So I'm a frequent flyer on the nail salon scene (you can reference my Triangle Nails Salon Yelp list for proof!). I book regularly at a few places that have become my favorites, but none of those nail havens is all that close to where I live. Bliss is just a short walk away, and is brand spanking new -- making it an obvious and attractive option for some manicure maintenance. Let's begin with the positives... It's truly the prettiest nail salon I've visited: open, well-lit, simple, chic decor. They've done a great job with the space, which has lots of stations, current magazines, and no distracting TVs. I was offered a drink upon check-in. And there was no wait to be seen on a Friday evening. So far, so good! The nail tech I was paired with however, was sadly not well-suited for the task. I came in with gel nails, and asked for gel removal, and a manicure with clear polish. It took about 40minutes to remove the gel. I attribute this to the fact that the nails were barely scuffed down before applying the acetone soak. It's true that they had three coats of color (which can make it more difficult to remove), but as a regular to gel nails, I know it can be done. I also know it can be done without resorting to sanding the polish off with a nail file -- which is what the tech proceeded to do. This resulted in nails so paper thin, that a portion of nail on my middle finger peeled off just a day later. It seemed the tech was unable to confidently wield the removal tool that can be used to pry and chip the gel away from the nail. Similarly, she was not confident with the cuticle trimmers, resulting in some cuticle remaining on the nailbed. The bowl of water that was brought out for soaking my nails was cold rather than warm. I asked twice during the steps above to have my nails cut down to a common length, yet still had to remind the tech a third time when I realized she was about to apply the finishing massage lotion before having trimmed. In addition to the sloppy lackluster work (reference my pictures), there seemed to be a few "finishing touches" missing that could help Bliss rival alongside some of the other area salons: eg, cuticle oil; warm washrags for wiping down hands; scented lotions for the massage; a greater selection of gel polish colors to choose from. To their credit when I checked out, the owner(?) seemed to notice my displeasure and asked whether my service had been ok. I showed her the condition of my nails, and she responded she could fix it for me. I had an appointment to get to, so was unable to stay for a fix; but I was given a 20% discount for a future visit. Ultimately, I hate complaining about a local business... but in retrospect, this service was not a good one, particularly compared to the level of quality I know I can get elsewhere. I wavered between two and three stars here, because I realize they are new, and because I DO want to award them for the phenomenal job they've done with the physical space. I will visit again to try another technician, and will certainly revisit this review if there are improvements to remark on. read more

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This nail salon is beautifully decorated and very clean. My nail technician was Amy, and she did an amazing job on my deluxe pedicure and gel manicure. I will definitely be going again and asking for Amy :) read more

Bliss Nail Bar - Nail Salons Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

They had a great selection of gel colors and my mani and pedi came out looking great, super detail oriented with the edges of my nail bed too. Their prices are pretty comparable to most of the local nail places around this area, except here you get a bonus complimentary drink and a very nice atmosphere ! This is my new go to nail salon in Durham. read more

Bliss Nail Bar - Simple but great looking gel manicure! - Nail Salons Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I went to bliss because I was looking for a new nail tech and have heard some good things. So I went I have naturally long nails with an acrylic overlay. I heard about SNS and they also convinced me because they said it's was stronger than acrylic. So I made an appointment. I get there, they're were super nice. She starts to peel off my acrylic when I booked for a soak off but okay I let her continue. She applied tips to a nail that had broken and started the SNS process, it was so pretty and seemed to be strong so I paid and was satisfied at that very moment. Fast forward two days after literally my nails started breaking off like a domino effect. I now only have 6 nails still intact. I feel so cheated, whatever she did just didn't work I paid 60$ for this and now my Real Nails are breaking off. I'm so pissed I don't know what to say, but what I will say is I'm never going back and I wish I could get a refund because this is terrible I WILL NEVER GO BACK, DONT GO HERE EVER read more

i got a basic pedicure and a gel manicure and my experience was not very good... the basic pedicure was VERY basic, my nail tech barely exfoliated my feet for a few seconds and she cut my nails unevenly. when it came to the manicure, the color she applied was quite different from the original color i chose (i wanted a pale pastel blue and she painted on a very bright blue). she also cut my cuticles several times while trimming them, causing them to bleed and sting very badly when she started to actually paint the base coat/nail polish on. the worst part is that i paid almost double what i usually pay for a basic pedicure/gel manicure for worse results. read more

Nice place, great location and clean, however the nail tech really seemed annoyed to be working and did the bare minimum for my mani/ pedi. For $84+ I would expect a better job. Very little treatment of the skin or cuticle clean up beyond rubbing on the requisite creams. I wish I could post pictures of the dead skin and hang nails present the next day. she just clipped the nails with no shaping of the jagged edges or shaping before she started painting. I had to ask her to shape the nails and then she just painted over the dust, again seeming annoyed. I want to be clear I am not super picky on my mani/pedis and no super high expecrations, but they couldn't even trip over the low bar set. Horrible mani/pedi, especially for the price. I would NOT return here, complete disappointment. I almost feel I came out with painted, jagged, dusty hooves. If you go here, I wish you a better nail tech! read more

One star because the front store customer service was very nice. I showed up as a walk in and they got me in right away, I only waited 10 mins. I showed my tech a picture of the color and shape I wanted and ended up with a full manicure that looked nothing like I asked for. She was rushed and when I said I didn't like the color she said "well I am almost finished". Worst 60$ I've ever spent for a dip powder manicure. Don't go here read more

This place consistently disappoints me. I would never go back if I had the choice but there are so few places in Durham to go. I made an appointment ahead of time yet still had to wait 30 minutes. My toe nails are all different lengths. Gel is TWENTY DOLLARS EXTRA for a pedicure. I couldn't get the massage with lotion/oil today, yet I still had to pay for it AND they charged me extra for the callous remover (why not just replace the massage with the other thing?). The owner was not understanding or nice in any way. Overall my horrible gel pedicure was $57 and I am pissed off. Do not go to this place. read more

This salon has been my "go to place" for pedicures for at least the last year. Every pedicure was fine and lasted long. I was so happy to find a great place so close to home. read more

I recently has a terrible experience. I went in to have a particular gel done and the person doing my nails had no idea what she was doing. After consulting with another person, she still didn't get right and finally the woman who was running it stepped in. Nails done, finally, original manicurist gave me a hand massage - almost throwing my hands back at me each time one done. Left me with greasy hands I had to wipe off. And then charged full amount. No apologies. So surprised by this terrible service. Usually a good place to go. Not today. read more

I came in the other day to get my nails done before my brothers graduation. I got gel, and in less than 24 hours one of the nails chipped and started to peel. So today I went back in to get it fixed, since the whole point of gel is that it should last. I remembered seeing a sign about their policy that they would fix a mistake within a week. When I went in, they tried to turn me away because they wanted to close early. I explained I could not come back another time and asked again if they could fix it. Finally the manager said ok, but I'd have to wait. They made me wait 30+ minutes, and when I finally got someone to fix it, she did the quickest poorest job I've ever gotten at a nail salon. She didn't take the gel off that nail, instead she buffed it and just put a new coat on - she didn't even let it dry for a full UV cycle. The nail I got "fixed" is now lumpy and noticeably thicker than the others, and we'll see how long it even lasts. Horrible quality. Horrible customer service. Take your money somewhere else where they'll actually appreciate your business. read more

I came here on recommendation after my last salon went downhill. This place is awesome! It's nicely decorated and doesn't have that "nail salon" smell. The prices are comparable to other salons, but you definitely get your money's worth here. Normally I'd scoff at spending over $30 for a pedicure (I'm normally a Groupon girl) but this place is worth it. Book an appointment with Beatriz--I've never had a more meticulous nail tech in my life. She takes her time and makes sure that your nails look amazing. She is incredible!! read more

The owner (Susan) is rude and obnoxious. Very high prices for low quality services. Some of the technicians are pleasant but would not support this local business ever again. Spent over $50 for a full set only for nails to break 3 days later. Highly recommend not coming here!! read more

New to Durham, I've tried several nail salons throughout the city. Maria at Bliss does a wonderful pedi. Pricing is reasonable. The salon atmosphere is professional, clean and relaxing. Highly recommend a visit! read more

Ok but not worth their additional charge. My favorite nail place charges 25 not 30 as Bliss does for pedicures. Hey it's my 5 dollars. Also at Bliss I didn't get a lower leg massage which is just routine at posh nails. Both places have nice people but posh is a better value. read more

I dropped in for a quick pedicure. One thing that I wasn't expecting was 5 star service. I was offered drinks while waiting and didn't feel rushed to pick a nail color. The ambiance is pretty peaceful. The music and massage chair was quite relaxing. My nail tech was a gentleman wearing glasses. He was very meticulous with my pedicure - I got the basic one too. However, he made it feel like the deluxe and insured my comfort level. I definitely recommend this establishment. I can't wait to return for other services. read more

I got a pedicure and a gel polish done at Bliss for a friend's celebration and it was really nice. The ambience was great and service was good too. I got gel polish on my nails and I was told it would be good for at least 2 weeks, so imagine my shock when 2 days after the polish starts to chip visibly and continued to get worse. By day 4 half my nails were uncovered and the rest of the gel came off without a dissolver. I immediately called Bliss, and the person who answered the phone said "oh well, its coming off because you didn't do a manicure", I couldn't be more shocked! I asked to speak to the manager and was told I'd get a call back. that was about 2 weeks ago... I still haven't heard from them. Go to Bliss if you want good-ish service... but don't expect much from them if things don't work out. read more

I was looking for any nail salon open after most of them had closed because of the coronavirus. I stumbled into Bliss and was pleasantly surprised by how attentive the nail technicians were. However, I paid almost $100 for a dip manicure/pedicure that is lifting and cracked in several places and it has not even been 2 weeks. read more

The location is so easy because it's close to everything else I go to. Beautiful salon, clean, and Susan is fabulous. It's not the best pedicure I have ever had ( I love the massage) but the toe nail polish has held up so well. And I would definitely go back and maybe next time just emphasize that the massage is my favorite part read more

I've been here 3 times, twice for a no-chip manicure and once for a touch up. The staff are knowledgeable, welcoming and detail-oriented. During every visit, my nail technician listened carefully to my request and took time with my cuticles and nail bed. One of my nails chipped one week after my no-chip manicure. The manager re-did the nail free-of-charge!! I did not expect such an efficient, accommodating service from such a high-end salon. Overall, very pleased, would recommend!! read more

If you are looking for a nail salon in Durham, THIS is your spot. I have had several pedicures and manicures from a variety of the skilled staff here. This place is always spotless, offers you a beverage, has an awesome selection of colors/brands of polish, and has cutting edge technology (like SNS and gel). I have only great things to say about this place. My friends and I go often! It IS a few dollars more than some other salons in the area, but for me a regular manicure that lasts almost two weeks is totally worth the extra few dollars. The owner is also very sweet, and you can tell she cares about her customers and her business. If something were to go awry with service, I wouldn't hesitate to calmly bring it up with her -- I will be she would help remedy the situation with professionalism and poise! read more

This place is amazing. Everyone is SO nice, they really value your relaxation! It's also very clean and they do a good job.

The salon is beautiful, however very overpriced. They charge extra for everything, like simple callus scrubbing is not included with the pedicure, extra for newer nail polishes and etc. Unfortunately the quality of services do not meet the high price. The manicurists do such a poor job and are very inattentive. My nail polish chipped the next day and I had to take it off, the nails were all jagged and the cuticles were not trimmed. What a disappointment... read more

This is a great nail salon. The decor is beautiful, the atmosphere is relaxing and it is very clean. Book an appointment with Beatriz. She is sweet and wonderful at what she does. I've gone to her twice for a pedicure and both have been excellent. Her attention to detail is outstanding! read more

Unimpressed. Beautiful salon, nice people, but the gel manicure was nothing special to cost $35. The hand massage at the end was barely 30 seconds long. The entire experience was very subpar. I was expecting maybe to be offered some wine or water, or to have a special sugar scrub, or anything to warrant paying $35. Very very disappointing. read more

No wait at all for two pedicures on a Saturday afternoon was a bit skeptical but the service is amazing and the atmosphere is very relaxing. We will definitely be back. read more

Overall I did like this salon. It is large, has nice massage chairs, and apeaceful ambiance. They even gave me a glass of wine to get started, which I loved! However, I feel like I was incredibly over charged and that's why I have to give them a low rating. My paraffin wax pedicure cost me $46 after tip. That is insane! The lady doing my pedi cut my toe nails so short that it hurt me & then she continued to file down way passed the skin. Ouch! I wanted the add-on of the paraffin treatment and it was only about an additional $6, but then when they rang me up I was given an additional charge on top of that for a scrub that i never agreed to upgrade to. I was never asked to have this additional treatment and just though it was part of the deal! Yeah well it wasn't! When I told this to the cashier, they up-charged me anyway. I was not happy. I tipped $7 and left! Probably won't be going back here. It's messed up they upcharged me, I feel like i got bam boozled! read more

OMG. Gorgeous new nail salon and spa in Durham. Here for a wedding. The bridegroom and bridesmaids for wedding came this morning for manicures. I followed. Such professionals - great manicure and pedicure! Such new equipment, beautiful decor. Do not miss this! read more

Bliss Nail Bar - Nail Salons Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

After living in LA for 8 years I am extremely picky about my nails and have struggled to find the right place in Durham. Just tried this salon on a whim and LOVED everything about it. I have sensitive feet and the pedicure was the most relaxing I have ever had. The salon overall is clean, new and designed extremely well. I got a gel mani and they were efficient but extremely precise with my nails. I will absolutely be back!! read more

I have been here a couple times; it's always a different experience, sometimes good and sometimes just okay depending on the technician. However, I finally decided to leave a review after my latest experience which was awful to say the least. I went to get a mani and from the start I could tell the technician just didn't want to work. She looked very upset and annoyed. She did a descent job, but the entire time she was complaining with another technician about the work, the boss, and at one point even about myself in Spanish, which I fluently speak. I stayed quiet because I just wanted to have the work done. From what I have gather from my 4-5 visits, the employees seem to really dislike the bosses/owners. I think that this in turn leads to their lack of professionalism which gets in the way of providing proper services. After the technician finished with me, I politely thanked her for the work in Spanish and proceeded to tell her to be careful next time & not assume people couldn't understand her (basically she & her colleague had been trashing me-a customer- while sitting in front of them). I expected at least an apology, but got nothing. She just laughed and left the seat. I paid and tipped her because I believe in paying for services we receive plus I try to give people the benefit of the doubt; perhaps she will think about it and not do it again. However, as for me, I have given the place many chances and I won't be returning. The services themselves are descent but, in my opinion, not that special (or cheap) for someone to be putting up with rude & unprofessional employees. Also, although most of the employees are Hispanic/Latinx, there seems to be some tension between them & the fact that the bosses/owners are Asian. I have also heard employees mock African-American/Black customers (again in Spanish) & all of this has made me extremely uncomfortable. At one point during my last visit, the technician said she hopes that another salon opens up close so all the employees can leave to work there. Her peer was also complaining about the owner demanding "exclusivity" from the employees (basically asking them not to work at other places) which then prompted the technicians to make offensive remarks about Asians. Again, just overall not worth dealing with, specially when you are going to a place to relax and decompress. I, myself, identify as POC & wouldn't recommend this place to any other POC. read more

Excellent salon. Beatriz did a great job on my pedicure. She took her time and made sure my toes looked good. The salon is nice and clean and quiet. I definitely plan on coming back. read more

My nails look like I did them myself using regular polish. My cuticles look choppy and NOT clean as they typically do. The nail tech spent an hour for this service....other customers came in after me and got done at least 15 minutes before. Expensive place with underwhelming service. read more

This was my first visit to Bliss Nail Bar. Joy was EXCELLENT! She was kind, gentle and had great attention to detail. I will definitely be back!!! read more

This is my absolute favorite place to get a pedicure. Today my 4 friends and I walked in and were treated like royalty. We called ahead and were greeted with open arms. I met the lovely Mrs. Hong! She's new to the nail bar and I must say she is the best nail tech I've ever had. I went with the Luxury Pedicure for the first time. PHENOMENAL! Mrs. Hong took such great care of me. She was very sweet and the conversation was great. She's very knowledgeable about feet and health which was a plus for me. Now, about this pedicure. From start to finish I was in heaven. It was worth every penny. The hot stones were magical. It was like she rubbed away every pain I was experiencing when I arrived. As a Fibromyalgia sufferer, I was very appreciative of her gentleness. She made sure I was comfortable. That's something I will cherish forever. The parrafin treatment was amazing! It's like I have new feet. I feel so buttery! I'm so very pleased with my experience today. If you ever come here, definitely request Mrs. Hong. You won't regret it. For those who care, they do give complimentary wine upon arrival once you sign up for a service. The massage chairs are a wonderful touch too. I just can't say enough. I'm very happy! read more

During a pedicure today, my wife also had a tech cut her cuticle, which bled profusely. First aid was slow to be offered, and the material was not sterile. My wife decided to just drive home and take care of it herself. AVOID read more

The staff were friendly but I was disappointed with the SNS application. They skipped the top coat step which resulted in my SNS chipping and two of my nails breaking. read more

Horrendous service. They act like it was a problem that you walked in. Prices are outrageous and add-on massages mean nothing. Great collection of polished and seems hygenic but not worth your time or money read more

Small wait but staff very apologetic. Nice atmosphere and calming music. Comfortable chairs(not massage) and nice pedicure but a bit pricey at$30. Would probably return read more

I had a horrendous experience here. I had the classic pedicure, during which time the pedicurist cut my toe with her cuticle scissors, which hurt! She then tried to cover up the mistake by rubbing some kind of liquid into my toe to stop the bleeding. The next day the wound was infected and I ended up at urgent care getting antibiotics. Find a place that trains their staff how to handle first aid situations!! Jeez. read more

I started going to Bliss a few months ago and have really enjoyed getting my nails done there. The facility is beautiful-- calm, clean, big. They offer soda and wine to clients. I've had SNS done by Jacob and Beatriz and they both did a phenomenal job! I've also gotten a pedi done by Jacob, and he also did great. The quality of the SNS manicures is really high, and they make sure to take care of your cuticles as a part of your service- it's standard. The staff is so friendly, and they have openings regularly. Only downside I see is that they don't have as many SNS colors as other nail salons in Durham, and the quality of the powder or glue brand may be a tiny bit low because I see the polish start to lift after a few weeks, which I haven't experienced yet in getting SNS for about a year at other salons. Overall, I love going to Bliss because of the great environment, friendliness of staff, and that it's not so busy that you can't get an appointment. I went once a few months back when I couldn't get an appointment at my previous regular salon, and I've kept coming back since. I'm a happy Bliss customer! read more