Just wanted to share my experience at Carino Massage. As a new client, the session felt overly personal and crossed some boundaries that made me uneasy. I was too surprised to say anything in the moment. Johnny Ray seemed more focused on sticking to his own techniques rather than paying attention to how my body was reacting. When I tried to share my concerns, he insisted that he knew best. His attitude and lack of skill were really disappointing. A heads-up about the intensity would have been appreciated. I've been getting massages for decades, so this isn't my first rodeo. If you're uncomfortable, don't hesitate to leave. This left me feeling pretty uneasy, and I'm hesitant about getting massages again anytime soon. read more

I'm a massage therapist so I tend to be somewhat particular with who I see to receive bodywork. And in the 25+ years that Johnny has been working on me, he's by far my favorite therapist. Very intuitive touch, highly knowledgeable, good energy. in highly recommend Cariño Massage read more

Been seeing Johnny for 15 years... He's the best. Technique, pressure, all of it. He's incredible! Ask for the hair brushing and thank me later read more

I had my first ever professional massage with Johnny over 30 years ago...and I keep coming back for more!! I've been to other massage therapists as well and I'm always disappointed!! In my mind there is NO ONE better than Johnny. He has an amazing ability to know exactly what the body needs. He is so in tune with his craft and goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable, relaxed and at peace. He is also one of the kindest, genuine and compassionate people you will ever meet and I truly believe he is right where he is supposed to be...taking care of others in the most selfless manner possible. He is truly one of a kind and I highly, HIGHLY recommend him!! read more

JohnnyRay was heaven sent. My body was in distress, family tensions had mounted up and I was feeling it build up in my body. There was a lot of pressure and even my eyes were being effected. I was seeing flashing lights and a floater appeared, my shins were tight, and hurt, my neck & shoulders were full of pain. I choose JohnnyRay because of his reviews, i spoke with him and I felt his passion for his work. His massage techniques were unlike any other I've experienced, gentle yet firm, they soothe away my pain. My first experience was very spiritual, I could see all the pain that was being held in my body. Tears came to my eyes, as I was able to see and release the pain I was holding. JohnnyRay was heaven sent, I grateful for his compassion and his connection to his healing art. Thankful to have found him, during these challenging times. read more

The place was clean and a legitimate massage also must make advance appointment as the options and price vary such as hot Rick or Swedish massage read more

I love that JohnnyRay gives you a whole relaxing experience that goes beyond just a massage. The massage is great and I love the mindfulness and affirmations that he adds throughout. read more

Years ago, Johnny Ray gave me the best massage I've ever had. I walked out of the session tingling from head to toe. What I learned from that session was it's all about breathing while receiving the massage. Instead of zoning out and being a passive receiver... you're an active participant in letting go. Somehow years passed and massages were not a part of my normal routine. But recently I've been intensely growing spiritually and felt like I needed extra support in letting go of the chronic tension I hold in my shoulders/body... so naturally Johnny Ray popped into my head. This is not your glamorous zen luxury spa experience... more like a no frills let's do some serious bodywork kind of place. It's in an office building, and Cariño Massage is at the end of the hallway or if you enter from the back it's the first suite #9. Johnny Ray asked about what's going on with me & my body when I arrived in his consultation office. Then we went into the bodywork room which was professional, dark and relaxing. I'd say he's got the energy of a guide in healing and very intuitive in finding deep somatic tensions. I was ready to shed as much I can and free up to ease as much as possible, and Johnny Ray matched me equally in the depth of the massage... so much so the table at times creaked. This was definitely an active massage and exactly what I was looking for. I was zone-y post massage... very relaxed. A bit dazed like when deep healing work takes place... for a moment the body is like wait... what is happening here now that there's space created for something new? I slept like a babe last night and am still feeling the residual effects of the massage a day after. I highly recommend Johnny Ray if you're interested in no frills bodywork. His touch gets deep and his heart's true with wanting to help his clients heal by offering affordable packages as a routine of self-care. read more

Excellent massage therapist. I Have had many experiences with lots of different massage therapists for sports injuries and for surgical recovery. Johnny is by far one of the best that I have ever received a massage from. I was immediately comfortable, he wore a mask and observed all of the covid protocols in place, and was very respectful. I highly recommend Johnny. read more

Johnny is a gifted massage therapist and intuitive healer. Do yourself a favor and book an appointment with this talented human being! He is amazing and you deserve it!!! Enjoy!! read more

Cariño and Johnny Ray make my time in L.A. an even better than it already is. Johnny does the best job ever at working out my kinks and tight, old muscles, while also being careful to be gentle in my more sensitive spots.  And like a great hair stylist, he has a perfect memory about what I like, so I can just enjoy the massage and drift off into my happy zone. This spa is fantastic and it remains very affordable. I highly recommend Cariño! read more

This man is magic He took his time and gave me the best massage that I have had in years Spiritual, clean and just wow Thank you Groupon for introducing us Craig D. read more

Run. Now. Make an appointment with Johhny Ray. Seriously, hands down best massage I've ever had. Been going to Johnny Ray for 10+ years and he is nothing short of AMAZING. I do not use this word lightly, but the best one word description of the experience of his massage is Godly. You feel so taken care of, supported, uplifted- physically and mentally. He has a talent I've seen in no other masseuse and a gift of reading bodies. His set is up is nothing fancy, but great location on Melrose in Weho and the space is super clean/safe. Do yourself a favor and book now, as he fills up fast. read more

WONDERFUL. Johnny, thank you so much for an amazing massage. You truly are so kind, great and so thoughtful. I really appreciate your Cariño massage and can't wait for another session. I highly recommend Johnny if you are looking for a true massage experience. The space is super cozy and clean. Easy parking on Melrose. I will def recommend getting a massage package. read more

Cariño Massage - Massage Near Me - Newark, California

Johhny, You are amazing:) I truly enjoy the amazing massage each month. Thank you so much for your continious smile, passion, and professionalism, for what you do:) Peace and Hugs:) Maria read more

Found Johnny through Groupon and so glad I did! He has big strong hands yet is very gentle. He talks you through the massage almost like a yoga instructor, reminding you to breathe, giving you affirmations and making you sink into the table and away to another plane. The space is simple yet you know your money is being put to good use because all you need is Johnny's words and hands. He's very much in it to bring you mental as well as physical peace. I will be back very soon! Best bang for your buck in LA! read more

I had a bad experience at Carino massage last week. Johnny clearly cares about his customers and he's a very nice guy, but I had a bad massage. Most of the massage was a fast dry rub all over my back. It was like a rug burn. He didn't work into my muscles. It was this rapid rub all over. Not relaxing at all. The whole experience felt frenetic. I left the massage thinking, "I wouldn't even call that a massage. It was more like an exfoliation treatment." read more

The best massage I've ever had! I can't imagine going anywhere else. A groupon brought me here and I just never left. Once your massage begins the therapist maintains contact with your body throughout the entire massage. This and the integrated breathing truly distinguishes Carino from every other place. Note this isn't some fancy spa, but the care and dedication Johnny provides surpasses anything you would get at a spa. Plus he's the absolute sweetest, kindest person! I always love our post massage chats. read more

Been to JR a few times now and enjoyed my massages and got a lot of pain relief from his work. I like LOTS of deep pressure. I work my ass off and hold a gang-load of tension in my neck and lower back (boo!) and, unfortunately, if I'm not getting a REALLY deep tissue massage then ya' may as well tickle my effin' back b/c that's the only other thing relaxes me. Anything in between frustrates and I have found JR has excellent pressure during his massages. Plus he checks in with me, which I apreesh. I've read some of the negative reviews and I don't get why some of the people are dogging the digs. I find the studio to be unpretentious, tidy and sweet. You can tell they've put care and thought into it. Yes, I have noticed Johnny Ray massaging deeply on boney areas and I just tell him to move along b/c that doesn't feel good to me, either, but I'm not just gonna sit there. I think the massage therapist must be aware of how their touch feels, yes, but also they rely on us as clients to give them our personal direction during the massage b/c what feels good to me might be awful for the next guy and how would they know that if I was silent. Johnny himself has a warm and professional demeanor. His touch is direct and firm, he also works on the scalp (yum, my fave) and he uses excellent draping techniques which always increases my comfort level with any massage therapist, girl or guy. As a person who's been getting massaged 3-4 times monthly for the past 10 years including on my exotic and european travels, I can most definitely say that you'll enjoy this massage and feel that it was money well spent. read more

When I book a massage, I go into the experience thinking "Yay! this will soothe some sore muscles and relax me!" The morning of the massage I literally jumped out of bed and skipped down the street to get there!!! So excited!!! Unfortunately that is the opposite of what happened at Carino Massage. I arrived, and as other reviewers have said, the place is not much for the eyes. Its at the back of a building that was built in the early 80s and has not been kept up well. Oh well, they are not in charge of the building itself, but it was to be a harbinger of things to come. I was escorted into the massage room as soon as the massage began, I noticed that there is a little sign within eye view that says "Gratuity 10-15% expected at end of service" - I have seen that in other massage places, but to put it in eye site of the face cradle, was a little strange. The masseuse says, "are you a massage snob?", and I reply "what?" I was taken aback. I was there to have a relaxing experience, and that felt like a very obtuse thing to ask when I'm about to be naked in front of you... I was like "Um, no, I have had several massages, but I don't think I like the word snob, it has a negative connetation...." silence. awkward. The massage began, and I started getting cold. I asked if the room could be heated up, but no response from the masseuse. As the massage went on, he keeps massaging my calf (the problem area I put on the intake sheet before the service) but instead of the meaty part of my calf, he keeps rubbing the bone! ouch! I even say the word "ouch" several times. That seems like it would be massage 101 to me. Rub the muscle, not the bone. Boo. As the massage continues, it seems more like he is wiping massage oil in, than to pin point muscles. I feel like I can do the oil application myself. I was looking forward to real muscle relief. bummer. Finnally I ask, hesitantly, can you apply more pressure? He does, but it seems to have aggrevated him, and he overdoes it. I say "ow! ow! ow!" so he lets up a little bit. Stressfull!! Time to flip over. the masseuse says "you are holding a lot of tension in your jaw, try to breathe." While I appreciate the sentiment, I really didn't know how to express "yeah, its because you keep massaging my bones, and not my muscles!" I didn't want to be rude or make it worse. :( (sad face) He tries massaging my jaw - with too much pressure, and it was scary!! It hurt, so I had to pull away, and I'm sure I winced. its like, "don't collapse my neck!" I mean, I don't even want to have to think that!!!! freaky. For some reason he kept attributing it to me being "stressed", not his poor technique, but apparently I am in the minority, since all the other people had wonderful experiences. I am sad to say I am not among them, although I was soooo hoping I would be!! I really wanted it to be awesome! You know that real muscular part of your thigh? on the outter part? He kept poking that. That was painful. I don't know how to express pain except to say "ow" He says "breathe into the pain, you will release more tensions" I was pretty ready for the massage to be over at that point. Finally time to get changed and exit. Yay! I exit the room and he says "have you ever been massaged by a male before?" "yes" "well you seemed stressed, you had little dimples in your chin, you seem to be one of those people who are just tense." Honestly, nice confrontation skills buddy. Yes, the massage was very stressfull for me, not because you are a male, but because on top of all the painful happenings the room was absolutely freezing! Whatever, at that point I just wanted to get out of there. I gave him his much wanted "gratuity", and took off, not looking back. Does that mean its about the money for him? I don't mind parting with a few dollars to make someone happy, but there is no way I'm going back there. The weirdest thing happened to me after the massage that has never happened before (and trust me, I have had 100s of massages.) The rest of the day my energy was like ZERO and instead of having the happy productive day I was so excited to have, I literally jumped out of bed, I had to go home and sleep for a few hours, and even after that I was still groggy. Weird. That was probobly just a coincidence, but worth mentioning. Wish I had a more positive experience. I love massage, and am still looking for a regular masseuse now that I live in LA. read more

I feel like the luckiest girl in the world! I was in the right place at the right time! Johnny Ray had just moved back to the Bay area from LA! I spoke with clients with fabulous referrals and hired him instantly! His first massage was phenomenal! So has every massage since! Any massage from Johnny Ray is like a bit of heaven! read more

I went in with a strained ACL; I came out walking on clouds and sipping papaya juice. Think I'm kidding? I've had over 30 massages in the greater Los Angeles area, and Johnny Ray's was by far the best. For serious athletes, arthritics, those with chronic pain, or others who look for more than just a one-hour rubdown in their massage, the Carino technique can't be beat - I am a serious skeptic of "healers" and "medicine men" but after going to Johnny, I am absolutely convinced that he has healing hands. This is more than a massage - it's an investment in your well-being and overall health. Consider the (modest!) fee a co-pay and go see "Doctor" Ray - ASAP! read more

It's a bit of a drive for me, but I really enjoy the massages here. I've never actually had one from Johnny Ray, but I consider the one I received from Amy one of the BEST I've ever had in Los Angeles. If you subscribe to the emails they also regularly offer great deals. read more

Carino Massage is one of the hidden gems among Los Angeles massage therapists. Johnny Ray has forgone the flashy expensive spa locales to create an intimate setting in which YOU are the priority. He & his staff dedicate time to you and your body, your health. Each appointment is padded on either end of the hour so you don't have to rush off to worry about running late. This limits the amount of appointments available and they do book fast - but they will always seek to accommodate. He's constantly sending out specials via e-mail, so be sure to sign up for their e-mail list! read more

Yay! I think Yelp got my note and finally changed Johnny's address. I found out about Carino via Spa Week deals and am soo glad I chose to go with Johnny over the other offers. I originally wanted to make an appt on the Saturday of Spa Week but was told that they had just booked up. In order to accommodate my bf and I, Johnny offered to give us the same offer for next Saturday and I immediately took it. The bf happened to have that Wednesday off so he was hoping to spend the day off getting a long-deserved massage. It didn't work out so we kept our Saturday appt and we were giddy with excitement for the rest of the week. Come Saturday, we wake up early and try to get over to West Hollywood asap. From downtown, we guessed it would take no more than 20 minutes but Carino is actually deep into West Hollywood and almost borderline Westside. It took us longer than expected and we didn't expect Carino to be housed in a discreet building so we were running really late. By the time we arrived, we were already 15 minutes late and I was soo nervous that Johnny wouldn't take us considering the "be there 15 min early to adequately prepare for the massage). Instead, I was greeted with a bright smile and comforting atmosphere. The place is small and not as "glamorous" as other spas but if you want to experience a whole different type of massage, give Johnny (and Olivia) a shot! The bf and I were escorted to different rooms which we didn't mind and the rest is history. Johnny's hands are pure GOLD! I was scared that it might be a little rough but he was soooo smooth and gentle. His movements are so fluid and the hot oil/lotion seems to just magically ooze out of his fingers. The hour seemed to last forever especially since he places emphasis on breathing. I felt SOO relaxed and mind was so clear that I can't even describe it. After the massage, they give you a cup of water and juice (tastes like Naked). The experience was really something new and the bf and I enjoyed every part of it. Johnny even gave us vouchers for the same deal until the end of October. I think we'll definitely be back! read more

Went to Carino because it was on Groupon. I had Olivia and the massage given was pretty good - relaxing and soothing. But, 1. It was very difficult to make an appointment in the first place. After couple of messages left, they never called me back. Had to ask my friend to call, somehow they returned her call but never mine. 2. A week before the appointment we wanted to add a 3rd person to the appointment. Again, never anybody answered the calls or responded to the messages I left. Again, I asked my friend to also try calling. Finally on the day before the appointment someone called back and said it requires special arrangement to accommodate 3 people at the same time so we had to pay an extra $20. We accepted the deal. However, once we got there, it just did not appear to me any special arrangement was done. We were not even put in the same room. So why the extra $20?? 3. This part was really our fault - arrived 25 minutes late to the appointment. 10 minutes past the appointment, Carino called to check on our status but did not mention anything else. Once we got there, they said our 1-hour massage had to be cut to 30 minutes if we want to proceed because of their later appointments. After going through so much to get the appointment, we decided to just go with it. However, at the end of our 30-minute massages, I did not see any other customers there. Overall: good massage, impossible to get appointment, customer service can be improved read more

Johnny Ray gives a massage like no one else. It's like his hand becomes enlarged once you lay face down on the bed, covering your entire back with one swoop. He aptly describes his process as "deep pressure-filled and soothing." FYI: don't be discouraged when he doesn't return your phone call right away -- he will get back to you -- and it's worth it. read more

Gladis is a GENIUS. Just got the best massage I've ever had. 100% on point. I've been working out a ton lately and without me having to say a word, she clocked and worked out every knot and kink. I've seriously never felt so good afterwards. Not to mention she was an absolute sweetheart. Johnny is too - super nice and friendly. I had a Dailycandy Deal that I accidentally let expire by a few days yet he still honored it. Haven't had one of his massages but judging by these reviews, they're clearly fantastic too. I tell you, I've got like 10 Groupon/Living Social/Dealfind massages banked at other places, but I'm going back to Gladis first. One quick tip - get there a bit early and park on the next block, then you won't have to pay the meters on Melrose. read more

I first stepped into Carino after buying a groupon. I was so impressed with the massage, that I came back again. Johnny even gave me a free massage just because it was my birthday. The ambience and atmosphere are warm, relaxing, and inviting. He utilizes excellent communication, and even helps you with deep breathing, which I think is essential during relaxation. It is a great place to get a massage and take a mini vacay from your day! read more

I'm about as picky as you can get when it comes to massages and I've definately had my fair share of expensive crappy massages and I was very very pleased with Carino Massage...I will even go as far as to say that it was one of the best massages I have ever had. I too bought the Groupon and although it took over a month to finally get an appointment, it was worth the wait. However, you need to know this place is not Burke Williams (although I'm not all that impressed with BW), it's very bare bones and the building is kinda run down. But the massage rooms are nicely appointed and zen. My massage therapist Olivia was amazing!! It was very apparent that she is an experienced therapist. Not only did she actually listen to my needs/instructions, she had very strong hands and was not too chatty. Give this little place a shot....I think you'll be really happy you did. Only reason I did not give 5 stars was for the aestetics of the building and the appointment length but I will definately being going back. read more

I went into Carino with persistent back pain. Jonny found the problem quickly and paid special attention to that part of my back. I'm a general contractor and pretty big guy and I needed Jonny's strong hands to get through the tension to relax my back. He's is very strong, and intuitive. I've had massages before but all of them had a touch that was a little too light for my needs. Thanks Jonny, my back still feels great! See you soon. read more

We started coming to Cariño to see Johnny Ray 2 1/2 years ago. We actually found Cariño on yelp and feel so lucky to have found this gem. Johnny Ray is fantastic! I couldn't dream of a better way to spend an hour. When you walk in, there is an immediate sense of relaxation and comfort to the space. You feel welcome and safe. Johnny Ray walks you through your massage and reminds you to leave it all at the door. He takes his time and you never feel rushed. He really knows how to target my sore spots and work out a lot of the work tension that builds up in my neck and shoulders. I have had massages for years that range from super high end spas to a private masseuse at my home, and nothing can compare to Cariño. All around great value and Johnny Ray is just a wonderful guy. I highly recommend you give Cariño a call! read more

I wanted to find something in my neighborhood that was reasonably priced. I tried one session and ended up buying a series of six. When this runs out, I'll be back for more. I needed this for therapy, from a severe neck/back issue. Everyone there is really great, each with different styles, but I decided to mainly stick with Johnny since I needed something a little deeper and therapeutic (while still being soft) Mika is amazing as well but offers a softer, less vigorous massage. Both leave you floating out of the room. Amazing. Amazing. Amazing. Do yourself a HUGE favor and just go. :) read more

I've honestly never had a massage like this before. Not only does it feel amazing physically, it feels like an emotional/spiritual experience every time I go. The way JR makes the experience personal to YOU is unlike any other masseuse i've had. Every massage is different, unique and improvised precisely for the moment. His words come in as reminders to let go of the distractions so that you can enjoy the massage to its absolute fullest. I can't recommend JE enough. read more

Another great massage from Johnny Ray Mmmmmmm massage

I've been going to Johnny Ray for several years now and he's offering the best massage in town for my money. Johnny Ray listens to what you specifically are looking for in a massage and caters the experience to your needs. Because Johnny Ray's studio is a small one, the rates for the massages are reasonable and you never get that feeling that the masseuse is phoning it in since they're getting half of what you're paying -- which I find to be the case with the bigger massage chains. Free street parking has always been very easy for me to find. Johnny Ray is quick to respond when scheduling appointments and works to be as flexible as possible when you want to get in. I can't recommend massages with Johnny Ray enough. Give him a try! read more

Quaint, quiet, and out of the way (we drove past it the first time we went) .... the experience once you're through the door is second-to-none. Both Johnny Ray and Grace give an excellent massage. The lotion is warm, the music is soothing, the touch is rejuvenating. We've already been back for seconds - and have scheduled visits 3 & 4 for the coming months. They book up fast - so get in touch today or you may be out of luck. read more

We went during spa week and LOVED it. It really is a very unique technique that is worth a try. Its in a building, so you wouldnt think this tiny spa area exists. They really take care of you there. I felt like it was more about healing and relaxing, then hurting me to get the knots out. Gentle . Also, It is also affordable. The regular price is $75 for 1 hour, i think. Also, they sent me a lovely postcard with a 10% off my next visit. Before they even sent it, after my massage was done, i made another appointment. My body needs this. I cant wait to have a massage by THE Johnny Ray :) read more

I wish I could give 10 stars. Johnny is the best massage therapist I have ever had. He is very intuitive. He has so much passion for what he does. I always leave feeling grounded, and relaxed. Great location with easy parking. I came here after reading the rave reviews and I can truly say that Johnny is a gem. read more

I was in agony after I slipped two discs out of my neck.... AGONY... went to physical therapy... 7 months... some relief, but had not slept through the night since the injury... I was really thinking I would just have to live with it for the rest of my life... THREE SESSIONS with Johnny Ray and I was FIXED... Quite honestly - I've never been worked on with such warmth, complete caring, absolute focus and with someone who truly has the ability to HEAL... he connected things to the injury and the healing that I never would have thought of.... he just has that 6th sense about the body. I have since moved to New York but whenever I am back in L.A. make it an absolute point to schedule time with Johnny Ray... and now Carino massage... I know that anyone that Johnny Ray would pick to work with him holds the same high standards that he would hold. PLEASE patronize this business... WORTH IT - physically, mentally, financially AND spiritually. Blessings, Karen Maria Schleifer (New York City) read more