Emi did decent nails on me and was reasonably polite, however 1) her nails don't last long 2) it seems like she's resurfaced after dropping me as a client randomly one day and cancelling my appointment. I asked her why she could no longer do my nails and she never responded. Echoing another reviewer, I suspect she was upset about a tip. I felt uncomfortable tipping her because she's the business owner and sole employee, and tbh this salon was being run out of her apartment illegally. Given the prices she charged I didn't think a tip was warranted. However when I said "oh I didn't think to tip you because you're the business owner" she replied that I did have to tip her and was a bit rude and pushy about it. I would say have a backup nail person on deck, because she has the potential to leave you high and dry. read more

EXCELLENT Japanese style gel nail + nail art, and Emi's just so sweet It was just fun sitting and chatting and getting my nails done in her private studio. Would recommend! read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is the best! She was able to fit me into the schedule last minute so I could get my nails done before a trip. She gave me exactly what I was looking for and was just so nice to talk to. The whole private experience was just great, you know she's giving you 100% of her attention and time. Can't wait for my next set! read more

Emi is the best. My nail appointment with her is always the highlight of my week because she is so fun to talk to and does such high quality work. My nails always look amazing after an appointment with Emi and I can't imagine going anywhere else. Highly highly recommend! read more

Best nails I ever got in my life! Emi is truly the best and she is magical! I thought Emi was so funny and personable while we had our session. My best friend and I came here to get our nails done just before our girls' Japan trip last October. (Yes, I am a year late on this review). We needed to make a reservation with her about 30 days prior to our appointment. We just showed her the design we wanted and she would prepare. I went for a sweater-weather themed colors and the addition of gold flakes and gems made it pop! I got a lot of compliments for how cute my nails were. My nails last for almost a month and a half and it comes off so easily with no damage to my natural nails. I love her! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/emi-nails-new-york?reviewid=-kY7eLSSahVFdk88y46eIw&select=dmK3aacYO6o0eyrlTKMcXw&utm_campaign=www_photo_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct) read more

Emi Nails - Loving my vacation nails! Thank you Emi!!! - Nail Technicians Near Me

I was expecting great work from this extremely overpriced manicurist. My experience was outrageous. If you are considering extensions with gel don't go here. She does the nails lopsided and so thick that within 1 week they open and pop off. If you have short nails that are growing they break. Her polishing is sloppy. She also expects a 20% tip for horrific work. read more

Fantastic fantastic fantastic!!! Did I mention fantastic? I had been getting my nails done with a single nail tech for over 5 years and when she moved away, had another for 2 and then she had a baby and stopped as well. The bigger Japanese salons were ok, not very artistic when it came to nail art and the techs were not personable at all so it was hard to find that happy balance. Plus I had wanted to move on from UV curing to LED curing gels and upon my research I came across the glowing reviews of Emi! Emi, who used to be a professional makeup artist and hair dresser, moved into this medium of cosmetology and became a top notch expert at her craft! Excellent at free hand drawing for back art and really patterns to her clients. Space is professional, clean and warm. Plus she's a metal head like me so it's a win win in my book. Her prices are a bit pricier than the larger salons but well worth every penny. The product she uses is made in Japan. Not cheap nor easy to acquire since you have to go to a specific school to get licensed to handle these products as well as to purchase them. This gel does not damage your nails because their is no filing needed to be done on the nail beds themselves and they don't chip because they bend and grow with the natural curve of how your nail grows. By appointment only and she takes cash & card! read more

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I love my monthly nail appointment with Emi . She's amazing at her craft - so far, she can replicate any design I give her from IG and the paint never chips even if I wait 4 weeks to get them redone! The time sitting there always feels like hanging with a girlfriend. She's so chatty and funny and also makes the entire time very cozy with tea, slippers to wear, and Netflix. I am not sure of the nail art landscape in NYC but I do think she is slightly more expensive than Paintbox or other popular salons. My opinion, though, is that the personalization and comfort makes it well worth the extra cost. Everyone should book with Emi! read more

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Run don't walk to Emi! I don't want to write such an amazing review because people will start booking her up, but, she's too amazing not to share! Emi is the sweetest, kindest person and she is absolutely amazing at her craft. What she paints is art, plain and simple. I can show her any image, and she can create it with a few brush strokes. I've been coming to Emi for almost two years now, and I'm committed to her forever. She did the nails for my wedding, my 30th birthday, every major event. Her work is that good, and her gel doesn't ruin my nails!! I love collaborating with Emi on ideas. I bring in a vague sense of what I want, and then she uses her artistic knowledge to make it modern and wearable. If you haven't been to Emi, then you are seriously missing out on the best nails of your life. read more

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Emi is legitimately the sweetest person ever. Besides the whole, she's-the-most-talented-nail-artist-ever thing, she has an amazing personality that makes the appointment nothing short of a treat. She literally gives me show stopping nails every time I come to her. I have lost count of how many people have asked me where I get my nails done. I always give them her IG so they can be blown away by her incredible work. Now I understand why they call it 'nail artist.' I can't even draw the kind of stuff on paper that she does on my nails! I saw someone else say they wanted to keep her to themselves and I really felt that too! Because the more people that know about how awesome she is, the harder it will be to get an appointment! No, I'm kidding. I'm happy to support in any way I can. Emi, you are a gem and you are a master of your craft. Not to mention my nails last about 5 weeks and I work at Trader Joe's! Says a l o t about the quality of her work! read more

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I moved to NYC a few months ago. I usually do gel nails and found it really difficult to find someone who did proper UV gel (not the gelish/shellac stuff). I found Emi on Yelp and thought I'd give it a go. And oh my am I glad I did. Emi is the sweetest person and very talented at her craft. I personally haven't gotten any nail art done but every time I go Emi always has a new design and they are always so cute and creative. All of the products she uses are from Japan and are of the highest quality. She has a wide selection of colors, sparkles and etc. I love that she's as picky and as meticulous as I am. She gets my pointy talons to the tee every time! She's just overall super awesome! You won't be disappointed! read more

Emi Nails - Emi's the best! - Nail Technicians Near Me

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I wish you could rate manicurist the way you rate über. This way all of the bad manicurist would be taken off the road and all the crappy patrons would get one star. Alas, this is not the case. In NY you have to pay and try until you find your true love. I found my match in Emi from Balance Nails. I admit I am completely spoiled by hard gel. The resiliency, beauty. I don't care what people say about hand cancer, UV gels last forever and make your hands look pretty. Problem is the real masters of this type of gel are in the burbs. I don't know why? Maybe people think short, stubby, manicured nails give you more street cred? I don't know. What I do know is I like my long and tapered. The place I went to that took off my hard gel made my nails look like they had been filed by a blind seagull. Or something that doesn't have hands, and any business giving manicures. They said they hoped I come back... Never. I'm a fancy girl. I like my nails clean, so that I am undistracted by them. I want to pull out my clutch and to not feel ashamed by my chimney sweep nails. I like clean and long!!! Emi recognized this and made me feel comfortable. She's a Japanese, tatted angel with the soul of a Buddha who is recreationally obsessive compulsive with nails. First time she did my nails she just wanted to see how they would respond to the gel. Two weeks later when she realized my nails were made for gel she created a proper tapered shape in a nice ivory shade. She blended two different gel types to create the right resiliency and color. She's only one person and her office is in the back of a hair salon. I love this because I hate the factory feel of many NY mani/pedi salons. She only does gel manicures. But, think of her as a specialist or as an artist. She does what she does best. I'll be back! read more

Emi Nails - White, tapered, clean and cured! - Nail Technicians Near Me

I landed upon Emi Nails on yelp after endless searches for the best Japanese gel nail art. The reviews here are all true, Emi is absolutely amazing. I went on a weekday during the evening and the entire process took close to 2 hours long, but it was definitely worth it. I had 2 nail extensions and nail art done. Emi uses gel nail forms for extensions which is quite rare in NYC, this type of extension is so much better since it uses your original nail to build length. Emi is very sweet, easy to talk to and most importantly, very detailed and organized. She can basically replicate any design you like, really impressed with that. I've had my nails for over 3 weeks and I'm still getting compliments on them. Emi is not your average priced gel nail salon, but the quality of her work really justifies the price. I'd definitely recommend her. read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

I recently had my nails done by Emi. I've never tried Japanese nail art, but I decided what the hell. I needed to get my nails done to keep the IDEA of spring alive in my wintery heart. I selected a design and Emi walked me through the process. The end result thawed me. I felt as if it was summer and the sun was shinning on me through my nails. They make me very happy. And they should, since it's damn pricey ($80 w/o tip). But they are so worth it. Treat yourself. Sidenote: I didn't know she specifically focused on these type of nails until I got there. I just went to her because she had 5 stars and I needed my nails done. Yelp got it right! read more

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Emi brought my dream nails to life whilst effortlessly carrying on a conversation as though we'd been friends for years. I loved the entire experience and I am obsessed with my gorgeous nails! She also inquired about my budget ahead of time and made sure to work within those boundaries. SO APPRECIATED! Getting my nails done is a luxury that I only indulge in once in awhile, so I need them to be perfect when I do. I have been to Sakura and Marie nails in the city, but I will return to Emi at Balance. The best! read more

Emi Nails - Daisies! - Nail Technicians Near Me

I can't begin to describe what a wonderful experience I had at balance nails. Emi was the sweetest person I've ever met. Even though I was running late. She knew I came all the way from Michigan and she waited for me. Which was so sweet, because I know her time is precious! She took her time and was so welcoming! I love my nails I can't stop looking at them! I definitely will be back to NYC just to visit Emi ! The layout of her work space is absolutely adore ale! It made you feel comfortable and welcome. Also, all the products she uses are top of the line gel! However, the greatest thing about my experience was Emi's amazing artistry skills! She's amazing! A true artist! All the designs are hand drawn by her! I can't wait to come back! Hope to see you in Detroit soon Emi! Thank you read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is an exceptional artist. She is wonderful, advanced in artistic direction + nail shaping + nail care. She is accommodating and kind and gives you suggestions. If you're looking for expert gel nail application or gel extensions, she is the one to go to. You will not be disappointed. She has done art on me before, but check out the photo of my nails in a more subdued design - but I Love the red- after a few months of her care - natural length and strength! Sidebar: I just took a chance last week and went to Wild Oleander in Brooklyn, it was $100 and I have chicken pox in the top coat, my nails are separating just 3 days later. This would never happen with Emi. read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is amazing!!! We hit it off right from the start! I'm gng to say that I'm very picky with nail salons as a lot of the places here in NYC, the staff is not trained, places are dirty and unless ur gng for a regular manicure, you're going to want someone who is trAined and knows their shit for gel! I was concerned about my nails being ruined because I wanted extensions and the product she uses she assured me does not ruin ur nails? Why you ask? It's because she doesn't file them with the machine! She puts on the tip and that's it! Ur nails stays strong and beautiful! It was a long process but well worth it. She is dedicated to her work and she works hard for her clients satisfaction! The fact that her nails last over 3 weeks says a lot! Booked my second appt and can't wait to have my natural nails grow even More! read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi was incredible! She is hands down the best nail artist I have ever had. Extremely attentive, very artistic and super generous with her time. read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

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I first went to Balance Nails in early December, 2013. I had acrylic nails removed a week before that had left my own nails dry, thin, too short and very damaged. I vowed to never have acrylic nails again and began to see Emi at Balance for gel nails. I've been going to Emi for four months now, about every two to three weeks. My old, damaged nails have grown out while being protected by Emi's beautiful gel designs. This is the strongest, longest and prettiest my natural nails have ever looked! For designs, Emi creates her own or embellishes an idea that I bring to her. She takes time with each nail, whether it is a simple or complex design. She helps me plan colors and designs around an outfit I may have for an event (yes- I am THAT girl, ha ha) The gels remain shiny, strong and I'm aways getting compliments on them. I work closely with clients daily and it means a lot to me to have my hands look nice, maintained and finished. Balance has a very convenient location and hours as well. read more

Emi is the absolute best. She is so sweet and SO talented! We had a great time picking colors and designs for my nails together -- which came out unbelievably well. I would give her 10 stars if I could. I will definitely be back and can't wait to see what other works of art she creates! Endless compliments and all credit goes to Emi :) read more

Emi Nails - The cutest snowman ever! Thank you Emi! - Nail Technicians Near Me

This place is a MUST-GO place. Emi is a wonderful manicurist. I love how she actually cares about her customers. She even asked me to keep some of my nails and only do some extensions so I could pay less. It must have been a busy day for her. But she still took her time doing my nails and talked to me all the way through. I was so excited by the time I was done!! My nails were shining and glowing. It is amazing how she did it in so little time with SO MUCH LOVE. I am going to visit for my next nails too! The story of yesterday: I was desperate to do my nails before going on my date yesterday. I searched through yelp to find which place has the best rating. As I was going through the reviews, I figured that there are only few that opens on Sundays. I was sooo disappointed on how nail shops don't open on Sundays. Then I got to find Balance Nails! But since it is through reservations, I wasn't sure if I would be able to do it. I called Balance Nails at about 5 mins before its open time and left a voice mail. In about few mins later, Emi called back! She told me how the schedule is full for her. But she still asked how my nails to be done. I told her that I want it to be one solid color. She then told me about how she might be able to squeeze me in at 3pm. She said she will consult the customer at 12 and see if the customer's nail can be done before 3. She called back at about 12 and told me she will be able to do my nails!!!!!!! HOW AMAZING? I arrived about 2:40. The place was so cute and I walk in with her in about few mins. Even though I was indecisive about how I want my nails to be done, she helped me though and encouraged me. I could finally figure which fingers nails to be extended and the color of my nails. She was so gentle and totally knew what she was doing. She friendly asked questions and led our conversation. My eyes were drawn to her portfolio placed on the side. There were so many cute nails that she've done. I asked her if I could do them. Because of the time I had was so short I could not do all 10 nails but she did one art for me. It is even cuter. Emi is SO talented and soooo nice. I would definitely recommend this nail shop to anyone who is looking for their nails to be done! Don't hesitate!!!! And the price was reasonable :) I wish I could pay her more only if I had more money prepared. I LOVE YOU EMI! Thank you so much! read more

Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

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Emi is the BEST gel manicurist in NYC! She uses Japanese products only--no gelish or shallac gross-ness! The quality of the product and Emi's talent is why her manicures look amazing and last so long! The extensions I got look and feel amazing. My first pair lasted four weeks before I got them filled in. Emi genuinely cares about all of her clients. She must see so many people and yet, she remembers everything you talked about last time you were there! It's never silent and awkward like it can be with other nail artist. I will only go to Emi--she is truly one of a kind! Talented and wonderful! The best in NYC! read more

Emi did my wedding nails and everyone was raving about my nails! She is very sweet, easy to talk to, and meticulous with her art. She confirmed the appointment the day before and was in general easy to get a hold of. She operates out of a side room in Deify salon and books about 4-5 appointments a day, I think. Nails are pricy but worth it considering how long they last and how stunning they are. I literally am wowed by my nails every time I look at them. As others mentioned she used only Japanese nail gels which is high quality and doesn't require filing down the nail like Shellac. Notes: tip in cash and it's better to remove your gel nail polish at another salon before coming since the charge here is $15 read more

Emi is amazing! She is by far the best nail artist I've ever been too. She is a real professional and extremely sweet and nice. I just had a vague idea of what I wanted and she helped me pick the design and gave me suggestions. I would definitely go back! read more

I've gone to Emi two times and haven't been disappointed. My nails look so amazing, I don't want them to grow out!! The gel lasted for 4 weeks for me the first time and I expect the same the second time around. I seriously wish I could afford to go to her all the time - definitely worth it! Love her! read more

Emi Nails - White gel w gold detailing on almond shaped nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Very talented, very tatted nail artist. I work for a top salon spa so I'm very picky about my beauty services. Emi is a gem, she painted Mondrian art on all my nails in 65 minutes! Totally fabulous and amazing, check out her Instagram @emy_aoki_nails! read more

Emi Nails - Mondrian nail art - Nail Technicians Near Me

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Emi is so talented! I went with more simple nail art (more my style) and was so impressed. She takes so much care and makes sure it's perfect. Plus she's awesome and so lovely to hang out with for an hour!! read more

Emi Nails - simple, negative space design - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is a really talented and creative nail artist , she is very friendly, I'd love to come back next time ;) read more

Emi Nails - Love it ~ - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is by far the BEST nail artist I've ever been to. She is so detail oriented and so great at her craft. I'm getting married this weekend and she made sure everything was perfect! I'm so relieved to have found her. If you're curious about getting nail art but are afraid it won't look nice, I suggest you see Emi, she will hook you up like none other. read more

Emi Nails - #weddingnails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi was great and I love my nails! She was friendly and personable and did a great job shaping my nails. I love the color which she helped me pick and she was quite talented at the nail art! Hope to go back soon! read more

Emi is so wonderful and so nice! I'm glad she could squeeze me into her busy schedule knowing the fact that I was coming from Boston . She the real deal! She knows what shes doing and is so talented! I left happy and satisfied! read more

Emi Nails - Emi Nails - Nail Technicians Near Me

Emi is excellent, she's super friendly and does amazing job on my nails. I've tried, tried and tried again to kick a bad habit (related to nails of course) but nothing brought me lasting success. Keeping up regular manicures with Emi has helped tremendously. Her place is cozy, it has a large window with great views and streaming Netflix content in HD. I would definitely recommend her to anyone. read more

I got my gel nails that I got from Japan removed here and got a regular French gel manicure. Emi did a great job and her timing was on point. She was very detail oriented and she's a perfectionist. She sees the condition of your nail and treats it appropriately. She saw that one of my nails were dry more than others and she made sure to oil it more even without me saying a thing. I chose to go here because of the yelp reviews and this visit was not a disappointment. I can't wait to try out her designs next time. read more

Emi will not disappoint. She is truly an amazing artist and super cool to boot. I am always happier when she done with my nails, a high that keeps me coming back every 2.5 weeks. They last longer but my nails grow fast. read more

A little late for this review but I must say that Emi is truly an amazing artist & individual. She squeezed me in when I didn't have an appointment and she was fully booked to do my nails for my wedding. My nails lasted almost one month exactly. Every time I looked at my nails I smiled thinking of the best day of my life. Thank you Emi. I appreciate everything you have done for me! It's more than just nails, it was the happiest moment of my life and you helped make it so special. PS She's also a great person to share stories with! read more

Emi Nails - Thanks Emi!!! - Nail Technicians Near Me

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Emi is the best. I swore off gel as it severely damaged my fragile nails. But thanks to Emi I am back. She is extremely knowledgeable and thoughtful. She really wants what is best for the client and does not push additional services if she doesn't think they are necessary. Her nail out art is spectacular. She is tucked away in the back of a hair salon near FIT. Thank goodness my office is right next door because I am there every two weeks. But you can definitely go for 3 weeks and she does such an amazing job the gel doesn't chip! I highly recommend her! read more

I cannot rave enough about how much I love Emi's work and how much I love Emi herself. I really do not like sitting still for very long but she makes it fun and she's so easy to chat with. Her work speaks for itself. I've never left disappointed or concerned. The nails last a long time and continue to look amazing. I have no worries that when she does my nails for my wedding they'd look anything but gorgeous. read more

I found Emi on Yelp and I've gone to her several times. She has never disappointed, she is exactly as the others say. She does excellent work, she's sweet, funny, professional and a very skilled nail tech. Emi knows how to do any design and can make your nails look as glamorous or as chic (and simple) as you like. I've since moved away from New York to California, so I miss Emi, because finding someone good to do your nails is VERY difficult, and after six months away, I haven't found anyone yet. I love you Emi!! When I visit New York, I will definitely be visiting Emi's nail shop. read more

Emi is a truly gifted artist who comes up with intricately-designed nail art...whatever you want on a nail, she can do! And the mani will last 2-3 weeks! Will keep coming back again and again! Such a sweetie too :) read more