The Upper Hand

What's the price for nail and pedicure?

$50 for standard mani/pedi. All prices are listed on their website for services offered.

How much is a full set of acrylic nails?

Sorry we don't do acrylic nails

Do you have organic dipping powder?

Sorry we don't do dipping power.

Do they have bowls or electric tubs for the pedicure?

We have bowls for the pedicure

Do they have chrome nails?if so, how much do they charge?

Hi there! Yes, I have chrome gel i charge $15 up depends on how is your nail

Does Upper Hand do gel fills/gel color changes if you already have a full set on? If so, how much?

Yes, we just do gel color manicure.

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Review Highlights - The Upper Hand

“I can't comment on the pedicure because I had to cancel, unfortunately, but I was very impressed with Ann and will reschedule!”

Mentioned in 53 reviews

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Suchada Thai Massage

4.5(706 reviews)

1.9 mi•Mission Bay

excellent swedish massage. Worker my back pain. got deep into the tense area…read more Good value for money

Just had my second massage with the wonderful Anna! Perfectly attuned to her client, checking in…read moreabout movement and pressure, with gloriously strong gentle hands. I have been looking for new masseuse, so glad I found Anna and Suchada Thankyou!

Wall live plants

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Suchada Thai Massage

3.8(41 reviews)

1.9 mi•Mission Bay

Minority-owned & operated

Women-owned & operated

I recently visited Suchada Thai Massage and had one of the best massage experiences I've ever had…read more The location felt safe and easy to access, with plenty of street parking nearby. Be mindful of having to pay for parking on some streets as well as parking time limits. One thing to note is that there are two entrances--if it's your first time, the entrance across from Dumpling Time is where you'll check in. From the moment we arrived, the staff was incredibly warm and welcoming. The waiting area was comfortable and thoughtfully stocked with refreshments, including water, dates, and dried mangoes, which was a nice touch and made the experience feel more hospitable. I booked a 1-hour Thai massage with Vollra. Before the massage, I filled out an intake form where I could indicate my preferred pressure level and any areas that needed extra attention. I requested strong pressure and she absolutely delivered. She was skilled, attentive, and seemed to know exactly where my muscles needed work. My back had been feeling particularly tight, and by the end of the session I could immediately feel a difference. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and significantly looser than when I walked in. A few things to know before booking: the massage areas are separated by curtains rather than private rooms. While this didn't take away from the quality of the massage, noise does travel throughout the facility. During my session, I could hear guests checking in, conversations at the front desk, and people being escorted to their treatment areas. If you're looking for complete silence or total privacy, it's something to keep in mind. I also noticed that this location has a sauna available, though it was never mentioned or offered during my visit. If you're interested in using it, I'd recommend asking when you check in. Overall, the exceptional massage quality, welcoming staff, and thoughtful amenities far outweighed the minor drawbacks. While the open-concept layout may not be ideal for those seeking complete quiet and privacy, the skill of the massage therapists and the warm customer service make this a place I would happily return to. Vollra provided one of the best massages I've ever received, and I'll absolutely be booking again. Be sure to ask about their stamp card rewards program if you plan to go back.

Do not ever go here, extremely rough and unsafe masseuse. Feels like assault…read more I paid for a 90 deep tissue, was given a lady who couldn't speak English. After repeatedly asking her to be gentler, she didn't comply and kept on using her body weight against me and elbow to press harder. I think she was under the influence of drugs; she just keeps going faster and faster -- don't think she was trained at all. I had to push tell her off and she pinned my neck against the bed and using her body weight and elbow to massage my neck. She asked how my massage was and I said extremely uncomfortable; she just giggled

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Ronit April V

5.0(16 reviews)

1.8 mi•Potrero Hill

I have been getting monthly massages from Ronit for about 4 months now. I can confidently say Ronit…read moreenjoys what she does. She genuinely cares about her clients and tailors each specific session to her client's needs. My first meeting with Ronit, she wanted to know everything that was ailing me. She let me know what her methods were and how everything is tailored to fit my problem areas. She even goes above and beyond by teaching me about the different muscle groups and how they might be overstrained during my workouts. Most recently, she has sent me an email to incorporate stretches into my workouts in hopes of relieving my chronic back pain. I cannot say enough about the way Ronit handles her clients and she genuinely loves what she does. I highly recommend her if you are in the area. Her rates are competitive compared to any other full body massage therapist in the city so feel free to give her a call!

Ronit has helped my right back muscles, providing the relief I sought…read more Don't be afraid to talk with her about any adjustments in style that may enhance an already good experience. I recommend her without hesitation. Steve Bruce

2.1 mi•Western Addition, Fillmore

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Tantric

3.3(4 reviews)

Free consultations

Available by appointment

The whole experience felt deeply grounding. The care I received was respectful, intuitive, and…read morereally present -- not rushed, just very real. The space had a calm, sacred feel that made it easy to drop into the moment. I did have to wait a little, and parking was a bit tricky, but once I was inside, it all felt worth it. Grateful for the space and how it was held.

Service was really good -- friendly and attentive staff who made me feel welcome. I had to wait a…read morebit, and parking wasn't the easiest, but once inside, everything went smoothly. The atmosphere was nice and relaxing, and overall, it was worth it. I'd come back!

2.4 mi•Japantown, Lower Pacific Heights

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Pearl Spa & Sauna

4.8(1.3k reviews)

I had one of the best experiences of my life at Pearl Spa this morning. I spent an hour and fifteen…read moreminutes relaxing in the saunas and baths before the "Pure Bliss" treatment with Katie. I could not have asked for a more enjoyable hour and a half treatment - I left feeling completely like new.

Hands down amazing experience. I've never been to a spa or done any of these treatments before but…read moreI got the Shiny Pearl and I definitely felt like one after. The staff was so kind and helped explain all the facilities and gave suggestions on which to use at what time. The treatment itself was heavenly. And all the facilities were so clean! They have a bunch of different hair/skin products to use after your treatment and they have tea, a coffee machine, water and snacks in case you're in need of some sustenance during your visit. They even have an ATM near the entrance if you forget cash for your tip, or you can Venmo/Zelle. I will 100% be coming back!

Waiting room

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Room to dry hair and get cleaned up.

La Nee Thai Massage

4.4(254 reviews)

0.5 mi•Mission

First time here. Booked the traditional Thai massage for an hour, $100. As soon as you walk in, you…read moresee their refreshments and hear their relaxing music. The front desk lady welcomed us in, signed a form which decides how gentle, medium or strong you want your message. We changed to their slippers, and walked in on one of the rooms divided by curtains. Then changed to their provided clothing. The massage was nice, they check in if you're doing ok and how do you like the pressure. Can always request and adjust throughout. They definitely hit the tensed spots.

Calm, relaxing vibes. Skilled massage therapists and friendly staff. Clean establishment…read more Arrived tense and stressed, left relaxed and refreshed.

Water and tea

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Siam Orchid Traditional Thai Massage

Had my first ever massage and it was with Vicky. Amazing service and would definitely come backread more

I went back to Siam Orchid for a 90-minute Swedish massage and saw Violet, who easily ranks as one…read moreof the best massage therapists I've found in the city. I came in completely locked up from recent travel, and within ten minutes she'd pinpointed every major knot, working through them with perfect pressure and a natural rhythm. Nothing felt rushed or routine. Ninety minutes flew by, and I walked out feeling like a jellyfish. My shoulders dropped two inches, and I was completely refreshed. The last time I felt that kind of total release was after a chiropractor visit years ago. I'll definitely be requesting Violet on my next visit. I highly recommend Violet!

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Thy Spa San Francisco

4.7(78 reviews)

2.6 mi•Mission Bay

•$$$

Certified professionals

Walk-ins welcome

Amazing service from Miss Gwen and Miss Violet. These ladies are hard working and provide…read moreexceptional service. I highly, highly recommend them. I brought a family member to Miss Gwen after receiving the best massage of my life from her. My family member struggles with frozen shoulder, but Gwen was able to give her more mobility after just one session. I cannot recommend her enough. Both women are 5 stars!!

Excellent treatments, relaxing ambiance, and clean facilities. I've been here at least three times,…read moreand I personally prefer the oil massage over the dry Thai massage. The 60 min oil massage starts with feet cleaning and can be tailored to specific areas of focus. The staff are professional and friendly. Will be going back!

Traditional Thai Massage at Thy Spa

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Bhuddha Raksa Traditional Thai Massage

4.9(210 reviews)

0.6 mi•Mission

Certified professionals

Walk-ins welcome

Waiting until I'd been a handful of times and tried different massage therapists was the right…read moredecision. I can say, unequivocally, that Buddha Raksa is my favorite massage location in SF. I've seen several people for massage and cupping or massage and hot stones, and they've all been excellent. The front desk staff has all been lovely as have the staff in the area with water and tea. I feel so fortunate to have found them that even started a membership with them today because I intend to go in monthly or even two to three times a month because they do such a fantastic job. My massages have all included a combination of massage and stretching. However, if you don't want them to do something, just say the ord and they'll change for you. My therapists have all been highly skilled, intuitive, and very open to minor feedback or guidance. Though, I haven't had to say much at all. Need to feel better? This is your place.

I've been coming to Buddha Raksa Traditional Thai Massage for many years, and this review is long…read moreoverdue. Highly recommended! Booking is easy, the staff is welcoming, and the service is consistently outstanding. The business is clean, calm, organized and always soothes the senses. The quality of massage is second to none. I am forever grateful to Anya. She has an incredible gift. Every time I leave a session with her, I leave 10x better. Her skill, intuition, and care are truly remarkable. Khop khun mak mak, khop khun jak jai krub.

American Massage Championships

World Massage Championships

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Neck work

Move Happy Bodywork & Massage

5.0(41 reviews)

1.1 mi•Mission

I booked a Couples Connection: Partner Massage for Relationship Harmony session with Alexis as a…read morebirthday gift for my husband. As active people we often have various aches and pains; it seemed like a double win to get massages and also learn how to better give them to each other. Another couple we are good friends with joined us. Alexis reached out ahead of the session to solicit our ideas for the time together and make sure we were fully prepared. When she arrived she immediately set a relaxed, joyful, loving mood. She taught us both a seated, neck/shoulder massage and a more immersive, laying down full back massage with oil. With our small group she provided regular 1:1 feedback, which was very helpful. She also kept it low stress and fun for all. Since the session we have continued to practice some of what we learned. The seated massage techniques are especially easy to incorporate into even a weeknight evening. It was freeing to learn a few easy moves that are consistently well-received. I would strongly recommend Alexis. She is a lovely, warm, talented instructor.

Alexis attended a retreat I hosted and brought her massage gifts. While I wasn't able to enjoy one…read moreof her massage sessions, the women who were able to, raved about her skills. She was very professional to collaborate with!

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

15 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Marina N.

106

2 years ago

I arrived at the salon looking forward to a relaxing gel mani-pedi experience. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. They only did the pedicure and completely overlooked the manicure. When I tried to get clarity on their services and prices, it seemed to confuse them, which was quite frustrating. Additionally, I expressed interest in the same paraffin wax treatment another customer was receiving, but again, I was met with vague responses and no mention of cost. To my dismay, the session ended with just a gel pedicure and paraffin wax, costing me a shocking $90 before even adding a tip--and without the manicure I initially wanted. Time constraints forced me to leave without it. I left feeling severely disappointed and unfairly overcharged. I'm all for paying for quality and extra touches, but the charge for what I received is exorbitant. It's disheartening to think I might have paid premium prices for what felt like subpar service. Won't be visiting this salon in my neighborhood again. read more

Carson J.

9 years ago

This is my absolute favorite place to get a mani +pedi. Ann, the owner, is incredible will make sure you leave there feeling brand new & so fine! On my last visit I asked for a specific design on my nails and showed her a picture and she did it perfectly! I also love that she stocks really high end polish from Chanel & Butter because they are healthier for you and their colors are so unique and beautiful. She keeps her salon super clean and organized, has great magazines like The New Yorker and Kinfolk, and will even bring you a cup of tea and fresh fruit when you sit down. She used to have her salon up the street at Voila, but she just moved and opened her new salon here. Definitely try this new place -- it is also super easy to make & change appointments online. read more

Gina B.

9 years ago

This is definitely the best nail salon in Noe Valley! The atmosphere is very relaxing - it is such a better experience than going to the typical nail spas you find scattered around the city. Ann and her staff are very meticulous - they take their time and make sure you leave with perfect nails. She also adds many nice touches to the experience that you won't find elsewhere: a hot neck wrap, fruit & chocolate served to you when you arrive, a neck massage when getting a manicure, and aromatherapy oil in the water for your pedicure. I also love that she has an online booking system on The Upper Hand website. I can't say enough good things about this place - go check it out! read more

Elaina G.

280

109

5 years ago

I've been here a handful of times (at least 5) and I'm really disappointed. The first time I really enjoyed my manicure/pedicure and that's why I've been back looking for a that same experience but the last few times I've felt very rushed even though I've always had an appointment and my nail technician always looks super stressed as customers drop by. More importantly though, my gel manicures the last two times have both chipped within 5 days. What's the point of paying so much extra for gel if they chip in less than a week? There are other salons nearby with better prices I will try read more

Dawn S.

9 years ago

Ann is the best in the city! She is the most lovely person, super talented, and highly knowledgeable regarding skin and nail care. The service is impeccable. Her space is very clean, comfortable, and my manicures tend to last so much longer than other salons. She also stocks luxe brands like Chanel, Butter London, and Deborah Lippmann. I moved from NYC and was a bit spoiled with many posh mani/pedi spots, and I'm so, so glad I found Ann! read more

Laura M.

2 years ago

The MUST place to visit if you are in need of some "you" time! The staff is very knowledgeable, friendly, experienced, and talented. The business is exceptionally clean and sanitary. The basic pedicure comes with a hot towel wrap from the knee down. Mix it with the soothing instrumental (low playing) music, and the relaxing massage chair and heaven on Earth awaits you! You will NOT be disappointed! read more

Cindy E.

2 years ago

I was a walk-in from out-of-state way overdue for some maintenance-and scared to go to someplace I Googled! Everything was great-no wait, pleasant conversation, very knowledgeable. I am so pleased-he was fabulous. More read more

Jonah C.

4 years ago

oh my god this if u want gel extensions, this place is for u. it took almost no time, and i had the nicest people applying my gel extensions. don't hesitate, just go. read more

Brittany M.

2 years ago

The staff at Summer Nails never disappoints. Great service, great pricing and very friendly and inviting. Check them out! Services Manicure read more

Laura L.

9 years ago

Wonderful service and attention to detail. If you have a little extra time, totally worth the visit.

Arlane D.

6 years ago

Wonderful service and attention to detail. If you have a little extra time, totally worth the visit.

Amy K.

129

5 years ago

Love my new nails!! They were so patient with me even though I asked for multiple designs

Hope M.

3 years ago

Fast, high-quality and very professional, I recommend this cool service to everyone

Dora C.

Elite 14

261

137

7 years ago

There's a reason why I come here all the time.

Haley W.

390

8 years ago

I've had mixed experiences here

The Upper Hand - othersalons - Updated September 2026

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(144 reviews)

At first, I was a little upset at the fact that there were some air bubbles / bumps in my gel mani,…read morehowever, because I chose a light color, it wasn't super visible and I didn't want to spend the time to re-do them. They ended up lasting about 4 weeks, which is the longest of any gel mani that I've gotten in the city. They do take credit cards, but the majority of the clientele pays in cash. (Gel mani ~$40+ including tip)

The good: 3 blocks down from my place, called for an appt and they told me to come right away…read more The bad: I asked for a simple rainbow design on my ring fingers in honor of pride and they said no at first! "We only do simple nails". I should've believed them because my rainbow lines came out crooked. The whole thing felt rushed and I didn't even get a proper mani. My cuticles still needed help, I didn't get a massage, and I went home and saw some of the gel polish at the ends was already lifting! All for $100 I wanted to like this place so bad since it was so close to me but no dice!

Nail Chic Only

4.1

(14 reviews)

I adore this place. Super friendly. Reasonable price for central Noe. Fun to work with and happy to…read moretry whatever new color trend I bring in! Relaxing atmosphere and just a cute place to hang out.

You can see in the picture how hurt my cuticles were. It was not only about the nails the nail…read morepreparation itself was horrible i was left with many cuts and on top of that the acrylic she left around my actual fingers made my skin rip off. My nails bed were extremely swollen and painful. I can understand you guys "only have one nail polish" but why offer acrylics if you guys don't have the proper supplies in the first place?

Silky Touch Nail Salon

4.0

(132 reviews)

Mani and pedi is $50. Not bad for San Francisco. My daughter and I did a walk in on a Thursday…read moremorning. No wait since most people are at work. My nail tech did a great job. I will definitely go back!!

Easy walk in on a Monday for me, $32 for regular pedi and I was very happy with it. They accept…read morecard or Venmo. Cash is preferable for trips (I never carry any sadly)

Joy Joy Nail & Spa

3.5

(46 reviews)

I received a great mani/pedi in under an hour and a half. She did such a great job with the shape…read moreof these nails and the gel isn't thickly applied. I'm obsessed, they look so good!

I got dazzle dry - they charged me $85 and did not even cut my cuticles well. No massage nothing. I…read moream never coming back.

Aroma Nail Salon

4.5

(37 reviews)

got so many compliments on my dip nails. definitely highly recommend Julie. Also, when i had an…read moreissue with one of my nailpolish, they were too kind to reinvite and redo that nail. Super clean and great service.

A beautiful job! I like how they have the appointments online so it's very organized, I like how…read moreclean it is, I like the music that they play and how detailed they did my pedicure. Wonderful salon here in Noe Valley- Thank you.!

Noe Valley Nails

3.1

(77 reviews)

•$

Did a gel nail removal here. Great friendly service! Really nice nail technicians and did the job…read morewell for a good price!

I have been going to get my nails done for about 25 + years. Helen has moved her shop 2X on Church…read moreSt., and now is on the corner of 30th St. and Dolores. Mimi, Mui, and all the employees here are the very best and super friendly. Like very good friends! Reasonable prices and great service. I will only come here. Helen does have another store on Cortland Ave, which is little smaller & always busy.

Simply Unique Nail

3.3

(39 reviews)

The staff were mostly friendly! The person who did my set could improve. The quality of work for…read morethe price does not equate. Paid $90 including tip. I would've liked if she prepped my cuticle before hand and if she cleaned up the leftover polish after. I know it'll wash away but for the price, almost $100, I think it's a reasonable ask. Also a thank you or goodbye would've been nice. She got up and left and another person stepped in to lotion and apply cuticle oil. The right index nail is visibly crooked to the right. The anatomy of my nail is funny so I get it but I've had other nail techs in the past apply correctly to make up for it. I was the only one there so the vibes were chill, the space clean, and the music soothing. Overall due to the quality and overall presentation of the final result, I decided not to revisit. Thank you tho. Update: I've spent the last two days reshaping and fixing my nails. I feel like I threw my Money away.

I booked a gel manicure here via ClassPass and absolutely loved it! The nail tech was very gentle…read moreand detail-oriented - my nails came out perfect!

Gelous Nails

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(69 reviews)

It's a great price. $30 for a pedicure. As a 65 yr old man with a broken arm, I needed a solid…read morepedi, for a reasonable price. I prefer a man do it, but that's a salon in outer Mission. This salon brings a pan to soak your feet in, & that's a surprise, but she's doing a fine job on my feet & has a nice personality. So, I'll probably come back here. I'm a man that thinks if men would try one pedicure, more would get them regularly.

Cheaper than others in area $15 for basic manicure and had salt scrub and brief massage so good…read morevalue but nails chipped immediately. Foot soak was just plastic bag over tub. Deluxe mani/ pedi might be nicer. Shirley who did the pedi ($25) was much more detail oriented than the person who did mani. Would return just for clear polish and cuticle trim as good value.

Trio Nails

3.9

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This is a cute, no frills nail salon. The decor is eclectic and a tad unusual, but the service was…read morelovely and kind. Jean did a great job doing my standard manicure ($20). She carefully trimmed my nails, cut my cuticles, and also gave me a lovely hand and wrist massage with a hot towel afterward. I love the red color and my nails really turned out beautifully. It's worth a visit if you are in the Japantown area!

The owner lady is always friendly and kind. I took my elderly friend who had bad toenail and…read morecouldn't help herself for a long time. But she carefully took care of them! We're very happy and grateful! Well, I'm going to come back tomorrow for myself again

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