I feel so tight & tensed thats why I come here & when i leave i feel so Amazing & relaxed.

Me telling Jane, my masseuse: "My massage was for 90mins, and I only got 60mins?" (While getting dressed, I looked at phone, and saw 30mins missing). My masseuse, Jane was waiting at the front desk (for her tip), when I told her I was missing the last 30mins of my 90mins massage. She looked scared and puzzled, and went to get the Receptionist. Receptionist: "Yes, that's right, 60mins. Didn't you tell the masseuse that it was 60mins, and to take it out?" Me: "Take what out?" (My remaining 30mins that I gave the Receptionist my Livingsocial voucher that says 90mins when I've first checked in). Darling, this ain't my first (massage) rodeo. Me continuing: "No, I never said anything to her. The only thing she said to me when she first came in was - you like Medium pressure, right?" (She didn't even introduce herself, just got straight to work afterwards). Receptionist: "Oh, I'm sorry, did you want to extend it or come back next time for the 30mins?" Me: "Lol, no, let's finish, now." The last 30mins to makeup for their error, I was given a hot stone massage, which was nice and relaxing. The Receptionist came in and apologized for their error while she was getting me ready for the hot stone massage, and after the hot stone massage, Jane also apologized for the error as well, and so that softened my disappointment. The first 60mins was great and funny. Jane used used a mixture of Swedish and Thai strokes. I found it hilarious when she used my butt and upper thigh to stable herself while she used her whole body to apply pressure points on me. It felt awesome, and almost like a circus act as well, lol! For a little lady, she's hella strong! Despite the 30mins hiccup, I'm glad that they rectified the situation. I just wished the communications and diligence between the Receptionist and masseuse(s) should've been more clearer, especially, since the Receptionist has the listed times of all of their clients' appointment times right in front of them. Overall, the first time here was decent and the deal was an enticing offer from Livingsocial, but I'll stick to the 626. read more

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I came here with my bf for a couples massage since we were in the area and saw the good reviews here! Well, our experience totally did not disappoint. We booked a same-day appointment and Rita was very accommodating with that, which was awesome. The spa has a lot of rooms, and we were placed in the couples room, which had a door, walls, and everything required for privacy. A lot of other couples massage places have a curtain as a partition but I respected the great amount of privacy we got here. However, some of the singles massage rooms have walls that don't go all the way up to the ceiling, so I think it all depends on which room you reserve. As for the massage itself, it was incredible. We got the Thai and Swedish massage combo and it was one of the most relaxing moments of my life! I've been going to a chiropractor for two months for back and shoulder pain from a recent car accident, but the pain went away after one session here! I was amazed and grateful for that, especially since I wasn't expecting my shoulders to be healed so soon! Since it was a last-minute appointment, there wasn't a female masseuse but Tom was incredible and had the perfect techniques. Also, they were very professional and made sure you were always covered on the important parts at all times lol! My bf had Dan, whom he said was amazing as well. I can't wait to be back to this place!! read more

Dara Spa - Beautiful Thai interior! - Day Spas Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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At first, I was a little skeptical based on more recent reviews, but I had an expiring Groupon and dang it I was determined to use it! I literally called the spa TODAY and I was able to get an appointment for a 90 minute Thai/Swedish combo at 2:30...which became 2:45, but meh. Hey, for me calling at the last minute, a 15 min delay is perfectly accommodating. DINA, my masseuse, was a doll and a half - very friendly and understanding as I explained that I had an insertion point for a medical device that I didn't want disturbed - Dina took great care in avoiding that area. Parking I parked my car in the lot on the premises. YAY NO METER! Dara shares a building with the cleaners next store so there is ample parking. Quite a relief! The Spa It smelled of relaxation when I walked in -aromatherapy oils - and I was greeted by a friendly man, who I can't for the life of me recall his name (sorry). He first asked if I wanted a male or female masseuse and then confirmed my 90 minute massage without hassle. No bells and whistles here, just clean and efficient. The massage room had 3 walls and a privacy curtain for entry. You can hear the occasional conversation between masseuses and clients, but nothing disturbing during my visit. The spa is filled with ambient music facilitating that sweeet relaxing feeling. The Massage This was my first Thai/Swedish combo so I didn't know what to expect. I was mainly concerned about the "stepping on me" portion of the Thai massage but it was perfect. Dina knows exactly what she is doing and every step was done with excellent care. The rest of the massage was magical. Thank you DINA! OVERALL, I loved it. But I'm cool not having the champagne room experience. If you are looking for an upscale, swanky atmosphere, head to Beverly Hills. Also, to make sure you have the best experience possible, ask the receptionist/masseuse questions prior to the massage. There is a bit of a language barrier so it's best to communicate and figure things out beforehand. read more

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**UPDATE**: Woke up with bruises! My friends masseuse activated her latent pinch nerve. For PETES sake, whoever Pete is! "Lighter, easier, softer, less pressure, too hard" none of these pleas made a difference which confirmed my belief, my masseuse wasn't present. :-| The art of massage being able to feel a persons body and cater to all that feels unaligned, but no worries because Nai here (yes I speak in third person) is very verbal. Still it made no difference. I wouldn't have minded constantly reminding my masseuse of the "right" pressure for me, I did mind the absent presence. It was as though my masseuse was going through the motions. Idk. Perhaps she had a long day, or was going through something? One Star=Sweet ladies. LOVED the tiger balm tingly sensation. PS. This was a living social I received for my birthday. PPS. If your a hefty man with loads of lbs between your skin, muscle and bones. I would recommend seeing them, they get deep in there. But only if you need a quick fix and not necessarily a revitalizing experience. **UPDATE**: NEVER MIND ON SECOND THOUGHT, even if your a hefty man, this is not the place for you! Don't let the clicking of a bone make you feel as though you getting readjusted through massage my friend! A click that won't go away might just mean they moved something that isn't supposed to be moved and they are not attentive enough to realize it! Or at minimum, they would attempt to change what they are doing, because it's not working and making things worse, or rather in my case creating issues in my body that I did not have upon arriving to this "spa"! read more

I'm always thinking I'd like/need a massage, but rarely do I go. This place is close to home, has great reviews, and a yelp deal so I finally went to get my always aching shoulders some relief. They have deals on various sites, if I wasn't in such a hurry I would have read over which deals were better because it looks like Groupon is cheaper than Yelp. It was easy to make an appointment at the last minute (I called and asked if I could come right now hah). The place looks clean and inviting, although as other yelpers have said, the walls are thin (could hear the person at the front desk coughing, cars driving by etc). I would like to go again, the price is pretty reasonable and the masseuse was very nice and did a good job. read more

Great spa. YELP check in and GROUPON deals galore1 Bought a $35 one you which was great. Candi was a great maseuse for my deep tissue needs. Went back again and had someone else who was also good. Schedulign appointents is tough rcently because they are so busy! Clean rooms, friendly service, parking and most importantly, no hassle on the YELP check ins/Groupons, etc. read more

Boo is her name Massage is her GAME! boo was FANTASTIC IN A HEART WRETCHING type of way. I recommend her or Kate 90 mins is a must! Make sure to tip! read more

OMG BEST. MASSAGE. EVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. I got an amazon local voucher for three, and though I live in another city I found out that the metro rail has a stop close by so I made the trek over. WORTH the trip, omg I can't even describe. It's in a sketchy part of town, but whatever. I was worked on by Candy (who was amazing!!!!). I'd never had a Thai massage before (the therapist uses their own body weight to massage and manipulate you), but I love deep tissue so what I received was perfect. She worked on knots that I had been carrying around for years and no other therapist was able to get out. I actually knocked out on the table and was on a serotonin high for the rest of the day. Next day results: still feeling the effects and feeling my range of motion return. Moral of the story: GO!!!!!! Get your kinks and knots worked out (by Candy) and your body will thank you. And make sure to tip your masseuse! read more

Amazing!!! Kate kicked my ass! She has some super strength! $40 for an hour of bliss and we'll need muscle relaxation. The room is private and extremely clean, the atmosphere was very welcoming and easy to unwind. I'm sorry Kate but I'm coming back! You were fantastic! read more

This is a no-frills spa with good prices. If you are looking to be pampered, this is not the place for you. James, my masseuse, had strong hands. It was a painful massage, but in a good way. You can ask for your pressure preference. I enjoyed the mix of Thai and Swedish massage, but it may not be for everyone. Thai massage involves a lot of stretching and pulling. I would consider returning. parking - small, free lot read more

Saw this spot on Groupon and called to inquire about the, 'Fine Print.' They answered all my questions and helped me to to decide the choice, value and time that worked for me. I didn't purchase the Groupon because I would need to schedule an appointment for a later day. Therefore, I was seen within a couple of hours a convenient time for me. The price was acceptable and didn't seem to derive much from the Groupon deal. The massage itself was incredible the pressure and stretching definitely felt tailored to my body. However, I was disappointed they started about 13 minuets late and I was left in my room laying flat down waiting the entire time. Toward the end my sinuses definitely wanted a break. The place is older and the wood definitely has a slight musk. The rooms are extremely tiny and highly lite with a uncovered nightlight that definitely shines bright. Don't be alarmed or surprised if the door is locked. They are very nice people in this place and definitely can't wait to come back. The next two visits will reflect their integrity read more

A great value for the quality of massage offered. This spot appears to be modeled after the traditional Bangkok massage parlors; it's a no-frills space with an emphasis on service. I called 45 minutes ahead and had a stellar 1 hour thai/swedish combo massage for $35. Noise in the hallway and other rooms is audible, but the service is so good I wasn't bothered by it at all. Perfect level of pressure for me (medium to hard). Left feeling relaxed and like most of the muscle tension I came in with had been kneaded/stretched out. Also a plus: free two hour parking on Edgemont right around the corner. read more

Great spot for a massage! I went here with my girlfriend for our anniversary to get a couples massage and it was so relaxing! When we arrived, we were greeted as soon as we walked in and the vibe is very chill. The host was very polite and inviting. After filling out the paperwork, he showed us our room and gave us the walkthrough of what we're suppose to do (I'm glad bc some places have different protocols). The couples massage was so relaxing! The massage therapists used perfect pressure and technique. My girlfriend and I left completly rejuvenated and we look forward to coming back again! read more

My bf and I came here for a couple's massage. He had gotten a Groupon. He had some trouble booking at first and he found the process a bit frustrating, but after some time he was able to get an appt day of. Parking is easy, there's a lot right next door for free. Inside, it's a small and quaint place. The staff is friendly to a degree. I wanted a little more contact, especially with the masseuses. They just come right into the room and get to work. They barely said a word. But, the massage was wonderful! It was a combination of Thai and Swedish. I'd never had a Thai massage before and was surprised by it. The woman was basically crawling all over my body. There were times where it was borderline painful, especially since I have a sensitive back and many knots. But, the minute she moved on from a section, it was such a release. My body felt so relaxed afterwards. They really know what they're doing. And the hot towel rub was magical. My bf really enjoyed his massage as well and pretty much passed out. We'll definitely go back here. read more

Wow. Best massage I've ever had. I bought a Groupon and unlike some of the massage places they had several times available. The ambiance was nice. There is soft music playing and relaxing aromas wafting through the air. The rooms are more like small booths. You do strip down to your underwear but your under a blanket the whole time. I didn't realize the masseuse would be climbing on my back but it was actually nice. He also cracked my back in so many ways I didn't even know were possible. Jamie was amazing! - Free parking but not many spaces - Tip in cash - Make an appointment read more

I was here yesterday and got a much needed massage mainly on my feet, legs and back! My sore muscles from working out felt so relaxed and relieved as always and I mean $40 for a 60 min full body massage?! Can't beat that. I've been coming here for a few years now so trust me when I sI HIGHLY RECOMMEND this place. Request for "Yaya"! read more

FABULOUS! Just finished an hour combo (Thai and Swedish) massage that I was soooo happy with that I needed to write a review about! I purchased a Groupon two days ago, called this morning to book an appointment and they were happy to have me come in the same day (amazing first impression). I arrived a little early and was taken back for my massage without a wait. Ruby was so happy, friendly, welcoming and experienced. She provided me the absolute best massage I've ever experienced. She comfortably stretched me out, applied the perfect pressure for me, and checked in throughout to make sure I was feeling good. I was so relaxed the entire time; the facility was very clean and smelled amazing! I also love that I was massaged for the full hour, whereas other places I've been to deduct time for you to undress/dress. Ruby gave me advice on stretches to do at home to release tension in my back and shoulders. She loves her job, it's obvious she's very passionate and the best at it :) I 100% feel I got more than my money's worth and I'll definitely be back. Thanks Ruby!! read more

Took my mom for Mother's Day and we both didn't want to get up off the massage bed after it was over bc we were so relaxed! I had forgotten to request for 2 female masseuses but they quickly accommodated for us and the lady at the front desk said she will do the other massage which we appreciated a lot! Once the massage has started I was so glad we requested a female bc they literally get on top of you and a first it was a tad weird but the massage was so effective they cracked my back from top to bottom, removed all my knots, and did some stretches. They put they're all into the massage and it showed! Will be coming back! Great pricing too! They have a Groupon for a 90 min massage for $55 we did the Swedish and Thai combo- this is what she suggested. Would totally recommend this place! read more

I had no trouble booking my couple massage through Groupon. It was such a relaxing experience :) The ambience was 100% and it was extremely clean. My masseuse was gentle but firm. I asked her to work out a problem area on my back and she took the time to massage the knot out thoroughly. She also worked on my tight quads/hamstrings.. it hurt so good! My boyfriend enjoyed his massage as well. We both felt like jello when we were done. We were then given cold bottled waters and a promotional coupon for our next visit, which we appreciated. Tipping is done at the front desk. Tip well because the masseuses deserve it!! read more

I went there for couples massage on Valentine's Day. The masseuse who had me was extremely naive, following everything the other one did, constantly watching time, didn't divide the time equally for all body parts- spent most time on back and least on legs/feet. I asked for deep tissue and she almost gave me Thai massage all the time. She was massaging with her knuckles and bones, which was almost hurting, I had to tell her couple times to lighten it. Instead of relaxing I was almost tensed most of the times, almost waiting for my time to be over. read more

We found a Groupon here and opted in a 60 minute massage. We had to call in advance to book an appointment. We came in on time and the lady greeted us. She asked us if we wanted a 60 minute Sweedish, Thai or a Combination massage. I told her that i wanted a Thai massage and the hostess gasped. The waiting room was nice, but I expected everything else to look like one of those typical massage parlors... with tacky DIY partitions and outdated furniture... NEGATIVE. DARA SPA was a lot nicer than I expected! My goodnesssssss! This is probably the cleanest/nicest stand-alone massage parlor that I've ever been to in Los Angeles. They actually invest in their materials to make you feel like a real DARA (this means celebrity in Thai) I entered the nicely dimmed room where they were playing appropriate ambient music. I left my underwear on and got under a silky blanket.. (not one of those typical cheap blanket covers or towels). The masseur came in and massaged me. She massaged me over blanket and the whole experience felt very non-invasive.. Though I could not see what she was doing, but I'm pretty sure the masseur was standing on me and used her knees at some point. She made sure all the knots on my back were loosen and gave my legs the most extreme beat down. After getting the massage, I now understood why the host was shocked. I was in so much pain because I opted into a rough Thai massage, but i loved it. The masseur was not holding back. I've been to many massage parlors in Thailand and this is now one of my favorites. I'm definitely coming back! read more

It was literally the best couples massage my husband and I have ever had. This place was amazing. Felt so welcome from the moment we got in, until we were done with a 60 mins massage with two of their amazing masseuses Pat and Pan. The girls were so polite, so helpful and so great at what they do! We've been to several massage salons in Los Angeles area and with a big disappointment every time we're so happy we found this place! Thank you guys again for such great customer service from the moment we talked on the phone and made our booking till we left the spa. I recommend this 110%!!! We will be back for sure :) read more

This is your spot for a good relaxing massage at an affordable price. I got a Groupon deal and I was able to schedule an appointment without any hassle. They have a parking lot which make it easy if you are driving. Highly recommend! read more

I took my sons 18yrs and 19yrs old to Dara Spa I paid $79.00 for a couples massage over the phone, when it was time for my sons to get their massage they requested that I pay $10.00 more for a bigger room, yes my boys are tall 5'9 and 6'1 but I felt that was wrong to ask for more money especially when the room was empty...So during my sons massages I waited in the car when my sons was finished they called me to come back into Dara Spa and demanded a tip..I was going to give them a tip from the start, but don't tell me to give you a tip!! So I left a tip for both of the employees but I wanted to tell her ass off sooo bad, but I always try to show my boys different and as I write this post I'm getting mad all over again...Yes they are polite, it's a hole in the wall but neat and clean, it's parking on the street also parking on the side of the building. read more

Of all massage studios I have been to, this is my favorite! They are so nice here, and they do a great job. Me and my friend keep coming back here. It´s great value! Would recommend this place read more

Dara Spa is, price-wise, nicely sandwiched between the dirt-cheap Little Saigon massage parlors where you sit in a big room with 20 other people and get massaged in a lounge chair and those high-end, ridiculously expensive spas that reek of lavender (or whatever) and hand-feed you wine and chocolate as you luxuriate in special mud and/or bubble baths. It's roughly, in fact, the same price as those massage chain businesses that have started cropping up and offering monthly 'club' memberships where you get a discount for getting regular massages. Those businesses, unfortunately, hardly ever offer a good massage. I've never had anything other than a great massage at Dara. I'm one of those people who likes my muscles punished. If I haven't spent a whole massage gritting my teeth and breathing carefully to keep from yelping (the sound, not the site), then the massage wasn't worth it. I like elbows in my knots. My favorite massage I've ever had was on the Burmese border of southwestern China, and I legitimately thought that they were going to snap my neck at one point. Dara's therapists must specialize in this type of muscle masochism, because the therapist I had today straight up gave me a quarter of the hour massage with her feet as she stood, full weight, on my back. But that wasn't the best part. The best part is when she spent ten minutes ceaselessly circling one spot on my left shoulderblade that felt like a miniature pleasure bomb every time she hit it. A word of warning to people who are overly protective of their personal space: you will be leaned on, you will be sat on, you will have toes very close to your crotch on your inner thighs, you will have immense pressure applied to your buttcheeks, and your limbs will be manipulated into your face, resulting in some very compromising poses. I find all of this endlessly entertaining and that is why I like to get massages in every country I visit, but I recognize this is not universally enjoyed. It works, though, and your whole body feels loose and refreshed afterwards. Highly recommended, and make use of their Groupons/Yelp Deals - they make these massages even more affordable. read more

This is probably overdue. First of all, I slouch. I hunch. I work at a desk and stare at a computer screen and I drive like I'm ridin' dirty. I have not so great posture. As a result of this, I end up sore and in pain every so often particularly in my back. Dara is the best spa I have found that makes my back feel amazing and I actually feel like I woke up from a fourteen hour nap. In some cases, I do just wake up because I've fallen asleep on the table twice now.. But that's because it's that damn relaxing. I usually go to Pani, she's tiny but she's super strong and can get any knot you have worked out. There's almost always deals on Groupon or Living Social too- so there's no reason to not check it out! read more

Went here with a Groupon deal, $35 for one hour full body massage. The store is on Melrose, but off in a less populated area... and I definitely wouldn't have gone in if I didn't have the Groupon... But I was glad I did! Once I was inside the spa, it seemed a lot more legit with small private stalls and a dark ambiance. I was lead to my room to undress and got right to business! My cheerful and very attentive masseuse, Kate, asked if I wanted Thai or Swedish and I told her I wasn't sure of the difference (yea, massage noob), so she said she'll do a combination for me. As soon as she started the Thai massage she told me she can tell I was really tense and a real Thai massage would probably be too much for a first timer so she started with Swedish massage using just enough lotion so it's nice and smooth but not enough for me to feel disgusted by the wetness. She definitely had the perfect amount of pressure and power, balanced by really smooth and relaxing movements too! Then she went onto Thai massage where she cracked my spine and hips and shoulders and all the good stuff. I felt like I was in heaven! She loosened my knots and tense muscles and just lathered me up with lotion and I felt so relaxed and amazing! I felt 100x more nimble and light once I was done. Definitely worth the $35 in my opinion! Too bad for its location. The service was definitely worth the time. PS: the parking lot for the laundry facility is apparently shared with the spa so you can park right next to the spa! read more

LOVED. Came here with a groupon for an insanely cheap 90 minute massage and came around closing time for a massage with Jimmy. Probably the best Thai massage I've ever had. Nobody's ever been able to crack my back like that. Not as soothing and sleep-inducing as my main girl Mona at Wilshire Massage but a much-needed reset. Only constructive criticism would be I wish they had heated massage tables! All in all, can't complain for the price point. read more

I bought a Groupon for a 90-minute massage and Wow! Just Wow. The facility is modest, very quiet and serene and honestly nicer and cleaner than a lot of the moderate priced Thai massage spas you'll find around town. My therapist was Em and she was fantastic. She worked a knot out of my lower back but in a gentle way that didn't hurt or punish. She was super courteous and used towels to take the oil off after the massage so I wouldn't get oil on my clothes. The ladies at the front desk were very friendly and funny. I chatted with them a little bit about Thailand and Bangkok. Dara is located around the corner from City College so it's a good place to work out your computer stressed posture or just unwind from stressful school life. Prices are very competitive and you get real value with the massage. For those who are curious or concerned about Thai massage, I can say that Dara didn't incorporate too much Thai massage into my 90-minute visit. Maybe 5 minutes of stretching just at the end and that was it. The remaining 85 minutes were traditional sports type massage. Just thought I'd mention if people were concerned. I think you can ask for less or more Thai massage, to your taste. I was running a little late and they didn't cut my session short, they still gave me 90 minutes even though I had a late start (my fault). That's great service. I see complaints all over Yelp that other massage places will 'short' the customer on time, but Dara did just the opposite. I'll be going back for sure. read more

This is the best massage I've ever had. Everyone was super nice! I like light pressure and full body as a way of getting my brain to shut off when all I do is work and think about work. I feel so good I want to go back tomorrow! Remember to tip your masseuse well! They absolutely deserve it read more

Probably the worst Thai massage I have ever received. My shoulders have a ton of knots from sitting in front of a computer all day and my legs are very tight from jogging. But I really came in for some shoulder treatment. I undressed and immediately felt how chilly the room was. Em came in and didn't even ask if I wanted a certain area to concentrate on, anything I didn't want, or the strength of the massage. I'm used to Sparadise where I fill out a form with all my needs and sensitivities. She didn't say anything to me except, "are you Chinese?". And then I noticed that she massaged clients in a knitted sweater and jeans. It kind of felt a little dirty; again I'm used to other places (Sparadise and Raven) where they wear shirt and linen pants. It makes me feel cleaner; if they got their clothes dirty, they can always change? Then it got awkward because you can hear everything that is going on in neighboring stalls. Some guy was complaining about not being able to take all his clothes off because he has an allergy to the covers. There was a little bit of a quarrel which I wish I didn't have to hear. As Em started to work on my upper body, it was so cold in the room, I couldn't get comfortable and relaxed in order to loosen up the muscles--later she even put another towel on my to keep me warm. The only good thing that came out of this massage was that she was able to loosen up my calves. The quality of the massage was equivalent to a $15 foot massage in San Gabriel, not $45 that Dara charges. Em even had the nerve to tell me to keep coming after work because she barely did anything for my knots. read more

Best massage place I've ever been to. Very clean. Highly recommend Rigo. read more

SAD UPDATE! After my first amazing massage, I went back for a second one with M. I scheduled 60 minutes, as I had somewhere I needed to be right after. After a while, I looked up at the clock and realized it had been 80 minutes. I sat up and said that I had only booked 60 minutes. And M said "you had a lot of knots to work out. And you said you weren't working today." What?! I explained that I had only booked 60 minutes for a reason. So I quickly got dressed. I was then charged for 90 minutes. I explained that I had only booked 60, but they basically said 'too bad.' I was late for my next appointment, I only got 80 but paid for 90, and left feeling totally taken advantage of. If I had not been in that post-massage haze, I would have fought more. Sadly I will never go back. Total disappointment. ******** I just had the most amazing massage of my life with Em at Dara. Last night I was in crisis mode thanks to horrible knots that led to a major muscle spasm. My co-worker mentioned Dara and their groupon. I got the 90 min combo. Called Friday at 8pm and they fit me in Sat at 5:30. This is not a luxury spa but it is definitely clean and the lights are dim, the table is comfortable. There's dark wood floors and spa music. The rooms are private but the ceiling is open and the door is a heavy curtain. So yes, you hear things. But everyone is quiet and it is infrequent. It's just what you need. Again, very clean (and I'm picky). Ok so Em asked what I needed and I explained the problem with my back. She felt it and went to work- spending 70 of the 90 minutes on my back. I almost cried because I could feel the pain subsiding as she worked so hard and did exactly what was needed. I felt like she honestly cared about helping my pain and my back. There could've been a jack hammer outside and I would've been relaxed- that's how good this woman is. If you need mega frills, go pay $200 somewhere else. But if you want a kick ass massage at an extremely reasonable price, see Em at Dara. I will be back as often as possible (they even give you a coupon on your way out). read more

When I first started coming here, I had so much back and shoulder pain that it was radiating down my arms and into my hands. Kate seemed genuinely concerned about me and did a fantastic job basically fixing me. Our ritual now is about every 3-4 weeks, my husband (who, like me, works an 80+ hour work week) and I get 90-minute massages from Kate and Deni. After about a year of coming here, I can't imagine going anywhere other than Dara Spa. I know how much pain I was in before and I know how much not-pain I'm in now. They're amazing. Now here's what you need to know about Dara Spa: 1) If you require a luxurious spa experience, consider going elsewhere. Another reviewer was displeased about the lack of decor here. If you're looking for ambience, you can of course pay $270 to get a 90-minute massage at a place like Spa Montage. Or you can pay a fraction of that and get a killer massage in a minimally decorated, wood paneled room. The same reviewer complained that it was grimy here. It's actually really clean. Just bare. But clean. 2) It's up to you to communicate to your masseuse or the person taking your reservations what you are looking for in a massage. I prefer very deep tissue and always let them know what areas to focus on. You should communicate what your preference is in order to ensure you have the best experience. 3) Parking is in the adjacent parking lot. There are signs that say "Parking for Spa and Laundry". BONUS: Dara is around the corner from Hutch, one of the best vintage clothing stores in L.A. and is also conveniently located across the street from Rincon Chileno where we sometimes go after our massages for cheese empanadas and barley apricot juice. It's like one of the best adventures ever. You should make a day of it. read more

I've been to this massage place twice now and I plan on going again! What I like about this place is that the masseuses do a great job getting out the knots in my shoulders and upper back. I hold all my tension here and spend long days crouched over a desk. If you have killer knots, then I would suggest going here. There is always lots of available parking in their parking lot. Furthermore, the masseuses are always very nice and the aroma of the oils really put you in a relaxing mood and don't assault the senses. I always tip generously. However, if you are looking for a relaxing massage with complete silence and no disturbances, you may want to look into somewhere more expensive. The walls are very thin and both times I have gotten a massage there, the phone rings loudly and I could hear walk-ins and people talking, which snaps you right out of your relaxing massage. That didn't bother me too much because I am more interested in getting my knots worked out and getting a quality massage. read more

I bought the $35 deal for the 60 minute massage on LivingSocial. Upon arriving, the parking lot is free and spacious that accommodates customers both for Dara Spa and the Laundry Mat store right next to them. The neighborhood was okay for what it is. The spa inside looked nice and cozy upon entering. The music they played was soothing and relaxing. I was introduced to my masseuse, Kate, who was very cheerful when greeting me at the entrance. I was lead into a small private stall and ready for the massage experience. I was asked what type of massage I wanted, but decided to just go for the combination. My masseuse also asked me if any part of my body was aching and told her my lower back was a bit sore after a workout i've done the previous day. Right away; she went to work and after a few minutes, my back felt a lot better than it did before. The whole massage started from the feet all the way to the head and every part of the massage was great. Overall, my masseuse was amazing! She paid attention to my pain concerns and worked her magic. I felt rejuvenated after the 60 minute massage. The service was definitely worth price! I'll come back soon again. read more

I went here with a couple of my girl friends and we were really looking forward to our massages! I almost hesitate to write this review because I want to give it a high rating since my girls had such great experiences, but my "masseuse" was horrible. So I'll go for a neutral rating until I can go back and try again. Pricing is average, it's $40/hr for a full body massage but if you check in on Yelp ^___^ you get $5 off. I believe their coupon upon checking in says $5 for any massage, but what they mean is you get $5 OFF any massage. The friendly staff will lead you to your private room and instruct you to undress, except for your panties ;P, and then lie down and cover yourself with the towel provided. They also place boxers there for you in case for some reason you came commando. DON'T TELL ME I DON'T WANNA KNOW. Now, depending on who you get, your experience will differ. I had a woman who barely used any pressure and I'm a pretty big pansy when it comes to massages so if I think it's too light, then it's definitely too light. It was like she was applying lotion to my skin, and that's it. Another thing that struck me as odd was that her hands were rough and chapped. Why?? There's lotion and oils on your hands constantly...shouldn't they feel like a baby's bottom? If they don't, then they should! Masseuses should have smooth hands, period. My other two girl friends had great massages and kept saying how sore they were gonna be the next day. Well that's great for them! lol..anyway, I'm still willing to come back, but I will definitely be more picky about who I get. read more

Found Dara Spa by chance via LivingSocial for a surprise couple's massage with the boo. Making a reservation was quick and easy and availability for time slots was not an issue. When we arrived, the store was not in the best of areas; however it was right next to a coin laundromat and a sidewalk taco stand. Had I known this, I would've brought my laundry before the massage and after, stopped for street tacos for the whole experience. Parking in the area was sparse, mostly just metered street parking. When we arrived, we were brought back to a dimly lit room with 2 massage tables. They offer Swedish, Thai or a little mix of both. I requested the last of the three options. Other than not asking what level of pressure to apply, my masseuse did an amazing job. Please note though, I do wish that the massage had a head/scalp component, which this massage did not. Overall, I was happy with my experience and would go back again. read more