I purchased a groupon for a 90 minute Swedish massage, and showed up promptly at my scheduled time. Well guess what? They told me straight up that their online appointment system doesn't always work. GREAT. After arguing with the manager that they needed to honor the appointment as they had confirmed it, they told me to come back in a few hours and they would be able to take me. Very inconvenient. If I had known how bad the actual massage would have been, I wouldn't have even bothered to come back. I received barely an hour of therapeutically useless and awkward massage. I mentioned it on the way out that I hadn't even gotten the amount of time that I paid for, their response? Oh yeah, you're right, sorry. And then she asked for a tip. First time in my life I've ever not tipped a service employee, but it was THAT bad. read more

On June 14, 2016, I called Illa Boutique to make a couples massage appointment for June 26, 2016 at 2:15 p.m. When I called, I could barely hear the front office staff on the telephone because she was standing outside. She asked me to hold on until she went inside to take my call. I scheduled my appointment and I informed her that I purchased a Groupon. She took the voucher number, as well as my name and contact number. On June 26th, my fiancée and I arrived at the Boutique at 1:45 p.m. One of the workers barely acknowledged our presence; I informed him that I was aware we were early and would wait until our scheduled time. The attendant had no record of my appointment in their system and asked me to pull up the Groupon voucher number on my phone. When I did, I noticed that it was redeemed on June 25 at 5:18 p.m. I stated that this was impossible because we had never been to this business before. Red flag number 1. The woman who I booked the appointment with came out of one of the massage rooms and she and the front office attendant were looking through their computer. They stated that the appointment was for June 25th and not the 26th. The woman then asked me, quite rudely, "Why didn't you pick up your phone when we called you three times?" Red flag number 2. I responded that I had no missed calls from their business and could provide them with my call log to verify my story. They asked us to sit in their waiting area while they figured out what to do. She and the front office worker She did not communicate with us at that point. This is where things got even more ridiculous. One of the massage therapists motioned for my partner and me to follow him into one of the rooms. I asked, "Oh! So, is it taken care of?" to which I did not get a response. Red flag number 3. They instructed us to lay on our stomachs and two massage therapists entered the room. My massage was adequate at best, with no check ins about pressure. My fiancee's, however, was absolutely terrible. The massage therapist did not put any oils or lotions on her and she had to ask him three times to be more gentle. He was being so rough that I could hear her massage table rocking with her on it. When they were finished, neither one of them said good bye or asked how it was. We left the business and no one said a word to us. It was a terrible experience all around. Poor customer service, no acknowledgment of their error, poor massage with no check ins, no discussion about potential areas to focus on. I have no idea how they have positive reviews. Groupon should do a better job of vetting this business because this was not worth our money. read more

Went here and it was pretty good- not amazing. Then I bought a $50 "come back next time" massage, which i gifted to my husband. It was supposed to be a 60 minute massage... but ended up only being 40 minutes. not cool. read more

I found Illa spa via Groupon and planned a relaxing night around a massage that I booked online. However, they did not honor my appointment. I walked in, they said they were closed and I told them I had an appointment and a confirmation email and at first they said they had no idea what I was talking about. Then I showed them the confirmation email as proof and they claim to have texted me to cancel but I never received the text and showed them my text messages from the past several days. I also asked why they didn't call or email me and they said they didn't have to...? Apparently not all of their appointment slots are for Groupon customers but when I booked online, it provided me with a space to enter my voucher number and I received a confirmation email so I figured, as one would, that the appointment was confirmed. They were extremely rude and unprofessional throughout the whole process and when I asked them how I could go about receiving a refund, they said it wasn't their problem that I wasn't willing to pay full price for a massage. I got annoyed after being yelled at, interrupted and lied to so I walked out and was somewhat thankful that I didn't have to spend in hour in such a grimy space. Based on what I saw, it is small, cheaply built/decorated and not clean-- definitely not what you would expect from anywhere that has "spa" in it's name so don't trust the photos they provide. I just wish I had read all of these terrible reviews before going because they are spot on and their manager/whoever responds to these things doesn't even address the complaints or acknowledge the multiple instances of paying customers getting yelled at, hung up on, belittled for using Groupon etc. All I saw were excuses and denials but I'm not surprised based on my experience. Bottom line, I would strongly caution against going here-- with or without a discount!! read more

Massage therapist did not ask my preferences or whether I had any injuries or problems beforehand. He didn't communicate with me besides saying "yes, okay miss". I asked a question and received no response. That doesn't make me feel safe when receiving a massage. The massage wasn't that great and he did a weird maneuver of bending my leg and rotating it around (meanwhile I have no clothes on under the towel, so this felt very uncomfortable). I had a hard time finding the place and I didn't like how dark it was in the waiting room. It felt odd. read more

I was not very impressed with my experience here. I was supposed to have a 55 min facial and 90 min prenatal massage. The facial was relaxing but there was almost no time spent on extractions and mostly time with a mask or the steam. My massage was rushed and uncomfortable. They were not really equipped to do a prenatal massage because the tables are small and there were no large pillows. The employee took the pillows from the waiting room to use between my legs which I thought was rather gross. I had her at least wrap them with sheets. The whole thing felt really rushed for a 90 min massage. When she said I was done I looked at the clock and realized that we finished 40 min before we should have. I was disappointed and ended up refusing to pay full price. Unfortunately won't be going back here again. read more

My fiancé and I went to illa spa for 60 min couples massage from Groupon. My fiancé had a woman masseuse and I had a male masseuse(we never got their names). I have never written a bad review but I have received many massages and I was extremely disappointed with mine. My fiancé said he had a great massage with the female masseuse though that's why I am contemplating writing this. For mine the pressure was good for my back but he was rubbing on the wrong places(my spine and bony parts of my back), he also literally pinched my skin (it hurt), he did not massage in any order and was fumbling around a lot of the time. I just wanted the massage to stop. I don't think he knows the difference between bone, muscle and tendons. He also scratched the bottom on my feet and the palms of my hands. He rubbed my ankle bone, bone behind your ear, and he also used his elbow to push on the tendon behind the knee which also hurt. During the facial part he pinched my nose. I was just ready for it to be done. I don't think he should be giving massages, I was really looking forward to this experience and I feel like it was ruined. read more

Horrible customer service. Women at front desk lacks customer service all together. While there I witnessed her and heard her during my massage yelling at someone. I too now have experience horrible service trying to use my remaining livingSocial pass. All of a sudden there are no openings after 4 and I can only seem to book a day appointment. Do not give this place a try! Massage was not great either! So why bother read more

Awful experience, they waited until I was naked in bed only to tell me they wouldn't honor my Groupon, I cancelled all the ones I bought for friends too. read more

I went to Illa Spa to use a Groupon for a couples massage. I called to make an appointment and then they told me that I needed to do it online which I did and I got a confirmation by email too. The day of my appointment we arrived 10 minutes earlier and they told us that there was no appointment even though I showed her my confirmation and told her I never received any cancellation notice. The person at the lobby, Sunita Limbu, was very rude to us, didn't even provide a solution to the problem. She basically keep saying that it was cancelled, didn't want to listen to the customer and at the end she kicked us out and closed the door at our face. I've never been treated like this. This person customer service was out of line. I couldn't even try the massage but for sure I will never go again. I asked for a refund. read more

I read bad reviews and still gave it a shot with a voucher. Great wax. They were fast, clean, thorough, and friendly.

Not even sure this is a real business. Bought a groupon a few months ago and wasn't able to use it because every time I tried to schedule, they had no availability even months in advance. Even when I scheduled a massage past the Groupon expiration date forfeiting the Groupon value, I still had issues. They rescheduled twice and then at 9pm the night before my 11:30am scheduled massage, they texted my phone saying they could no longer accommodate 11:30, suggesting 11am which I was unable to do. Very regretful I ever bought the Groupon. read more

Sofie was an amazing esthetician. She was quick but thorough and there was very little wait time in the lobby. She expertly recommended the sugar wax for my sensitive skin, which I appreciated! Will definitely be returning! read more

I would give this spa zero stars if that were an option. I purchased a groupon to try this place out. When I tried to schedule an appointment, I was told that vouchers were not eligible on the weekends and could only schedule a Saturday/Sunday appointment if I paid full price. I tried to explain that this policy was not included on the voucher. The woman hung up on me. Then I received a call back from the spa. I explained that I had just been hung up on. She told me that because I was booking last minute I could only be given an appointment at full price. When I tried to explain that this was policy was not included on the groupon, I was hung up on for a second time. This place has non existent customer service and I cannot imagine ever going there in person. read more

Love going there- so quick- in and out in 20 minutes or less for a Brazilian wax- very friendly & efficient staff!

Hanna is an incredible masseuse. On top of being an active athlete, I had a few muscle lumps on my neck that needed serious work. Hanna went to town on me, knowing exactly what to do, and within 3 sessions they were gone. Also, the week after each session is amazing, When I play my sport I feel no tightness, am quick on my feet and overall just feel good. Trust me, after you experience Hanna, other massages are pretty much ruined. SHE'S AMAZING!! read more

I completed a deep tissue massage with Daniel this past weekend and it was great. Perfect amount of pressure. Afterwards. Hannah gave me a facial and I really enjoyed it. This spa may not be the fanciest but it's nice and clean. One good point is, I wasn't freezing. So many salons are so cold. The service was great. I didn't wait at all. Daniel and Hannah were both very nice and attentive. read more

I received a 60min couples massage. The massage itself seemed ok but when it was over I tried to get up and had pain in my neck that wasn't there before on the left side. When I informed the 2 masseuse that had just finished with us I was told " that's not our problem ". No explanation was offered as to why such as maybe I was tense or that can be a normal temporary side effect. They turned very rude very quickly and then tried to force me to tip anyway. I will not return EVER read more

A friend and I received 60 minute​ Swedish couples massage. They were very relaxing. The rooms were very clean and well decorated. It totally added to the experience. I would recommend and go back. read more

I wish I could give this place a better rating, but unfortunately I had the worst massage I've ever had here! Unfortunately, I do not remember the name of the guy who gave me the massage. I must admit that when I went in for my massage, I was a little surprised that nobody asked if I was comfortable with a male masseuse. I had no problem with that, but I get a massage regularly, and it is usually normal for someone to ensure you're comfortable with it. The massage itself was the longest 60 minutes of my life. In hindsight, I wish I had asked him to stop and walked away. The masseuse had NO idea what he was doing. He used far too much oil which gave out 'slurpy' sounds throughout; his used his nails often (strange!) which felt scratchy; He constantly used his elbow in the wrong places (he was massaging my spine (!) and did not put any pressure on tight muscles); and the rest of the time there was no pressure. He definitely had no idea what he was doing and unfortunately I walked away feeling like I'd gone through the most stressful hour. I would never go back, and unfortunately I don't recommend this place at all. read more

My fiance and I had the worst time here. I can't even say I was there because we NEVER got the service. I scheduled it for the day of my fiance bday and when we arrived we waited 30 mins before anyone said anything turns out their was NO one coming. The front desk person told us she would reschedule us for that sunday at 2pm and when we arrived there was no reservation. SMH.. Rescheduled AGAIN the following week... Of course because it's in the middle dupont circle in DC the parking was terrible so I asked if I could just reschedule it. BecauseThey were booked and it would've been a waste of money to get half of the massage. Honestly the next reservation was cancelled because my work schedule was crazy and I just couldn't deal the location anymore. The lady at the front desk called me with the nastiest attitude tells me "she won't accept my voucher every again" and put in the system that the voucher had been redeemed. I'll never get a "deal" with groupon or This place EVERY AGAIN. Customer Service here is terrible. i don't even wanna give them this one star. read more

The place is disorganized. I spoke to Nicole wanting to make an appt with her. She didn't have availability so she made my appt with another female masseuse. I get to the place and they say that they don't have my appt down. Instead being apologetic, the lady at the front desk was unsympathetic and didn't offer any kind of customer service like offering a discount for making a second appt . read more

I've gone here twice for facials with Hanna, and I only have good things to say about both experiences. The room was waiting for me when I arrived, it was completely professional and I was out right on time -- which for me is just as important as the treatment itself. That being said, the actual facials were superb. Hanna is clearly extremely experienced. I left with a glow that lasted for days and days. I'll be coming back for different treatments. It's all reasonably priced especially considering it's prime location near the Dupont metro and lots of bus lines. read more

The service is professional and accommodating. The deep tissue message I received was one of the best I had. Proximity to Dupont Circle metro is also a big plus. read more

This place is amazing! I have chronic upper back/neck/shoulder pain that flares up every now and again... It flared up earlier this week so I decided to come to illa for a massage because of the groupon and its proximity to work. WOW! I could not have asked for a better start to finish experience. I ended up being a few min late because of the snow - the staff was great about checking me in without being rushed and making sure I got my full 90 min massage. My masseuse Karen was kind and attentive. She started to examine my back and immediately identified all my pain points (I hadn't told her about my history of back pain) and could tell this was a chronic issue. She offered me a deeper massage (which was really what I needed) at a VERY discounted rate and did an extremely thorough job. I feel the best I've felt in days and am finally able to sleep with having to douse myself in a vat of Ben gay. Thanks so much Karen and illa salon! I'll be back soon! read more

We purchased a couple's massage from Groupon. It was a great deal and an even better massage. It would have been a great value even at full price. The atmosphere was chill and unpretentious and the team was friendly. Daniel was my massage therapist. He was skilled, considerate, and respectful as he blended some deep tissue work and Swedish massage in my one hour session. He made sure the pressure was right by asking periodically. I walked out feeling relaxed and refreshed. read more

I bought a groupon for a 60 minute couples Swedish massage and it was great. Booking was super simple online, although I wish they had sent a confirmation email. The massage therapists were friendly and we had an overall wonderful and relaxing experience. read more

Hanna did an excellent job with the Deep Tissue 60 minute massage. I am a stickler for a very firm massage and indicated so on my preference card. My masseuse was Hanna, who is small but incredibly strong! She was great at finding the spots that needed attention and worked out the knots --- you feel like you're getting your money's worth with her! Also clear that she knew what she was doing; this wasn't some floofy rub-down (heads up, though Swedish is less expensive it's not as firm, if you want to release some tension pay up for the Deep Tissue). Clean space, friendly staff, and you can pay tip via credit card. Overall great experience and would go again. read more

I waa given a Swedish message for christmas purchase off groupon. I called before the expiration date of the groupon asked about scheduling appointment for a day for the next week I was told that that was okay and I can still use the groupon I get to the spa it spells like pee and looks nothing like that website I was asked my appointment time and name they look me up and said someone will be right with you the massage was right after I'm gone the manager says your groupon is expired I said I know I called and the person who booked me said it was not a problem she saying no and told me I had to pay 80 dollars I said No and she called the police. After these dumb bitches come she change her story and said I just have to pay 35 dollars and police had me pay after hearing from the other two employees about what she said never will i go back read more

I bought a 60 minute deep tissue massage with Akka as my birthday present to myself, and did not regret one minute of it! It was probably the best massage I received so far. I'd definitely recommend this place! read more

I have been going to Daniel, a wonderful massage therapist at Illa Boutique Spa for the past few months now, and I have nothing but great things to say. My shoulders and back have taken a beating over the years and deep tissue massage has been a saving grace. Most people shy away from giving me a true deep tissue massage because I am small, but Daniel gets in there to find the balance of effort and ease that works for my body and mitigate my issues. He is kind and attentive and offers plenty of opportunity for feedback. Massage therapy is important not only if you have issues like me, but also if you are looking to round out your practice of self-care. I am sure you will reap its benefits if Daniel is taking care of you. read more

Had a wonderful experience at illa! I found them through Groupon and bought the couples massage it was a great deal and well worth it! Daniel and Jessica did a phenomenal job and were very professional and made sure we were both comfortable the whole time. My shoulders were really tense and although we bought the Swedish massage deal, Daniel still put deeper pressure on my shoulders to help break up the tension. Very relaxing and was much needed. We plan to go back again really soon. The place itself was very clean and had a calming atmosphere too which was a plus. read more

Daniel and Jessica did a great job with our couples massage. They both made sure we were comfortable and relaxed. We will be returning.

Hanna is an amazing therapist. I have severe TMJ and have had major pain in my neck and upper back for many years. Hanna suggested a 5-session treatment (one every 2-3 days) for the condition and after questioning the need for the frequency, I am a true believer. I have never felt better! read more

Four stars for the facility, which is functional but pretty basic. Five stars for Georgi, whom I followed from another spa. That should say it all. read more

Absolutely fantastic. Sunita has fixed problems for both me and my husband (docs wanted to operate on him). She can go beyond 'deep tissue'; I view her as my Physical Therapist! We highly recommend her. read more

Hanna and I discussed my first appointment with microdermabrasion to help speed the process of smoothing and getting maximum results for my face, she did a great job; it was so relaxing and I could tell a big difference without my being all red when it was over. My skin improved so much after one visit, I cannot wait how to continues to improve going to my skin care routine from now with Hanna, she even did my eyebrows with threads and she did it so much better than in my regular salon. All the rest of the staff goes above and beyond, Daniel and Georgi are great massage therapist I highly recommend the Spa,you will not regret it! read more

New location, but I've been working with the masseuse Hanna for over a year now. When it came to my situation Hanna is a LIFE SAVER. I live a very active lifestyle from running, lifting, snowboarding, and retired military, topped off with 3 whiplash incidents. As active as I was, paired with all my injuries I've suffered it lead to a ton of inflammation and scaring to form on my body. Then one day I noticed I was losing circulation and having trouble breathing. I saw an Urgent Care doctor and one primary neither were able to figure it out. Hanna was able to rid my body of the scaring and inflammation, return mobility and flexibility that I had lost. All the pain in my neck, shoulder, back legs, hips are gone thanks to Hanna. Again she SAVED MY LIFE. If that alone is not good enough for you then... Thank you Hanna for all you've done and hopefully more people will receive your benefits. read more

I was never able to use my Groupon, so I can't speak to the quality of services. The phone was off the hook or busy for at least a full week every time I called. So I physically walked in and asked to make an appointment. The phones were ringing off the hook (not sure what number since it wasn't the one advertised on Groupon or Yelp). I couldn't even have a conversation with the receptionist without her try to answer at least 3 calls while I was trying to talk to her and give her my availability. She told me that (a) there were no openings before my groupon expired because they had too many groupon customers (b) I could be added to a wait list and (c) my groupon would not be honored after the expiration date for anything beyond the purchase value. I went back by the location on the expiration date and they seemed to have no record of me being on a waiting list. I understand that I should've made an appointment earlier, but the unresponsive customer service and lack of desire to develop a new client base was pretty surprising. read more

excellent, no-frills but high quality bikini wax. very happy to have discovered this convenient spot! they have also been very accommodating with squeezing me in with little advance notice. read more