Yes they really are that good! I just moved up to the Bay Area from LA where I had been going to my manicurist for 8 years. I am that picky. After trying several salons in the Berkeley/Oakland/Piedmont area I was hesitant to try Solemates because it is a little more pricey than I am used to and I am pretty regular about my manicures - every 2 weeks. It's my little treat for myself that I can't give up. I went in willing to spend the money and hoping that I wouldn't get sucked in to wanting to always go there. Well I am now going to be a loyal patron because Cherri is amazing and thanks to all the yelpers for pointing her out. I got the BEST MANICURE EVER! She is actually even better than my manicurist back in LA (I can't tell her that I'm in love with a new manicurist!). I was able to make my manicure last past 2 weeks and even after 3 weeks, my cuticles are still in beauteous shape. I am hooked on Solemates and my nails are so happy to have found them. Be sure to make an appointment because they book up quickly on the weekends and you won't be able to walk-in. read more

First time here and loved it. Tho I should mention, I only came in for a wax. Polite greetings and on time. I would def come in again to try their other services. Thui did an amazing job and I would come see her again. She was gentle and asked if the wax was too hot. She also did a little eyebrow massage that was relaxing. It made me think about my third eye chakra. I paid cash and they took two dollars off my bill. Note: if you pay cash and need a receipt you must ask for one read more

I had the most amazing time here. The environment was very relaxing and everyone was so welcoming and nice. The place itself is extremely clean and the nail techs take their time to care for your nails. I'm on my feet a lot for work and my nails and feet have taken a lot of damage because of it but my nail tech was careful and attentive and made my feet feel fresh and rejuvenated. Highly recommend! read more

A refreshing break from the sleazy nail places that pepper Telegraph and Shattuck -- Soulmates is completely clean, calm, and professional. Demographic was myself and North Berkeley housewives, so I was right at home-- standard set up with 8-10 leather chairs (not massage, no whirlpool, but still comfy) -- $27 will get you a thorough pedicure, and I think my bikini wax was around the same -- the same woman, Thuy, performed both and was gentle, communicative, and friendly. A great place to relax for a few hours -- oh, and they have all the trashy magazines your heart could ever desire. They often fill up, so it's best to call a few days ahead of time. read more

Super cute spot in the North Berkeley 'hood. The design of the place is chill and streamlined. It's bright and cheery and a place to really let yourself relax. I first came here after being given a gift certificate. The certificate was made out only for a pedicure, but I don't like people touching my feet, so I called and asked if I could apply it to something else, and they gladly accommodated my request. I had a waxing and my aesthetician was helpful, friendly, and most of all, did a good job. As others have said, it's not a cheap spot, but one worth checking out. read more

I used a LivingSocial deal for my mani/pedi (otherwise it is way too expensive here!) and was very unpleased with the experience. They asked me two or three times if my friend was on her way, because she was a few minutes late. The atmosphere is nice and the technicians were fine (not overly friendly or extremely rude), but my polish job was SLOPPY! There was nail polish on the skin surrounding my nails on both my toes and fingers, and I felt as if they were doing it in a huge hurry and not very thoroughly because I used a pre-paid coupon. Their service was not worth even the $25 I paid for the voucher, much less the enormous amount they charge normally. read more

Joi's was busy so I called their new sister salon Solemates. I got an appointment for 2 pedicures on a Sat morning with no problems. They also use non-stinky natural polish which is better for your body. The space is beautiful, very relaxing and well decorated. They offer complimentary tea. I actually like this spa better than Joi's. Their chairs are super comfy and you can almost lie down when they extend the leg rests. The brass bowls with cucumber water were really nice. My pedicure was great. Very thorough and the massage was generous. My polish looks great. Staff were gracious and professional. This is my new favorite nail spa! read more

Went here for mani/pedi with the bridesmaids before my sister's wedding. It's one of my sister's favorite places, and she lives in the area. The good news: the atmosphere is relaxing; the rooms and equipment clean; making a reservation meant they were completely prepared to deal with our number (6). The bad news: 1) The massage was practically non-existent. The lady squeezed my arm a few times and barely touched my palms and feet. I don't come to get a mani/pedi for the massage, but this was so stupid I wondered why she even bothered. 2) She ravaged my finger cuticles. She just hacked like mad and it hurt. 3) My toes were a wreck. Four of them were sore after she was done, and now I have a bloody, nasty ingrown toenail because she cut the nails too short and rounded them. I haven't had an ingrown toenail in 15 years. Giving it Two Stars because, like I said, my sister likes this place and not everyone in our party had the same experience as me. Maybe it was just the lady that did my nails and the other women are very good. read more

I love Solemates! I've know the owner for many years and Thuy is the best. Everyone is professional and friendly. My nails always look great. I had my nails done here for my wedding and they looked amazing. I've been coming here for 8 years maybe more and it's the place to go for nails and waxing. Making a reservation is the best way to go. Enjoy and get a mani/pedi soon you will not be disappointed. read more

I don't get mani-pedis very often, but when I do, I want a salon that uses polish that does not contain toluene, formaldehyde, or phthalates (Zoya, for example, is great), that is uses natural ingredients and smells nice in general, and provides a nice-looking pedicure that lasts. (I just get buffed nails on my hands, as any polish wouldn't last with all of the gardening I do). Solemates fits all of those criteria, and is also nice and relaxing! The first time I went there I thought perhaps I could just walk in, as it was a weekday afternoon; but the place is very popular and they were fully booked. I went to lunch nearby and they called me when they had a cancellation, but ever since then I make sure to make an appointment. I never need to ask for a specific person; every one of the nail technicians has been great. I will name Annie by name for the favor she did for me today, though. My right big toe had been hurting for a couple of days, and I thought about cancelling, but I figured, a nail technician might know why. Annie said there was a piece of dried skin caught between my toe and the nail, and even though it wasn't part of the pedicure, she got it out and now my toe doesn't hurt!! I've been meaning to Yelp this great salon for a while, but I had to today, after such amazing service! Of course, the pedicure looks great too. This is a no-alcohol salon, if that matters to you; and it is also somewhat pricey, but not any more pricey than any other high-end salon. It's peaceful and nicely decorated, with high ceilings and no toxic smells. I have never felt at all rushed there, and there are many magazines to indulge in while getting massaged and prettied up. Solemates is the best! read more

Second time going to Solemates and had a great experience! Susan did my mani and Kimberley did my pedi. Very soft to the touch and thorough in their work. Answered all my questions in regards to Shellac/Gel and were both very sweet. Did not show a picture of my toes but, are similar in color to nails. Gel on my nails and just regular paint on my toes. Gel color is #60 and toes is #881! Will definitely be going back! read more

Solemates Nail Spa - Mani / square & rounded - Nail Salons Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Five stars to Solemates. I got my first waxing ever done here; the experience was good start to finish. The lady who did my waxing led me to a separate room with a table and pink towel to lie down on. They are very good at what they do-- it did not hurt very much. At the end she applied a cool cream to my skin to help it heal (it had turned red). When finished I paid by card at the front desk. Even though they were taking care of at least 6 customers they were quick to start with me and quick to ring me up after. Great place, will be going back here next time read more

What I enjoyed: Freshstart mani/pedi Visit date: June 19, 2011 First time? For nails, yes (never again for a wax!) Solemates has a wonderful ambience. I want to model my livingroom like their mani/pedi room. :) This was definitely one of the nicest mani/pedi massages I've had. I used a Livingsocial deal for this visit. I would consider paying full price at this spa. read more

Forget making an appointment. You will get a manicure when someone is ready. Never againl

I had the best pedicure of my life at Soulmates yesterday. I found them via Google while visiting my old neighborhood and stopped in on a whim. The guy at reception is kind of heart and wonderful with clients. I opted for the most luxurious pedicure they offer (Sole Survivor) as my feet were in need of a post-winter pamper. It was fantastic! My pedicurist, Lisa, was incredibly friendly and gentle, but also was a pro at scrubbing away some tough callouses. She gave me a fabulous foot and leg massage. My favorite part was the foot mask she put on (some sort of soothing lemongrass cream). While my nails dried she came back to check in on me and make sure I had everything I needed, including bringing me extra magazines. I've never experienced such great service at any other nail salon. Seems like this place has a lot of regulars, and if I still lived in Berkeley I would definitely be one of them. Will definitely revisit on my next trip, this place is tops. read more

I must have come on an off-day... I am a fan of Joi Salon, so was delighted when Solemates opened up in our neighborhood. My friend and I had a mani-pedi for $37, which is a good deal for the quality of the place overall. My friend loved her experience, but I left feeling a bit grouchy. We had received a call to warn us that they were running 15 minutes behind schedule, which I appreciated. But when we arrived at the new time, they didn't tell us they were still behind schedule, so by the time we started it was almost 40 minutes after our original time. Given that we'd schedule this to happen before lunch, that made our lunch much later than my tummy wanted! There was a very nice selection of nail polish, and I love the no-fumes environment. The place is attractive, but I found the chairs were not comfortable - no support in the small of my back. I kept writhing around trying to get comfortable. But my friend (who is a few inches shorter) was fine. The nail technicians were very nice. The brief massage pleasant too. My nails were cut too short, though, and some cuticle areas felt tender for a few days afterward. The thing we were most confused by was the manager disappearing for long periods of time. When we arrived, there was just one other customer, and three technicians, and yet we were told to wait - and not escorted to our chairs, just waved in the general direction (so it turns out we went to the wrong ones). The phone would ring, or a customer would come in, and he was nowhere to be found. Maybe he was trying to solve some behind the scenes issue, but it was a bit odd. We love the tuolene-free, fume-free environment, and I think the nail technicians have their heart in the right place. And the cup of tea was nice. So we'll probably try again another day! read more

I found Solemates because (1) I live across the street and (2) as a life-long nail biter, I needed some help before my wedding. I've since gone to Solemates a number of times over the past year. The staff is very nice and sweet, and do a beautiful job. My pedicures have lasted close to a month, and my manicures last about 2ish weeks before very minimal chipping occurs. The first time I got a french pedicure, the white tip chipped on one of my big toes. The second time I got a french (for my wedding), it lasted for a much longer duration. Their arm and leg massages are relaxing but always feel too short. I also really like their tea (burnt rice? barley?). As a typical Berkeley-ite, I only go to nail spas that are all natural - which means no nasty chemical smells and no gels or fake tips (which are ugly anyway). Also, my husband received a MANicure before the wedding (just buffing, no polish) and loved it. He almost fell asleep during the arm massage. Compared to other nail spas I've frequented, Solemates is definitely rated at the top of my list (second only to Argania on MLK). read more

Clean, gentle, fast, very classy manicure and pedicure + their french music playlist is LOVE. I was very happy with the result and will come back in the future. read more

I am the PICKIEST person you will EVER encounter when it comes to my cuticles. The whole point of a mani or pedi in my opinion is the cuticle grooming (and massage)- i want my digits to look like they belong in a magazine ad, and to my pleasant surprise, after this mani/pedi they did. I mean PERFECTION on the polish and cuticles. AND on top of it, I forgot to feed the meter so the receptionist ran out and fed it for me, and then when i forgot cash (i had a groupon) he ran my card for just the tip. Seriously the best service ever. The techs who worked on me were super friendly too and they didnt talk to each other while they were working, which is classy. Loved the ambiance and especially the fact that it didn't smell like anything... ahhh fragrance free! I haven't been this happy with a nail place in years. read more

This is the only nail salon I use and I travel from Lafayette to get here. The pedicures are always perfect and the women are so nice. It's the same crew, so you get to know them. My favorite part is the calm and relaxing experience, and that the air is fresh and well filtered and doesn't have that heavy smell other nail salons have. Bravo. read more

Update: I've been getting my nails done at Solemates for three years and I'm still a huge fan! Anna is the best and does a very careful but speedy job. My manicures last almost two weeks which makes them worth the extra few bucks. best. manicure. ever. ever, ever, ever. I was so thrilled I wanted to take Winnie to lunch and dish on the latest. But I refrained. $17 (plus tip) is a little more than I usually pay for a manicure, but it was well worth it considering the job. Especially awesome since I'm a recovering nail-biter. Every bite would be like a cool dollar so I'm passing on that! read more

Super amazing people! They are so nice and enjoyable to be around and do a fabulous job. My mom and I go once a month as a mother daughter day treat and it's always a great experience! read more

If I could give a half star, it'd be four and a half. This is what I like about it: -It's close, it's literally a five minute walk from my house. Which also means pre/post mani/pedi I can grab a cup of Peets, have lunch at Saul's, get a French macaroon from Masse's, or find cute kid clothes at Kid Dyamo. -The foot massage is fantastic. Really one of the best I've ever had -- and I've had a lot of pedicures in my day. -The atmosphere is serene, the staff is kind. Everything is super clean, without nasty smells. The chit-chat between nail ladies is kept to a minimum and the music is often surprisingly good. -The waxing room is comfortable and sanitary. Why I left off a half-star: -It's freaking cold in there, especially in the mornings. -Twice, even with appointments, I've had to wait 10 minutes. -The quality of my mani/pedi polish is good not great. -The waxing of eyebrows really is an art -- and I've had mine done better elsewhere. That being said, I'm not discouraged enough to make the trek again to my further away waxing places. read more

I really like Solemates. I've been going for a couple of years now and everyone's been great. The atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing and the people who work here are all skilled and considerate. The receptionist is also great- patient, helpful and kind. He's often helped me chose the right shade of polish. I'd have given them five stars, but I've called several times to make appointments and never received a call back. Still, I recommend this place, especially paired with a trip to Cesar. read more

Disappointed and have mixed feelings about this place. I needed to get my nails done and was researching places near by. Here were the issues encountered : 1) I was looking for places that specifically offered "walk-ins" as advertised on Yelp. When I called to verify, he woman who answered said only by appointment so why advertise walk-ins welcome. They were however, very accommodating and I was able to get a same day appointment. 2). I wanted to specifically have a Cnd Shellac French manicure because they work best for me against chipping and asked if they offered this service and product. I was told they did. When I was asked to pick a color from their blue baskets, they did have nail samples marked CND and when I told the lady I wanted a French Shellac , she said they had specific pink and white for their shellac polish so I assumed it would be the CND Shellac brand . However half way in to the manicure , I happen to look at one of the bottles which read OPT Gel NOT CND Shellac. Upon further investigation the bottles used for the pink and white were unmarked so I have no idea the brand. Unfortunately, by the time I got home, I already have a couple of chips which why I specifically wanted the Cnd Shellac product and not the regular Gel nail which are similar but not the same as far as durability! 3) lastly when I called, I specifically asked about price, I was told $40 for a Shellac French Manicure. Upon completion of service, I was charged $50. Now I realize I could have said something at the time on several of my concerns but I'm the person who does t like to cause conflict and it wasn't a complete bad experience. The lady who did my nails was very polite and courteous but at the end of the day I may have to bring my own polish/base/top coat made by Cnd and hope to only be charged for labor only but at this point I have my doubts if I decide to give this place another try. UPDATE: My "so called" Cnd Shellac French Manicure did not last long as my nails were completely after 2 days. I won't be coming back!! read more

This place is my new go to! The staff is always friendly and gentle. The color selection is great, and my manicure never disappoints. The prices are decent, and the results too any other nail salon in Berkeley-and I've tried a lot of them! read more

Solemates Nail Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - Berkeley, California

I've only ever had one professional manicure in my life, and it was a number of years ago, so I guess I don't have much to compare to or base my opinions on, but I really enjoyed my experience at Solemates (which I got to via LivingSocial). They're very busy so I would highly recommend calling a week in advance to make an appointment, if possible. I called on a Tuesday for a Saturday appointment, and only late afternoon (like 5pm) appointments were still available. I was immediately impressed the cleanliness and serenity of the salon. It's very quiet, and the minimalist/Zen-ish interior lends an additional peacefulness. There's also a wide variety of magazines (current ones, not from like, October 2009) available. Both my manicurist and pedicurist were very nice and thorough in their job. They soaked my fingers and toes, cleaned up the cuticles, cut my nails so they were even, massaged and rubbed oil into my hands/calves/feet, buffed my feet. Then they carefully applied the color I selected. I accidentally bumped my big toe nail not once but TWICE so that some streaking occurred, and both times, the pedicurist kindly retouched (the first time, she actually completely removed the polish and redid it). It also makes me feel a lot better that they use natural products here, as I know that a lot of nail salon products are very bad for employees' health. The pedicure/manicure here is $42 typically, which sounds like it's a bit out of my price range. I enjoyed the indulgence though, so maybe I'll treat myself again some time. My one little quibble is that I wish they offered a greater palette of colors. I mean, they have a lot. It took me quite awhile to choose. And yet...I feel like 80% of their colors are red or pink. I was thinking about a summery coral, but there were only a couple and I didn't like either of them. read more

The best! I've been coming here for years and always have wonderful service. I've never tried any services except my mani/pedi though, but I am sure they wouldn't disappoint. This isn't your usual speed through nail joint. It feels, smells, and looks like a spa. There's no loud chatter amongst the staff or harsh chemical smells (they don't do acrylics) which I appreciate. Great price for a great service. Plus you're close to Sauls, The Cheese Board, and a million other awesome shops so you can make a little adventure out of it. read more

Nice staff, clean space. I've only been there once, but I'll definitely be back.

Four stars for doing a great job, but didn't give them 5 because I think $55 is pretty pricey for a mani/pedi. I enjoy the lemon-scented stuff they use for pedicures, and the girls do a very good job. I've also done waxing here and thought it was very well-done, and quick. Also, the music they play is great. It's a Pandora playlist but I really love everything that comes up on it. Very cool. Just wish it were possible to find a decent mani/pedi in these parts without having to pay through the nose. Guess it's just another cost of living in the Bay Area. read more

Still a winner! They are professional, efficient and do very high quality work. A little expensive but they use high quality products and my pedicures always last a long time. read more

Good waxing services. Easy location in the Gourmet Ghetto.

My wife and I came here with our bridesmaids for pre-wedding mani-pedis. The atmosphere is clean and attractive, and service is polite. There was a specific luxurious hand treatment listed on the website that we were disappointed to learn at booking is no longer offered. This was good for what we needed, but for overall value, I prefer Femimacus Nails in Oakland. read more

The mani/pedi girls are lovely. Sometimes there's a language barrier so you have to be clear with what you want. The lady on the front desk is pretty rude and kinda ruins the experience with her attitude! read more

Everything about Solemates is relaxing and casually luxurious. I used to like the vibrating chair pedicure thing but now I'd take Solemates version anyday: *soft chairs and cute purple pillows, *feet soaking in bronze bowls and flower petals floating in fluffly bubbles. *Tea while you lounge? sure. . . sometimes with rice puffs in it and always delicious. *pick out a color? ah, maybe a little more difficult with all of their high end labels in the best, coolest hues. *Great music, *great conversation with relaxed patrons and nail professionals *an impeccable paint job - lasts several weeks *Waiting to dry but comfortable and don't feel like getting up yet? No problem, never rushed or overcrowded. Reservations almost always required. They don't pack them in. You definitely pay more but its worth every penny. read more

Love this place, they provide all natural organic products and NAIL POLISH! Has a great fresh smell when you walk in, feels peaceful inside. I love the eucalyptus hot towel treatment they do. And by far the best hygiene with their tools and tubs!! Wish they had message chairs tho! read more

My mom and I went here yesterday and I must say we were highly disappointed in the service. My mom got her eyebrows waxed and she came out of the room looking like two caterpillars were sitting above her eyes. My mom wanted them thinner and the tech told her no and that it was better that way. What the hell???? I got a pedicure and I hate the way she filed my toenails! On top of the horrible filing, the tech had major attitude. She kept shoving my feet and snatched the polish out of my hand. Oh hell no! Once she was close to finishing and realized her tip was at stake, she decided to lighten up and became a little politer. Oh no sister, it's too late now. I'm in the service business, so therefore I'm an excellent tipper, but she blew that one. Also the setup for pedicures is horrible. They have these huge useless leather recliner chairs as opposed to spa chairs, so it's a very uncomfortable way to have your feet worked on. On the flip side, I gave the place 2 stars because it's very clean and modern looking and it had a nice variety of polish colors. read more

I have written a review for Cherri in the past, and I feel it's necessary to write one for her at Solemates. Cherri is absolutely AMAZING. I have been coming to her for a few years now, and I have never walked out feeling dissapointed or that I had wasted my money. When she does my nails, I know I am in good hands. Her work is impeccable and she is a perfectionist with everything she does. If there is a mistake, she fixes it. She does my nails the way she would want hers done, which is very refreshing. I am constantly recommending her to my friends and family--even customers where I work. Once you go to Cherri, you'll never go to anyone else. read more

I think I've finally found my perfect pedicure place. Here's what I like: super clean (they actually have an autoclave - it doesn't get any cleaner than that). Relaxing atmosphere - I felt peaceful from the moment I entered. Organic when possible and good selection of not so harmful polish (lots of colors). Pretty foot basin. Super comfy chairs. And the best part? Anna did a perfect job on my toes, giving a great massage and leaving me totally relaxed and happy. read more

The service and ambiance here is really nice. It's quiet and very relaxing. Lots of clients take naps because it's so pleasant here. It's my first time here and I'll definitely be back. Mary was very considerate and gentle with the service she gave me. I really like how professionally run this place is. Honestly, I've never come across such a well run pleasant nail place. It's a bit more than other places but definitely worth the extra money you pay because of how relaxing and pleasant the environment is kept. It's clean, quiet with soothing relaxing music. I don't know of any other place that is so professionally run. There was a person speaking loudly on her phone and the receptionist quickly asked her to go outside. I was impressed. read more