Great place to get your toesies all done up! Swanky toes, here I am! I walked in and got serviced right away. It was a very relaxing environment the moment I walked in. Plus, I was the only one there at the time. People starting rolling in around the time I was done. With so many options for nail salons on this street, this one is a good one to go to! Keeping this one bookmarked for another time :) read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

Tina is amazing! She's well-priced, thoughtful, and actually makes suggestions based on what's best for your nails. I came in with a bad gel builder job from another spa and super thin nails. Instead of just giving me what I asked for and charging me more, she recommended acrylics and a plan to get my nails healthy again. It's been 3 full weeks and they could honestly go another week. She's my go-to from now on! read more

Tina has done the waxing, manicure and pedicure for me within an hour, but it's the best ever experience! She does things in the right way gently!!! I'll stick with her from now on! Thank you for saving my time for the monthly routine! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Tina does everything the right way super efficiently!!! Thank you for the fastest and best experience for waxing, manicure and pedicure!!! - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

La Vie is our go to for pedicures. Tina always seems to be able to squeeze us in even on short notice. When my wife first brought me I was embarrassed to go barefoot. Now my feet look and feel great. Love the hot stones, hot wax and massage. Personal touch, always nice when someone remembers your name. Highly recommend read more

I should have listened to the complaints. Not happy at all. Kind of irritated actually. Dip powder french. Uneven, straight instead of curved. Just ugly. Waste of time and money read more

See all

All the review stating the pedicure cost $35-45. Was charged $60 for basic pedicure with gel. No extras, no design. Cash tip not included.

This is seriously one of the best if NOT the best nail salon I've ever been to. You can't classify it as a typical Vietnamese nail salon. Brian and his sister run this place and exhibit exemplary social graces and great customer service. This is not the place where you will hear staff chatter away in their native language at whatever decibel they please. They act professionally here and are genuinely friendly to their customers. They play music and act in a manner which exudes the "spa atmosphere". It's quite refreshing. I come here regularly for a gel fill which Brian is always the man and does a fine job. He takes great pride in his work and uses quality products. I know so. Because, I'm somewhat lazy in coming to get my gel acrylics filled at the appropriate time, and they do not break! There is nothing to complain about at La Vie Nail Spa. It's five star service and quality work! Nice!! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Pink & white by Nail Tech Extraordinaire Brian - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

This was the only nail salon on the whole street that does waxing now. I went to 5 other places & they said that they don't have a room for it now. This place did thankfully! I was surprised to hear that it cost $40 to get half of my back waxed though. I also got a callus only removal on my feet since I got a gel manicure a week ago somewhere else. Other places would only do it if I got a pedicure with it. That cost $15 & so did the brow wax. The prices on the board are outdated. Gel manicures are: $35 Gel pedicure: $45 Regular mani/pedi combo: $45 The ladies working there were nice & I found out that they live in San Jose. If you need anything done, go here asap as salons in San Mateo might be shut down soon. There are a few restaurants on this street as well as massage places, a few shops, and even a record store. There's free parking in the front of the salon. Tip in cash only. I'd recommend making an appointment. read more

My go to nail lady is Kim. I've gone here for a while now. Many times she has put me in when she was busy, didn't charge me for extra things I asked for. The only nail salon on 25th avenue open on Sunday's i'm pretty sure. Kim is amazing! I had really bad acrylics done by another place, when I came here it was only a week of acrylics and she filed it down for me, and made it perfect and natural looking. I have before and after pictures. She didn't rob me of my money and didn't tell me to get a new set, she told me honestly it would be painful and she will do the best she can to help me like the acrylics. Her manicures and attention to details are so precise, and all the ladies are actually perfectionists. They make sure the polish is well coated, cuticles are in check, and that nails are completely dry. They don't try to get you out the door like most places. They are good with details and make sure customers are happy. I have came in at 4:40 on a Sunday when they close at 5:00, still took their time on me and details and even waited for my nails to be completely dry. I left at 5:40, how sweet of them. Prices are exceptional, for great work! I do not trust anybody else besides this nail salon. I'm a big tipper because they are just excellent. Trust me, they will make you happy. I am willing to drive for South City down here to get a manicure. I love my nail ladies. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Before from another nail salon - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

See all

I have been coming here for the past couple of months (gel manicure & regular pedicure) and have nothing but a great experience each time. I typically text Tina last minute and she's always flexible on getting me in the day of. She also has taken such great care of my nails- I've never have been able to have them grow out so long without breakage. Plus I am always getting compliments on my nails now ever since I started coming here. Definitely one of the smaller nail salons on 25th & I love it! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

See all

It's been about 3 months since I had gotten my nails done due to COVID-19 and I was super excited that they were available. My friend and I went next door with an appointment, but were not taken on time, so we found this place. They take your temperature and have you fill out a questionnaire prior to getting pampered. They were open and ready for clients with social distancing within the salon. My acrylics came out okay, but a little too thick. She had done a great job and then at the end added more powder. I thought it would be fine, but they look a little thick and chunky. My toes were done well, but the lady was hurting me and wouldn't stop even after I pulled my foot away a couple of times. Although she did not end up cutting me and I did not bleed. I'm happy to have my nails and toes done though, so for a first time back, after COVID-19, it's not horrendous. I don't think I would come back, but it did the trick. $95 for both ($30 pedi-$65 mani), but no paraffin was used during my pedi, which I was disappointed by. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Acrylic ombré nails - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

See all

....been coming to this salon for years coz even if there are a few others on the same street this place is the cleanest coziest and most professional among other nail salons at the right prices too Tina and Kim are my nail gurus read more

Tina is awesome!!! I was a walk-in and very embarrassed about the condition of my nails that were a 'botched' job at another salon. She was extremely professional; friendly and did an amazing job fixing my nails!! I am a definite fan and a new client!! Thank you Tina!!! Keri read more

Pros: *Quiet salon- the ladies were not having private conversations with each other and the music was relaxing. *Wasn't busy- I came in around 5 on a weekday and they were able to take me. *Very friendly nail technicians Cons: *The salon doesn't look as vamped as other salons on the strip and their nail polish collection was as expansive as others *Manicure didn't last long- for about 20 minutes I was the only customer in the store and then two other walks in asked for a mani/pedicure: translation more money. My nail technician was quickly changed out to who I assumed was the manager and she took over. I could tell she was rushing through my nails as she had to go back after each coat to wipe off the extra polish on my finger. After she was done with me, she hurried me under the dryer and proceeded to work on the other customers. I get it, get your money, but it's been 4 days and my nails are starting to chip. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nails starting chipping on day 4 - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

Usually I don't like anti-advertisings, but I've been to all neighboring nail spas (not going to name those, cuz who has been in that area, knows that there are several of them really close to each other), and non of them were good at acrylic nails like this place. Again, a week ago I had my acrylic nails done in one of their neighbors, but for the next day my shellac got off, and after a week acrylic itself started too. And, I need a place where I could do my nails and pedicure really quick. I just yelped the places close by, and found La Vie nails spa, then got their number but could not reach them, so just decided to walk in. Well, the staff was really friendly and welcoming. I would say that this place is the best one in their surrounding. I really loved my acrylic fill with 3D designs. And I got a good pedicure too. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - In love with the color and my 3D design! - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

Really nice service. The employees are very polite and professional. They have a large variety of colors and massage chairs. Price was $27 for a regular pedicure which included the scrub and lotion massage. I love my pedicure (: read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

First of all there's no shame in a straight male getting a pedicure. Nothing is wrong with having clean feet. Seriously. Now... regarding the poor service: she put the nail clippings and dirt on my skin instead of the towel. Nobody has ever done something like that before. Usually, the clippings and dirt are wiped on the towel. It felt low. As if to say, "You're so dirty that we don't want your clippings on our towel". I'm not over-reacting. Has your specialist ever put your dirty nail clippings etc. on your foot instead of the towel? I found it heavily disconcerting at the moment. Instead of walking out in a fit, I made my concern known as a mature adult. The owner tried to persuade me that that's how they do things there so that the clippings don't get in the wash or in the sink (that is lined with plastic). She made an honest effort to palliate my displeasure after the hateful behaviour of her employee. She even took over and did a much better job than the service I was receiving. Any onlooker would have agreed something was wrong. The lady was callously working on me with an attitude. Everything she did hurt and caused physical pain. For a second I thought I might lose my big toe. I could assume a lot of things; I'm used to prejudice. As much as I love Asians, Asian culture, etc, they are sometimes prejudice to me too. I should tell you about my experiences elsewhere on this street but... I am willing to forgive and at least try to preserve a positive relationship with these establishments. I think the stigmas about African Americans are very unfortunate. Some people think we are brown because we are dirty. Others are afraid of us. It's heartbreaking actually. If you only knew. People forget that we are human, and that we have feelings too. Is that how you would want to be treated? I left a $5 tip for good o'l times sake. Understand something: it's an expectation with any Asian service whether it was good or not. *inhales and sighs deeply*...... I would rather tip than be begged for a tip, hassled, or even insulted and told not to come back (it's happened before, shall I say some names?). Tips are nice. They need to understand that tips are a form of gratitude from people who have money to give away. Truly, I shouldn't be giving away my money in my situation; especially if you don't deserve it. Out of the 30 odd stores on 25th, most of them are Nail Spas, Salons, or whatever. I respect it, however, there are better choices to be sure. 7 sisters is unfortunately closed. Speaking of COVID, La Vie Spa "sanitizes" with the towels they used on your feet. I watched her pick up the used foot towel, spray windex, and wipe the chair. Pause. Do you see the disconnect going on here? That's gross. There are (let me reiterate) countless Nail Spas on this funny little street that can do better to be sure. 7 sisters is the gold standard in aesthetics and service (almost. Improvement in English is needed). It's impressive. I wish everywhere looked like that. Marble floors and pillars?? My my...The foot massage was incredible. They are also very friendly and caring. I apologize for the late review as this happened upon the initial reopening from the first quarantine back in June. Somehow it was saved in my drafts; I think out of mercy, knowing full well that these establishments are all connected. Regardless (at this point) I think our community should know. There are countless nail spas on this one street much less the rest of San Mateo, and all the way down El Camino. Close this one. It's shameful services won't be missed. Please forgive my lack of prudence in sharing this expediently. As for my Asian counterparts, I love you all dearly, however, this is inexcusable. Please forgive me. Anyone else would have ripped you to pieces verbally. Consider this review a merciful act, and nothing less considering the other handful of unpleasant experiences on this street with your relatives (please see no malicious intent in that statement, as there is none). Scold them in your native tongue, and admonish them to do better (as well as treat everyone the same; that is, with respect). read more

I've been coming here for 8 years. There are other places but I like the service and intimate feel of Tina's place. Always good customer service, and it's nice when they know you if you become a regular. read more

I have been coming here since my friend recommended this place about a year and a half ago and I couldn't be happier about it! Tina always does a great job on my nails and I always come to get a gel manicure before long trips and it doesn't chip at all! I went in on a Saturday and she did an amazing job at giving me a design for spring. Definitely recommend this salon over the others in the area. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

I wish I didn't have to give a star! This is one of the worst nail salons I've ever had my nails done by! I'm not from this area and so stopped in for pedicure and dip polish redo. I was the only person in the salon and while there NO ONE else came in. That should have been my first clue.. so I got dip polish French ombré. My second clue should have been when the tech was not using whatever product that sets and hardens the powder. When tech tried to file my nails, it was peeling and chipping off (third clue)! She kept going over and iver with the same result! She finished my polish but had completely filed down one nail and it was mis-shaped... As for my pedicure, got home and felt my feet and I had flakey skin on both! The tech ( a different person) used a stone for about 10 seconds on each foot, no lie! It was just enough to rough my feet up then she called it good. Less than a week later the dip polish is chipping off all my nails, causing one to break. I did go to salon today and got refund on my dip polish but not pedicure. Not sure why.. Don't go here!!! read more

Just got my toes done right before my trip to Vegas.. price is average and I loved my nails!! She did an amazing job (didn't catch her name) but I will definitely be coming back in the future. It's very relaxing and clean!! They also provided water bottles and snacks.. read more

I have been coming here for a couple years. I must admit when I was looking for a nail spa I was distracted by all the choices on 25th Ave in San Mateo. Naturally I decided to go with the pretty salon that serves champagne 7 Sisters and they were horrible. I tried a couple more that were okay. I stumbled across La Vie by accident. I needed a last minute manicure and the place next door was busy. I am so happy La Vie was right there. The owner Tina is fantastic. Although the salon is not pretty, trendy or cute the work is amazing. They really take their time to give the best manicure and pedicure as possible. If your looking for quality this is the place. read more

I give this a 4/5 because the place was great and the ladies there loved what I chose and loved how they turned out, it took awhile for them to finish but I didn't really care. I love how my nails turned out. They were kinda ruff but they did turn out good, it was pricey ($65). Overall this place I recommend! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

i have been coming here for about a year now and Tina never disappoints! Every time I come in, I show Tina a picture of the nails I want and she finds the exact color and does a perfect job. The quality, price and experience is worth the trip! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

I have been coming to La Vie Nail Spa for over 5 years now and do not go anywhere else for my full set or pedicure. Tina is very accommodating and always keeps my nails/toes pretty. She is very friendly and has an excellent attention to detail. Prices are very reasonable. Tina remembers the colors and type of styles I like. I just tell Tina what I want and she can recreate it no problem. I also get my eyebrows done here sometimes and they come out great; Tina creates even arches that look great. The salon is always clean and has peaceful spa type music. Great ambiance. I stongly recommend coming to La Vie Nail Spa. read more

WTF? 10 minutes she says .... 25 minutes later I'm still waiting for my pedicure. They got me stuck in a chair with my feet in water so ain't so easy to get up and leave. Don't believe their time estimates. Finally get my pedicure. I tell her I have a blister from my shoe on my heel and she acknowledges it, and then 10 minutes later she f**king scrubs a pumice stone over it and I yelp in pain. Terrible pedicure. read more

28$ for a Mani and pedi $5 kids mani for two and acrylic for $30! Me my sister and two nieces loved it! All the ladies were so nice and sweet! They had a great selection of colors to pick from and did a great job on all of us! I especially liked my sisters acrylic I'm not a fan if acrylic for myself but on her they were perfect! My pedi was perfect although I wish it was more scrub a dub dub but for the price you can't beat it! The paint job on my toes no joke lasted a whole month! How crazy is that lol! My sisters nails looked good 4 weeks in except obviously she needs a fill now lol The place is clean and they seem to sterilize their tools because I saw a lot of those steril jars and oven looking things! They played cartoons on their flat screen tv for my neices since they had to sit and wait their turn so that was a nice touch! Best of all this place is 10 mins away from home, really inexpensive and well worth the service! Can't wait to go back again and again I'll even bring my neices again since it made them feel like princesses :) read more

I love coming here. Tina is always so sweet and professional. I have made the mistake of going elsewhere at times and she always fixes my nails. She listens to what u want! This salon is clean and has a variety of colors to pick from. She also does a great job making 3D designs!!! read more

Love this place! Brian and all the nail specialists are awesome! I really like how they are efficient and very friendly! I come in at least once a month to get pedicure and shellac manicure and I leave happy! I love how Brian does a design on on my feet, I was amazed how artistic he is! If you want your nails to last and a friendly place to go, you must come here! read more

See all

This place is a hidden gem! The staff are friendly, do a good job and the place is clean. I've been here twice now and really appreciate that my gel mani will actually last a full two weeks. I'd been across the street before for a gel mani, spent double (literally) and it started peeling off after a week so this was a big selling point for me. They also use the app Nudgit so you can make an appointment in advance--which they actually stick too!-- and you can pay for everything, including tip pay online. I never take out cash so this is big bonus for me! read more

I really wanted to give this place a better review, I know they are trying hard! I loved my new gel set until she decided to put glue on the underside of my nail, gluing my skin to the nail. Within an hour I was prying my skin from the nail and scraping off excess glue...The nails were on just fine, it was completely unnecessary for her to go back and glue more! Also, I had an underarm wax and it was one of the grossest experiences I had from waxing. Most people know that you're not supposed to reuse the same strip. But she used ONE strip for my entire extremely hairy armpit. Sorry for the gross image, but I have thick hair and a lot of surface area and I was so grossed out by her reusing the same strip. On top of all that, there were missed spots that I didn't notice until the day after. I would not go back. read more

Totally unprofessional. Stopped coming here due to the customer service and quality. Only good person was the gentleman who did pedicures.

Kim was really nice and took her time with my pedicure. I wind up hating the color i chose and she immediately removed the polish off after having done 3 coats already. She then picked a better color for me. I also love the fact she doesnt try hard to make small talks. True, this place isn't fancy but it's close to work and very inexpensive ($30 for mani/pedi). I'll definitely come back! read more

100% satisfied! At first, I was a little hesitant because the place looked a little run down and the equipment looked older, but since it was only $35 for a mani and pedi, I decided to give it a try. I showed them a picture of how I wanted my toe nails to be shaped because pedicurists never seem to get it right. They cut, filed, and shaped my finger and toe nails to perfection! They also gave a nice massage on my arms and legs. This was such a great deal for the service I got! read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Loved how my nails turned out. - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

It is kind of a run down place. I came in here because I used to come here years ago with my friend and I have not visited for a while. The people are nice but they cut me up twice when they clean the cuticle then every steps from there just kind of hurt. The lady shall had a hard time understanding I want my nails rounded like I had it originally not flat, she kept making them flat. Oh well. read more

Under half an hour for manicure and pedicure. No wonder it was the worse I have ever had. My heels are still rough. The massage was wasn't. My nails are even and I will have to fix at home. Obviously closing time read more

First time here and I was very happy. I get my nails done every week so am always glad to find a new place that does a good job Positives: friendly, inexpensive, gentle, nice shaping and finish, lovely massage, easy free parking Negatives: none really, except its not super fancy I will be back! read more

My friend and my gel manicures are both pretty messy- some of my nails have bubbles in the polish and I have polish around my nails on my fingers. Definitely not great. read more

I had a poor experience a few doors up and found this place in the way back to my car. I am sitting at the nail dryer now and am SO PLEASED with my polish change, especially when compared to the train wreck I just experienced before coming here. They trimmed, filed, sprayed, and polished my toes to perfection! They even painted cute little flowers on them. My toes are smooth and glossy. Very pleased. No waiting when I arrived. Will definitely be returning. read more

La Vie Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Mateo, California

Fourth time here and I won't be back. Every time I've made an appointment and every time Tina is 20-30 minutes LATE. Time is important to me and it should not take TWO HOURS for a full set. Not to mention my nails were too long, uneven, and lumpy. read more