Nams — Local services in New York

There are some lovely characteristics of this nail salon.

Positives: Hands down, this is the most beautiful nail salon I've ever seen- bright, colorful and completely unique.

My mani-pedi came with a complimentary tea, as well as candy and fruit. Clearly, the owners thought of ways to differentiate themselves from the crowded nail market of Manhattan.

I needed a mani/pedi at the same time (I only had an hour.) They quickly responded to my request and completed the work in the allotted time, as well as helpfully retrieving my wallet from my bag so that I could pay without messing up my nails, helping with my shoes, etc.

The tools for manicure were brand-new (out of the sterilization packet).

However, the negatives might be more numerous.

The water for my pedicure was COLD. When I informed my pedicurist, she turned on the hot water, but the water only remained lukewarm. She didn't ask me if the water was ok, if I liked the temperature. She just kept going (perhaps because of the short amount of time).

This same pedicurist cut me-deep enough to draw blood (please see photo).When I said 'ow', she didn't apologize. Rather, she said "Oh, you're still a baby. So sensitive." She then justified the cut by saying that my nail was growing inward, but I saw no nail--just a scalped cuticle. Again, I chalked it up to going quickly. Still, I think an apology and not condescension was the appropriate response.

The complimentary candy/snacks? After my nails were dry, I hoped to eat them later. I had to stop a woman who works for the salon from returning it to the snack pile. She might have assumed I did not want them, but she did not ask.

After I paid and sat at the dryer, I mentioned that I needed to set a 10 minute timer to allow my nails to dry. After doing that using Siri, another employee of the salon came over with a timer and started administering a massage. My home salon in Riverdale offers a free massage while you dry, so I thought nothing of it. However, at the end of the 10 minutes, I was informed that the massage was not complimentary. When I stated I asked for a 10 minute timer (to my phone, no less) and not a massage, it was awkward for all involved. Still, I wanted to pay the woman for the time and did so. The massage was $12, so I left a 20% percent tip, or $2.50. I was told that I needed to tip $3.00;i.e. that a 20% tip was not enough. I pulled out my calculator and did the math in front the woman holding my card. I was then charged $16- this was to include the sales tax. However, upon looking at the receipt, the sales tax was nowhere to be found.

Then I was told that next time I come to the salon, I needed to talk more. After having my feet in lukewarm water, being cut, and being told that a 20% tip was not sufficient. It seems like my experience was an outlier to the mostly positive reviews, but I will never...

This comfy modest haven just a beat west of the heart of midtown is home to the sweetest group of women. As soon as you walk in the door, you will be greeted, and they will ask what you're looking to do. Do not worry; even if you don't know, they will guide you through it. A small footprint that they maximize the use of every inch boasting sometimes up to 20-25 people in a space that will not seem possible at first glance. The only thing small about Nam Nails is the space. Still, it creates a small sense of community right outside of the hustle and bustle of Midtown Manhattan that is both protected and stimulated by the magic of NYC through these wonderful ladies. They have modest prices for a midtown Nail spa, asking prices that are competitive considering the area they are in and the quality of work they give. I have gone to Nam Nails for a couple of years now and was warmed to see them open back up during the Pandemic. They still have you sanitize your hand at the door; Plexiglas is used to separate the clients and the techs. At night they have a hospital-grade infrared light to sanitize the space. The ambiance of the area with soothing music or chants surrounded by Nepalese elements really set the scene for relaxing and releasing the built tension of city life. I used to come for a buff manicure or, as they call it, "Shiny Buff," but I eventually dipped a toe into the world of Gel Manicure and never looked back. Each time I come with a new idea or design, and they work with me every time. I consistently complimented on their work. While there, they offer seltzer water, fruit, and wine from time to time, and you can look forward to leaving not only with a bomb mani-pedi but with a great renewed sense of peace and love from the family over at Nam Nails. I will never not sing their praises. They are an oasis for me once or twice or month, and I value and honor them for that every time. Go to Nam Nails, get your nails done and give your soul a moment to...

I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Nam's Nail Salon recently, and I cannot express how wonderful my experience was. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and friendly welcome that instantly put me at ease. It's evident that the team at Nam's takes great pride in creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

The salon itself is impeccably clean and well-maintained, which is something I always appreciate when getting any kind of beauty treatment. It immediately made me feel comfortable and confident in their professionalism.

Now, onto the real highlight of my visit - the nail services. I opted for a manicure and pedicure, and Nam's exceeded all my expectations. The nail technicians were not only highly skilled but also incredibly attentive to my preferences. They took the time to listen to what I wanted and offered helpful suggestions, resulting in nails that looked and felt amazing.

What truly sets Nam's Nail Salon apart, though, is the personal touch and genuine care they provide. It's clear that they value their customers beyond just another appointment. Throughout my time there, I felt like more than just a client; I felt like a valued guest. The conversations with the staff were warm and engaging, making me feel like I was catching up with old friends.

The attention to detail during my services, the impeccable cleanliness, the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and the genuine care from the entire team truly make Nam's Nail Salon a hidden gem. I left feeling not only beautiful but also uplifted and genuinely cared for.

If you're looking for a nail salon that goes above and beyond in every aspect, I wholeheartedly recommend Nam's Nail Salon. The experience is not just about getting beautiful nails; it's about being treated like family. I cannot wait for my next visit, and I'm confident that you'll feel the same way after experiencing their exceptional service. Thank you, Nam's Nail Salon, for making my...