Everyone knows how hush hush it can be to find the best nail salon in NYC…but we’re here to let the secret out! Offering a range of services from classic manicures and pedicures to intricate nail art, we’re spilling the tea on the best nail techs and shops in the city. Next time you need your next set of gels or French tips, here’s where to book an appointment!
1. Elegant Nails, West Village
This cute little viral nail salon fits perfectly in the heart of West Village, and offers a range of manicure, pedicure, and even massage services! Typical appointments are pretty efficient, ranging in the 30-45 minute span, and you should ask for the owner Michelle if you go!
Where: 373 6th Ave
2. QQ Nails & Spa, Multiple Locations
Around since 2006, QQ Nails & Spa has multiple NYC locations, where clients can purchase manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and eyelash extensions. Manicures start at $19 and increase from there, but their speciality is press-on nails. They sell a variety of hand-painted designs from nail artists, as well exclusive collaboration sets with brands.
Where: Find your location here
3. Chillhouse, SoHo
The award for the ~chillest nail salon has to go to Chillhouse in SoHo. The laid back lounge is perfect for your self-care getaway, where owner Cyndi Ramirez has curated the coolest vibe of facials, nail services, massages, saunas, and acupunctures. There’s a reason this chill oasis has been recognized by the likes of Vogue, Elle, and more! Prices range from $17-95 for manicure/pedicures. Learn more about Chillhouse here.
Where: 75 Varick St
4. Jinsoon Hand and Foot Spa
Founder Jin Soon Choi is the mastermind behind this Tribeca nail salon, which feels like an art gallery…thanks to the hardwood paneled walls, sleek white lights, and minimalistic look. Around since 2016, their menu features a range of services including polish, shellac, nail art, and accent nail art. Starting prices begin at $28 and trend upward to $70 for pedicures. Learn more about Jinsoon Hand and Foot Spa here.
Where: 37 Walker St
5. Bisou NY, SoHo
This nail atelier specializes in gel nails and nail art in particular, but you can get just about anything done here! There’s only 4 seats nestled into this salon, which means the attention to detail is off the charts. Prices range from $65 for a single color to $230 for extensions, and appointments can last upwards of 2.5 hours for custom designs. Check out their menu here.
6. The Laq Lab, Park Slope
The Laq Lab is a Black women-owned nail salon in Brooklyn that is the ultimate self-care spot. The speciality here lies in Apres Gel X and nail art, where their nail techs can add airbrush designs, charms, pearls, stickers, rhinestones, and more. Ask for one of their two owners, Lawren or Tasama. Learn more about The Laq Lab and their menu here.
7. GLOSSLAB, Multiple Locations
Known uniquely for their waterless services, this nail salon is one of the most hygienic and sustainable ones in all of New York City. Of course the tech’s nail art is state-of-the-art, and the interiors are welcoming to clients. We also love this place because they offer membership packages with unlimited manis, pedis, polishes, removals, touch-ups, and more!
8. Vanity Projects, Lower East Side
The reason we love Vanity Projects is because this luxury nail salon feels like you’re stepping into someone’s curated apartment for an appointment. They specialize in “innovative manicures from the most sought-after nail artists” and will instantly earn you compliments from friends. Prices start at $65 for one color gel and range upward to $265 for custom designs. Learn more about Vanity Projects and see their menu here.
9. HORTŪS New York, Lower East Side
HORTŪS New York is more than just a nail salon…it’s a holistic beauty studio. Their abundance of plants and washed brick walls is instantly comforting, and their focus on good for you products will leave you feeling…good! Stop in for an appointment and you’ll be pleased to check out their chemical-free polishes. Learn more about HORTŪS New York here.
Where: 210 Forsyth St
10. Paintbucket, Williamsburg
Not only is the interior of this Williamsburg-based salon quite cute, but the services are equally as incredible! Book an appointment with one of their nail techs and enjoy a free glass of prosecco while you pick out one of the unique polish brands you probably won’t find anywhere else. Their prices are pretty affordable too, starting at only $25 for “The Quickie” (a shape, paint, and bake). Learn more about Paintbucket and their menu here.