Sunset Foot Spa — Local services in Los Angeles

. I have been coming here for years now and have returned now they can re-open.

Before I dive in, I didn't see Mike the manager guy at the Sunset spot when I went and I've gone 4 times in two weeks. Mike, if you see this we miss you!! I'm hoping he does come back or maybe I came in 4 times he just wasn't there but if you've gone to Sunset Foot Spa before you know Mike the manager and how great he is.

Covid-safety wise, I felt very comfortable. The check in has plexiglass and sanitizer up front. Customers MUST wear a mask during the massage and the masseur also wears a massage. Yes, you are going to be in close distance (obviously, you are getting a massage) with the employee during the massage but they space people out and are taking limited people at a time. They also lay a protective layer on top of the massage chairs. And after they spray the chairs down with sanitizer (since they are cloth chairs you can't exactly just use a Lysol wipe but you can hear the squeak in the bottle after a customer leaves as they spray it down). Not sure if this is for Covid or just new procedures but now for the foot massage portion their wear very thin gloves. Which is totally fine with me but was "new" for me as they used to just use their hands without gloves; although when I think about it does just make sense for general health given people's feet can be pretty gross and if I was saying getting a pedi I know the nail folks always use gloves. So that was fine with me, just a change from what I was used to.

The place is definitely a little dated but when the massages are so cheap I don't particularly care. But a lot of their benches you sit on at the start are a little wobbly and squeaky. The chairs and pillows and everything could probably use a good upholstery treatment. All of them are covered in towels anyways though. But yes, they are a little aged but that doesn't impact the massage. I also totally disagree with someone who said the place is "dirty" because I've been coming for years including recently and their floors are always spotless and their linens are always clean. So I am not sure what in the world that reviewer experienced but I totally disagree. No frills, but clean.

I went last week, two days in a row. And two times the week before. The first day I was the only customer for over half of my massage. The second day, there were 2 other people who were getting massages and we were all spaced out really well (they do that even pre-covid though, they always work to space people out). On that day I heard the phone ringing for appointments and also they had to turn away a few walk ins. Their site and Yelp do say appointments required though and I called ahead both times. The 2nd day I had an appt within 2 hours of my call so that is great. There used to be times I used to just walk in but knowing they have limited capacity I highly suggest making a call ahead.

The quality of the massages are as good as ever. And as a reminder, if you want harder or less pressure TELL them! You are there to enjoy and they will adjust pressure. They know I like deep pressure and typically they will do medium pressure to start if you don't say anything, but if it isn't right just tell the person massaging you. I know how hard this business has worked as I've been coming for years but more importantly how hard their masseurs are. I mean, they put in so much energy for this type of massage.

Lastly, a TIP here on TIPPING. The prices have changed since I last came here. The 90 min combo is $65 (up from $58) and I am 200% fine with this as not only are business struggling, inflation, but also now the need for Covid measures. And at $65 this is still a very inexpensive massage but you get an AMAZING massage. So while folks may think a 20% tip is generous (it is, usually), that's only $13 for a 90 minute massage, please tip for the device. I usually do $25-$30 tip for a 90 min but do what is comfortable for you keeping...

The one star isn’t about the massage. My therapist was absolutely wonderful. I’ve been coming here for years without incident. Well that is until the last two times I’ve been in. Before the pandemic there used to be a different guy that worked the front desk, and the end transaction always went very smoothly and very friendly. Unfortunately the original front desk guy no longer seems to be there. When I go in I always pay in cash as I like to give my therapist a cash tip directly to them. The last two times I’ve been in the newer front desk guy, an older gentleman seems to get very confused counting cash back as they don’t use a register. And he has short changed me the last two visits ..the first time I noticed immediately and very kindly pointed out the mistake (which can happen to anyone) he got very frustrated and a little abrasive with me. I let it go because I loved this place. Today I paid in cash as usual. The amount owed was 55 dollars..I handed him two 50 dollar bills. Today my massage was so good I was very out of it and didn’t notice the mistake in the moment. He handed me my change and said 25 dollars I handed my therapist 20 .. and was left with 5… the second I walked out the door I immediately realized that I was owed 20 more dollars.. so walked right back in and very friendly told him what had happened..he immediately went into a very rage filled rant about how I was on camera and accused me of lying and trying to get more money out of him. And told me he gave me 45 which he did not. I said well if I’m on camera I have nothing to be lying about. He continued screaming at me that he had given me 45 back. I showed him my pockets inside of my wallet that I had no cash I was hiding. He begrudgingly gave me the 20 dollars that was mine. All while accusing me of lying. So I just handed the 20 dollars back because it’s not worth it. So beware if you are paying cash. I don’t think he’s doing it on purpose..I just think he’s not good at counting money back. However to be treated like a criminal.. to be screamed at and told I was on camera was way beyond not ok. I feel so very sad and it was disheartening to be spoken to like that. Apologies to the people in there getting their massages trying to relax that had to overhear...

This place is the real deal. You will love it!

It has converted me from my Burke Williams addiction. Let me tell you why...

Every time I've had a massage here, I've though, "This is the best massage I've ever had!" Today Joe and Frank massaged my boyfriend and me, but every masseuse is excellent, and I'm pleased with whomever is available.

The really cool thing about getting a massage here, is that you do not leave with that light coating of oil, as with a typical Burke massage. They massage through your clothes. So, this is actually a plus, because I can fit in a quick, invigorating massage at lunch and return to the office without feeling greasy, like my skin is suffocating.

And because the price is right, I can get many more massages than ever! Now, without breaking my budget, I get a massage four times, and tip, instead of just once. I usually go after work, and while I usually call ahead, walk-ins don't wait long.

Also, in addition to the expected big comfy plush foot spa chairs, they have chiropractic massage chairs. A huge plus, especially if you have a weak neck. Never thought about that, but my face doesn't feel as smooshed when I am leaning into those instead of flat on my face. Either way though, it's good.

Sorry for such a long review. I've meant to write one for years now, but I'm always so blissed on the way out I've never managed to. Thanks...