I walked in for an eyebrow wax with Lili (May be spelled differently) and was blown away! I have never had such a pleasant eyebrow wax that was thorough, comfortable, and quick. The spa itself is pretty, clean, and upscale. I was warmly greeted by a young woman at the front desk and while it was a fancier place, I did not feel intimidated. Thanks everyone! read more

I've been coming to this nail salon for about a year & I will not go anywhere else. I've gotten both manicures & pedicures from all of the ladies & I love how everything comes out every time. Ever since Olenka has been doing my nails, I couldn't be more grateful how much effort she puts into the care & look of it. Urinka, & Olga as well for my pedicures & Lee lee for her amazing waxes(full body). I absolutely love these ladies thank you Grace for your professionalism and dedication to always squeezing me in. read more

Spa Emilia - Builder gel - Day Spas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

HIGHLY DO NOT RECOMMEND. To start the pedicure chairs don't have a massager. I could of been okay with that if I didn't leave the salon with paying double of what a regular pedicure cost. Not only are they extremely overpriced. They do not have dryers to dry your nails after. Which they then proceed to rush you out the door. 0/10 rating - will not be back read more

I had the pleasure of getting a manicure from Ola today. She was thorough and kind. She took her time and it shows. Very calm environment and the staff were all very accommodating. read more

Spa Emilia - Right hand with a rust color nail polish. - Day Spas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Decided to check out Spa Emilia. I'd walked past the place multiple times and it always looked very nice and busy. The interior has a little more luxe feel and look than a typical nail salon. There are no posted prices, which is awkward to ask the lady at the desk for a price menu. The lady at the front desk asked me if I wanted tea, water etc, which would have been a very nice touch if it ever came. Unfortunately I think she ended up forgetting, despite giving everyone else constant refills, so not sure if it was because I wasn't a regular. I got no-chip / gel French which looked very nice - the nail tech did a great job painting on the whites. The experience was not as luxurious or spa-like however as the ambiance would have suggested. There was no soak, no massage (only cursory lotion rub at the end) and the nail tech took more than 20 minutes pushing and trimming my cuticles which was strange. Since I got French I requested a second layer of pink which she also refused, weirdly. I noticed some of the reviews complaining about the gel polish chipping or peeling, and I am noticing the same thing. I have never had gel chip before a week, but within a few days I had a few chips, and a lot of lifting by the cuticle areas. By the end of the week a lot of lifting and peeling even though I'm not too hard on my nails. Not sure why (maybe the gel was applied too thinly) but I haven't had this happen before with other gel manicures which is a bummer. It's a shame because the white tips were done really well. $50 for french gel, and I tipped $10 on top of that, I don't think I'm too happy with the quality for the price. read more

Spa Emilia - first look - Day Spas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

My first time here and it was a wonderful experience. I selected the collagen manicure and the collagen pedicure with an add-on callus treatment. The technicians were professional, knowledgable, provided excellent service and thorough treatments, and were lovely people. My hands and feet look and feel better than they have in a long time. read more

Pricey, but reliable high quality manicures and pedicures. I would have given 5 stars but my MIL's technician was late to work and she didn't have time for a full pedicure. LOVE their color selection and confidence their technicians have in their artistry and craft! Massages could be better, but I go for the ability to trust that I'll walk out with better looking nails without much guidance. This was my second time here and a request to come back during my visit to Chicago. This will definitely be a regular stop on all my future trips! read more

Spa Emilia - OPI pedi - Day Spas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I've been coming to Spa Emilia for 18 years and I can't say enough wonderful things about the spa. The technicians are all super friendly and super talented. Everyone is so nice and helpful and they have the best nail polish choices. I truly don't know what I'd do without Spa Emilia as it's been my home for nails and waxing for as long as I've been living in Chicago! read more

I have been a client of Spaemilia for over four years. I always enjoy my time at Spaemilia. The owners and employees are professional, knowledgeable, and kind. They always have green tea (my favorite). Occasionally, wine is available. I noticed lately they have new pedicure bowls with plastic inserts that are discarded after each use. Overall, Spaemilia is a lovely place to pamper yourself! read more

I came here last week for a basic manicure. The space is interesting; it's a salon with a store in the front. No really what I pictured for a "spa". They gave me hand warmers when I walked in as my hands were cold, which was nice. The manicurist also did a good job, however there were no fans or an area to dry your nails. I just sat there for 20 minutes while my nails air dried. When I went to pay, I found out they only accept visa and master card, and you can't tip on a card. The receptionist seemed annoyed that I did not have cash to pay for the entire manicure and tip. She suggested I go upstairs to the ATM but I luckily had enough cash to tip and paid on my card. I agree with previous reviews that Spa Emilia is overpriced. $23 is a lot for a basic manicure with 0 fans to dry your hands. I wouldn't come back. read more

I went here a few times for a french manicure - Olena is the best at making those delicate white lines however, for some reason mine always chipped by the next day :-( oh well What I really love here are the facials - Matilda is awesome and so is Lilia and they do fabulous brow waxing also. This is a European salon and that is exhibited in the quality of the pore-purging facials! Also, I have to note that that prices are reasonable and the massage factor during the facial process is out of this world! read more

Best mani pedi! Very attentive and attention to detail! The massage released all the pains and aches in my calf. Set up a standing appointment every other week! read more

My mom and I went to Spa Emilia for mani pedis. This salon has a high % of scheduled clients, but we were able to be accommodated with a couple hours' notice on a Saturday afternoon; Nellie and Margaret were our providers. We were both very happy with the experience from start to finish. The salon is quiet, cozy, clean and well-appointed. We were welcomed at the front desk with a smile, cups of tea and water. Nellie and Margaret were professional and meticulous, as was everyone in the salon! My no-chip/gel manicure and regular pedicure were flawlessly done. The salon is unique in that the pedicure chairs are free-standing, and stainless steel bowls are used for soaking. A wide variety of polish colors are available in no-chip and regular formulas. This salon is a bit pricier than most walk-in nail salons but the overall experience makes it worth the splurge. read more

I walked in for a pedicure and was given two prices... I asked what was the difference because it was a $20 price increase. The girl then replied..."I have no idea it's my first day." I stared at her blankly.....and responded " Do you think you could find out?" She responded " I don't think we'll have time for a pedicure anyway we're closing in 30 minutes." WHHHHHAT!? read more

The good- my pedicure looks great actually and the women who did it (never got here name) was super sweet. The bad- I made appointments for me and my friend days in advance. They required my cc to reserve this which I found odd, but fine. When we got there, the receptionist was quite rude and cold like she was to good to be talking with us (heaven forbid she is a receptionist and that it is her job to do so). Then we sat waiting for our pedicures to start for 20 minutes. No one apologized for being late. And because we were last appointment of the day and everyone obviously wanted to go home, our hour long pedicure only last 45 minutes. Our 30 min massage was cut down to just about 15 minutes, and the whole reason I came was a good foot massage. Then both of our ladies left right after, leaving us the saran wrap to do ourselves and show ourselves out. For $50? And fine if you're just that bad at service in general, but I saw them fawn over other customers, wrapping their feet and putting their socks and shoes on them. Additionally, my friend's tech never once said a word to her. Not a single word. Not hello, not the obligatory "oh what a pretty color," not goodbye. Came in, sat down, did her thing, got up and left. Just very odd and rude. I can't see myself coming back. read more

I have been meaning to have a rendezvous with Ms. Matilda for quite sometime. But I neglected her and went to other places. My friend who is a Brazilian aficionado recommended this a thousand times and I found a million and one reasons not to go. But last week the stars were aligned and I was in the neighborhood, had parking and was ready, willing and able. So I went. I have to say this, it is painful, regardless of how tough you are. And I did not pre medicate or have my mandatory glass of wine since it was only 10:45am and the bar at Gibson's wasn't serving quite yet. (Yes one of David's monster martinis would have done the trick). And as misfortune would have it, Matilda's stash of numbing spray had run dry! Yikes..... Nonetheless, she is graceful and enchanting and ever so nimble at ripping hair out by the follicle with molten hot wax. Yes, she was like lightening, thank god because despite my urge to scream at the top of my lungs, I endured, and she pampered. Matilda is amazing and I will never ever cheat on her. Receptionist was super friendly and got me in on my first try. I don't know why I punished my self all these years taking whatever leftover appointment was available. Nice clean, relaxing room. And she told me I could scream if I wanted to! read more

I stopped in one day and they weren't able to take me as a walk-in. Just as I was about to go next door to the Asian place for a $30 mani/pedi, she stopped me and gave me a card for $10 off my next appointment, which I booked for the following morning. Way to rope me in! I brought my boyfriend back as well for pedicures, we both got the $10 off. The chairs are comfortable, but don't have any massage or heat options. There also is no foot spa, just a bowl of water they bring out. This wasn't my favorite, as I enjoy the bubbly sensation and the massage chairs so much! The attendents were thorough and joked around with us. It was an enjoyable time. It's clean, quiet and relaxing. They were right on time as well. Tips can't be put on CC, just an FYI. May try to find another nail place nearby though with better chairs :-( read more

Great pedicure! I would skip the spa treatment and just get their signature pedicure. The hot paraffin wax hurt my feet and I didn't notice much of a difference from it. I got this pedicure over a month ago and my nails still look great. I will be going back soon. The lady who does my eyebrows does a wonderful job and my eyebrows are very difficult to deal with. They are crooked and unruly and she still manages to make them look fabulous. I like this place. read more

The facial that I had was great. Why the 2 stars? I was pushed into buying a cleanser and moisturizer. I know, I know-- every place does this, so why the fuss? It turned out that the moisturizer was expired so I went back the next day and showed the receptionist. The receptionist's tone was extremely condescending. She kept on trying to tell me that the expiration date does not matter and called me sunshine when addressing me. I fail to comprehend as to how a spa can sell expired items and act as if they did nothing wrong. The receptionist tried to appease me by giving me some discount coupon. No, I don't want coupons. I want to be refunded. She ended up writing up a gift certificate equivalent of the cost of the moisturizer because the spa refused to give me my cash back. Too bad I won't even be using that certificate. read more

I always went to Matilda for my facials. The other day the woman would not give me a straight answer if she was available. She told me they had one woman who did facials. When I was in Chicago last they had a few ladies? I was being lied to. I had a apt todayI had to cancel due to my health. I said I'm sorry. I was trying to tell this woman the young lady I went to was Matilda. She starts screaming at me and would not shut up. I just hung up. The woman calls back and just keeps talking so I said "You never ever talk over a client ever" Lesson learned hopefully I'm a retired hairdresser. read more

I had a pleasant experience there, got an appt an hour before with Margaret for a manicure. I'm from FL so I am not accustomed to the gloves and jacket routine. The owner was very lovely, greated me and took my coat, and brought me some green tea. The young lady was also very pleasant, they don't soak your nails but she did a very thorough job on the cuticles. Also she took almost 45 minutes. There is no dryers which I think they should have. I also think $25 for a straight mani is high, and I tipped $30, but it was worth it and I was pleased. They have OPI and Essie polishes, and she game a good hand massage. Plus it was one block away from the apartment I was visiting. Can't beat that....would go back. read more

Wonderful Pedicures What a great thing to do after walking for miles in Chicago. My wife and I were both able to walk in and get pedicures. So relaxing. And the service was excellent! Come on down and enjoy! read more

This is my absolute favorite place to go in the city for getting nails done. They do an immaculate job and are very professional. The atmosphere is really nice and relaxing. I also like that they use stainless steel bowls for soaking your tootsies instead of those big tubs as it is proven to be more sanitary to use the bowls. Yes, parking in this neighborhood is a pain but that is pretty consistent with many areas of the city {there is a lot by Treasure Island close by} and you will need cash for a tip but it is well worth it. Seriously great place for a mani and/or pedi. I highly recommend this place. read more

They do a great job with spa treatments here! Their manicures and pedicures are wonderful as well as their facials! The only thing that stinks is that they don't do acrylics so forget about going to get a full set or fill in. read more

Spa Emilia - Day Spas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I agree with Rachel S. that parking is horrible over in the area. I came for a friend's spa party and my friend was quite late and had not even arrived, and the woman at the receptionist's desk was upset and started on my manicure anyway. After my friend arrived, they couldn't get the spa treatment pedi, but everyone did receive the basic service. The lady at the receptionist desk then offered us water/tea and everything started to wind down. My manicure is awesome and I don't think I've ever had this much attention paid to my shape and everything. My manicurist even picked out interesting color options and everything. If it weren't for my friend's spa party, I would have probably never come here as it is not in my area. However, I know where to go when i want a long-lasting mani/pedi. read more

This is definitely my "go to" spot when I am able to go. The salon is very clean and they don't use the questionable pedicure chairs with the attached foot tubs (which can be breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and fungi). They use washable stainless steel bowls and a fresh set of tools each time. The foot/leg massage with the Signature pedicure is well worth it if you have a little extra to put into it. Otherwise, the regular pedicure is very nice too. I also got the no-chip manicure, which turned out fantastic as well. I will attempt to post a pic as soon as possible. read more

I love this place!! Great service, everyone is really friendly, and the girls are so cute and fun! The only thing I don't like is that they don't have fans to dry your nails (atleast not since I was last there... it's been a while). They are almost always booked, so you must schedule in advance. But, they give a great pedi/mani and I definitely recommend them! read more

Just had a Brazilian wax with Matilda. She was amazing and it didn't hurt nearly as bad as waxing done by others. She talks to you the whole time to keep your mind off of what's going on and makes you very comfortable. She was so nice she even fit me in for a quick brow/eyelash tint immediately after. I would definitely recommend going to her for any type of waxing! And my eyelashes are so dark I don't even need mascara. Love her! read more

I was in a hurry one evening before leaving on a business trip the next day and they fit me in as a walk-in right before they were closing. The manicurist actually stayed late so that she could do my nails. It was one of the best manicures that I've had in Chicago and everyone was extremely friendly. If I lived in the area I'd go back a lot. I also had an eyebrow wax that night (I know I know, who walks into a Spa 30 minutes before they close and asks for multiple things... it was very rude of me...) and thought that she did a fantastic job. I will still stick to my regular waxing at Salon Duo, but Spa Emilia was cheaper and they did a good job. Don't be like me though, make an appointment! :) read more

I come to Spa Emilia for brow waxes. They are very professional and do an excellent job. I love the ambiance- very cozy and relaxing. I like how they also have little displays of jewelry, bags and beauty products for sale. I normally go elsewhere for less pricy manicures and pedicures, but they do an excellent job here for a little more money. If you're looking for top service in a relaxing, quiet environment with friendly service, I recommend Spa Emilia! read more

I had a great experience here twice, but have to update given my last experience. I've had three mani/pedis done here, two of which were no-chip/shellac. The first was perfect. Lasted a good two weeks. I went in for the second on the Tuesday before my Saturday wedding, expecting the same results. It was clear to me that the technician did not know I was booked for shellac and I worried she didn't know what she was doing. Well, clearly, she didn't. Because only 2-3 days later, my no-chip was peeling off in sheets. The morning of my wedding, I thankfully found a similar color at Target and was able to paint the peeled off nails to match the others I couldn't get off in time for the wedding. My caution to others is just to make SURE the person you're with at Spa Emilia knows shellac well and is well-versed, or you may end up peeling off in less than 5 days. All of my nails were peeled off by the time I left for my honeymoon only 5 days after the mani. read more

Spa Emilia is amazing! I have never been to a nail salon that treats your nails with respect the way they do. They do not have those pedicure chairs with flushing bowls - they literally bring a sanitized silver bowl to your feet. I feel so relaxed and comfortable in this European nail salon. The best place to pamper your fingers and toes! read more

I had the best manicure of my whole life here! It was incredibly thorough. Kind and accommodating staff! Lovely experience

I've been going to Spa Emilia for over 15 years and the quality of service continues to be stellar. Pedicures (from anyone there) are amazing and they last! Monica gives the best manicures, Lilly is fantastic for any facial needs. Grace the owner will always accommodate your needs. It's a secret gem of a spa. read more

I hate to write a review because I don't want more people to come ;-) They give the best manicure/pedicure in the city, and if you need waxing, book Matilda. For nails (hand and feet), ask for Viola, Anya, Yvette, Tedy or Grace. Grace is the part owner and she might not take you-fyi. They are all great girls and the pedicures are second to none. read more

Yelp is such a tricky concept -- no matter how you feel or see the facts, your words might be and most likely will be twisted.. the manager did not notice my color application, I pointed out how unhappy I was with the manicure. The manicure service that was suggested to me half through my pedicure implied the regular service, not the 7 minute rushed manicure with only polish application. I said hundred times that I don't mean to be ungrateful but I don't think it's fare to which the manager replied "well that's just our prices" not willing to listen to what I have to say so why bother sharing my answer to "how was your experience" after I clearly looked lost and frustrated? I honestly don't know why I write this all and spend so much time knowing that after all THE GUEST AT SPA EMILIA WILL BE WRONG. I just want some fairness. read more

Can't say enough about this salon. I having been going to them for a number of years and I missed them during the closure. I was one of the first clients back. They are so careful trying to secure everyone's health. Of course, everyone has face masks, hand washing and temperature reading before entering. Plastic partitions. Cleaning before and after. No need to worry about mani because chairs are free standing and steel bowl is used- not that nasty whirl pool that you don't know if they ever clean. I get brows tinted and waxed, mani and gel nails. Endless rolls of nail color and expert nail artist. Every technician is top class. Treat yourself after 2 months of quarantine and I guarantee you will become a regular. read more

WOW!!!! WOW!!!!I had been going to Spa Emilia for over 20 years and it's been a while since I've been there...I forgot what perfection is like after being in Miami for so long and trying 1/2 a dozen salons just to find one that was semi adequate!! Knowing they only do natural nails I only had pedicures there but Julia was able to fix my long broken nail using hard gel and make them all absolutely perfect!! The great detail and care that she puts into it is unbelievable!! I am so picky and scrutinize every nail shape -but she blew me away with the way they came out!!! Rarely impressed after my nails are done I was overwhelmingly happy & BEYOND impressed!! Now I make it a point to see Julia whenever I get to Chicago even if I'm just here for a day or two...Because it is well worth it !!! I've never seen such meticulous work !! Julia is amazing !!! see for yourself!! The difference in the way she does nails versus so many salons I've been to all over the country is night and day!! So glad I found her -Spa Emilia is very lucky to have her!! read more

Everyone here is great!!! We, my daughter and I, not only get our mani-pedis here, we get our eyebrows done and lashes!!! Even my husband comes for his mani-pedi here. They also have a phenomenal nail artist that does beautiful freehand designs. Great find in our new neighborhood. read more

I wanted to get mani-pedis on the day before my wedding. Since no one could take my entire bridal party, I booked Spa Emilia based on yelp! reviews. When I called, they said that they had a private room for us. Great. Except... On the day of the appointment, one bridesmaid arrived at the salon before the rest of us. She was told that I made the appointment for the wrong day. She called me. I called the salon. The receptionist was adament that I booked the wrong date. Here is why I find this suspicious: 1) who messes up the day before their wedding? Wedding Date: May 17th Mani/Pedi Appt.: May 16th It isn't as though I needed to do some complicated math there! 2) I never received a phone call. If a group that reserved a private room no-shows, why wouldn't the spa call to check on our arrival time? I wasn't pleased with they way that they handled the entire situation. I would not recommend. read more