Charming Nails

Only putting one star because I have to. Went last Tuesday to get my nails done for graduation. Asked them to remove my old ones and put a new set. Got a new set of nail extensions + dip w/ UV. They looked like this after a week. Called them up yesterday and asked to get them fixed. Both ladies on the phone said it could be done. I specifically told them it had been one week. The second lady the boss I’m assuming said she’d fix it. Get there today Thursday, the lady who did them is there and starts arguing saying there’s no guarantee after 10 days it’s been 8 days essentially as I went first thing this morning, the nails are supposed to look like that because “you need to get them refilled every two weeks”, and said she’d fix it but she’d charge me. She kept saying the lady on the phone “misunderstood” me. I left because I was furious and it was clear they never had any intention of fixing them or refunding me. Super unprofessional, horrible quality, and avoid at all costs. How this place has 4 stars is a world wonder.

Quality service. Very clean , intimate spot. Decent polish inventory. All of the ladies here are very pleasant. Join their loyalty program!

Fantastic walk-in pedicure, when the nail polish I chose ended up looking a lot lighter than the bottle she took it off and had me select another color and start over again, all free of charge. Great vibe, lots of regulars so the atmosphere was fun and light and very comfortable! Would definitely recommend and go again!

The price list shown here isn’t quite accurate. Manicure for $12, pedicure for $25. Seemed fair for upper east side. What was *not* fair was upselling by not revealing the costs up front. I spoke with the technician about pedicure options and the spa/advanced pedicures were $35-$50+. It seemed like a big jump for something like callus removal so I opted against it. At the end of the polishing, the technician asked if I wanted quick dry top coat. I consented and we moved on to the manicure. And that’s when I saw the supplementary price list. Features that were standard at other salons were now charged add-ons. I knew I had consented to an upcharge on my feet that I did not need, nor did I know I was paying extra for. Frustrating. She did a great job on the nails, but what a burned taste in my mouth over this small deception to squeeze an extra dollar. It’s not the dollar! It’s the principle. She asked if I wanted quick dry on my hands and I said no, because I saw it was extra and we had not talked about this for the pedicure so I would not pay twice for this. She had no problem with this ethics question. In an amazing ironic twist, next to the drying machines is a bottle of “quick dry” drops. I guess when applied at the table it’s extra, at the driers it’s not. Just overall funny business and I don’t feel like having to ask “is that extra?” when asked any questions about my experience. So, great skill - but be vigilant about secret upsells.

Charming Nails is my favorite nail salon in NYC. Lucky for me, it couldn't be more convenient. The space is small but not cramped, and the staff keeps it clean and presentable. Patrons are warmly received and bid adieu; everyone is very welcoming and friendly here. There are no TVs and classical music is played in the background -- a welcome departure from some other nail salons. As for the services themselves, manicures and pedicures are the perfect combination of inexpensive and top quality. Polish lasts for several days and details are heeded. Ask for Jin, she gives the best extended foot massages.

charming=sitting on your neighbors lap. Besides that terrible pedicure. Barely did my heels and the "massage"'was 2 seconds long. Even an up charge for quick dry drops. Save your money and get twice the service for half the money.

Fantastic treatment. Nice to see a Korean run salon have Nepali employees.. and all getting along sweetly. Great customer service.

Great nail place on UES. Down a small set of stairs across the street from Whole Foods on the South Side of 87th. Offer all usual services: mani, pedi, waxing, gel, etc. It is on the smaller side so on weekends or after work would recommend calling for an appt. Otherwise, waits are not usually too long so no problem to just pop in if you have 10 mins or so. Staff is friendly and does great jobs. If you live in the area; ask for a points card so you can earn a free service in the future.

Use some sketchy gel brand that chips off within a week