before I came in I called in the morning To ask someone if I could send a picture to see if they could do it exactly how I wanted in the photo (photo on the right) spoke with the front desk and he gave me his number and I sent the photo and he told me they could do it exactly like that just not as long I told them OK no problem I didn't want them long anyway I just wanted the design and the color. The lady doing it was very nice I am just very upset because the design was not done exactly how I wanted it to even though they had told me that they could do it and also there were many bumps on the acrylics and it wasn't done properly. I am not a professional but I do know this is not how it is done. I am very upset with the results because I did make sure before hand they could do it how I wanted it to otherwise I wouldn't have done it in this salon and just went to an actual nail tech. The last time I got my nails done from here also it didn't turn out good I guess I should have learned my lesson. Although this place is good for pedicures but that's about it. read more

Bella Nails - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

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This place is modern, clean, noise-free (not a lot of chattering amongst the staff), excellect pedicure service along with modern and comfy spa chairs. The minus 1 star is for making an appointment and not adhering to the time schedule. Unlike Kim A. my cousin and I made an appointment for 11:30 on a Monday. We were seated in the spa chairs about 5 minutes and 1 person started working on my cousin, and then 20 minutes later someone started on me. Ideally, i would've like to have been worked on at the same time but i realize things happen. I suspect a person who was getting a pedicure decided she wanted a manicure too which cut into my time slot. Oh well...things happen. Would i come back? Definitely...but i think weekdays are the best time time to come for a laid back and more relaxing atmosphere. Located in the shopping center with with a choice of Baskins Robbins or a yogurt/gelato shop nearby. Yum! read more

I came to Bella nails as I feel most of the nail shops in our area lack appreciation and warmth for their customers. I called (Jade answered she is a gem my review in no way reflects her she's as sweet as pie) and made an appt. when I came in I was greeted by jade she made me feel good and at home. Lilly was nice and did good work. Every encounter I've had with the owner Vivian Nguy has been cold and rude. A couple weeks back I read a story about her daughter making racist remarks via Twitter and it made me feel that all our ill encounters may not have been just a coincidence. She may really be racist. I still went in jade wasn't there and per usually she was rude but I looked past it because most of the workers are generally nice. I went two days ago and had her direct me to a chair that someone else previously had been sitting in and ignored me when I asked her had it been cleaned. In these covid times isn't that a health hazard? This is why Gavin Newsom shut down nail salons in the first place, unsanitary. Then in the same visit when I was trying to pay she ignored me and put her conversation with another customer before my desire to pay and leave. This is what black people are talking about when we say white privileged but that's another topic. I prayed on it and waited until yesterday to respond to that encounter. I went in and nicely asked if we could have a convo. Every-time I go into her shop I see she has a person of color and she needs to appreciate our black dollar too so I wanted to educate her instead of just trying to destroy her and her business. She has yet to call me back. So obviously she's not trying to bridge any gaps. Update; I did speak to Vivian. I appreciate the call. Answered a lot of questions. Sometimes people make mistakes everyone deserves second chances. read more

Bella Nails - Looks like a 5 year old did my nails. - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

I came in with a friend today for a French Gel manicure and a pedicure and in 30 years of having my nails done regularly, my experience with Bella Nails was, hands down, the WORST I've ever experienced. They soaked my fingernails in foil for a long time during my pedicure but then when they removed the foil they said I must have had acrylic on my nails. I was surprised by that as I had asked for and thought I received gel at the last place but I guess I didn't. So, ok, what now? The woman didn't seem sure how to get them off so she called the guy at the front desk over and he said they would have to pry them off or soak them off with acetone. I didn't want them pried off so I said well, soak them off with acetone then. I don't know what they had on my fingers before but they just put them directly into the acetone, not washing off whatever they were using before. After a few minutes, my fingernails started to sting and then started really burning. (I wore acrylic nails for 20 years and never had that happen when soaking nails off.) I asked if they could just sand them down and the front desk guy said they didn't have time. He seemed really annoyed and put out and told me that I'd just have to go back to the other place to get them fixed. His attitude was pretty shocking frankly. I wasn't rude or pushy, he just clearly didn't care. If this was my business, I would be mortified to have a customer leave with nails looking like how they left mine. Check out the pictures and see for yourself. As if that wasn't enough, my pedicure was sloppy with the paint uneven and paint on my skin. I asked for callous treatment and she barely did anything. My feet still are super calloused, she did a lame, ugly flower on my toes. For that, I was charged $42 and then the front desk guy actually demanded I leave a tip. W.O.W. read more

Bella Nails - This is how my nails looked when I walked out the door of this place. See my review for more info. - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

Really like Alan and his staff of manicurists at Bella nails. They are always accommodating and do a very nice job. I always come out pleased with my manicure and pedicure. My mom and daughters also like Bella Nails. It's always a treat when we can do it together because the salon has enough spa chairs for all of us. read more

Bella Nails - Plenty of massage chairs! - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

I want to start by saying this review is really a review of several visits throughout the past year and a half. Most of my visits to Bella Nails would warrant around 3 stars, but the most recent (and the one that inspired this review) is one I would give 1 star, so it's bringing this review down. Disclaimer: I only come to Bella Nails when I am in town visiting my family, which is a few times a year, and, truly, the only reason I have kept returning is because of its convenient location (~5 min walk from my parents' house). Right off the bat, I have to talk about the vibe I get from Bella Nails. It's a beautiful salon, but I never feel truly welcomed. In fact, I almost always feel like I am inconveniencing them, even though I am (in my opinion) about as easygoing as possible. Customer service could definitely be a LOT better, but that doesn't usually make or break a nail salon for me, so it's not the end of the world in my opinion. I typically get dip nails. I have had them done probably 4 times at Bella Nails, and the results are usually average/decent. I will say I've had better for cheaper, but I don't think I've ever had any complaints about my dip nails from Bella. I've had one GREAT nail tech, whose name I can't remember, but she has braces. She's super personable and does a great job shaping nails. The other nail techs I've had are just okay. Here comes the negative part. A couple of days ago, I was getting acrylics taken off and having a regular manicure done. My nails are VERY weak from months and months of dip/acrylics and I told my nail tech this when she started. She confirmed it, so it was something that she was definitely aware of. She soaked my nails for about 30 seconds before taking my hands out and starting to use a cuticle cutter to rip off the acrylics. It was painful but manageable, and I am not someone who tends to speak up (my fault) especially when I am not the expert. However, particularly on my weak nails, I knew immediately that this was not the right method to remove acrylics. I was thinking about how it was a really unpleasant experience RIGHT as the nail tech ripped a chunk of my pinky nail off from the nail bed. She was clearly flustered and nervous about it and apologized quietly, put my pinky finger back in the acetone to soak off the rest, then kept going. OUCH and also I'm pretty sure that's super unsanitary. At that point, I was about ready to ask for someone else to finish it, but, again, I am not someone who likes to speak up so I let her keep going, since she was almost done anyways. She continued the painful removal method with the cuticle cutter and ripped off small chunks of a few different nails. When she was FINALLY done taking off the acrylics, she did my manicure. She painted the SKIN where she had ripped off my nail like it had never happened. Obviously, that lasted all of 2 hours, so I'm left with a really messed up looking pinky. When I was all finished, she set me up to dry my nails and then just... never came back. So I got up when I felt like they were dry and, as far as I know, paid full price ($25). I didn't expect a great manicure on my paper-thin nails, but, 2 days in, they're almost all chipped. Very disappointing experience. Sadly, since it is so conveniently located when I visit home, I will not be returning to Bella Nails in the future. I've had a lot of average experiences here but the most recent negative experience definitely made my mind up. read more

Bella Nails - My pinky nail with a chunk ripped out. It goes down deeper but the paint has stayed on it a little better. - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

I was disappointed by the level of service. This is not a place for pedicure or manicure for men. Tiffany doing my manicure was rushing to finish the job. Cathy was okay but nothing special. She did the pedicure but was not paying attention to doing the job except looking up the ceiling. I had to go to another nail salon to get my nails filed. I would never recommend the place. There is no pempering involved as the entire job of pedicure and manicure finished in less than 30 minutes. read more

The dipping manicure was done very badly. It has air bubbles underneath it, French tips are very uneven and the lady doing my manicure cut my skin. To top all of this, my cuticle weren't done at all. Very disappointed for the paid price. read more

Bella Nails - Uneven French tips and air bubbles underneath - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

The person did the manicure used metal tools to push cuticles and was very rough!! It was as if she is rubbing a crusted pan with metal. My fingers didn't bleed right away but were swollen for the rest of the month. I saw similar comments but thought these are one off cases. The salon clearly doesn't make any effort to train employees to be gentle. What's worse is this person's attitude from the begging. It was like, you should be thankful that I am doing your nails. I can't remember the full name. Something with "J". I don't recommend the manicure. The pedicure person was careful and gentle. Given the discomfort of swollen nails, I still don't plan to go back there. read more

The lady who gave me my pedicure did a horrendous job. She didn't understand a word of English and could not execute a few simple requests. My toe nails were left looking jagged and I'm pretty sure she caused a few ingrown nails (I will have to get another pedicure soon to correct this). The lady who did my nails cut 2 of my fingers. She made me put pressure on the cut fingers to stop the bleeding and then immediately sprayed it with alcohol which stung very badly. This mani/pedi first $87 BEFORE tip. There are way cheaper places in Belmont that do phenomenal jobs. I only came here because everywhere else was booked. Never again. read more

Bella Nails - The lady cut 2 fingers to the point where she had me put pressure on them while she did my other hand. My thumb got infected. - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

Terrible service. Spent $80 for a manicure and pedicure. Gel Manicure is poor done. Polish had bubbles and although the lady saw it I had to ask her to fix it. She filed the top of my nails again and had to chose a new color 3 times because they didn't have any. Overall my polish is thick and grotesque. Never going back again. read more

Nice and prompt service. I was able to relax and enjoy the experience. The price for regular manicure pedicure is $65, this is a bit steep.

Dreadful experience. My nails look awful, patchy, raggedy at the bottom and peeling after one day. My daughter's nails were also terrible, not what she asked for and also peeling off today. What a complete waste of money. Never had such a poor gel manicure. read more

Following all Covid precautions- great service. I'm sure this has not been easy as a business but I am glad you hung on.

Treated poorly. Had appointment with Jolene, but when I arrived, had to wait half an hour and then got someone else. When I complained, I was told I could go somewhere else. The guy who runs this place needs an attitude adjustment! Not worth the money or the way some of the people treat you there! Go elsewhere!! read more

I've been to this salon a number of times, but this will absolutely be the last time. I went with a few friends and my daughter. My daughter is 8 years old and took a lot of time to carefully select the colors she wanted. Since I was getting a mani/pedi and my daughter was only getting a manicure, she was on the other side of the salon, so I wasn't able to help advocate for what she truly wanted. When she was finished, my daughter came over to my chair to show me her nails and they were completely uneven and not even close to the pattern she wanted (1st mistake). Anna completely forgot to add a glitter top coat to 2 nails on her left hand (2nd mistake). She fixed the mistake, but then one nail was so thick and horrible looking (3rd mistake). The last time my daughter came around to my chair, she was visibly upset and whispered that she wasn't ok and had to tell me something. Ann said to her "you are picky" followed by "don't go back to your mommy saying I messed up". At this point, my daughter was in tears and I was fuming. Ann knew she messed up and quickly came over to us defending herself and called my daughter a liar. At this point, we had to call the manager back to the salon. Ann muttered something in Vietnamese and then laughed at the situation, walking away. After some time, she approached my daughter without me asking to redo her nails. I told her not to speak or touch my daughter again. Nothing can be done to save the situation at this point. My daughter never received an apology, only waived the $30 cost. Ann kept insisting it was my daughter's fault for talking to her friend and distracting her and this was the first time she's ever experienced anything like this. Instead of being apologetic and professional, she continued to argue with me. She's right about that - it's definitely the first time I've ever experience this horrible service. read more

I really wanted to like it here and make this my nail place after recently moving to Belmont. My kids and I had an appointment for my 11yr olds birthday. We unexpectedly had our eye doctor appointment run long and we're running a little late. The front desk woman called angry after about 5 min of being late, I explained we were doing everything to get there and we would be there within five minutes. Seven minutes later, we arrived a total of 12 minutes late. The front desk woman yelled at us when we arrived to pick out our colors giving us maybe 30seconds to do so before yelling at us to sit. We were rushed through the whole appointment, the tension in the room was thick and everybody noticed, my kids and myself we're all very uncomfortable. My eye doctor even came in to apologize for having us running late but the staff there ignored her and we're very rude. Honestly, we should've left but I didn't want to spoil my daughter's birthday. All she wanted was her nails done. to make matters worse the front desk person sat herself down and got a pedicure while we were there. I suppose getting her own nails done is more important than showing any kind of decency and respect to the client who's spending over $200 for nails. My kids nails chipped within a day and mine were pretty much a mess and we're chipping within a couple days as well with gel polish. I tried giving them a call to talk it out, but never received a call back. If you want to treat me with disrespect, that's one thing but treating an 11-year-old and a six year old like that is just unacceptable. Shame on you we will not be back. read more

I have been going to Bella Nails for over a decade. I started taking my kids as soon as their feet could reach the water (though, my teenage son no longer wants to join me). The owners and staff are friendly, and they always do a great job. We went back today after the shelter-in-place, and the service is as great as ever. Their massage chairs are a sweet treat. read more

I just moved to the area and happened upon this gem in the Redwood City. It smelled like essential oil heaven when I walked in while being pleasantly greeted immediately. I was not rushed to pick out my polishes for gel manicure and pedicure (it always takes me at least 5-10 mins!!), seated in the best massage chair that I never wanted to leave, and immediately had service from 3 women (1 on each hand and 1 doing pedicure). The spa décor was glamourous, yet simple- it reminds me of a 5 star spa I recently visited in Punta Cana, DR. I truly felt like I was on vacation. There was very warm oil rubbed extensively on my hands and arm, also my cuticles look better than ever. They let me stay in the massage chair, reclined, while my toes dried until I was ready to go, without saying a word ( I took my time and felt completely relaxed). Because of the quality and exquisite service, I was afraid the price was going to be outrageous, but I was shocked to check out for $60!!!! Of course, one of the most important things is how my nails and skin look... I have never been so happy with the attention to detail that was taken with my cuticles, perfect polish, and the oil being rubbed into my dry skin. CUSTOMER FOR LIFE. I want to bring all my visiting family and friends here. I see other reviews that talk about it being crowded, but it's because they're awesome. Perhaps book an appointment at a not so usually busy time. 5 stars. The women that work here are beautiful angels. Thank you, Bella Nails! Meagan read more

This place is horrible. The place was dirty tons of stuff on the floor. Sandy does NOT know how to shape an acyrlic nail. Don't go here, simple. read more

TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!! I called one week before to make a bridal party mani-pedi's for May 11th. There were four of us. The owner asked me to be specific about who wanted what service. I gave him the info. The morning of the appointment, the owner called to confirm I was still going. Now mind you, I went to this salon three or four years ago and had a great experience which is why I wanted to go back. WHAT A MISTAKE THIS WAS!! Upon walking in, he said he didn't have enough girls and took three of us to get pedi's and took the bride ALONE TO the otherside of the salon. ISN'T THIS SUPPOSED TO BE A FUN EVENT WITH EVERYONE TOGETHER? Have you never done a bridal party before? SERIOUSLY DISAPPOINTING. But that was just the beginning. The bride showed the nail tech a picture of what she wanted and the nail tech told her that she could not do the french manicure giving her some lame excuse - I am shaking my head. How can you do this to the bride - it was not an elaborate french manicure, anyone could have done. Then I asked for two tips to be placed on my right hand. SHE CUT ALL MY NAILS to the size of the ones I requested tips for. SERIOUSLY! They didn't listen to us at all! I dropped $400 and this is what I paid for? An experience that was supposed to be joyous and fun turned into a really sad experience for all of us. I WILL NEVER GO BACK and if you are planning to go for a bridal party DON'T. The salon needs to be update - it is dark and run down. They don't have a variety of nail colors - either gel or regular polish. Some ladies are better than others but overall - DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!!! STILL SO MAD I COULD CRY!!! read more

This nail salon was highly recommended by a friend I trust as a clean and safe place for manicures. I finally tried it, and there are special touches here that differentiate Bella from some other places: * The receptionist offered me a beverage. I had water with lemon in it in a wine glass. Fancy-schmancy. * They gave me a heated wrap for my neck and shoulders - how's that for pampering? * I was given magazines to read. * The décor is quite nice - upscale. * I didn't notice a TV - maybe this place is above that. :) They did a tag-team approach to my manicure. Three people helped me. Two out of three were extremely personable. One didn't really connect with me at all (I didn't take it personally - she was that way with her following client too), and I thought she could brush up on her warmth and people skills. The salon owner was the manicurist who painted my nails, and he was extremely professional and genial. He and his wife run a first-rate 5-star business. The only disappointing thing was that I neglected to get any flowers painted on my nails, so my son was really disappointed. Next time. read more

This review is only for their waxing services. I needed a brazilian wax and my regular esthetician was not available. I called this place and they said that they did brazilians, so I scheduled an appointment for a few days later. I arrived and the place is very nice and clean, but smells like nails since that's their main business. I arrived 5 minutes early and had to wait 10 minutes for my esthetician who was doing another clients nails. I was taken into a tiny room and the waxing began. Now, I'm not a novice as I've been getting brazilian waxes for over 7 years? I know how not to do waxing of any kind and this lady broke all the rules. 1. the wax was way too HOT and burned my skin (yes I told her) 2. She double dipped (used the same spatula the entire time into the wax and onto my skin). That's really gross and a big no no! 3. She didn't wear gloves. Again, really gross! 4. She rushed through the wax and hence missed a lot of hair which I didn't realize until I got home that night. When she was done, she said "ok, thank you" and literally ran out the door. While walking to the front to pay, I noticed she was back with the same nail client she was with when I first got there. So I had an appointment, but she rushed through my wax to get back to another client. That's really rude and unprofessional. I'm sure they do great nails, but don't go here for waxing of any kind as they are not hygienic at all! read more

They do a good job usually, but this past time I was there she cut me while clipping my cuticles and it bled a lot. Rather than getting it to stop and cleaning it up, she proceeded with my gel manicure and you can totally see the blood in the corner. It is under the clear coat so I am stuck with blood until I remove the gel in a couple of weeks. Not the best service this time unfortunately, because in past trips they had done a very good job. read more

Bella Nails - Blood in the corner under the gel - Nail Salons Near Me - Belmont, California

I'm really disappointed in this place, not because of their nail services but for how customers are treated. I had to put off this review for a week to keep myself from writing something full of rage. My boyfriend and I came by several times a little over a year ago, and we hadn't encountered problems previously. We haven't been back in a while and wanted some time to just relax and destress before going out with friends. I called on Thursday, August 21, 2014 for a mani-pedi appointment for two people at 1 pm on Sunday, August 24, 2014. The gentleman on the other end repeated my request for two mani-pedi's on Sunday at 1 pm and said I was set. Fast-forward to Sunday, and when we arrived 10 minutes early to check-in. We had to wait for several minutes for a gentleman to come out from the back to greet us at the counter, and when I said that we had an appointment, I received a look of surprise and was told that there wasn't an appointment for me. "Maybe you called our San Mateo location," he said. Maybe that's happened with other people before, but I've never gone to the San Mateo location ever, so their number wouldn't be in my cell phone. The Belmont location is the only Bella Nails location I've ever been to. "No," I protested. "I'm pretty sure I called this location last Thursday for an appointment." However, he proceeded to call the San Mateo location, but of course, they didn't have my appointment. I then repeated that I called on Thursday afternoon and made my appointment. "I don't know what happened," he said flatly. No apology, nothing. Just silence. After several awkward moments of not exchanging any words, I asked how long the wait would be, and I was told almost immediately that they were completely booked for the whole day. Again, more awkwardness as he clicked away on the computer. We stood there not knowing what to do as other customers and nail technicians glanced over at us, and I felt my face burn with embarrassment. The entire exchange made me feel like some sort of unwanted street rat that just wandered in! More unpleasant silence followed as he tinkered on the computer before he finally suggested that I come in the next day, and I reluctantly scheduled an appointment for after work. My boyfriend and I left, and once we were back in my car where I had a few moments to digest what just happened, I was livid. A simple "I'm sorry" would've been enough to placate me, but we never even got that. I pulled out my phone, took a look at my call history, and there was undeniable proof that I called the Belmont location number on the previous Thursday and spoke to someone for 35 seconds. But somehow, my appointment was nonexistent. The next day, my boyfriend had to report in for jury duty and was stuck longer than anticipated, so I called to cancel our appointment since I was sure we weren't going to make it, but I still wanted to reschedule. The phone conversation basically went as follows: Me: "Hi, I have an appointment today at 5 pm for two people that I need to cancel because-" Gentleman: "Is this Valerie?" Me: "Yes, I-" Gentleman: "Okay, that's fine, thanks, bye." Me: "Uh, thanks-" *CLICK* Maybe I should've said, "I'd like to reschedule" first, but what a way to make it known that my business obviously isn't important enough to retain! I was already still sore about how humiliated he made me feel at the front counter the previous day, but that call was just the last straw. Seriously, Bella Nails Belmont, what happened to you in the year that I was gone?? I really did love the nail services here, but treating a customer like that is absolutely inexcusable. Hiring a dedicated receptionist so that appointments don't get lost & customers get greeted right away could do so much for good customer service. Even if that can't be done because of financial reasons, apologizing and admitting to making a mistake (instead of making customers feel like they're the ones at fault!!) is the LEAST a good business can do. I won't be coming back again. read more

So I bought a Juice in the City deal for a pedicure with them and when I realized that it was going to expire, I went to the location only to find out that it was closed. There was a written paper sign hanging on the window. (Aren't most nail places closed on mondays???) Came back again the next day and mentioned to the person at the front desk (I was assuming maybe he was the owner or manager) that he couldn't honor it because after the expiration date they don't make any more money on the deal and it isn't considered valid anymore. On the Juice in the City fine print, it states "If not redeemed by the expiration date, this deal code will continue to have a redemption value equal to the amount you actually paid for the period specified by applicable law." The deal was worth a pedicure that normally costs $30. I paid $15 for it. So I thought that I'd at least be able to apply $15 towards the pedicure and just wind up paying the difference which I wouldn't have minded, but the manager said that its not valid anymore and that I'd have to contact Juice in the City to get my money back. I know how these deal sites work, don't they wind up getting half of what I spent and the business get the other half? Anyway, I didn't want to cause a scene and the manager was nice enough, but I have been a regular at the San Mateo location for a few years now and got this deal because it was closer to my house, wanted to check out the location and hey, it was a good deal. Even if there was no deal, I would still be happy to pay $30 for a pedicure. At this point, because of the way this whole thing was handled, I'm hesitant to even want to do business with this establishment anymore. Too bad. Btw, I think they should have planned the expiration date properly knowing that 3/15/11 was going to be a Tuesday when they are actually closed. They should have done it for 3/14/11 at least. read more

I hadn't gone here in awhile since I started working in the city, but I decided to come back for a regular manicure and shellac removal since I wanted to go to a place i trusted. Sadly my appt. took much longer than I expected, not to mention the quality of it just wasn't the same. I was seriously disappointed. For one, its only been 2 days and my nails are already chipping and lots all the luster from the top coat. I had to reapply my own top coat and really...only after TWO DAYS?? The other issue I had is that their lotion is scented and I tried to tell the manicurist that it was making my skin itchy but because she didn't fully understand what I was trying to tell her, she proceeded to apply it to my other arm after I had already indicated it was giving me and allergic reaction. I can understand since there was a bit of a language barrier that it's not entirely her fault, but why don't they use regular lotion w/ aloe like other salons? Or lotion that is non-irritating. I know they've had all sorts of scents like cinnamon apple and what not, but this time I saw the lotion that she used on me after it started to irritate my skin and it was a scented with papaya and other citrus fruits. I know i can't be the only one with sensitive skin! Since they are on the more expensive side and groupons for other salons are easy to come by, I think i will have to say farewell to this spot. What a shame. read more

I love this place to get my nails done! It's a midpoint for my South SF friend and I to meet up for a nail date and lunch and this place never disappoints. The place is super clean and the ladies that work there are friendly. They actually engage in conversation with their clients rather then each other which is refreshing. I never feel like I have to compete for attention here. I love the look of Shellac nails and for $35 here, it's worth it to have nice looking nails for 3 weeks. They also have pedicure treatments with lots of pedi chairs. Make sure to schedule an appt especially on the weekends. I'll be back! read more

1 star for giving me an appt promptly on the phone. I made a 3:30 appointment and they did not start till 4:15 pm. The water was cold, no one even asked me if I wanted anything or even apologize for making me wait that long. Some people got a neck pillow and others did not. The pedicure was even decent. It was a half assed rush job. No cleaning, cuticle removal. No dead skin heel scrubbing. No buffing of nails. Scrub was done in 20 seconds on both feet. The massage was useless Overall, I was done by 4:35 pm including polish. Just one coat of polish. No, this was not an express pedicure. It was a spa pedicure.  I wanted to get some waxing and they made me wait till 5:00 again, despite prompting 2 times. Infact I'm writing this review while I wait for someone to show up in a back room for the past 5 mins.  If you care about good service and respect your time, don't go here. This is the first and last time I'll go to any of the Bella Nails places around San Mateo. read more

I get pedis only, and love Bella Nails. I'm always able to get an appt, and leave with great toes and much more relaxed. It is easy to find parking (at least when I go, early evening, usually Tue - Thu) and the price for a pedi is reasonable. A typical pedi takes about 40-45 min, and it includes a wonderful chair massage. I don't doubt that the other manicurists are good, but I go to one person religiously - Razelle. She is very pleasant and professional, and if I still lived in the area, I would continue my loyalty. read more

I have been going to Bella Nail for a while some of the girls are very nice and do a good job. I think they are expensive for what they offer, the massages are so-so nothing special and sometimes done in a hurry. The owner or manager is very unfriendly when I approached him on his desk to pay he didn't even raise his head he was too busy checking messages on his phone. He didn't say thank you or bye when I left. On another occasion when I walked in nobody said hallo and I was standing there for 15 min before somebody took notice. They really need to work on their customer service. I will not go back. Natalia read more

I love this place... it reminds me of the chain nail salons down in so cal.. but it does have a bit more of a price tag to it compared to the smaller joints around this town. But c'mon.. the service, shellac color selections, friendliness, cleanliness... this can't be beat.. I've ALWAYS been sat right away when I have reservations. ALWAYS. And the owner even recognizes us... I came a few times with my mom and a couple times with my friends... and when I'm there without my mom, he'll ask.. hey you haven't brought mom in a while lol OOOPS! jk... They give you this aromatherapy shoulder pad to relax you.. and did I say.. they seat us right away... one time my mom walked in without reservations ... and he call the other bella nails to hopefully get us served right away (which we did... and got sat right away). LOVE IT!!! THey have the biggest selection of shellac nail color options that I know of in town.. even having more modern colors like orange, coral, blues... They take their time doing your pedi and mani.. but not TOOO long like some other places I know... I got my shellac for $35 and pedi for $30. AT first I was thinking of giving four stars for the price... but honestly.. for the amazing experience you get there... five stars all the way. read more

I've been having my nails done regularly for many years. After reading the variety of reviews here, I can only say that, in dozens of visits, I've never had some of the negative experiences others have had. The positives: - The ambiance is great. Lots of space, well-maintained - Massage chairs are very comfortable - They always offer complimentary glass of water or tea - I've never had to wait long when I have an appointment - They usually do mani while pedi is being done, saving me time - They always clean up my cuticles - They always give hand and foot massage, even with basic spa service - They do a great job with my nails, even those that are hard to work with The negatives: - At times I have to tell them the water is cold in the foot bath or that I'd like the jets on. This isn't a big deal to me as they always correct it when asked, so still 5 stars in my book read more

I first started going to Bella Nails at the Hillsdale Blvd location. The San Mateo location is always busy with customers waiting for your chair. I switched to this location because it's more laid back and relaxed. Make an appointment. When you arrive you're usually seated within minutes of your appointment time. They accept walk-in's, but there's usually a wait for service. The nail salon is really clean! They always use sterile tools and disinfect the pedi bowls between customers. I like the selection of OPI colors, but feel there are more choices at their other location. When you get seated in the pedi chair, you're always offered a drink and given a heated neck wrap. Turn on the massage chair and you're relaxation begins... I've had a different manicurist on each visit and have been happy with my toes every time. Gotta love a fresh pedi with the latest colors. If you're looking for a mani/pedi place, give Bella Nails a try, you won't be disappointed! read more

I've lived in Belmont for so long, why haven't I noticed this place before? I was just grabbing my morning coffee and thought there was a "new salon" in town so I decided to give it a chance. My nails needed some help! I walked in and was surprised on how nice the place looked. Not what I was expecting! I got a shellac manicure from a very sweet technician named Tam. I then decided to pamper myself more and get a facial. I believe her name was Christy or Christine? She was fabulous! Probably one of the best facials I've gotten. She was very sweet, informative, and thorough. Extractions are never fun but she made them a breeze. I have been returning religiously. I try to stick with Tam, not to say the other technicians are bad, but she's just so patient, thorough, and knows what I want. read more

I really wanted to like this place. I loved the fact that I saw a real steam autoclave they use in dental offices in a photo here on yelp and the fact that they take cleanliness of the nail implements seriously. That is very important to me. I feel they really have potential to be great. I was taken back to a pedicure chair and they use a bowl instead of the big pedicure spa chair - that is good too as they say a lot of bacteria live in the big pedicure spas. I stood by my chair and looked at the bowl where I would soak my feet and I saw a mildew/mold rim around the water line and the bottom of the bowl looked mossy. I left without a pedicure. It was not worth the risk as the bowl should be sparkling clean for each client. I was disappointed - hope they work on scrubbing the bowls and maybe I will attempt it again. read more

I haven't been to Bella since they were in their second location back in Laurelwood when I was in high school. I was a huge fan of them for years so I decided to give them another shot all these years later. My mom and I figured it was going to be busy but they got us in right at 1pm on Saturday for 2 pedis, next to eachother. Yes it's expensive, but you pay for quality. I loved that they didn't have TONNNSS and I mean TONS of nail polishes like some places do. They chose quality over quantity in that department. Brovo. It made picking my amazing color out easier too! Over all we were very impressed by both our services. We weren't offered tea, water or anything when we say down or the whole time during our visit, which was a little upsetting. Another add is make sure your manicurist shows you how to use the drying station. It is very weird and not up to par with the updated decor and feel you would think. You have to manually hold down a bar to dry your pedi. read more

" Nails done, hair done, everything did. You fancy huh? You fancy huh?!" I did not get my nails done or my hair did but did get some pampering done courtesty of fellow yelper Anna W. Anna got a 2 for 1 groupon deal for a Bella Signature Facial. There is only one Esthetician on site so we couldn't get our facials done together or at the same time. The one room for facials is tiny and cold. A fluffy comforter was on the table which was different. It was warm and comfy. I didn't get the name of our Esthetician but she was really friendly and seemed to know her stuff. The facial left my skin feeling clean and purified. Extractions are a b*tch. Painful! But well worth it. All facials come with a mini shoulder, arm, and head massage. I wish I got my nails did just because the interior of this place was modern, nice and clean. There is a trickling water decoration right behind the register and it gives the place a serene spa feel. Massage chairs for pedis and plush chairs for manis. I wouldn't mind coming back to get my nails done here next time to see how those services are. Bella nails, you fancy! read more

This place is pricier but worth it. My girlfriend treated me to a mani/pedi and I loved my experience there. This place is top notch without the pretentiousness of a uber salon (ie: Burke Williams). I hear they have a location in San Mateo... I wish they'd open one up in Sunnyvale. read more

First time at this location, but been to the San Mateo one many times. Brought the hubby here for his bday, yes I know that sounds a lil weird but it was a much needed mani/pedi for him. If I had asked him to go he wouldn't have gone. The trick to get him to go? Was I planned an entire day of "surprises" for his bday, so he had no idea what he was getting himself into. To start, his fingers and toes look like you needed a sander to take off those cuticles and don't even bring up his dry finger tips. they were so dry it would cut his own face when he scratches. Anyways, we wanted an 1130am appt but instead got a noon appt. Fine, cuz I called last minute (it was friday morning b4 Easter) figuring it's Friday morning they can't be that busy, but surprisingly the place was pack and thankfully they accommodated us. My hubby was surprised at the great job the girls did on his cuticles and dry skin that he wanted to come in every week for a cuticle clean up. The owner Alan said, not every week but every 2 weeks is better, at least he was honest and wasn't trying to sold us. The girls working on him were so focused (i thought it was funny) but overall, it was good. He spent most of his time messing w/ the massage options on their chair and at one point reclined back and closed his eyes. Afterwards, his fingers and toes are nice and clean. I wish I took some b4 and after pictures to post but we were both so surprised at the result that I just went and tipped each girl $10. Hubby said I should've tipped them $15-$20 each because he was THAT AMAZED as to how smooth and clean his fingers were afterwards. So I said are you nuts? that's like paying double for the service! I'm generous but not that generous! Anyways, YAY! Thanks for making such a difference! Now that he see's the benefits of a mani/pedi (b4 he thought it was a waste of time and he could have done it himself) after 1 visit, he was sold, so we'll be coming back every 2-3 wks at his request!!! No more dry rough hands! read more