Taiji Jubest Spa — Local services in New York

My friend got a decent groupon deal for us both to get full body massage, which I can only describe overall as mediocre and underwhelming at best... but the biggest issue I had was actually with the customer service. I would have to describe it as severely lacking from the second we walked in and we both walked out feeling so confused, partially the reason why we were charged $12 before the massage (never said the word tax charges, nor was any explanation offered in response to my second of reluctance to hand over my card- but I decided it wasn't really worth it to cause a problem over the small amount) - and then charged again! $20 each for A TIP that was requested by the same man who I think was the manager. I was left puzzled yet again over what I was expected to tip them after feeling dissatisfied with the service, but found myself begrudgingly pulling out my wallet as he (and the therapist who took care of me) proceeded to glare daggers at us.

It was uncomfortable trying to pick from their gratuity suggestions while being stared at when the lowest amount was listed as "bad service" and it felt like I was guilt tripped to not be mean to the lady who massaged me. So I picked the middle tier as if there was any reason to compromise with them when they didn't even take card for tip.

As soon as we coughed up the extra money they were all smiles and polite thank yous, and we realized soon after just how much we doubted ourselves capable of fair judgement of the service we were given just because we had only tried a body massage service once before.

Only once I actually read reviews on google have I come to realize that we aren't the only ones who felt dissatisfied with the service, and for all of the same reasons! Maybe there were some rave reviews on groupon, but I wish I had checked here first before wasting time and money. Life lessons learned: I won't go near this place again, and I definitely won't let anyone put pressure on me to give...

I’m surprised I didn’t review this place years ago.. I’ve been coming here for about 7 years. In that time, the prices and the place haven’t changed much. It’s clean, simple, no frills and consistently well maintained. The “rooms” are separated by solid wall dividers with open tops and a curtain for the door. It’s dimly lit and generally quiet unless other guests are talking or the staff are figuring something out. I’m pretty loyal when I find a body worker I like, and have been grateful to find more than one person over the years who is good. A couple people I currently like are Daniel and Mae. Please note that the Groupon deal they often have is for the “Swedish” style, I prefer the “Thai style”, which involves some stretching, sometimes walking on your back (only a few of the workers can do this style). Some of the workers may not speak English well, but generally understand softer/harder, if you need to specify something complex and don’t know if your bodyworker will understand, communicate that at the front desk to avoid issues. You pay before the massage starts, and tip after. The worker will lead you upstairs and ask you to take everything off except underwear, lay face down and cover yourself with the towel. Afterwards, they will wait at the bottom of the stairs and offer you water. Please tip well, there’s a sign next to the front desk that states recommendations, I tip over that when I can. I always call ahead to schedule and make sure I can get the style I want from the person I prefer. But if you walk in last minute there may be a wait time. Be polite and considerate, the people here are working hard; if you want a fancy place with all the extras, go pay $200+ elsewhere...

I’ve been coming to this place for years, and it’s always a great experience. The atmosphere is clean, simple, and peaceful—no frills, just solid, high-quality massages. The staff here are professional and hardworking, and they really know how to target tension and knots without making it too painful. If you prefer a certain style, like Thai or Swedish, I’d recommend calling ahead to make sure you get the right person for your needs.

I’ve had massages from several different therapists over time, and they’ve all been fantastic. May was especially great—she adjusted pressure perfectly and worked through my neck and shoulder tension without overdoing it. Lisa is another favorite; she may be petite, but she’s incredibly strong and gives an amazing deep-tissue massage. If you’re into cupping, Mr. Lee does a great job as well.

A few things to keep in mind: you pay before the massage and tip after (definitely tip well, they work hard!). The rooms have solid walls but open tops, so while it’s usually quiet, you might hear some conversation now and then. They also offer Groupon deals, but make sure to check which style it covers.

Overall, this place is consistently good, and the prices have stayed reasonable over the years. If you want a fancy spa experience with all the extras, you’ll have to pay double somewhere else. But if you’re looking for an effective, high-quality massage at a fair price, this is the spot....