Graceful Spa

the therapist always know what to do, I go to at least two times a month and I am always happy with what I get. And you can't beat the price.... :)

Pros: No hassle

Posted 11/16/09

I could hear everything going on in the next booth which is very distracting when you are trying to relaz. Walls are not that cheap to install and they should invest. I went for spa week and am glad I did not pay full price.

Pros: The women were good at massaging

Cons: Too loud, curtains as walls, not a nice space, felt cheap

Posted 10/21/09

I go to this place every two weeks and I get to different therapist every time I go. I can't get enough of the massage, they really are amazing.

Pros: You get what you pay for.

Cons: none

Posted 07/02/09

I went here during Spa Week and got a Body Scrub and a Hot Stone Massage. The "rooms" are seperated by curtains, so you could hear everyone around you. my "room" had the table/bed you lay on and a stool. There was no sink or any products on sight. The woman came in with a bowl full of the sugar scrub. She put it on my body and told me to rinse it off in the shower. There was no technique with the application. And for all I know the scrub could have been from Duane Reade. It didn't feel anymore rough or to have exfoliated more than if I had done it at home myself. Then I had the Hot Stone Massage. The woman basically rubbed stones on my back for an hour. And when I saw rub I mean just running the stone along my back. She did not massage anything. Again there was no technique, no deep tissue work. This was a complete waste of my time and money. I am just glad that I went during Spa Week when it was really cheap. Also, I didn't see a beautician certificate or anything like that. They probably just taught that woman how to do everything. Which is why her services were not at the professional level. My boyfriend could have given me a better massage and body scrub. I'm always trying to find good deals in NYC. I know some times you have to give up some of the nice things (like decor) if you want to save money. But that doesn't mean I should get someone who has no idea what they are doing. If you do decide to go do not go after work. If you do you will be able to hear the loud music from the bar below.

Pros: Location

Cons: Cheap products, noise, quality of services

Posted 05/12/09

I booked a Thai massage which was quite disappointing because it was performed in the same cramped space which they do regular massages. Thai massage is supposed to be like lazy man's yoga so while the therapist was really quite good when she did traditional moves, trying to do the Thai massage on that narrow massage table was not a great idea. It felt awkward and I am pretty sure it was not authentic. The room was clean but basic. I'd say a step above the really cheap Chinatown places. I am giving it 4 stars though because if you stick with the regular massage, you should get a good thorough treatment.

Pros: Fairly priced

Cons: No privacy, small space, thai massage

Posted 04/16/09

I read all the positive and negative reviews on City Search prior to making my decision to try Graceful. At $120 for 2 hours I had to take my chances. What a great decision! Here's why: For 14 years I've had massages at well known, mid & high priced spas around Manhattan that dazzled me with decor, amenities, and aromatherapy, but were so-so in the massage application. Here, I was dazzled with the massage, which superceded everything else! I plan regular visits here! For anyone reading my review consider this and move FORWARD: Call for an appointment & be specific about your need so there's no confusion, i.e., "$120 for 2 hrs, strong hands-I need deep tissue work, etc..." (it doesn't alter the price). Don't be discouraged by the grafitti on the front door, or unkempt staircase leading to this 2nd floor spa - Don't get me wrong, you will pause, as I did, LOL, but don't let it stop you. Graceful is all about the actual massage, not the decor. Also, smile and be friendly with the young receptionists. That's it. My masseuse was Amy who is tiny in size but has hands of steel! My shoulder muscles were so hard they felt like bone, but she kneaded them steadily to softness, (which probably took all of the first hour)! NEVER has this been done so well! Oh, there are no walls, but curtains between rooms, and there's only 1 bathroom. All that said, don't sweat the small stuff. Keep in mind, three days later, I'm still mush!

Pros: Massage technique, pricing, ambiance, staff.

Cons: Entryway is intimidating, bathroom lighting is too dim.

Posted 03/01/09

I went to graceful yesterday for the second time and it keeps getting better. The first time I went, I had the body scrub and body massage. It was amazing and I felt terrific afterward. Yesterday, I had a facial and a body massage. It was much needed and I felt as if I were floating on air. I kept glowing too and my face still feels amazingly soft. I had Jenny yesterday. She was terrific with the body massage! I highly recommend this place. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere isn't amazing but their lower-than-average prices make up for that. The service is great, amazing. I plan to go back very soon!

Pros: Great service, low prices, leaves you feeling goooood.

Cons: None that matter to me

Posted 02/11/09

I come here all the time with my boyfriend and I have never been disappointed with the service Ive received. I always get great massages and the massage therapists are really nice and strong. I get a different person every time I go in and they're always very strong and knowledgeable of the body! You should definetely check this place out if you need a great place to relax without spending so much money!

Pros: Great Massages, Not Pricey

Cons: None :)

Posted 02/08/09

I went to Graceful Spa for the first time this week for a hot stone massage as part of Spa Week.
For the price, the service was just ok. First, I wish I had known about the layout of the spa; maybe I just didn't read through enough reviews. There are no spa service "rooms;" each spa table is separated from another with a thin curtain, and each portioned off area is no larger than 10'x15'. If you desire privacy, this is not the place for you. You are given a bucket to place your clothes in, and the bucket is placed below the spa table. My rating also is due to my massage therapist -- she didn't ask me what areas I wanted to concentrate on, nor did she spend more than a few seconds on any one area, even my upper back where there were some knots that needed work on. On top of it all, she must have had a cold because she kept coughing and at one point had to leave the "room" to catch her breath.
The experience left me wanting a lot more, and I know I wouldn't be going back.

Pros: it was inexpensive, yes, but for $50 during spa week I could have gotten a massage at a much upper-scale spa

Cons: decor & layout (there are no individual spa rooms, merely spa tables separated by thin curtains)

Posted 10/14/08

this isa basic massage place. If u live in the area it willl do , but i would not go ot of your way for it

Pros: ok

Posted 06/21/08

What this place lacks in ambiance it makes up for with their excellent massage. For the price I wasn't expecting all that much but I was most pleasantly surprised. My therapist was attentive and communicative, strong yet nuanced and skilled with her touch. I felt like I was walking on air for hours after my treatment. The only downside was the receptionist, she made me feel like I was interrupting some important business of hers when I arrived. Also while I was getting my massage there seemed to be a heavyset reindeer tramping up and down the hallway that I later realized was the very same receptionist. The reindeer effect was caused by her loud, jangling, highly inappropriate, bangle bracelets and her heavy stride. Otherwise I highly recommend this spa.

Pros: Reasonable prices. Great Massage.

Cons: Attitudinal receptionist

Posted 06/02/08

Wow -- great massage, made me forget where I was and totally zone out during. Totally loosened up my back and my shoulders after a stressful day. Had the chance to try it out during spa week, and it's not the most glamourous place, but it's nice, comfortable, and very reasonable on their everyday prices ($80 for 1 hour). Cindy was my therapist, would recommend her highly. I've paid much more for less impressive massages at high end resorts and spas.

Posted 04/16/08

Ever since my ex introduced me to body massage two years ago, I have been getting a massage every other week at various upscale spas around town. I have never paid less than 100 bucks each time and most of them left me unsatisfied for some reason. When my girl friend told me about her new discovery at Chelsea, I was a bit sketical... At $80 for an hour of full body massage??? How good can that be?

This Sunday, I was utterly surprised. What an amazing massage I had at Graceful. The staffs were very friendly, and the massage was deep and soothing. I felt so good after the massage I couldn't stop smiling. I promised the young lady at the front desk that I would write a review on Citysearch and here I am.

I only wished they have a sauna/steam room like the other spas... But then again, $80 for a great massage, I think I can live without the extras...

Pros: Amazing massage, Friendly Staff, Great price

Cons: No sauna/steam room,

Posted 03/11/08

Personally I like message very much, I been spa hopping for many years now, from upper west side to lower east side, quite frankly, I almost have discover them all. But actually none of these spas is really worth spending money for, until I find graceful spa, I had a two hour message, therapist is really well train, every step is on target right on the pressure point, also the therapist knows really what you need, from the beginning to the end, place is very clean, especially the room is really nice and comfortable. I think I almost have fell to sleep during the whole time. Price is decent. Receptionist was really friendly. It was an unforgettable experience during the whole process. Definitely worth to go back again!

Posted 03/02/08

I treated my sister and myself to their massage/facial combo, which was a great value. The massage was fantastic. The facial wasn't the best I'd had, but pretty good. There isn't much ambiance, which I didn't mind for the prices I was paying, but they could've done a better job keeping the hallways quieter so guests could enjoy their treatments in peace. If you're looking for atmostphere this place is not for you. But if you just want a great massage and a clean, nice environment, this place is for you. I've been to a lot of spas, and this is one of the best values I've seen in the city.

Pros: Massages, friendly service

Cons: Noisy environment can be distracting

Posted 12/28/07

on Christmas Eve, i had a facial attack by this lady and she basically ruined my day. they shouldn't offer facial treatments at all. i do not know what kind of products they use, but it's better off doing it with my own feet and vaseline. body massage was ok. if you want to waste your money and skin, this is the place.

Pros: Cheap

Cons: you name it

Posted 12/23/07

I have been to several spas - especially expensive, chic chic ones! I however loved my massage at Graceful Services. It was great! It's a good spot for a no frills, quick afterwork massage - in and out. I was there during spa week and I did feel jipped by a couple minutes.. but I tend to think it's because it's so crazy during spa week. I'd rather have a great massage for 45 mins instead of a sub par massage for 50! So it was worth it. I will definitely go back... I had a friend with me as well who enjoyed her massage immensely!

Pros: Massage, Service, timeliness, clean

Cons: None! Just a no frills type of massage spot!

Posted 10/18/07

I went for the 50.00 spa week special which was supposed to be a 50 minute massage. First of all I got there early and filled out some papers and then about 10 minutes later they called me in for my massage. The woman set a timer but I was not on that table for 50 minutes. She didn't even massage my entire body (front and back). Then when I questioned the person up front she was trying to tell me that I did get a massage for 50 minutes and that I checked in at 5:02 and they started at 5:05. What a freaking lie. I felt cheated. I get massages on a regular basis and you know what I am going to stick with a person that will not cheat me out of my money. Be very careful and time your session. And my boyfriend went also and they cheated him out of his time also.

Posted 10/16/07

No candles or incense...just a clean, well spaced, pleasant place with great prices, nice staff, and terrific massages. I went in really aching and, after two hours, came out feeling great! If you can get there during off-hours week days, book a package, relax, and have the place practically to yourself. No, it ain't Bliss, but you'll feel blissful.

Posted 09/16/07

Thanks so much, guys! My mom had a blast last Sunday! Remember? She is the crazy one who said she would move upstair so that she can have a massage everyday! The deep tissue massage that you gave her made her day. Now my dad knows where to bring her when she is stressed. Thank you. You guys did a wonderful job!

By the way, it's pretty warm in the waiting area. You should turn up the air condition.

Pros: great massage, good price, easy to get to

Cons: too warm at the waiting area

Posted 05/15/07

Quite frankly, I was skeptical at first when my girl friend told me this would be the best massage I'd ever had. I told her I was already getting the best massage twice a week at my spa in LA. Since it was Spa Week and they were offering a discount, and I was going to be in NY for just one week, why not give it a try.

Thanks god my girl friend made the appointment early! It was unbelievable! The ambience was not 5-stars, but pretty good considering the price. The massage, however, was out-of-this-world! It was very deep and yet relaxing. I could feel the warmth from the palms of the masseur gliding gracefully up and down my body. I guess that's why they named their spa Graceful. Throughout the massage, I was in a dreamy stage at the verge of falling asleep. It was indeed the greatest massage I've ever had! The one-hour massage went by so quickly I asked to extend the time but they said they were fully booked. Next time we have to book two hours at least.

Given the quality of the massage, it is an obvious steal. Especially during Spa Week! I guess I will be visiting my girl friends in NY more often now... When will be the next Spa Week?

Pros: Great massage, Friendly Service, Outstanding Value

Cons: Not easy to get an appointment during Spa week

Posted 04/25/07

3 different friends recommended this place to me. Finally I decided to try them during the spa week promotion with my husband. Turns out it is the best massage we ever had. My friends were right, I should have tried them sooner.
The hands of the therapist were very warm, plus they got all the right spots. My husband asked the therapist to go really hard. Haa...was he beat down by the little lady, he was so happy about this "real" massage.

yeah yeah, there's only curtains, there's hand chopping sounds. but what do we care after they took away all our aching back pain. Definitely going back again, especially with the massage for couples is only $60 each.

Pros: Really Really good massage

Cons: Not A Fancy Spa

Posted 04/23/07

This is by far one of the better Asian Massage locations in NYC. I have tried a lot of the lower end massage joints and Graceful Spa is by far the best find! $60 each when 2 people go- the therapist massaged all the pressure points. be sure to clarify if you want it really strong or not as strong. very clean too.

Pros: cheap, clean

Posted 04/22/07

I took advantage of the $50 hot stone massage during spa week - thank God I didn't pay full price and I certainly won't be returning. The atmosphere is far from relaxing.. the waiting room is too 'cozy' with cheap looking box furniture and plants gallore. Then when they called me in for my massage, they took me to a hallway of curtained off massage beds (looked like shared hospital rooms) and told me to take off my clothes and put them into a BIN which I would then place under the bed. The person who gave me the massage didn't even introduce herself or ask me any questions about how I liked the massage etc. The entire time you could hear other people's alarms going off, things being dropped and the chopping of hands nearby.. The massage was ok but the ambiance of the place is just awful, you'd be better off going to a nail salon for 10 minutes or paying for a REAL spa!

Pros: hot stone massage not bad

Cons: the atmosphere, lack of space, lack of privacy

Posted 04/17/07

I found Graceful Spa on Citysearch and was pleasantly surprised. The rates were very reasonable
(1 hr massage was $60 each for my friend and I) I found the special deal on their website and don't think you can find a $60 massage in too many places in NYC. The massage therapist used a lot of pressure which I really enjoyed. Definitely a must try!

Pros: reasonable, clean, nice

Posted 04/01/07

I went to graceful spa with a friend after we found $20 off each massage when you go with a friend. the 60 min massage for $60 is worth every penny! They also have a 2 hour deal for $120 (facial and massage) that I am going to try next time. The massage therapist got all the right pressure points and had really strong hands. I will be back!

Pros: cheap, good, clean

Cons: none

Posted 01/24/07

This place was OK for $40 facials, but when they raised the price 100% i was incredulous. This place is kind of a dump they should not be charging $80 for a facial! Go somewhere better for your money.

Pros: none

Cons: raised prices

Posted 01/09/07

This was my first time getting a massage. I work at one of the major Spa chains in NYC and even with an employee discount this place is cheaper and they had a week special so I went with my boyfriend for two 45-minute hot stone massages for $50 each. Yes, there are only curtains rather than private rooms and you just change behind the curtains, but as long as you can block out the little noises you hear, it's really nice. The receptionist was so nice to arrange my boyfriend and me to be side by side and my massage therapist was awesome. it was my boyfriend's first time as well and I basically had to drag him with me but when it was over and the two therapists left, I looked over and he had the most peaceful relaxed look on his face. we both loved it here. It's definitely worth trying. Of course there is a difference between this place and the higher end spas but this place is worth it for the price. It was the best 45 minutes ever!

Pros: staff, massage

Cons: little background noises

Posted 06/22/06

I've been here before but this time there were no female therapists available so I tried a male. I was apprehensive but the therapist was polite professional and went to great lengths to ensure my comfort and peace of mind. Any reservations i had were completely nullified as soon as he laid his hands on me. Bliss, rapture, serenity, enlightenment, ecstasy cannot begin to describe how i felt. my body became diffuse allowing my soul to expand infinitely, surmounting the threshold of time and space i became one with the ether. Floating languidly in the cosmic foam i transversed the universe and fathomed infinity. Mike, i think his name was, coaxed me gently back to earth, and to my pleasure the massage was concluded without the annoying alarm that the other therapists use. It took me almost 30 min to gather my bearings before i could leave the spa. Wow!

Pros: skilled therapists, pleasant receptionist

Cons: somewhat noisy

Posted 05/01/06

Okay, I get that this isn't intended to be a four star spa...But, I do expect that any place that calls themself a spa at least TRIES to make it relaxing. Sorry if I find continuous alarm clocks, loud conversatinos, and staff dropping things and taking out the trash relaxing. I also didn't appreciate it when the "therapist" proceeded to um, sit straddle on my back to give me a massage. Oh yeah, and the toilet flushing on and off. When I told the woman at the front desk I was extremely disappointed, she recommended I ask for a curtained off area farther away from the bathroom the next time. Trust me, there will never be a next time there. Save your money and go to the nail salon. You'll do MUCH better there.

Cons: Unnecessarily Noisy, Untrained personnel, Not sanitary

Posted 04/23/06

This is the worst place ever! You will waste your money here. People here are SO rude and I thought they were going to literally break my back during my message!

Posted 04/19/06

I used to be a big fan of this place and was a loyal customer of both this location and the one uptown for a few years now, but given my past two or three experiences, I've come to learn that although you (usually) get a good massage for a reasonable price, it doesn't outweigh the inconsistent service (sometimes they just go thru the motions) and noisy atmosphere (not just other patrons, the employees, which is ridick!). Pay the extra $20- what's the point of a massage if you can't relax?!

Pros: price

Cons: noise, inconsistent service, employees

Posted 03/20/06

I've gone to Graceful Spa twice, and both times I have had an easy time making an appointment and great service while I was there. I go there simply for a great massage. The atmosphere is adequate-- definitely clean and pleasant, but it is not a posh spa. The prices are good, the staff is friendly. Just what you need to relieve tension!

Pros: hours of operation, easy to get appt

Posted 02/15/06

I think because Valentine's day was approaching, they served wine and chocolate for a couple's massage. I wasn't expecting it when I went with my boyfriend and that was a nice addition to our massages. The rooms were lit with candles so it was nice and relaxing. Yes, the massage was good too. The only bad part was they made is wait 30mins even though we made an appointment and there are no private rooms. Privacy is only seperated by curtains.

Pros: inexpensive, relaxing

Cons: small, did not start on time

Posted 02/12/06

When my girl friend treated me to Graceful Spa for their 2 hrs special, I never thought I would find it my favorite spa. The facial was relaxing and the massage re-energizing. I highly recommand anyone who hasn't tried out this place to check it out!

Pros: Awesome Massage, Great Facial, Outstanding Value

Cons: Semi-Privacy

Posted 01/21/06

Today 1/5/06 I just had a lunch time 45 min massage because my back has been killing me due to stress and working at the computer. The massage was a little painful because my back was stiff, but when I got back to work I feel so much better, I can focus better, and the pain is gone. I would def recommend this to those who are looking for a serious massage, not someone who is going to put on a show with all their scented oils, and fancy decoration. Also the receptionist was very sweet very calming voice.

Pros: Location, Friendly Staff, Not rushed

Cons: Paper Sheets, Curtain Walls, Decoration

Posted 01/05/06

Probably I tried more then hundreds spas around the world. And I have to tell you that massage at graceful spa is the best top three for my choice. Althought they don't have fancy decorations but who cares when you are facing down 90% of the time. Went back three times with three different therapists already, I have to say that they all really good. Graceful is definitely my favor spa for massage.

Pros: Professional, Clean, Cosy

Cons: Simple Decoration

Posted 12/04/05

Went with a girlfriend who came into town for the week. Sure, the prices are low, but this is nowhere near worthy of being called a "Spa." The Ikea artwork should have been a warning. We could hear everything that was going on around us - from other customers making weird noises to random people chatting around the area. Not relaxing at all. Worst part, I got the sense from my therapist that she was just going through the motions. We left feeling very unsatisfied. I guess you get what you pay for.

Pros: low price

Cons: uninspired massage, noise

Posted 10/30/05

Great massage if you want a nice deep massage. I would not recommend this place for those that want a serene environment with candles and new age music. However, if you are looking for a real massage for great value - this is the place for you. I come here as often as I can because I would rather a real massage than fluff.

Pros: Value

Posted 08/11/05

I did not enjoy the Graceful experience. The receptionist was aloof. The space was clean, but the massage area was too clinical, and I was not prepared to be so close to the other folks receiving treatment, only a curtain separates you from others, and you can hear everything that is happening to someone else. The massage was good, I suppose, i.e. I could tell the woman was talented, but it was more painful than relaxing. There was NO preliminary anything to assess my needs beforehand, and the paper covers on the table were uncomfortable. The worst was the awful sound of the alarm clock/egg timer that rang out at the end of my session. I would have preferred the sound of my cell phone! This is definitely a case of you get what you pay for. Better to spend a few more bucks for some amenities.

Pros: affordable, clean

Cons: little privacy, aloof receptionist

Posted 08/07/05

I decided to check it out after reading good reviews The receptionist wasn't particularly friendly-- and didn't bother to greet me by my name. The biggest con is that there are no private rooms, you are merely seperated by curtains from the person next to you. Early on, my facialist accidently moved the curtain and I was able to see the person next to me (naked) so i can only imagine if anyone saw me! Only one person seemed to know English (even my facilist didn't- but she was very sweet). The facial was pretty good, especially for the price. So if you're looking for a "spa" experience, this is NOT the place. There is not much ambiance or atmosphere, and the facilities are really mediocre and disappointing. But if you are just looking for a good service at a good price-- this is a good place.

Pros: inexpensive, good services

Cons: language barrier, no total privacy

Posted 07/16/05

My friend and I were both very happy w/ our massages. Clean no-frills environment, very friendly staff.

Posted 05/04/05

good basic massage. booked 2 x 90 minute massages for myself and friend. we were put up front right by 14th street, so it wasn't very relaxing as there was a lot of traffic noise.
wished there were private rooms instead of curtains - you could hear everyone's alarm going off. wished they wouldn't use paper sheets, otherwise my massage was really good, got the kinks out.

Pros: inexpensive, experienced

Cons: paper sheets, noise

Posted 03/25/05

My first facial and it was great. My face has never felt this clean and clear. Used the discount, but would go back at full price. Staff was friendly and professional. It was nice and quiet-I couldn't hear 14th St. traffic at all. The massage was excellent-I will have to work it into my budget, and at $40 for a 1/2 hour I don't think it will be a problem.

Pros: Atmosphere, Pleasant Staff, Skilled Staff

Cons: None that I can tell

Posted 03/23/05

The best, most relaxing and totally affordable spa day I had....EVER. I've been to other spas throughout the US from overpriced-all you really pay for is decor- joints to cheaper versions but not better joints... and this is by far the one that left me feeling totally relaxed and satisfy with what I paid for. The massage was wonderful. Great technique! Got me feeling loose for days. If you like getting your money's worth on the quality of the treatments then definitely give this place a shot and I'm sure you'll leave feeling satisfy and relax too.

Pros: treatment quality, service, simplicity

Cons: NONE

Posted 03/10/05

I got a gift certificate from my boyfriend and had a Graceful Deluxe!! this is the best gift I ever got from him!! He knew that I was so tired from the work and that I have a back pain but the massage help me a lot!! The therapist used a special chinese oil where I had the pain and it aliviate my pain a lot!! I felt so happy and relax, they took care of my body from head to toe!! I walked out of there completely like a new person !!!

Pros: caring, worthy, clean

Posted 02/09/05

I tried so many massages before I went to graceful spa. It was very different from others. It really gave me a strong impression cause everything could made me feel so comfortable. It took my stress out after I got the massage. It was a wonderful place that I would recommend to everyone.

Pros: caring staffs, clean and neat, dedicated

Posted 02/09/05

I just went there with my boyfriend to celebrate Valentine's and it was so romantic!! when I got there I was surprised, they had the room lighted with candles and also offered us wine and chocolates. We had a massage and facial and it was so relaxing! It was my best experience in a spa!!

Pros: therapist skill, close to subway, good service

Posted 02/09/05