I've been coming here for the last few months. I originally chose it for the online booking (more rare than I thought), spaciousness, cleanliness and range of services. The girl at the front desk is amazing. I grew up a nail biter and was trying to figure out something other than acrylics. She recommended dip powder until my nails grew out, and then builder gel after. Best recommendation, I finally have nails!! Like my real ones! Everyone I've had has been great. The nails look great, they don't lift, and I don't feel like anyone is talking about me or judging me. I came in yesterday with a split toenail, hoping they could do something. One of the girls fixed it in 5 min and didn't charge me. I also booked a kid's session once for my niece, who was 5 for her birthday. They let us use the VIP room and made it so special for her. She still talks about it being the best birthday gift ever read more

I made an appointment to come into this nail salon and get a manicure and pedicure because they had really great reviews. The staff was super friendly and offered me a beverage (I got a matcha) upon sitting down. When I asked for a certain color, the girl doing my nails told me they didn't have the color from the book and told me to choose another color. Usually most salons offer me a closer option if they don't have a color but she wanted me to pick a completely different color... so instead of the pink I wanted I opted for a yellow. Then I got cuts on both my toe during a callus removal and my pinky finger. I thought they would offer a slight discount for this inconvenience but was only offered the first time visit discount. Then once I got home I noticed the tips of my nails were chipped already ( I got gel) I really wanted to like this salon because overall it's clean and the staff was friendly but maybe it was just an off day for some of their employees. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Chipped tips of nails an hour after leaving the salon - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Referred by friends to Nicole-- did not disappoint! Enjoyed my immaculate service on Mothers Day! Check in on iPad in front. Checked out with their lovely receptionist. They have a bar and extensive drink menu. I ordered a hot green tea. Middle of service Nicole told me that for the drink for holiday is a Lychee Mojito which I got virgin-- so delicious! I got the basic pedi $35 with $5 to remove the gel polish. Enjoyed the comfortable massage pedi spa chair. My tech (didn't ask name) checked in several times if I am comfortable which was so appreciated. Nicole did my builder gel fill with a deep French tip. I asked for an opaque pink which she nailed! She took her time & did an amazing job. Definitely coming back. Thank you Golden File! Also must mention that the salon is the largest salon I've ever been to. It's over 3000 square ft. And they have over 20 nail techs! Woooow! The salon is very upscale and relaxing! read more

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Super great customer service. They even offer complimentary drinks! Yes please! I've come here for 6 months now and have had multiple techs. Each time, I've been satisfied and my nails last a long time with no issues. I've never had a bad experience. Everything has been awesome. They also have all the colors you could want. They pay attention to detail and ensure you feel pampered & happy. Also, there's a way to book online rather than the phone which is nice. They've always been able to get me in, even if it's short notice. It's spacious and there are many techs, so that's always a plus. The atmosphere is clean, modern, & gorgeous! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Coconut matcha...YUM! Feelin like a princess in here - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Stopped by Golden File Nail Spa while we were in the area for a hockey camp and it ended up being a great call. Didn't feel like sitting at the rink for a couple hours, so my wife went in to get her nails done while I hung out and sipped on a mimosa honestly a win all around. The place was clean, relaxing, and had a really welcoming vibe. Huge shoutout to Susan, Selene, and the two technicians who helped they were all super friendly, attentive, and made the whole experience easy and comfortable. My wife's nails came out perfect exactly what she wanted. You can tell they care about the details and not just rushing people through. If you're nearby and want to treat yourself or just kill some time, this is a solid spot. We'll definitely be back next time we're in the area. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

My fiancé and I truly appreciate the team's hard work and dedication to providing excellent service, even during their busiest times. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for gorgeous nails and a welcoming experience! Don't forget to ask for a Vietnamese tea. So yummy and refreshing! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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Best nail salon in OC. I've been coming here for many years and drive a distance to get here. But it's worth the drive! This salon is beautiful and everyone is so sweet! They have so many different nail polish colors and have new comfortable massage chairs. Don't forget to ask Linda to try the delicious Golden Garden tea! Deseré is absolutely amazing!!! She is the best at ombré nails! Her attention to detail is amazing!! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

First time here, I loved it. Cathy gave me a manicure, and it was perfect. Great service and amazing result! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nails - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

The experience at this place was very disappointing and painful for my family. What affected us the most was seeing our daughter come back confused and saddened, asking us whether she had been treated differently because she was not like the other girls there. As a father, I felt helpless, angry, and deeply disappointed to hear her ask those kinds of questions. No child should leave a business feeling like they do not belong or have less right to enjoy a place because of their appearance, background, or skin color. Unfortunately, this experience caused our daughter to start questioning whether, because of her race or skin color, she does not have the right to visit places she enjoys. That is something that breaks our hearts. In addition, my wife was also treated unprofessionally. She did not receive the full service she requested and was given excuses that we have never encountered at other establishments when requesting the exact same service. The situation left us feeling that we were not given the same level of attention and respect that any customer should expect, especially considering that this was not the first place of its kind that we had visited. To make matters worse, there seemed to be an expectation of a tip, which is difficult to understand when the service provided was far below expectations. I had hoped my family would have a great time, especially since this place had been recommended to us. Instead, seeing my daughter feel this way is neither fair nor acceptable. Honestly, this is not a place I would recommend to anyone, nor would I return after the experience my wife and daughter went through. The way they were treated left us with the impression that discrimination may have played a role. Beyond the service itself, what hurts the most is the emotional impact this had on a child who is now questioning whether her appearance or skin color affects how she is treated. No child should ever leave a place feeling that way. The saddest part of this experience was not the poor service, but having to explain to a young girl why she felt excluded in a place where she should have felt welcomed. No family should have to go through something like this. read more

This is the only place that our family goes to get their nails pedicure whatever done - because I have two adult daughters. Ruby and Hannah seem to be our family favorites that are their spa specialists. The price seems reasonable, and they're very happy with the finished product and I am happy that it lasts. Saving us money, and time, from going to other locations. read more

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UPDATED REVIEW 4/2 The manager kindly reached out to me and gave me the opportunity to have my nails fixed, and I'm so glad I went back! She personally helped me choose a great base color and paid close attention to every detail. The entire staff was especially kind, and I'm so happy with how my nails turned out. Not to mention I tried their golden hour drink- and it is as good as everyone says it is ;) I really appreciate their effort to make things right. Thank you Golden Nails! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Updated gel x French tip - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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Came here for a walk in service on a Monday morning and they were already booked and busy! The salon itself is decorated really nicely and is very clean. I got a regular mani and gel pedicure. As most salons they definitely pitched/added extra charges for this and that but overall very pleasant experience and am happy with my nails! read more

Best nail shop in Orange County. The atmosphere is peaceful, all of the staff is beyond friendly. Heidi was amazing, she paid so much attention to the detail. Thank you Golden File for your quality products and services! Top quality service every single time! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Was in the neighborhood and didn't know if I would be able to squeeze in a mani on a Friday before Mother's Day as a walk-in. Fortunately as busy as this spa was, I managed to get in a really nice gel mani. Tina wasn't too talkative, but she was super polite. I really liked that. Was just there for the experience. Nice atmosphere. Gracious employees. Drink menu (what?) Busy with a calm vibe (does that make sense?). Would go again if in the area. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - #087 gel, super short, square rounded. - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

After putting off a pedicure for far too long, I finally stopped in for a much-needed visit. I've been to this salon a couple of times in the past and had decent experiences, so I hoped this would be a relaxing treat. Unfortunately, this visit didn't meet my expectations. I appreciated that they were able to take me in without an appointment that was a plus. However, it was clear that the nail tech was rushing through the service. I had my headphones on and was trying to stay in my own zone, but I noticed two of the nail techs speaking to each other and pointing at my feet. I took my headphones off, thinking they needed to ask me something, but they didn't which left me feeling a bit self-conscious. What really disappointed me was that the previous polish on my toes wasn't fully removed before the new color was applied. I noticed too late to say anything, but it was frustrating. I was also rushed to pay at the end, and when I asked if my toes were dry enough to drive, the tech said yes but then told me they were still wet when I gently checked. It was confusing and made me feel like my concerns weren't being heard. This was meant to be a little act of self-care, but I left feeling more upset than refreshed. I don't enjoy leaving negative reviews, but I do think the staff could benefit from a reminder about customer care and attention to detail. For the price, I expected better. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Definitely needed this - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

I wanted to share my experience because I left feeling disappointed and uncomfortable, despite spending over $200 on services (before tip). Everyone was polite, but it was very obvious that some customers received a different level of attention than others. When my daughter and I arrived, I noticed staff offering beverages and bringing them directly to other guests while they were receiving services. I waited patiently, assuming someone would eventually ask us if we'd like something to drink, but no one ever did. I finally had to go ask for a beverage myself after my service was finished. What bothered me even more was that while other customers had their drinks brought directly to their chairs, when I requested a drink for my daughter, who was still receiving her gel pedicure, the employee simply handed it to me and expected me to take it to her myself. Another situation left me questioning whether we were being treated differently. Earlier, my daughter had to wait quite a while to sit next to me because another customer's daughter was occupying the seat while waiting for her mother. However, when I later wanted to sit near my daughter while she was receiving her service, I was immediately told to return to the waiting area. No one seemed to enforce that rule with the other family, which made me wonder why it applied only to us. As a Mexican family, I can't help but question whether race played a role in the difference in treatment we experienced. I sincerely hope that wasn't the case, but the inconsistency was noticeable and left me feeling unwelcome. The most disappointing part is that instead of leaving happy and excited about our nails, I left feeling hurt and overlooked. To make matters worse, the front desk seemed far more focused on making sure a tip was left than on ensuring we had a positive experience. I would appreciate a response from management because I'd like to understand why we were treated differently from other customers. Unfortunately, based on this experience, I do not plan on returning. read more

The best place to pamper yourself Me encanta el mejor lugar para consentirte Vicky gracias por cuidar de mis uñas read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

First time coming here and it will NOT be my last. The staff were so kind, the salon was very clean, and the service was amazing. I got acrylics and a pedicure (I'm not dropping a pic of my feet so just trust they did good), both look amazing. Price is so affordable and they gave me free, delicious coffee, what more can I ask for! All in all, I RECOMMEND THIS PLACE, I've been to so many nail salons with ranging prices, and this is the BEST by far! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Gel acrylics - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

I just love coming to Golden File, I have been coming here for many years. Everyone knows me And they make me feel so welcome and loved! Ruby is my nail gal, and let's not forget Vivian for the silkiest feet in town! Love you girl!!! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Thank you so much to Nancy my queen who did my gel x nails. We did a freestyle design. Linda, the manager also helped me out with the quotes and service. She really helped me brainstorm the ideas. Always an amazing atmosphere friendly vibes for all to come. Big salon, peaceful music, smells good. Amazing job. read more

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UPDate: The salon reached out to me by phone and text that night and offered to redo polish free of charge. I came in the next day and they couldn't have been nicer. This place is a definite class act! I have been going here for years. Usually a good experience. Not today 12-21-25. The tech was nice and seemed detailed enough however, she was quick to brush on costs soft color and top cost and quickly put my shoes on and usher me out. I sat st home for two hours letting my toenails dry. They came out patchy and tough to the touch. I wasted 55.00 plus a 20.00 tip for a pedicure that has to be removed. I am throughly disappointed and am wondering if I need to find a new salon for my pedicures. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Too thick on nail plush and too quick to add second and top coat. Rough nails and patchy color. - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

I had a great first time experience. Everything felt high end. All the nail techs were so sweet. The overall all experience was luxurious. I was very relaxed and my nail service was amazing. Such a nice touch for the complimentary drink, it was delicious and refreshing. Tina and Sunny took such great care of me. Highly recommend coming here! I got builder gel on my hands and a classic gel french pedicure read more

Golden File Nail Spa - I got builder gel with a chrome finish. - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Nice and friendly. I will be back.The nail spa is very clean.I need to make a appointment soon.

Great place with great care and yummy homemade teas! First time here and really enjoy it!

I got in quickly after I checked in for my appointment! I got my toes done by Nicole and she's the absolute best I can't say enough how much I love how they came out! She took her time and made sure everything was exactly the way I wanted! I will request her every time! Plus they have a great drink selection the vibe in there is so relaxing! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

As always, the service and experience were amazing. Thank you to all the ladies at Golden File! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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Easy scheduling appointment online. They had prices available, but some of the items didn't have descriptions on the online menu. They have a lot of space and staff for nail services. Online and on the physical in person menu, it said complimentary drinks with a list of options but no one offered any (even water). But they were extremely thorough with both my mani and pedi. I got gel mani and regular pedi and I was very pleased with how everything turned out. I usually drive from Mission Viejo to Tustin to get my nails done but now I feel comfortable and confident I can come here instead. It looks like they're going through some renovations too and some projects aren't complete just yet. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Love this place!!!! Won't disappoint !! Linda is the best , she makes a great peach tea xoxo read more

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5 stars! So glad I found this place, it's my first time here and definitely won't be the last. Yen was kind, quick, and did an amazing job with great attention to detail. Everything was super clean and professional. I've officially found my go-to nail salon. Highly recommend! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Red nails - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Yen did my nails today and Sunny did my pedicure. My nails are even better than I expected. Everyone working was so nice and the salon was spotless. They can do any nails design you want. I will definitely be back! read more

Listen carefully OC, this place is special. When we walked in Linda greeted us and then proceeded to give us "The V.I.P." Treatment, her staff was kind and lovely. We were treated to a complementary drink menu. You must try the peach tea our technicians were UYEN and KATHY, both treated us like our business mattered to them, and didn't try to increase and upsell our services, which I really appreciate in this economy. Such a terrific experience and I will be definitely returning for another pedicure and manicure. Oh, and I also wanted to add that the place was packed, which is always a great sign. read more

This place is amazing. Strongly recommended service was five stars ! I got a gel manicure and pedicure very clean and trendy atmosphere

I came in for hard gel and Hedi did an amazing job. The staff was incredibly friendly and made the whole experience so enjoyable with great conversation. I ended up getting ombré builder gel nails and I'm beyond happy with the results, they're so classy and the shape is perfect. Hedi was extremely detail-oriented and really focused on giving me the best shape and color. Thank you so much, I'll definitely be coming back! read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Lucky this salon is so close to home. Everyone is so lovely from the minute you walk through the door. I was a walk in with a last minute request for design and they were able to accommodate. So happy I got Nicole! She did a beautiful job on my nails and I couldn't be happier. She took her time and won't be satisfied until she achieves perfection. Reserve her if you ever get the chance - she's the best!! #valentinenails read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Valentine nails, hearts - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Ni is the best! She's so precise and knows what colors look well together based off the photos I show her. Such a great nail artist. Also love the salon. Money well spent. read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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There literally is no other place to get your nails done in Orange County (at least in my opinion). The service is incredible and the nail color selection is awesome. Heidi is an incredible nail tech and she always shapes my nails so perfectly. My manicures last a full month and the prices are more than fair for the quality of service you're getting. I'm a customer for life and you should be too! read more

Absolute love this salon! I've been coming here for the past 10 years, and I always leave happy. Their service, patience, and kindness always makes it a 10/10 experience! The salon is extremely clean and the technicians are very professional. The complimentary drinks are a bonus too! Cannot recommend them enough! read more

Everyone at Golden File Nail Spa is amazing. Called in to see if they could take a last minute appointment for two manicures. They sat us right as we walked in. Offered drinks (tea/water /mimosas). Very busy today around 5. Their colors are beautiful and very nicely organized. So relaxing, can't recommend enough. read more

I've been getting my nails done here for a couple of months and I couldn't be happier. Always super sweet, even if they are busy they will make the time worth it! They always do an amazing job read more

Golden File Nail Spa - Spring nails! - Nail Salons Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Posted this review on google as well but gotta make sure the yelp page gets some well deserved love as well!! :) I've been coming to Golden File Nails on & off since they first opened and can't believe it's been 10 years! I was living in LA for the last decade and would come get my nails done here because the quality is just consistently that good. I just moved back to OC and love seeing this place going strong. I make a point to book my appointments with Vicky because she is just so attentive, detailed, and tidy with her work, every single time. And she is so sweet. Really appreciate how clean and well-kept the salon is, and the recent renovation looks beautiful too! I honestly don't think I've ever had a bad experience here (and I can be picky about my nails), they get it right every time. Super relaxing atmosphere, fair prices, high quality service, and above & beyond touches like a generous complimentary drink menu. I haven't gotten one in a couple years but I also think they offer massages by the minute while you get your nail services done and omg I remember that being worth every penny. I genuinely look forward to coming here every time! read more