a very naked and humbling experience but in a clean and serene atmosphere, it doesnt bother me in the least.
This will be my go-to spot for body scrubs, for sure. And, my girl loved her massage, as well... -
Review from Ele H.
Philadelphia, PA
7/19/2011
I got the living social coupon and the bikini wax I got was...so and so. Some time after the waxing I noticed there were some hair left on bikini - thigh borderline, which is really not cool especially since I was planning on going to the beach the day after.
The lady hurt me really bad. I've had a lot of bikini waxes from different places and this is one of the most hurting experiences I've had.
Also they had told me on the phone to come at 10pm for my appointment since they were booked up and seemed to offer to stay a little longer after hours (the spa closes at 10). I came all the way, and to my surprise, the lady was closing up the spa and said they didn't know what I was talking about. I had to remake an appointment.
The one good thing is that the wax smelled like chocolate.Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 7/30/2011
we contacted the customer but no respond from her - I think… More » -
Review from Kate H.
Manhattan, NY
6/18/2011
Worst manicure ever. Honestly I will only give it one star because my nail technician June was a nice lady and did a good job with the (seemingly poor) materials she had. The atmosphere was fine, the people were nice, the deal was good ($35 for mani, pedi, and 10 minute foot massage through bloomspot) but even though I selected OPI polish, one of the better qualities normally, half of my nail had peeled off by the time I got home. Within two days, 5 nails had started peeling - not chipping, but actually peeling off. I don't know what happened to their polish but it was poor quality and a total waste of money. My pedicure lasted longer, probably because I selected a different polish. Needless to say, I will not go back.
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Review from yo y.
Manhattan, NY
6/5/2011
I bought two groupons for my best friend and I for this place. For a manicure, pedicure and reflexogy for 60 minutes. I was hoping this would be a great experience for her since she is getting married and wanted to treat her. When we got there, they let us in and these two korean women spoke in korean the whole time, and didn't speak to us at all. Not only that, there wasn't any reflexology and my manicure was completely chipped and uneven. It wasn't a relaxing experience and very uncomfortable. Overall the experience was a waste of money, and I spent 80 bucks for her and I thanks to the group on, but I could of spend 160 without it for her and I. Never coming back again. Such a dissapointment. You can definitely get better pedictures and manicures somewhere else.
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Review from Jennifer H.
New York, NY
10/18/2009
On my walk to and from work I sometimes pass a jade spa and asked a friend if she had heard of it, did she have suggestions? She pointed me instead towards Tranquility in Tribeca. So I did a little research...
Jade spa in midtown: Reviews (not on yelp) of "haggle free HEs" (this is me: "HE?" 3 seconds pass. "Ohhh")
Tribeca Spa of Tranquility: W credit and a blogger liked it. And so I booked two treatments, 105 min total, at Tranquility for just $100. They have special rates until 10/23.
The space is clean, looks like new construction, and is somewhere between a no frills spot and fancy. I was handed a towel, fluffy robe, and disposable undies. The undies were puffy black grannies, what an adult diaper might feel like I imagine.
I was ushered into the steam room for ten minutes. I had a lot of time to think:
"If i cover my head with towel, will someone walk in and see me naked in black grannies and crocs?"
"I wish I hadn't watched "Saw" today"
"If steam pours out ever 2 minutes, it's done that 4 times...I must be almost done"
"Is this sweat coming out of my pores or steam heat collecting on my skin?"
When my scrubber/masseuse checked on me and I scooted over to the door, looked at her with pleading eyes, and she asked "oh it's enough?" and I blazed out the door in a cloud of steam. Next came the scrub. I've been to spas in Koreatown in Los Angeles (where there are literally a dozen tables set up side by side, no partitions), the Juvenex Spa in K-town here (two tables next to each other behind a bamboo wall), and Tranquility is much nicer and far more private. It's essentially an all-tiled room separated into two treatment areas by a curtain.
To the previous reviewer, this is not where you go for sea salt and oil. I had all the dead skin scrubbed off rigorously with a hardcore scrubby mitt, starting on my back, then side, then other side, then top (towel over ta-tas), back again, with buckets of hot water poured over me throughout, and then ending with a shampoo of my hair. I also had a seaweed wrap which just felt like slippery goo on my newly buffed skin. Cucumber slices were placed all over my face which made me feel like Hannibal Lecter "Claaariiiiiiice."
Next came my massage. Two surprises. At one point she jumped on the bed to press on top of my back but that was just for 5 min. Then she massaged my back and said "hot." It was hot. Hot stones! Not too hot, a pleasant hot. I never knew they actually massaged you with them. I mean, look at the pics, I thought they just lined 'em up on you.
The massage was not as technically proficient as others but sufficient. When I checked out, I bought a gift certificate for a scrub for a friend and two more sessions for me. An ending that is happy, but NOT an HE!Listed in: U-G-L-Y you ain't got no alibi
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Review from New Y.
New York, NY
5/1/2011
I love this gem of a place! I have been here 4 times with a deal for a spa mani-pedi; the first three times were awesome with really good massage, the 4th time was not as good as the previous times mainly because I redeemed the deal so close to expiration when they were packed. I wish I lived closer - I would frequent it more often! I highly recommend trying them out for spa mani-pedi with reflexology.
The spa is tiny but clean, and this is the only place that I have been to where appointments are relatively easy to come by despite having a deal, as long as it is not redeemed close to expiration. A few other places don't make appointments easily available if they hear that you have a Groupon or other deal. I have not tried any other service yet because I am very loyal to other massage and facial places that I always frequent. -
Review from Amanda T.
Manhattan, NY
10/5/2011
For my sister's wedding, the bridal party and I all went here to get pre-wedding mani-s/pedi-s. The staff was very courteous, the space was narrow but clean. My mani (a French mani) was lovely but I remembered my pedi the most. My technician exfoliated my foot well, applied an aromatic lotion and gave me a hot stone foot massage. I was in heaven after that. As an experienced spa-goer, the mani/pedi services here were very satisfying. Lastly, there is a "mini bar" by the mani/pedi rooms where you can sit and snack on fruits, crackers, cheese and sip water with a hint of lemon in it while you wait for your friends to finish with their treatments. It was a pleasant experience.
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Review from Sandra H.
Manhattan, NY
5/2/2011
I bought the mani-pedi and was disappointed with the small space. They don't use water on your hands so I was cut during my manicure. The manicurist put something on the cut immediately but I was not happy. i never go back to a place that does that (yes and that includes Saks folks). And there was no need for it. Plus I found the space well maintained but tiny. At one point, there were four or five people sitting in a very small area.
Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 5/18/2011
hi sandra ,so sorry that you're not really happy with the… More » -
Review from Jenna K.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 9/6/2011
I came back to Tribeca Spa of Tranquility after the owner sent me a Yelp message apologizing & offering a free mani-pedi to make up for my previous experience. The customer service was certainly better this time around, and my nail technician was very skilled & courteous (it was actually her first day on the job!). I wouldn't mind a greater selection of nail polishes (I go for the bright, crazy colors). Both the owner & his wife came out to talk to me regarding this experience & my previous experience, which was very nice. They said my previous nail technician is usually quite friendly & she must have been behind schedule the day I came in, causing her to be stressed - I certainly understand that, but she still shouldn't take out the frustration on the customers! The owner also told me they will be having great deals on other services during Spa Week, so I am thinking about coming back for a body scrub during that week... perhaps I will have another review after that! :-)
Listed in: Let's be healthy...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/30/2011
I went in today for a mani-pedi with a BuyWithMe coupon. The manicure & pedicure themselves were… Read more »
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Review from Michelle V.
New York, NY
3/11/2009
The people who work at Tribeca Spa of Tranquility are very sweet and attentive, the décor downstairs is nice (though not so much upstairs), and it's open very late. Most importantly, the massage I received was excellent. My masseuse definitely knew what she was doing.
Unfortunately, I had also booked a body scrub and a seaweed wrap. Body scrubs I've had in the past have involved essential oils and sea salt...but at this spa, a big woman who didn't speak English stripped me down and then rubbed me vigorously with a bath mitten -- the type you can buy at Duane Reade for $5! She kept pouring buckets of water on me to wash away the dead skin, and she was standing there wearing with rolled up pants and no shoes as the floor kept getting covered with water... It was bizarre, and seemed a bit low on the hygiene scale.
The seaweed wrap was like seaweed wraps always are. It's hard to get excited about being covered with a fishy-smelling liquid and then wrapped in plastic, you just hope that it's drawing out toxins like it claims to do. I wish they had put on a nice-smelling lotion afterwards, but instead they just hosed me down (again). My skin ended up feeling a little dry, actually, which was annoying since I had just had all the dead skin scrubbed off, so it should have been soft and silky!
In conclusion...if you're looking for a good massage and don't care about the glam factor of your spa, Tribeca Spa of Tranquility is great. Otherwise, you might want to try some place else!Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 6/20/2010
We are always looking to improve on our treatments after… More » -
Review from Claire F.
7/22/2010
Worst. Experience. Ever. I'm not sure how they get away with having BOTH the words "spa" and "tranquility" in their name...
I went for the mani/pedi/reflexology massage package. After taking me over half an hour late, I received a fairly decent pedicure and an ok foot massage in the cramped nail booth with 2 pedicure stations and a nail station wedged very closely together.
The woman who did my mani/pedi was older and obviously overworked and/or kindof losing it. She was gabbing/giggling with the other two women in the tiny room, over me and the two other women there. Their talking was so loud that even the pair of other women (who had obviously come together) couldn't have a conversation over it.
Then, since there was only one manicure station -- and it was being used -- she took off her shoes, pulled over a crate and crouched over me, half on the crate, half on my chair with me, to do my manicure on a paper towel she had draped on the left arm of the pedicure chair... there was about 6 inches between the pedicure chair and the wall and not even enough room for my hands and the tools to all fit on the arm of the chair. the whole time she was reaching over across my body to the other side of the chair -- dripping massage oil and nearly nail polish remover on my clothes! -- tossing and picking up (with loud sighs of frustration) the tools/cremes she needed to complete my manicure. Whenever she would finish one step on my right hand (opposite the arm rest) she would literally toss it into my lap, never minding that it was covered in mineral oil or wet polish. She managed to get some grey dust -- I think from an old nail file or buffer? -- under my fingernail and when I pointed this out to her and its contrast to the light pink polish, she just looked at me and giggled. As she was painting so fast, two of my nails ended up with bubbles under the polish, so I had to ask her to re-do them. Getting a manicure bi-weekly for years now, I have maybe had to ever ask someone to do this once before. And it was in a cheapie $8 manicure place.
By the end of the ordeal, I could not WAIT to get out of there. As I sat on the train home, I noticed my two layers of nail polish were uneven on my hands, so there were streaks of single layers on three fingers; there was polish on the skin of my toes and fingers and on my cuticles, making for a gross-looking inner edge of the nail. In short, I could have certainly done this job myself... or maybe a better job at that.
I'm sure that this woman was overworked and/or the spa was overbooked, but is that my fault? How was I supposed to know? and what on earth good does it do to treat a customer that way?
I wish these "spas" would get a clue and either offer nail services of spa-quality (and not back room of a hair salon quality) or not at all. If I'm looking to try a new spa, before I let a place touch my face or skin with a facial or massage, I'll try the nail services first. They're often revealing.
I'll never go back -- and with so many nicer actual spas that offer mani/pedi services for the same price, go get yourself one that's actually relaxing.
And to respond to the owner, I did speak to the girl at the desk-- her offer? for me to come again another time for a re-do. Yeah, no thanks.Comment from Gary L. of Tribeca Spa of Tranquility 8/29/2010
Claire came in for a summer special discount… More » -
Review from Neha S.
Updated - 1/11/2011
After my previous review (a bad experience at this place), the owner reached out to me and offered me a complimentary mani/pedi. Cheers for good service! I went back and specifically requested a female (since the male i had last time was rude and awful). Seemed like someone didn't book my appointment, but the spa ensured that I got my treatment. Elizabeth was the lady who did my nails - and she was amazing. She was very nice, and did a fantastic job with my mani/pedi and gave me a great foot massage - with hot stones. My first experience was awful and this second experience was great, so am giving this place an overall of 3 stars.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/21/2010
Got a deal for this place for a mani/pedi/reflexology for $29. Was a total pain to book an… Read more »
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