Sometimes getting a manicure or a pedicure (or both) can be more of a chore than a relaxing experience. I know, the massage chairs and foot massages are more often than not, a standard part of the experience. But the salons are usually small, sterile, and impersonal, albiet clean (it better be!).
So if you want to get an affordable spa-like, girly-fun experience that you’ll truly enjoy the next time you get a mani/pedi, check this out.
Polished Lounge is a wonderful little place on Third St. in San Francisco’s SOMA area. Part stylish boutique where you can find fabulous purses, spa items, accessories, and other knick-knacks; the other part a Shabby Chic decorated living room full of spa fizzies and other well-scented products for you to choose from for your mani/pedi services. Fun already!
It’s their philosophy to offer a comfortable, fun, stylish environment where you can truly pamper yourself. Their plush oversized chairs make that easy. You don’t just sit in these chairs, you sink into them, which makes the relaxing part easier. They bring the services to you with a tub of perfectly warm water scented with flower petals and scent them to your liking. And they massage and scrub till your fingers and toes are sparkling and pretty. They offer beverages of your choice and a full selection of great magazines (more than just your standard Marie Claire and Allure). The service is great too.
DailyCandy.com, Citysearch.com, and Allure magazine have all recently given the place its due attention as one of the best places to get a manicure or pedicure, and I have to agree. This is a truly relaxing and fun experience! And the best part is that they are committed to staying affordable. A full service manicure is just $15 and pedicure is $25. That’s no more than your typical sterile mani/pedi salon with much more of the bells and whistles to keep you happy. Who wouldn’t like that?
Trust me, if you don’t have the time or the budget for a full service spa appointment, this should do the trick. It’s relaxing, it’s fun, and remember to bring a girlfriend or a good book. Your soul will thank you :).
Virgo in Wonderland 
I’m heading to SF via train on Wed to have a hooky day for my b-day. Wanted to find some good places to eat and do some girly pampering in the SOMA area ’cause one of my close friends works in the area. I’m going to MoMo’s (found via OpenTable). Then did a quick yelp search for something “day spaish” …discovered “Polished Lounge”. Thought to myself, this sounds VERY familiar…let me check out VirgoBlue’s blog. Yup and there I found it! Will report back w/my experience 🙂