When the "girl" who used to "do" me at a downtown salon left without saying where she was going, I had to find a new place. I had recently moved to the Upper West Side, had no clue where to go, and chose At Salon, based on the rave reviews here on Citysearch. I did have reservations, though, thinking, okay, there's no way it can live up to the hype, but at the very least, I'll snag a free pastry/cookie/cake from the room in the back, which was purported to be a perk. *
I'm always anxious when trying a new place, even when it's touted as being "friendly". Upon entering, however, I was greeted by everyone within, and all anxiety went the way of the dodo. (The old receptionist has since left. Maya, the receptionist now, couldn't be a better or more gorgeous "first face" if she tried.) *
Edyta, the manicurist/pedicurist, although as stunning as a model, is as modest and down-to-earth as your favorite school teacher. And the actual manicure and pedicure? Absolute perfection. She made my nails look like shiny, flawless candies -- but too delicious-looking to chew. She did not rush the process, and she also didn't waste any time, so every minute I spent in her care was extremely well spent. (Edyta has since stopped doing pedicures, but my feet are now in the exceedingly capable and just as attentive hands of Alexandra, a relative newcomer.) *
Edyta's hair always looks smashing, so I was thrilled to learn that her stylist is Liliana at the same salon, and soon I trusted my hair to her hands. This is not a feat easily accomplished. However, I cannot rave enough about how much I love what she does to my hair. I love it so much, in fact, that I even entrusted my boyfriend's hair to her hands, and now he is hooked too. *
I have NEVER seen anyone leave At Salon looking less than overjoyed with the wonders the staff has worked on them. *
P.S. Oh, and the sweets in the back? DIVINE. The baklava, made by Sam, the owner, is the best I ever had.
Pros: Exceedingly friendly staff, Delicious baklava
Cons: It is hard to eat baklava with a new manicure!
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