I have been going to this spa for the past 2 years and every time I go I get the most amazing massages. The staff is always polite and professional. Today my massage was done by Joe and it was incredible might of been the best massage I have ever gotten. It is just what needed after a stressful week at work and after I got into a minor fender bender yesterday. read more

The setup: I'm traveling in to see family and thought this would be a nice treat for four of us. I called well in advance to make appointments. After a lot of questions and answers I was set for 3 types of service: 1-Ashiatsu, 1-Reflexology , 1 Body massage and 1 to choose upon arrival. I had to stagger times for a group of four to be seen roughly at the same time. I called the day before the appointments to confirm my set up and was confirmed. The day of the appointment I received a call notifying me that the one provider for Ashiatsu did not offer that service and no one else could do it; and that 3 appointments were 15 minutes earlier. I then asked if one was still optional to choose the type of service upon arrival and was told that I was scheduled for 3 massages and to change it requires 24 hr notice. I called yesterday and confirmed the option availability - so was surprised of being told differently. After agreeing to all their changes, I started to ask another question and the person spoke over me with their "canned" see you later speech and hung up on me! I had to call back to ask my question. The appointment: We walk in as a group of 3, our 4th fell sick after eating brunch and was indisposed and unable to attend. There are two people in reception. I give my name, Counter person one says "Where's the 4th person?" No 'hello' or anything. I give my response for why there are only 3 of us. Counter person 2 says, "I have you for 2 Reflexology and 2 Body Massage. Also, if you don't cancel within 24hrs you are 100% responsible for a full charge, but since they're sick, I guess we can waive the charge this time.". I say, "No, it's 1 Reflexology and the rest Massage, thank you." I say Counter person because what we received was far from a reception, nor was it service in any form. From this morning's call to the appointment they still got the service notes wrong. The massages: On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being outstanding, we would give a 5. We all had an acceptable experience. It was average which leaves A LOT of room for improvement. I was leaning towards canceling but they had my credit card number on file. I thought about not tipping but that would not be fair to the technician providing actual service. Conclusion: Massages - Average Front Office Coordination/Customer Service - According to Webster, there are 24 synonyms for "sub-par". Pick any one and multiply by 10. read more

Yesterday was not my first visit to this spa, but the WORST experience with their insenstive front desk staff ever. After checking in, I asked to use the restroom. On my way out, I slipped on water that had spilled on the floor in front of their foot spa room. Luckily my right foot caught myself but not before hyper-extension and excess weight placed on it. Another customer saw this happen and asked if I was ok. I yelled for the front desk and told them I just slipped on the water. The girl Kathy looked puzzled at me and said "just go sit down there" pointing to the front seating area. Didn't even acknowledge what had happened and certainly didn't even ask if I was ok. I tried to figure out if my foot was ok for the next few minutes. Then got up and told them again that I had slipped. Kathy looked at me puzzled, still not sure what to say. Again, she did not get asked if I was ok, was not offered water or tea, and was not given the check in board to complete. When Carmen, my scrub provider, came to get me for my appointment, she asked how my day was going and I told her what had happened. She immediately showed empathy, apologized for what had happened, and said she would inform her manager. I don't know if Kathy is new or what but she needs to work on her customer service skills! There was another gal there but she was always busy on the phone. There was a guy there, who looked like a deer in headlghts and looked like he was also in training. It doesn't take much training folks, to ask someone "Are you ok?" The service itself is 5 stars - for Camen with the scrub and Vicky with the massage. They've been consistently professional at every service! read more

Like others, I found this place on Groupon. I purchased the Korean body scrub, massage and infrared sauna. I purchased my Groupon months ago, but due to this place only having 1 Korean body scrub room, I had to wait a few months before I could come in. I arrived early for my Sunday appointment because I was able to find free parking right outside Kume. I was quickly accommodated and led into the scrub room. I was give a pair of shower slippers and told to take off my clothes and head into the sauna for 10 minutes. After I came out, I was glad that the water splashed onto the table was warmer than I would have preferred because it kept me warm. The lady that scrubbed me explained what was going on and was pleasant to talk with during my entire experience. She first had me lay face down, scrubbed me, splashed more warm water on me, took some peppermint soap and scrubbed me again, and then rinsed me before asking me to flip so that she could repeat the process. After she did both sides of me, she splashed some milk on me and then asked me to rinse under the shower before telling me to towel dry, and sit in the sauna again while she figured out my massage situation. The scrub was definitely effective because I saw and felt blobs of dead skin fall off. Turns out that she was doing my massage as well! Yay! She led me to a room after telling me to put on my robe for my journey down the hall. She asked what my concerns were, and she definitely worked out my knots on my upper back. She applied pressure where needed. Unlike others, I didn't feel rushed at all. I felt like I could take my sweet time. I was also offered water and tea multiple times, which was nice. I think I would come back and pay full price. The place is super convenient, literally right off the freeway. There is plenty of parking around. If you do come, I suggest that you allocate 10-15 minutes to find parking, like I did. And if you don't need all that time, great. The place was also super clean and the staff wasn't pushy about making your next appointment, like other massage/spa places read more

Like others have posted, be VERY aware of their cancellation policy. I was not. I have a feeling that's why they're running a Groupon deal. I wasn't given a chance to redeem my Groupon, so I can't speak to their services. I didn't bother to try and reschedule. I could have headed the warnings on many of the other reviews. I shoild have done a trade in and went somewhere else. Live and learn. That's all I'm going to say. read more

Kume spa is a great place for massages, body scrubs and foot massages, but I'm writing this review to give props to the wonderful person at the front desk named Gabby. She made 3 different appointments for me and recommended practitioners, treatments and add ons. I am really excited for my upcoming appointments. Gabby is passionate about her job. She made me feel welcome and has knowledge of the products, treatments and staff. She helped me in every way. Thank you for being so professional. read more

My day started with a relaxing, foot reflexology massage, and body massage. While my feet were getting nice and warm in a small barrel of warm water, my hair was gently tied up, (I loved that) and I was given a neck and shoulders massage. Then I was directed to a big cushy chair where I enjoyed a foot, leg, and arm massage that I thought could only be given in heaven. Two warm wet towels were then placed over my legs, and they were wiped of any residual (none greasy) lotion. I am then taken to a massage table, where I was given a full body massage. To top it off, I was invited to the lounge area to enjoy a cup of the many teas they have to offer. The whole experience could only be described as heavenly Cons: There are no daisies in the foot bath as pictured in the brochure. Foot spa, and tea bar- Genius I feel like Gumby read more

This little piggy went to market. This little piggy stayed home. This little piggy ate roast beef. This little piggy had none. This little piggy decided to get a foot massage instead of going home! To put it very simply: This is the BEST cheap Asian massage parlor you will ever go to. That being said, it is EXPENSIVE for a cheap Asian massage parlor. This is the WORST high end luxury spa you will ever go to. That being said, it is very CHEAP for a high end luxury spa. [Click to see pricing: http://thefootspateabar.com/spa-services.html] To Elaborate: It is basically one room sectioned off into reception, foot/shoulder massage chairs, and curtained off table massage rooms. Thus I suggest if you want peace and quiet, and not hearing much from the reception area, go during non peak hours on a weekday. You'll be just fine. The staff is friendly for an Asian massage parlor, distant for a luxury spa. I did have a lovely female masseuse who's aloof yet motherly demeanor was quite acceptable. The "Tea Bar" part is sorta unnecessary, even if you get there early, there is no time to sit and drink your tea. You get ushered to a chair and when they get up to get your hot towels or something of that sort, you might be able to take a few sips. It's a benefit, but I wouldn't expect to have the tea as an important element of your visit. Overall, I came out with a decent table massage and an absolutely divine foot massage. read more

TERRIBLE!!! I am a massage therapist myself and I was horrified by the "reflexology" sesion I recieved. This wasn't like any reflexology I've studied or recieved. I am also pregnant and there are very specific reflex points on the ankles that MUST be avoided during pregnancy (they induce labor). Well, apparently, my therapist wasn't aware of this and kept working my ankles even after I told him to leave that area alone. After my session I told the woman at the front how disappointed I was and she tried to fight with me about how my training was incorrect. I will NEVER go back! And I wouldn't refer anyone here either. read more

I haven't been on YELP in months but I got back on to to share my unsatisfactory experience. I was initially concerned about this place because it resembled many inexpensive quick foot massages places except this one has steep prices and added glitz and glam. So, I called to ask if all the therapist were licensed the receptionist seemed insulted yet and still assured me "all my therapist are licensed" I felt better and decided to keep my appointment. First, the receptionist was sweet she offered tea and water and the lobby area is set up like a cute gift shop, with soaps, cards, books and teas. The lobby is the highlight of this place. Second, the foot massage started off pretty relaxing aside from the massage therapist talking to each other in another language through the massage. Then the massage therapist kept doing the same vigorous motion on my foot which shook my entire leg and didn't feel good at all. There was no pressure (I like pressure) it was just up and down vigorous shaking and thrusting. My eyes were wide open the entire time. I wanted to get up then and stop the whole thing but I feared they would charge me anyway. Third,I was moved to another room for the full body massage. The therapist did the same thing there was no pressure he just shook my body and did pointless strokes (not working any of the points I indicated on the paper before massage). I paid for 2 hours but he moved like he was in a rush to be somewhere. He also used his elbow on my spine numerous times. When I told him it was my spine that hurt the language barrier prevented him from understanding thus, he continued to do it two more times. I NEVER get to treat myself anymore with my busy schedule I was looking forward to this being relaxing it was such a disappointment. On top of that I still had to pay $85. This was the worst spa experience ever. I have a hard time believing the 14 people massaging in there are all licensed. My therapist didn't even no what or where my spine was. The body is a serious thing people could leave injured. I was tempted to contact BBB to ensure the health and safety of others. I do not recommend this place. Beware. read more

You know i love me some pretty feet. And what better way to show your appreciation than to take them out for a treat? Did that rhyme? Yup. I took advantage of their grand opening promotion - $25 for a 30 minute foot massage, which began with a shoulder and neck rubdown while my feet soaked in hot water. I didn't care that an Asian dude named Peter was going to town on my feet, literally rubbing away days and days of stress and tension i carried around with me. In the middle of my session, the kind woman at the front came back with a cup of hot tea, some of the best, most aromatic tea i've ever had. If you're reading this, i urge you to try this place out.... read more

I think once I closed my eyes I saw the angels in heaven singing!!!! Are you serious??? Did I just hear you say a 50 minute foot massage and a 20 minute body massage for 48 bucks?!?! WHAT???? Ohh heck...I gotta try this!!! And so I did!!!! This was my first reflexology / chinese foot massage experience. If this is what it feels like, I must start looking into Asia for my vacations :) All I remembered was sitting in some chair, my foot in a barrel with some hot water and me snoring!!!! To be exact...me snoring and drooling!!!! After reading all the Yelp reviews (I love you guys) I decided to request an appointment with Sue!! Seems like she was the big hit on Yelp. And to no surprise my Yelp folks didn't steer me wrong!!!!! Nice music playing in the background. Your choice of several teas. I don't do tea so I passed that up. Cucumber water. This place was like a day spa. Sue worked the kinks in my neck and shoulders first, then my feet, then off to the back where I removed all my clothes for a massage. At first I was a bit intimidated as I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was, she was saying, go to the back and take off your clothes. SHUCKS...you don't have to tell me twice!!!!! At first she was a little rough but she does frequent check ups with you and ask you how it feels. I told her a little less pressure and then OMG...she was on POINT. And if that wasn't a slice of heaven, no lie, I think I lost some weight!! Got up from my massage put my jeans back on and I swear they were a little looser. I will surely be back here!!! I'm wondering how can I add Sue to my payroll :) - This is a MUST TRY OAKLAND!!!!!!!! read more

I came here with the BF on a Sunday for a one hour combo massage (30 min foot and 30 min body massage) for $47 each+tip. They start you off with your feet in a bucket of hot water. They put a pillow over your lap while you lean over and they give you a shoulder massage. This felt ok but was a little awkward since the pillow was not that stable. They then begin the foot massage. I've had a lot of foot massages in China/HK and all over the bay area. This was one of the worst I've ever had. The guy just balled his fist and rubbed it against my feet for half an hour. My BF said his was the same. There was no method or repetition at all. My right calf would get massaged a little, and my left calf was massaged in a completely different way. It was the most amateur massage I've ever had. They also give you a diagram of the body and asks you which parts you would like massaged and which parts you do not want to be touched. I crossed out my butt, and what does the guy do....he forearmed/elbowed my butt. What's the point of asking if they don't even look/follow it? Overall, it was overpriced for what it was and it was no good. I would not come back. read more

Ok this place is totally amazeballs. Usually groupon or living social massages are pretty standard but this place seriously was awesome. I got the 75 minute living social deal for like $35 and thought it was only for a foot massage but no totally was not hte case. I got a entire body massge with focus on my back and shoulder and foot. You start off downstairs sitting on the foot stool leaned over where they work your shoulder and then you turn around where they work on your foot. AND then they take you upstairs to the actual tables where they massage the rest of your body. It was like surprise after surprise. Also the tea that they offered was really good - Chamomille and dates. I always toyed with the idea of getting a membership with a massage place but have yet to pull the trigger. I crossfit and work out daily so might be good and this place might be the place! Only thing is its rather small downstairs so when you are downstiars, you are in close proximity with everyone else but its very quiet. The location is in a rather bustling area of Oakland as well. Parking is not fun either read more

Kume Spa - Not bad on member prices... - Massage Near Me - Oakland, California

I don't like people touching me. Particularly strangers. It took 3 years of living in California to deal with the west coast hug instead of hand shake phenomenon...and luckily most of my friends finally get that I just don't need to be hugged every time I see you. (or they know now). That said - I've avoided massages like the plague. Pedicures, yes. Facials, yes. Lying naked on a table while some stranger touches you...uhhh, no. Then Mama Marie made an appointment for me here and didn't really give me an option of going. Probably because I had a knot in my back that stuck out like a tumor and was starting to make me look like Quasimodo. This massage, I enjoyed. So first - you start with 30 minutes of reflexology - which starts with 8 minutes of rubbing your back while your feet soak. Then, you sink into a big, cozy chair and your feet and legs are massaged - sigh. If you somehow manage to not fall asleep, you can drink some tea. But you probably will fall asleep. Then you're whisked away for 30 minutes of body massage - but here's the deal...if you're like me, you're not thinking about the fact that you're being touched, you're just so excited to be in a quiet dark space to rest. Well, for the minute until they whip every knot into submission. They make a HUGE difference in just 30 minutes on my shoulders, back and hips - both times I've been, I've felt so relaxed....and totally willing to deal with being touched. read more

Been here twice- there's still potential, but I might wait till they settle in a bit more before I go back. Wish I could give this place more stars, but we've had very inconsistent service here. Pro: Cheap massages, ambience is relaxing, complimentary tea, same-day bookings. Pro: They gave us 20% off of my service for accidentally overbooking and running late. Con: Disorganized. Both times, appointments ended up with us showing up, being told they overbooked, and waiting a half-hour past our appointment time. Second time we visited, they couldn't see my husband and I at the same time (we had booked the same time), so he ended up skipping his appointment. Con: No place to put clothes/belongings in massage table area, directed to put my stuff on the ground. Weird? Con: Could definitely be cleaner. Massage table had not been changed in between guests. I had to put clothes back on and ask for a clean towel to lay on. Made me worry that the sheet may not have been clean either. We're getting naked here - keep it clean! Con: Only curtains separate you from the next guest, so you hear everyone else's massage noises, but it's a small inconvenience given the pricing here. Con: I got my complimentary tea right before the massage and didn't get a chance to drink it till it was cold. Also, tea was made from used tea leaves already in the pot from someone else, didn't use fresh leaves, : ( Con: Big English barrier with masseuse. Had to explain about my lower back several times and kept having to repeat, "no" when he added more pressure. Despite mentioning that I was coming in for lower back pain over the phone and to the receptionist (who also told the masseuse), I had to repeat this several times during the massage. Also had to grab the hot towels off my back as they were way too hot - masseuse put on more hot towels that I had to grab off of my back - wayyyyy too hot again! Awkward. Con: At end of massage, no one said "you're done" - masseuse just left so after a few minutes of laying there, I assumed it was over and just got dressed to go. read more

Great service, relaxing, and nice facilities. Here in Oakland you can get your foot massage two ways: in a seedy part of town with less than desirable facilities or at a place like this, where it feels Zen and you feel safe. Rates for members are $24/30 mins or $34/30 mins for non members. I did not opt for their annual $99 membership and it is not required. They honor member prices for first timers. I can see why the 30 min massage left more to desire but it's exactly what I wanted at the time. Expect to be seated in large room with about 15 other people getting worked on. You start on an ottoman hunched over large pillows for the neck and back part and then move on to the couch covered in a blanket got the feet and leg part. read more

I rarely treat myself to self-care outside of exercise and a good diet, but when last week left me unusually grumble-cakes, I took the advice of a friend and called The Foot Spa. "When is your next two hour appointment?" I asked, hoping for an hour foot massage and hour full body. "In twenty minutes," the chipper gal responded. Done. After checking in (admittedly the front desk help seemed lackluster but sweet), I waited a few minutes and then was shown to a room full of plush chairs and ottomans. A row of people were sitting in the chairs, each covered with a blanket, their heads tucked to the side like pigeons with their beaks under their wings on a powerline. My masseuse had me sit on the ottoman first with my feet soaking in tea while he massaged my back. About ten minutes in (maybe fifteen?) he switched me over to the chair and proceeded to do amazing things to my feet. He rubbed each of my toes as though polishing his favorite rocks in a collection. I went into some kind of foot-rub induced trance and found myself with my face in my wing. My reason for the 4-not-4.5-star review happened at the end of this portion: while my legs were wrapped in hot towels (yum!) I opened my eyes and saw that there were tiny gnats buzzing around on the blanket. I shook them gently, but there were actually quite a few of them (no one else has noted this, and it's very possible this was an anomaly). The full body massage was hard, as Chinese traditional massages tend to be, but not in an unpleasant way (as I experienced a few years ago at a competitor). Amazing moment: before the massage began, with my face already in the donut hole, my masseuse pulled my hair out of the low pony tail it was in and put it in a high top knot like a total pro (note: this was man). He checked in with me numerous times on pressure and my comfort, all while rubbing me more vigorously than I've ever been rubbed anywhere (to the point that he was panting at moments). Toward the end, he seemed to almost fold the edges of my skin up like he was working a pie crust, and then proceed to basically sponge bath my limbs and neck as though I were a small child. It. Was. Amazing. I seriously think the only thing that would have made this experience better was a glass of champagne. But I tend to think champagne makes everything better. And there was cucumber water. Which was almost as good. read more

I desperately wanted to try a sloughing Korean-style body scrub treatment & was delighted to find a killer deal on Groupon. I called Kume Spa and the gal who assisted me on the phone was extremely patient and helpful - 5 stars for the front desk operations. It hadn't really occurred to me that they would be sooo far booked out but hey, I got a good deal so no big deal...but helpful to know if you are planning for an event or trip. Getting to the actual scrub experience...the room was not the most inviting (a little ambiance is always nice) though it was clean. There was a small personal sauna that I was told to sit in for about 10 minutes prior to the scrubbing. The scrub down itself was okay but pretty much unremarkable. The results? Meh, my skin felt nice but it was far from the squeeky-smooth dolphin skin I had read about from bloggers who went on about seeing massive amounts of rolled-up dead skin cells on the floor after being sloughed off like eraser dust. From what I understand, the traditional process involves a soak in a hot tub or bath for a bit to soften and loosen the skin prior to the actual scrub down. The sauna step of the experience at Kume Spa seemed pointless as I wasn't in there long enough to break a sweat. I do realize that this was my first time, and Groupon baller-on-a-budget style, at that, so trust that I was not expecting some luxe spa treatment that would be life changing but I was expecting more than what I could do in my own shower with some scrubby loofah gloves. Sorry, I just can't recommend coming here for what they call the Korean-style body scrub...spend a little more on a quality/authentic scrub to get results worth your time and money. read more

I was really hoping this would be a good place, but sad to say it wasn't. I went in for a Korean scrub and massage combo. I love getting Korean scrubs because they usually do such a good job of getting the layers of dead skin off and leaving your skin feeling so soft, but this was basically nothing. The lady just gently rubbed my body with the korean scrubber (which I'm not sure was even new) and then squirted a bottle of warm milk over me. It was not in the least bit exfoliating and also didn't include the usual hair wash and mini facial massage like I've experienced at every other Korean scrub I have ever gotten. She didn't even scrub my neck or all of my arms. They really should not be advertising it as a Korean scrub, because it's not even anything close. The massage was even worse. They make you fill out a form to let the masseuse know what pressure you like and areas of the body to focus on. The lady obviously did not read it and did not know what she was doing. It was like she was pretending. It was super light ( i asked for medium to firm pressure) with occasional use of her elbows, but not balanced on both sides and awkward starts and stops. She only massaged my left leg and forgot about my right leg. I also think she might have been on her phone (or zoning out or falling asleep) when she was massaging my head because she would slowly fade and then stop. Then suddenly start back up again. It was no bueno. I'm giving 2 stars because the front desk staff was nice, the place was cute and seemed clean, located in a nice block with easy parking, and the massage room smelled good. But they really need to train their people better, because the actual services were so disappointing. read more

This place is hit or miss. I went twice with a Groupon. It did sort of feel like they were set up to herd people through- but that wasn't a deal breaker as it was a good price. The first visit I got a good massage but there was loud construction noise the entire time. I understand it's likely hard to stop work for construction- but they could have warned me, or apologized for the noise, or *something*. The second visit the first half - the chair massage- was pure awesome. Then I was taken to a small room for the second half, and the same masseur had his cell phone ringer on. It rang FIVE times in 30mins and he let it ring, and then stopped massaging to text or whatever every single time. It pretty much ruined any relaxation, not to mention it's a little shocking that employees can get away with that. Neither visit left me excited to come back. It seems like you could get a really good massage- but again, it's hit or miss. read more

I must admit... I'm a bit of massage junkie... deep tissue elitist. I know a good masseuse from an average one - and 20 minutes into my massage, I decided that Tina was my new best friend. I prefer my deep tissue massages with the hardest - humanly possible - pressure that one's body can expel onto my own... and I'm convinced that Tina must have broken a sweat when kneading the knots out of my shoulder blades and upper back. All of the positive energy she worked INTO ME pushed all of the bad energy OUT OF ME... and I left feeling calm and tenderized. FIVE STARS FOR TINA! -1 because I prefer private rooms over curtained dividers. BUT, if that's what keeps their prices low (which - trust me - they are comparatively low), I will gladly continue to accept that tradeoff. read more

This place is a semi fancier Asian foot massage place where you sit on a barker lounger with a bunch of other people in a small area . They are cleaner and have nice decor but charge a premium for that given that the principle is the same as any other Asian foot massage place. The masseuse speaks some English so you can kind of communicate with them. When you arrive, you get a dry erase board to mark areas on your body that you want them to focus on but it really doesn't matter what you mark because they massage you the same way anyway, it's really just going through the motions. Pros: -It's clean and follow quiet spa policies (I've been to other Asian foot places and other customers and even the masseuse are jabbing on their cell, no joke) -the masseuse are pretty good Cons: - some masseuse use gloves so it just feels like someone is slathering rubber over your feet -it's very expensive for what it is -hard to get an appointment, they only have about 8 chairs for massage -indicating special areas needed for focus during massage means nothing -hard to find parking read more

Came here with my two girls friends for a first day of school treat. The facility was clean and the massages were nice. We did a combo foot and body massage. I think I'll have to try it out again before I decide on a membership. read more

I pulled up this page on Yelp as I was walking out of the place. I laughed out loud when I saw they had 4 stars. Unbelievable! Anyone who has ever been to a real spa (Monterey, Calistoga, Ojai, etc.) will most certainly be very disappointed with The Foot Spa and Tea Bar in Oakland. The place feels and looks like a partially renovated restaurant or warehouse. The upstairs where the massage takes place feels like a storage room or temporary housing. Very poor ambiance. This place does not qualify as a spa by any definition; there is nothing cozy, warm, inviting, relaxing, or special about it. My lovely wife bought me a 75 minute foot and body massage with aromatherapy. Thank goodness she got a Groupon and did not pay full price. My masseuse barely spoke English, which makes it difficult to communicate, and communication is very important for a massage. No matter the language barrier, she did a terrible job and I am sure she took some fly-by-night weekend class on massage and now claims to be a massage therapist. I was very disappointed and unsatisfied. And my 75 minute treatment ended almost 10 minutes early! I have had many massages in many places around the world, and this is the first time I didn't get my full paid-for time. When I asked her about it, she gave me a crappy attitude, so I let it go. Also, I never got any aromatherapy, and when I asked the lady at the front desk about it, she said that the aromatherapy is in the lotion, and they gave me the "organic" unscented lotion which has no scent. She said that most people like the "organic" lotions, so she assumed I would too, even though they never asked me which I would prefer. So much for the aromatherapy! Skip this place and go elsewhere. read more

I love Kume Spa. Bought my membership on Groupon and have been loving it ever since. CJ is one of my favorites. I usually get treatments with the menthol CBD. So nice to come in and relax, everyone is so nice. I come back extremely rejuvenated. What are you waiting for?! read more

I have been a member at the Foot Spa and Tea Bar since the month it opened and have been a regular ever since. Every 2 to 5 weeks I either get the 1 hour foot and 1 hour body combo, or if I'm short on time, the 1 hour foot massage. This is my primary spot for treating myself. The masseuses are all trained experts and not only have incredible hands, but are extremely friendly and courteous. The front desk staff is very accommodating with scheduling. Since I usually go on weekends, I usually need to book ahead (hey, they are busy for good reason) and the staff always works with me to find the right time slot with the right masseuse. I also really enjoy the waiting area ambiance and the complementary tea. I would like to think I also hold the record for the number of friends I've recommended this place to, bought gift certificates for, or have brought with me. When something is this good, it's hard not to share, and I've found the gift certificates to be the perfect gift for any occasion. The value is tremendous for first-timers with the first timer rates, as well as the member rates for regulars. The last thing I want to mention is that before I started coming here, I didn't really enjoy foot massages. However, after trying them a couple of times, I have found it to be the most relaxing thing I can do for myself. I'm extremely busy, work long hours, and end up in my head most of the day. Getting a foot massage at the Foot Spa puts me in as close to a meditative state as I've ever been. I look forward to each visit. Highly recommended (if you couldn't guess already). read more

I definitely wouldn't come here again, even though the prices are stellar. Came in for a 30 min foot massage. The masseuse neither worked on my heels or the back of my calves, which means he only worked on the ball of my foot and my shin. That's ridiculous. It was the most unrelaxing massage I've ever had. He also pounded me with his fists one too many times. I get it, they do it sometimes and it feels good, but it just seemed like it was one of his few techniques. It got painful. Really disappointing. UPDATE: Owner contacted me to apologise, which is nice. read more

I've had two massages here. The first time was OK. The massage wasn't great, but it was cheap and you get what you pay for. When I got home, I kept on smelling mildew. I eventually realized that it was my skin that smelled bad. The massage oil he had used was rancid, and the smell had seeped into my clothing. I figured it was a one-time thing, and a year or so later I went back. Same thing: the massage oil was rancid. If their oil isn't being kept up, what about everything else? Two stars for price. read more

I came to the Foot Spa and Tea Bar, with my boyfriend. We called ahead and made an appointment for some much needed rainy-Sunday evening foot therapy. The front desk receptionist & tea barista asked us if this was our "first time" having reflexology. No, this was not my first time. My moto on reflexology is : "reflexology doesn't have to hurt... but it should!" We sat down on the sofa side by side, together for a couple's massage. My fella had the "the giver" older female working on him, while i got the lazy guy. I closed my eyes from the foot soak through the entire chair massage, when I began to hear my boyfriend making those "Oh-so-GOOD" sigh sounds of enjoyment mixed with pleasure. He had a minor ankle sprain that was obviously being worked out to his satisfaction. I myself had to wonder why I wasn't feeling anything? I didn't feel any therapeutic energy working it's magic on my feet. The guy working on my feet seemed uninterested in me or my feet ( there was no toe "popping", pricks to the toe tips, or foot bone and muscle re-positioning...there was no pressure at all) At some point I started to fall asleep; from pure boredom, not relaxation. I had to open my eyes, because it felt like puppies or babies were sucking on my toes. I suppose if they think it's your "first time", you get the "American Tourist" soft-foot treatment. So why didn't I speak up and ask for "more pressure", well I would have - except the room was so quiet. I turned around to find 3 more people were having chair massages behind me. I do give everyone a lot of credit for being quiet and not disturbing each others personal aura space, as I didn't even hear anyone else enter the room. However I prefer to have my massage sessions done in a private room, and especially while sharing a "couple's massage". I like to know the receiving experience is well balanced between both me and my partner. When we were both finished with our session, my boyfriend totally felt relaxed and totally enjoyed his first reflexology experience. As for the tea bar, it was nice to be served tea before and after our massage. Except I didn't get to drink my tea during the sofa massage. It was difficult to take the barista's post-massage exotic tea "lesson" seriously, while the scent of her "KFC dinner" eaten at the counter - was waffling my tea-tasting senses. I did sense a slight demeanor that possibly she was implying that the average customer knew nothing about jasmine tea pearls or how they were rolled. I actually do happen to know a thing or 2 about tea, in fact that's what i know 2 things about tea. I also know that my foot massage didn't even come close to the Shiatsu Spa's sessions I have experienced in Los Angeles' Korea Town. So yeah ~ the tea had better knock my socks, if the massage didn't. I would consider this as an acceptable foot rub if a pedicure was included for the price. It's hard NOT to appreciate anyone who massages your feet, right? Well a foot massage is one thing - and "reflexology" is another. For the most part the spa area is kept clean and extremely quiet for the convenience of their location. read more

Update time! I think this place amazes me each time i go. I'm always so fascinated with each and every one of the masseuses and i purposely don't ask for a specific one so i can try them all out. Each one seems to know exactly where it hurts and knows what i need as if they share notes or something! Or maybe i go in so much that they just know. Or maybe its all the knots i have on my body... ? Sad Face :( Either way, it's a great time each time. I'm looking forward to my next visit this weekend. Can't wait! read more

This is my second time here. Last time I was cold but I still enjoyed the massage .This time, I was warm and I surely enjoyed the foot and body spa for 90 minutes. I felt cozy and warm, love it. The people that work there are so friendly they make you feel welcome.This is the spot. read more

I became a member and was disappointed that I never used it again after just a couple massages. The reason: both massages were bad. The first bad one, I was like: okay, one not great massage. The second, was actually horrible -- the therapist just shook me the entire time. It was really bizarre and I couldn't wait for it to be over. He also had the lights shining in my eyes and knew absolutely zero about how to keep the sheets around my body. Conclusion: not a real therapist, which is what you should expect for these prices. Anyway, I did complain that second time (not something I ever do) and got 20% off. But paying to spend an hour feeling annoyed is something I never wanted to repeat -- so I didn't. Don't come here and instead spend the 75-100 bucks to go somewhere where they know what they are doing. Bad massages are not worth it! read more

I have been going here often since they opened but lately they have deteriorated a lot. The place is not clean and often they do not have your appointment right when you arrive. The front desk attendants are polite, but not on top of it. They often mess up appointments and schedules. Forget the tea bar. You might get a cup of generic tea if they have time and remember. Massage workers are good and you are told to tip them which suggests they are not getting paid sufficiently. The place no longer feels ok to me-more like the workers and the customers are being exploited. Sometimes o.k., but more and more not a good experience. read more

The Foot Spa & Tea Bar (FSTB) is the greatest! I started as a customer upon their grand opening in Nov 2009 with 1-2 massages per month, usually the 75 minute foot soaking & full body treatment. I became an annual member for a $99.00 fee in order to get discounted services. I started weekly treatments mid 2010 until present after masseuse Sue admonished me for irregular visits. As a martial artist (MA) practicing nearly 25 years I've had a few breaks and lumps. Sue worked on my hands & arms for 6 months and really helped with healing some very old injuries. She now gives me whole bod treatments and has found almost all my other old injuries and has treated them. She applies an ayurvedic massage oil I provide to her. Thanks Sue! I used the services of almost all the massage professionals @ FSTB and found them very good. My suggestion to you is make the circuit & then choose one person to help you. The massage person gains knowledge of your body & your needs overt time... give them a chance. Be regular. Other tips: try to get your massage in the AM if possible. If you are an annual member, the fees are heavily discounted on Tue, Wed & Thur. A full 75 minute treatment is about $38.00 for members! Sip you herbal tea and enjoy it (no gulping or swilling!). Dump your latte. Relax! Serious athletes & MA practioners should inform their masseuse of any existing injuries. Let them know what sports & MA styles you're practicing. The poundings, beatings & limb locks you receive on your bod need help. You will be surprised @ how knowledgeable your FSTB massage person can be with martial arts injuries. read more

Love this place!! My go-to every time I'm in Oakland. Amazing staff and very clean. Plus, they're open from 10-10 EVERYDAY! Can't beat their member pricing, definitely well worth it. Helpful fact: Every therapists have their own technique and style...I use specific therapists for what kind of attention I need for my mind, vibe and body. read more

I went to Kume today to get a massage because I struggle with migraines. The worst massage EVER. I have no words for it. I paid $85 and came out more stressed out cause I paid all that money for the worst service. In fact I will contact the owner for a refund. Please hire professional massage therapists. This is wrong. The woman who came out before I went in, was also upset at the bad service. I prayed that my experience would be better but no! Horrible is an understatement. The man did not know what he was doing. The pressure was wrong, the movement of his hands, wrong, he skipped some parts. I'm so angry!!! read more

Don't get me wrong! This place is awesome! I am basing my rating on the quality of the massage I received yesterday night! My friend and I decided to have some girls' relaxation time and she stumbled upon this small asian place on yelp with great reviews! This business just opened in November 2009 so it is still pretty new! As you enter the spa, the spa music brings you to a calm and I was greeted with a cup of tea. The front desk receptionist was very friendly and accomodating. I came a tad late from my original appointment but she was still able to squeeze us in. Instead of my 75 minutes foot and body massage, we ended up with a 1 hr body and foot massage. Still pretty good! This was all for $43 since our time was cut short and even with discount! When we were directed to our section, they made us sit on the foot padded stools where they start you off with a shoulder and neck massage. That was a great way to relax my tension in my shoulders but I felt a bit awkward being hunched over for my masseuse, Peter. Then I was directed to sit on the comfortable couch where pillows felt good with a super soft blanket to keep me warm. This was when the foot massage started. The foot massage itself was average. It was my first time and I kind of expected more pressure points in some way. More pressure would of been amazing but in general not so bad. Tea was offered to me again in the middle of it which was nice. For the second part of my massage, we were led to the upstairs floor where most of the massage cabanas were located. It was a dark relaxing setting. Average massage, i wish they did more on my lower back. I think I will definitely emphasize on my lower back next time I get a massage. Peter and Sue are the best and most popular masseuse at the Spa. So if you want, ask for them! In general, great chinese spa, very professional and popular! So get them deals while you can for their specials!!! Very nice for an Oakland spot! read more

I did not read the reviews before picking up a Livingsocial deal for this place. The deal was expiring, so I called and made an appointment. It was easy to get an appointment. I was surprised that the "foot reflexology" happens in soft easy chairs crammed together with nine other chairs - everyone's foot massages are together, and there's no privacy while it's going on. My grandmother studies reflexology - that is not what I experienced. More like a general foot rub with oils and lotions. Relaxing, but not therapeutic. My package also came with a 25-min massage. There was no skill at all used - just general hard rubbing in broad strokes and a Lot more oil. I think I walked out more tense than I walked in. I do not believe my masseuse has ever received any formal training. I can see how the "value" would appeal to some people - it's cheap compared to a more traditional massage place, but I will not be back. read more

I purchased the membership, and pretty much made the money back within the first 2 months. What a fantastic deal. Everyone that I've worked with here has been fantastic. Two tips - 1) Bring your ipod, and listen to your own music while you are there. Typical spa music, which isn't really my thing. 2) Go grab a drink at Sidebar after your massage for the full evening of relaxation. read more