I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with John at Corbu. In January I started chemotherapy and since I was going to lose my hair, I thought I would have some fun and dye it a crazy color. I was planning on using a drugstore box, but a friend recommended that I see John at Corbu. John listened to what I wanted - a superhero color - and picked a perfect bright red for me. He was so supportive throughout the process, and I had a great time watching my hair change colors. He then gave me one of the best haircuts I've ever had and sent me into the world with an image of myself as a superhero. I ended up not shaving my head with the hair loss because even thinned, I loved the red. read more

This is an ammendment to my earlier review. After a disappointing trip to Corbu, Cara, the manager at Corbu reached out, and asked us back for a "redo" of sorts. She explained they had been without management for a few months, and she had just started and wanted the opportunity to make it up to us. I waited about 8 months before going back, but let me tell you, it was worth it. From the moment we arrived the experience was different and so much better. Simone, one of the managers, I believe greeted us at the front desk, took out coats, and walked us through the spa, in a whisper so as not to disturb any of the other guests in the relaxation room. The locker room was much cleaner, and organized. There was nice soothing music on in the relaxation room while we waited for our massages, and it was a very relaxing environment. My 60 minute massage was EXCELLENT. I've had a lot of massages, and this was definitely in the top three ever. I highly recommend Kristen. My sister had Leslie for her massage, and said she was also EXCELLENT. They delivered us back to the relaxation room, we waited about 10 minutes and then Elaine came to get us for our pedicures. Both Lilly and Elaine did an excellent job on the pedicures. This was by far a much better experience than the first time we went, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to go back once they were under proper management. Excellent and very professional staff, clean locker rooms (although they are a bit small), and a nice quiet, environment for a stay-cation or spa day. I still think it's a bit small for large parties, but it's perfect for a spa day with your mom, or one of your girlfriends for the day. Thanks Corbu! read more

Was disappointed that this spa was not as high end as the price tag. I did a full spa package with a massage, facial, and mani pedi. The massage was great but i was surprised there was no offering of water by any workers, generally after a spa they encourage you to have water. There was no downtime or relaxation i between sessions which i was surprised about. They also did not give you robes, maybe this is a covid policy. This was my first time getting a facial which the esthetician knew. She asked me what kind i wanted, idk this is my first time? She recommended an enzyme treatment and i said sure, then at the end of the spa day when receiving the bill there was a $40 up charge for the enzyme treatment which she never mentioned. This happened to the 2 others i was with as well and none of us were told, we would not have agreed to it otherwise since the treatments are already pricey. When getting my pedicure, the woman stood up and hit my foot which smudged my polish which isn't a big deal except i needed her to fix the polish and she barely looked at the smudge and just threw some more on. After the manicure and pedicure were done i sat at the dryer for about 20 minutes and no one came over to let me know when i was done and the workers were no longer in the area. Overall wasn't impressed for the experience considering the price tag. read more

If I could give Corbu 4.5 stars, I would. Actually, ideally I would break down my review to give a 4 to my eyebrow wax and a 5 to my massage/the overall atmosphere... Let me just say what a wonderfully upgraded space it is! I was disappointed when the old spa/salon in the Charles closed - I always liked it as an alternative in the Square to the trendier options, but wow - my visit to Corbu was worth the wait. First, the -.5 unpleasantness... my only complaint? my eyebrows were waxed a bit too thin despite asking the waxer to leave a very natural shape/amount of hair. I was disappointed looking in the mirror because we had a whole conversation about how it is easy to make my eyebrows look sparse because they are annoyingly blond (and yet somehow, they quickly look bushy... one of nature's cruel jokes). I should mention, however; that it was the least painful wax of my life... so I was feeling pretty forgiving. Whatever stress I had about my new look melted away as soon as I set foot in the spa area! So relaxing... a nice big area with a beautiful wooden sculpture surrounded by plush white couches? Sign me up. I was shown to the changing room (full of high end amenities and complete with a huge steam shower) and given a locker and a plush robe. I had time to thumb through a glossy new magazine and enjoy the soothing smell of essential oils in the air before being met by my therapist. She was amazing! I had a combination of many types of massages and it was the best I've had in Boston. You could tell she was skilled because she managed to apply enough pressure to free my shoulders of stress without ever causing pain (no easy feat, I'm such a baby!). Afterwards, I felt like happy jello. Normally I rush out of a spa after my appointment but the music was so soothing and the lights were so low that I decided to take full advantage of the delicious teas and fresh fruits that were offered, extending my blissed out mood by at least half an hour. Then? The longest shower of all time... so luxurious! I went during the week in the afternoon and had the place mostly to myself, which made the whole experience even more wonderful. I would definitely go again! (I have to, to update my Yelp review to 5 stars, right?!) Prices are pretty consistent with spas around... honestly, the experience was probably worth a little more than I paid! read more

I was a newbie to highlights until I saw Kristina A. at Corbu for my first ever highlighting experience. I have to say that she did an amazing job. They look so natural I never would have thought it was possible on my dark hair! She also gave me a beautiful cut that really works for my face-shape. The spa is beautiful and relaxing and everyone working there is very friendly and personable. I will definitely be back! read more

While staying at the Charles Hotel we decided to get pedicures at Corbu. Terrible customer service and no availability. Their website mentions Walk-ins welcome. Well, that was not accurate. Never going back there again. Instead, we decided to go to Couture Nails a few blocks away. Better experience than Corbu. If you are in the Boston area definitely give Couture Nails a try. read more

I rarely write reviews, but I was really disappointed with my time at Corbu, especially based on the reviews here. I went in with a Groupon for a haircut, and decided to add a gel pedicure on top of that, despite it being pretty pricey ($65). I could justify the expense because my last gel pedicure (which as $40) lasted for upwards of 6 weeks, and the fact that the haircut was free. First of all, I was expecting a much nicer, cleaner, environment in the salon. The haircut was fine - neither great nor awful, just a basic trim. Not anything that would bring me back. What was REALLY bad was my pedicure. First, if the salon is not equipped with the facility to do gel pedicures, DON'T offer them! The experience was so awkward. Since there was not an outlet by the pedicure station, the manicurist had me come over and sit on a chair near the nail station and lift my leg up on hers while she sat on a trash can! For the other foot, she literally had to get on the floor and polish my toenails while on her knees under the table. It was not relaxing or enjoyable at all for me, and that's one of the main reasons I pay more to go to a salon and spa rather than just getting my nails done at a nail salon. I can't imagine that set up allowed her to do her job properly - in fact, I KNOW it didn't because my gel pedicure - which is supposed to last for 3 weeks, minimum - has chipped only a couple of days after the appointment. I definitely won't be going back to Corbu. Eh service (the receptionists talked on the phone for about 10 minutes while I was waiting to check out), eh haircut, bad pedicure, and too expensive. --- Edited to add: I just received a call from Cara at Corbu apologizing for the experience and offering to refund me for the services. They let me know that they were planning to take the gel pedicure off the menu at the salon until they had proper facilities and had gone through training with a rep from the company. I increased my star rating from 2 stars because I think this speaks volumes. They seem to be actively aware of their customer feedback and are interested in taking appropriate steps afterward. I told Cara I would look forward to trying another gel pedicure when they were able to offer them again. read more

My go to place for facials and relaxation. Highly recommend the hydra facial with Jess! She has the best energy and will tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Love it here! read more

Good pedicure, worst $25 manicure ever (or maybe worse manicure ever, period)? Their polish was WAY old and coming off streaky on the nails and looking worse than if I'd done it myself and the technician was acting as if nothing was wrong-I initially expected that it might get better with second coat but it got worse. Seriously, you're a "luxury" spa and cant even afford fresh nail polish?? When I complained the technician panicked and frantically started taking the polish off even though I told her about 5-6 times that unfortunately I was meeting someone and did not have time to start over. Then she got flustered her hands started shaking so the couple nails she redid looked even worse. Cherry on the pie: the thick old polish would not dry so ended up spoiling a nail that evening, 7 hours after the manicure.... read more

I really pondered whether to write this review and decided it's my civic duty. I've visited Corbu twice and had a disappointing experience both times. I got a gift card for Mother's Day and was really excited for my massage and bikini wax. The massage was great. But the waxing was a disaster. The woman gave me first degree burns and I couldn't wear underwear for two days afterward. My doctor was shocked when she took a look. So the manager refunded the cost of the wax. least she could do. really. I felt like she could have done more considering even my doctor was taken aback. And then last week, with my remaining gift card credit, i decided to get my hair and makeup done for some pictures I was having taken. I figured no wax, so at least no burns. Well, the hair was fine, nothing special. The makeup was terrible. I looked shiny and sweaty (not dewy, but really greasy) and she used clear lip gloss. So I looked half done and yucky. I went directly home and fixed it. The makeup artist was the same lady who gave my the burns. argh. Considering the prices here are at the top range of nice salons (not luxury, but still costs a chunk) I would expect much better services. Maybe it's just this one woman who is not very good. While the space is nice and they have a great relaxation room and lots of fun magazines, I'll have to say I'm never ever going back there. read more

This update is way overdue. I must say, Corbu Spa handled this review in the best way possible. As soon as I wrote my previous review, the manager of Corbu sent me a message apologizing for my experience and offering a gift card for a free massage with someone else. I accepted, and within a month or two I went back to try again. I was quickly greeted and shown the locker room by a very friendly woman and the facility was relaxing, clean, and professional just like before. I wish I remembered the name of the woman who gave me the deep tissue massage so I could give her a shout out, because that was, no lie, one of the best damn massages I've ever had. I could tell she had experience because she knew exactly what I was talking about when I told her the different areas of my back I wanted her to focus on, and she put just the right amount of pressure. I'm not sure I can afford to go back anytime soon, but I would definitely consider splurging when Christmas time comes around and I get a bonus. read more

Absolutely amazing pedicure from Kat, massage from Katie and Waxing from Jessica. This place is good for last minute appointments, takes online appointments too - loved it! read more

I give up.. I've been here so many times, had my hair done here a bunch, had a lovely pedicure, then a mediocre pedicure, booked a couple of spa birthday parties, a half-assed foot massage, a painful full-body massage that left me sore, and it's just gotten progressively worse.. After Saturday, where I was charged $190 for a blow-out and partial highlights (the bottom 6 inches of my hair) where I provided my own bottle of color) and I came out with hair that looked the same color it did when I went in, I'm giving up. Lockers that don't function, massages cut-short, robes that don't begin to cover your boobs, staff that don't communicate, soap dispensers that don't work, services that should be quick and easy but take so long your parking validation expires (over 3 hours) and costs you $24... I'm done with you Corbu. Still love Stacey though! read more

John Patrick did my color today and I could not be happier. Not only did he have 8 months of dark regrowth to cover up and make blonde but he had some damaged hair to work with. I have been to a lot of salons as well as worked in a lot and this was the top Job I have ever had done. He is truly amazing and gifted in what he does my hair is amazing. I left feeling like a new woman. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone and will for sure be using him all the time my hair has never looked or felt so good!! read more

I just got a haircut here and it was the worst I have ever received. I'm not sure if the stylist (Kristina) just didn't listen to what I explained I wanted, or didn't care, but I came in needing a slight trim and left looking like a shaved monkey. Will never come back here for a haircut, and caution others against it as well. So disappointed. read more

The massages at Corbu are the best in the area. At first, I chose it based on convenience as it was close to our home, but even after moving - we still frequent the spa. Kristen is an incredibly knowledgable and skilled massage therapist. Through 3 pregnancies, she's the best prenatal massage I've found. She has a thoughtful approach and has helped me through pregnancy and my husband through injury recovery. The spa is lovely and tucked away from the craziness of Harvard sq. Definitely worth the trip! read more

Always leave relaxed and feeling great! It's an amazing atmosphere and all workers from the front desk to the estheticians make the experience extra special! The facials and massages are out of this world. Got the therapeutic massage today with Katie, I must say best hour of my life! Thank you Corbu! read more

I have tried every facial place out there and I have found my new home at Corbu. Unlike some overpriced and pretentious downtown boston salons (hint: opposite of inhale) this place is warm, welcoming and relaxing/low key while providing very upscale service. Kate is fantastic. Professional yet friendly service and I trusted her immediately with my sensitive skin. Upon her recommendation my husband and I also tried two massage therapists, Leslie and Christy and we were not disappointed. The only feedback I have is that it would be nice to make appointments online, I tend to be a bit last minute to book and that might help. read more

Huge waste -- absolutely, ridiculously overpriced. I went in just for a polish change and they charged me $25. Absurd! The girl who did my nails was very sweet (Lily) but I just can't understand how they manage to justify a polish change (not a full manicure, mind you -- just swapping polish for polish, no frou-frou add ons here) for that much. Will not go back. read more

It took me a little while after moving here from NYC to find a new facialist, but I finally found Kate at Corbu. I have been to her about a half-dozen times now and each time I am impressed by her caring manner, knowledgeably and skill. Other places I've had facials, they steam you, do extractions, slap a mask on you and leave you for 15 minutes, but Kate stays with you the whole time, administering amazing facial and arm/hand massage with great products from Decleor and Eminence. I also love Corbu's locker room and lounge - great steam shower, beauty products to play with and magazines to read - I almost never want to leave when I visit. A great way to treat myself every couple of months. read more

5 stars for the amazing deep tissue massage I got from Kristin! She knows exactly what she's doing, and used the exact right amount of pressure. I really felt like she focused on all of my problem areas, and took the time to make sure I was feeling good. I've gone to many other massage therapists, and she is the best! Well worth the money and time. She's incredible! read more

Amazing spa and salon. I have been to a fair share of spas in my life and this one is a bit pricey but I couldn't be happier with the results. Danny is absolutely amazing at hair and Jessica will treat you to the best facial you can receive. the atmosphere is clean and quiet. A perfect getaway! read more

Great spa atmosphere- fabulous hair salon. I was staying at the Charles Hotel for a week and decided to schedule a haircut as I was heading right out for a trip to Paris-no time to schedule with my regular stylist at home. I called on a Saturday and got and appt. for 0900 Sunday am. Yes they are open on Sunday's which is a real plus. I arrived early and was greeted by a very friendly person who checked me in and chatted a few minutes until my appt. She later helped me pick a nice face wash from one of their skin care lines. Very helpful. Debbie is a great stylist who really took the time to listen to what was driving me nuts about my hair and offered some great ideas on what type of style she could do. I ended up with a great "messy pixie" that I really like. She worked quickly and efficiently and I felt she really knew her stuff and how to give a great haircut. If it was not so far from the west coast I would have a new stylist! If you are looking for a great haircut at a reasonable price for the area- look no further. read more

Not Le Pli Maybe we got off to a bad start when i noticed that my bathroom stall had no lock on it. When I mentioned it to the staff person, she said, "we're working on it." Not good enough, I thought. And Le Pli had the most wonderful massage therapist, but alas I have no idea how to reach Dominique. She had the most amazing hands. But back to reality.... the person assigned to me at Corbu was good but not great. Although I left with fewer tension knots in my back than when I arrived, the massage bordered on painful. I asked her more than once to tone it down a notch but it never got through. In the end, it's all about what the client wants and for $95, that's not a lot to ask. To me that's more important than the nice robe and shower shoes. read more

I had a really nice experience at Corbu this past weekend! Despite the place being a little hard to find if you don't know what you're looking for (I had to go into the Charles hotel and ask the front desk), I was pleasantly surprised once I found it! The space is clean and organized with tons of bright natural light! I loved the open skylights that let so much light in - I much prefer this light in a salon than fluorescent bulbs. While the space is small, it didn't feel cramped. It's Harvard Square after all, and space is at a premium. The staff is extremely friendly and professional too - in the 5 minutes while I waited 3 different people asked me if I wanted anything to drink. Lastly, Corbu carries a lot of products I haven't seen anywhere else and I'm looking forward to trying them. Now for the services - I went for a shellac removal and then a shellac manicure. Unfortunately my old shellac was really hard to get off and that portion of my appointment went way over. They brought my technician's (sorry I forgot her name!) next client out before she even started applying my new shellac which I found to be rude. From then on it was extremely uncomfortable and she was totally rushing through the manicure. I understand the need to stay on schedule but I really felt I got shorted in my service. Fortunately, the manicure turned out really well even though it was so rushed. My nails were shaped exactly as requested and the color is beautiful! I was having trouble deciding between two colors and she suggested that we mix them (one layer of each), and it turned out awesome. I will be coming back just to get this unique color. I've been searching for a place to get my nails done before my wedding and I think this just might be it. I also work very nearby so it might even become my regular mani-pedi place. I also really want to try their Moroccan Oil hair treatments, and they have this cool program called Club Corbu that is worth looking into. All in all, I'm a happy reviewer. Go try out this place! read more

I had not used Yelp for so long that I forgot my password, but I had such a great haircut by Danny M. that I felt honestly motivated to write the world to take note. I had previously a pretty shoddy haircut a month ago -- note to self, beware of anyone who feels the instantaneous "need" to "thin" out East Asian-type hair. Danny was an expert diagnostician and explained why my hair looked like it did and explained what he would do. We also had a great conversation about products and how they work and so on. He clearly knows the physics of hair. The other important thing is that he does not talk down to you-- he understands subtext and what clients are seeking, unlike inexperienced or defensive stylists, who transfer their insecurities onto you. I left feeling happy and confident. It was worth the trip and then some. I will be back! Thank you! read more

The most uprofessional spa I have come across. I had 2 appointments for massages cancelled. These were booked weeks ago for anticipation of a long relaxing Thanksgiving weekend. The receptionist said the massage therapist called in sick. Very lame, I would never go there now,and I hope you reading this would reconsider making an unreliable appt.there. Go to the Aveda salon down the street instead! read more

Broke my nail in half. Then the rest of the nails were left bumpy and horrible, as if the polish was old. But she saw it looking badly and didn't do anything, and now I'm left looking like I have 9 nails instead of 10. read more

I'm feeling torn between rating my experience today 2 versus three stars. If I could choose 2.5 I would.

I got a great color and blow dry with Christine and perfect waxing with Jessica (even though my skin is very sensitive, there was no redness ten minutes later!). They were both kind and fun. They listened to my requests carefully. The woman at the front desk made everything easy, although I came in with no appointment. I'll be back! read more

I really like the massages at the spa. I've been seeing my therapist, Katie for a deep tissue massage almost every week as I have really tight shoulders and she's always great (great pressure). The locker room is clean and easy to navigate, and the waiting room is nice. The individual massage rooms are nice too (nothing special but nothing wrong with them either). The check in / check out service is pleasant and I'm definitely going to go back often. It's pretty easy to get an appointment if you book a few days in advance. However, if you want to cancel, make sure to do this at least 24 hours before your appointment. read more

Early February of this year I was having a "terrible horrible (no good) very bad day"...so I decided hit the gym (Wellbridge Athletic Club) at the Charles Hotel. Like everyday on my way to the gym I walk by a beautiful Spa and Salon called Corbu...not sure what made me stop in my tracks that day, but a light-blub went off in my head and I decided to walk into Corbu; I was immediately greeted by lovely ladies who helped convince me that a four-pack spa day (massage, facial, manicure and pedicure) was the proper ailment for me. And WOW WERE THEY RIGHT! After a tour of Corbu I got dressed in super comfy robe and sandals, and enjoyed some flavored water and treats in their client relaxation room (as I call it). After a couple minutes of leisure a very nice lady named Niki greeted me for my back-massage, I have only had a couple massages in my life and found those experiences to be ho-hum...however, Niki's massage was so super relaxing, therapeutic and just what I needed. I was then greeted by a lovely young lady named Emma for my first ever facial. I was very nervous and pretty chatty because I did not know what to expect, but Emma made me feel comfortable and turned my first-time facial into the best spa experience ever...the facial was very refreshing, it made me feel rebooted, and she was a superb conversationalist, overall...ah-mazing! After that I got some hot tea and headed over for a pedicure followed by a manicure with Lilly. Lilly was another glowing personality, hilarious and super nice. My hands and feet never felt so good! OVERALL: I could not have hoped for a better experience and to meet such incredibly nice and talented professionals than at Corbu Spa & Salon. Seriously...it rocked. Already been back once, and can't wait to plan my next visit! - GG read more

Great service. Gorgeous amentities. Wonderful facial. Validated parking. The lady didn't massage my hands or feet which other ppl have done as the face mask settles. She left the room which I feel was lame. But overall did a great job and my face looked perfect after. The first room on the left is loud - you can hear doors opening and closing. I imagine the rooms on the right are quieter if you can request those. read more

The environment inside is clean. People are friendly. I booked an appointment for my husband and they did take Credit card info ahead of time to charge for no-show. My husband liked the haircut because they used scissors to create layers for his short hair. $35 is fair price for his haircut. read more

I've come here numerous times to get my haircut from John Patrick and Stacey which has always been good. However this last time I got a Brazilian blowout done from John it was awful. The method for the blowout is to wash out the solution 30-45 minutes after leaving it in and then to blow dry and iron the hair after it has been washed out with the Brazilian blowout shampoo. Instead as soon as the masque was put in I was made to sit under a hot dryer which burned my eyes and scalp and then the masque was not even washed out but flat ironed in to my hair and I was told this 'melted the solution' in to my hair. There was no washing of the solution (which is supposed to be done) at all. This is the method posted in the video on the website. Another method is to iron the hair after blow drying with the solution in, but then again wash the hair and put in a treatment masque and then blow dry the hair once more. Neither of which were done. Needless to say my hair is now more wavy and frizzy than it was before I had the treatment done and I can't even do anything about it but wait until it grows once more to chop it off. The ends are now burnt and dry and I can no longer leave it open without tying it up. I'm half thinking of chopping it all off it's so bad and this is at a time when I was growing it out. I wish I had looked up the method before doing this. Corbu issued a refund for the process but I did not expect this from them for the high price they charge and the quality they proclaim. Moreover the manager did not even to bother asking me what the issue was or how the procedure was done and where it went wrong. They issued the refund just because they didn't want to deal with it but did not bother to see where they went wrong which is even more troubling because then how can they improve? I worry that people should be wary of this salon as they can severely damage your hair and scalp since they don't follow the proper procedure for chemical treatments and then don't even bother to follow up and correct themselves. I wish I could report them to the official Brazilian blowout center but there is no reporting mechanism so the only choice I have is to leave a review here to warn future clients. read more

They're professional, genuinely good, and have always demonstrated a high level of customer service. It's the only place I go to for my massages and facials. Highly recommend! read more

Yesterday was my first time at Corbu-- I saw Debbie for a haircut. I didn't give her a ton of instruction but just generally asked for a touch up of what I had and gave her some ideas about what I like (which is what I usually do with most stylists, and I usually end up happy with the results.) Debbie worked quickly and efficiently but with incredible results-- this is one of the best haircuts I've had in a long time! Like I said, I'm usually happy and satisfied with my haircuts at comparable salons, but I'm in love with this one. She got the layers to look even better than I could have hoped, and I'm so excited when I see it in the mirror. Thank you Debbie for a great cut! On other dimensions, the salon has a very nice interior with pretty skylights, is clean and well-maintained, and has friendly staff. I will definitely recommend to friends! Update: I recommended Debbie to my roommate after she commented that she loved my haircut, and not long after she had an appointment with Debbie as well! My roommate was so happy with her cut too, and to this day we rave about the amazing layers we got from her. "Layers by Debbie" are now the stuff of legend among our friend group, and we keep recommending her amazing haircuts to all our friends! read more

I had a fantastic massage with LaMara last week. She is an excellent masseuse, truly solving my painfully tight shoulders/stress issues with just the right pressure. From the minute I walked into Corbu Spa, the staff was professional, knowledgeable and careful. The spa itself is calming and clean. I will definitely return! And I had a lovely manicure as well. First Class! read more

I had a great experience at Corbu. My idea of a eyebrow wax is a clean-it-up deal. Nothing special. Kat Builes, esthetician at the spa did a fabulous job of shaping my brows. What a difference. I highly recommend her! read more

I LOVE this place. I got the most fantastic facial here. Unfortunately, I so can't afford to step into here again. Sigh... Lower prices would be very much appreciated! read more