Okay ladies, it’s time for a very important discussion. It’s one that you may have already had with some of your Boston girl friends or heard around campus. The question that usually sparks them all: “where do you get your nails done?”. It’s a question that is often exchanged between two complete strangers! If you’re not from Boston (like me), you’ve probably gone through this conversation too. In a city that has so much to offer and has nail salons at every corner, where do you go??
Going to a new salon can be frightening. I know that seems dramatic, but it’s true. You don’t just go to a nail salon to simply have your nails done. You go for your inner peace. The process isn’t that quick, so finding a place that you’re comfortable in isn’t always easy.
Finding a nail salon in Boston is a tad overwhelming. Because there are so many of them with a wide range of locations, quality and prices, I’ve found myself most commonly asking people who I’ve noticed have some pretty decent nails.
Here’s a few local spots that I’ve been to/heard about:
Escape Nails & Spa, 21 Winter St, Boston
I heard about this place first through word of mouth, and decided to check it out back in September. It’s right downtown, so I figured it could be a good spot to hit after classes. My experience was..eh. Honestly didn’t like it. It was pretty expensive and took quite a while. I paid about $55 for a gel fill…and they didn’t allow me to tip on my card so I had to give them cash in addition. I was forced into getting a gel fill by the nail technician, when she said a regular acrylic fill wouldn’t last long enough (which is what I always get). The manicure looked good for a reasonable amount of time, I’ll give her that. But I’m not interested in going here again.
Empire Beauty School, 30 West Street, Boston
After my roommate got her hair done at Empire Beauty School, I was intrigued. Her hair looked great, and she loved the experience. I looked online and found that they had awesome prices. The work is done by beauty students, accompanied by their supervisors. I wanted to give the place a go for my nails, but was discouraged after trying to make an appointment on the phone. The woman who answered the phone was not friendly at all and actually made me feel stupid. Apparently, you need to walk in first and speak with a “stylist” student and discuss making an appointment. I wasn’t really interested after the rude phone call. If anyone successfully gets their nails done here, please let me know!
MiniLuxe Back Bay, 296 Newbury St, Boston
I’ve heard from a few people about this place! It is a spot that I’ve been meaning to try for a while now. Besides the posh location and chic atmosphere, I’ve heard the services aren’t that bad either. This would definitely be the one to go to if you’re looking to pamper yourself and possibly a pal. The manicure prices start at $20.
Town Nail & Skin Salon, 99 Charles St # 2, Boston
This is my go-to in Boston. I feel pretty comfortable here. I’ve gone a few times for acrylic fills and removals, as well as regular manicures. In my experiences there, they really take their time. I mean, you probably will be in there for more than an hour. But that’s better than them rushing, right? I have been pleased with my nails and experiences from this salon, and would definitely recommend checking it out! It’s location on Charles St. is also a plus! I will probably be back here.