I wish I didn't have to post this review after coming to this nail salon a few times already, but this was by far the worst pedicure I have EVER gotten. When I sat down in the chair, I specifically told the person doing my nails that I had not gotten a pedicure in awhile (6 months actually) since the last time I got one, they cut the sides of my toenails and I got such bad ingrowns and my nails literally split from how bad they were. I had to grow them out for that long and had not touched them so my right toenail was a little uneven from the split. She said Ok and said she would be careful. She asked if she could cut just the top of the nail to make it even and square. I said yes, and then repeated that I did NOT want anything on the sides of my toes touched. Despite MULTIPLE times telling her that, she took it upon herself to "clean up" the sides of my big toenails by cutting them at a 45° angle.... the EXACT thing that the previous salon did that absolutely destroyed my nails. When I realized, I asked her, and she tried to defend herself while lying multiple times. She had the audacity to say 1. My nails were already like that, then changed her story to 2. That she was "cutting away" the excess nail polish she had put on away". And then again changed her story to 3. That she actually didn't cut them at all and didn't know what I was talking about. I then said, no you absolutely cut them, why would you cut the inside of the nail when I SPECIFICALLY said at least 2-3 times not to? She replied with, well they're already cut, I can't do anything now. AND THEN TRIED TO CUT THE SIDES AGAIN MORE SAYING SHE WAS TRYING TO FIX IT. I literally had to push her hand away and say "absolutely not, please stop touching my nail." When I walked in, I asked for 2 coats funny bunny, 1 coat bubble bath. Well, 7 coats later and her saying bubble bath wouldn't look very good. I had to accept that my nails were just not going to look acceptable at al. You can actually still see the brush strokes of the polish... AFTER 7 COATS!! It was absolutely absurd how they could not achieve a simple combination that is by far the most popular nail polish combo right now. After she said she was done, I paid, and I couldn't get out of there fast enough. I was on the bridge of tears knowing how long it had taken me to recover from my previous nail fiasco and how long it was going to take to recover from this. I am getting married in August and honestly so sad that my nails might still be affected by this. When I got home, I burst into tears and couldn't believe the state of my nails. After more inspection, I realized she DIDN'T EVEN PAINT MY RIGHT PINKY TOE!!!! I am going to a wedding abroad on Wednesday, so as you can imagine, I was pissed. I had to file down some of my other nails because they were shaped so badly. My big toes don't even look the same shape. I walked back into the store before a dinner reservation and asked for a refund. She asked me to take off my shoes so she could inspect my toes. I told her what had happened and that my pinky toe wasn't even painted. She said she couldn't offer me a refund, just a gift certificate since the service was completed. I responded with... well not really cause my toe was not painted and she specifically did something I asked her not to do. I didn't even mention how bad the nail polish application was since I thought it was pretty fricken apparent and had an uber waiting. I ended up taking the gift certificate since I was in a hurry, and they said I could come back to get them redone and there would be a different person there to do them. I don't know why they would think I would EVER go back there again, but I will be filing a dispute with my CC company. So sad since I had been here multiple times before and live down the street. Would NOT recommend. read more

See all

I have to say, I was a little skeptical because it's in a prime Union Street location and I thought it would be bougie and over priced. I got there Saturday afternoon about 4pm. I was just in for an over due pedicure. There was a mix of men and women in chairs getting their nails done. There's a really good selection of colors to choose from. I went with a soft pink for my toes. They have nice massage chairs and while you're soaking your feet, they bring you a heated shoulder pad the drape on. I almost left with it still on because I forgot it was there! They did a super job. I wish they cut my nails shorter because my pinkie toes still had sharp edges. Yikes. When I asked, someone filed them and they were just right. read more

New Zen Spa - Inside - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Truly perfect nails. Every single time! Exactly what I wanted, thin almond with multiple colors French. They last a full 4 weeks, no chipping! Highly recommend. read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

My wife goes here very often and I sometimes go as well. The staff is always amazing and very friendly. I only get my feet done but they are always very attentive. The store is constantly clean and has a very warm / inviting atmosphere. Definitely recommend !! P.S: The review below this one is actually false. My wife was there while she was getting her treatment and to say she has exaggerated the events would be a gross understatement. New Zen Spa, keep up the great work !! You've got plenty of life long customers, even if some people can't appreciate the hard work you guys do. read more

Excellent gel-x manicure!! Great service. Asked for this design and it was perfect. Thanks read more

New Zen Spa - Excellent! Gel x manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Nice and clean space, the quality nice the hospitality them offering tea or water was amazing after a long walk in the heat!

Finding a good nail salon around San Francisco is harder than one would expect, but I cant say enough good things about new zen spa! For one, Vivian is best nail tech I've ever had. Her ability to replicate any look i show her, the attention to detail and time spent on making sure everything meets client satisfaction, and her willingness to make herself available for her consistent clientele make me never want to go anywhere else. She's the best and so is New Zen spa! Anyone looking for their go-to nail salon should give here a shot read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

New Zen Spa has very detail-oriented nail service! I made an appointment for 5:30 and upon arrival was promptly sat down. Getting a full set of acrylics entails cuticle service, hot towels, a hand massage, and cuticle oil on top of shaping and painting. I'm really happy with how detail oriented the manicurists are. I have very sensitive skin and have been cut before at different salons by the spinning tool, but not here. They took a lot of time to shape the nail to exactly how I wanted, which I really appreciated. I also like how dip powder is used here; my nails don't look as thick coming out, which is another nice detail. The total came out to $85 for acrylics and gel color on top, which is pricier than normal; I have to assume it's because I got a design in my nails more than just regular color, as well as getting gel. However, with tip the total came out to around $100, which is a bit pricy. read more

New Zen Spa - Acrylics without gel color - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

They were so incredible with their service! Most relaxing manicure ever. On the more expensive side for Gel X fill...

They do a good job but Wayyy too expensive. I feel like every time I try to come back they charge me more Used to come here all the time for gel manicures - $38 but then decided to try dip one time - $90!!! You've been warned lol read more

See all

Great nail place. Staff is friendly, attentive, and can always get you in. Highly recommend.

I have been going to New Zen Spa for years and will never go anywhere else. The owner, Vivienne is the sweetest, most welcoming human I have met. Everyone in there is so kind and really make you feel at home. The quality of their work is superior and they put so much time and effort into making sure your nails are perfect! They are so accommodating, they offer everyone hot tea, bottled water and snacks. They place warm comfy packs around your neck that are so relaxing, have modern massage chairs and everything is spotless. They sanitize all the tools they use and are constantly cleaning after every client. I always feel comfortable and welcomed here. I have recommended this nail salon to friends who have fallen in love with it as well. Thank you so much New Zen Spa for always making me feel so relaxed and cared for in the couple of hours I am here every month. Their work is so thorough and impeccable! The place is always clean, neat with soothing music playing. I look forward to self care days getting my nails done here. read more

For anyone who may have seen my previous post - I ran into Vivian and it was completely a misunderstanding! She was so kind and understanding and fully compensated for what happened!! I would 100% recommend this salons as it is so clean and everyone is so well trained. I get some of the best acrylics in the city done here and would recommend Vivian for acrylics as the shape is always perfect and they are so well done! It is so easy to schedule an appointment or just walk-in :) So grateful it was just a misunderstanding and will now be returning - love this place!! read more

I have been to A LOT of nail salons, and New Zen is by far my favorite spot in the city. I typically get only dip and Vivian and Lily are both incredible! My dip typically lasts the full 3 weeks, and sometimes even 4. My nails are always perfectly shaped, and never too thick or too thin. This place is very clean, which is a big factor for me, and they just take extra care to make sure you're comfortable. They have tons of snacks/cookies and water/tea. They recently got these warm bean bags to go around your shoulders during your treatment (for free) and they spend their time and don't rush. The quality of service, and attention to detail at this place is what makes it top notch. And when you are a return customer they recognize and make you feel so welcome. Highly recommend! read more

Stopped by on a whim to remove my old gel polish but didn't have time for a full manicure. It was such an easy and pleasant experience. The technician removed the old polish, trimmed and filed to shape, plus cuticle oil and a warm towel. Definitely coming back. read more

New Zen does great gel manicures. They always last with no chipping until time to remove the polish. The staff is so kind and attentive!

I've been a regular here for years and consistently receive top-notch service. The staff is always friendly and their work is exceptional. Great atmosphere in the salon as well. read more

I have been coming here for a while now and it is still the best nail salon in the city ! The results have always been outstanding , no complaints. The staffs all do great work and are welcoming. Definitely recommend to anyone who hasn't been here before ! read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

(2.5 STARS) Ok. Honestly.... :( This is one of the HARDEST negative reviews I've ever had to leave... To where I tried to just ignore it and say I'll just go to the other spot, across the street. As a man. I walked in, in DESPERATE NEED of a mani/ pedi. It's been, (less just say), AGES since my last one. 1) THEY HAVE MASSAGE CHAIRS! Automatic seller! Until... I'm sitting there fiddling with the remote. And.... NOTHING! No one said anything, (even if it wasn't working), or offered to assist or even offer me another chair... but ok. Whatever. The massage is a plus but the nails are the main priority. 2) I didn't feel out of place walking in. And didn't feel uncomfortable to sit. Especially as a man... THAT's HUGE! Customer service is one of my biggest things. ***That was for the good*** The "NOT SO" good... Remember, "ages?" Ok. So I can cut my own nails and clean up my own cuticles. I just never really have and prefer to have someone else take care of all of that for me while I relax. Well... let's just say, THAT's ALL I RECEIVED... (yikes!) $55 Later. There was no "manicuring," so to say... or really and MORE IMPORTANTLY "pedicuring." I needed some real, ok a lil, TLC for my toesies. They've been sorta neglected, ya know! So fast forward about a week or so later. I wanted another one. Already knowing it would take at least two sessions for my feet to be presentable in flops again. I was looking for another nail shop to give a try, but got impatient looking so decided, "What the hell," I'll just come back here.... Well on Monday they were closed. (Not a reasoning for the review). So I go across the street to the nail shop across from the dispensary I always forget about... AND... "MY DAMN!" Did I receive THE SERVICE, I've been longing for!!! The time that shop spent on shaping and cleaning up ONE OF my big toes on round two... COMPLETELY SURPASSED the ENTIRE SERVICE, I received at this shop for my HANDS & FEET!!! BY FARRRRRRRR! Sad to say. But... Very true. :( I don't know if here was prejudging of me at first glance, or because I was a man, or just lacked the skill level needed, (which I doubt). But not the service AT ALL, I expect for $50 and a $30 tip, knowing my nails was in desperate need. read more

I'm very surprised to see any negative reviews! If you're looking to get a full color in gel, dip, or regular polish--look no further. Seriously. Save yourself the trouble. I've had my dip done here and it lasted over a month. They have such high attention to detail, it's amazing. My gel manicures have always looked flawless. I've gone to other nail salons when Zen wasn't open and regretted it. They've never lasted as long. Nothing compares! read more

See all

I love getting my gel mani here! 1. It's clean and tools are sanitized. 2. Le is gentle with filing and cutting my cuticles. 3. She does an amazing job shaping my nails and always checks to make sure shape is good. read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

I requested to remove my dip on my nails and to reapply or refill along with a gel polish change on my toes. They gave me a full pedicure and charged me for it. I didn't realize until halfway through. I didn't say anything- I just paid for it. Services were a tad extra pricey. My nail broke 2 days later which is entirely unacceptable. When I went back in to fix my nail, their attitude was irritable as if they were mad at me for my nail breaking. Which it should be the opposite. I'm not paying for my nails to last one day. I'm paying for them to last up to three weeks. After they made me feel uncomfortable, they tried to charge me for the fix. I said absolutely not and she tried to shame me to the room for not wanting to pay $10, which was certainly not the point. I've never posted a yelp review in my life, but my experience here has led me to share. read more

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, STAY AWAY FROM THIS NAIL SALON!!! The rudest and the unfriendliest nail salon ever. I have been a very loyal customer of Lily and the salon for a year. I have treated these ladies with respect and kindness. I have been treated very poorly several occasions and today I experienced the worst experience ever. I kindly asked my nail technician lady, Lily to start applying my gel color from the top of my nails and don't leave an empty space between my nails and my cuticles. This is my personal preference and I asked for this very kindly. She not only denied my request but cold heartedly told me that I should find another nail technician. She didn't even bother to looking at me while she was making these rude comments. When I mentioned to her that it's really unkind she raised her voice and repeated the same thing again. She had an argument in the back with the owner lady, Vivian. Vivian came to me and I shared the way Lily talked to me and I showed her my nails that were painted unevenly. She wasn't apologetic about my experience she rather confirmed that Lily doesn't like me as her customer because I ask her to apply the color the certain way I prefer it. I believe that it's not an extravagant request. I think this treatment is more than unacceptable. It's absolutely not professional. You should treat your customers equally kindly and with the respect that you receive from them. No owner should allow their employees to make rude comments about their customers and to let them raise their voice on anyone. I left my appointment in tears. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE! read more

This review is long over due! I don't really write reviews but the salon definitely deserves a shoutout. All the girls here do great work and are super professional. This has been my go to spot and Lilly kills it every time! She listens to what I want and takes the time to make sure everything is perfect. I always l leave the salon obsessed with my nails read more

See all

Swung by on a rainy Saturday afternoon around 3pm for a dip manicure; they have about 30 color choices. When I arrived, I luckily didn't have to wait too long. I probably waited 10 minutes before someone came to grab me. When you walk in, the first thing you notice is a lack of tables. Most salons have a bunch of massage chairs + a tub for pedicures and then a row of tables for people to get their manicure. New Zen Spa only has chairs and they give you a pillow + towel to rest your hands on. I lucked out and got seated at a massage chair! Whoo! Free 20 minute massage! The manicurist who helped me was super gentle and very detailed oriented. She brushed the leftover powder from my hand after each round and kept making sure nothing was sticking to areas outside of the nail bed. It's a level of attention I was definitely not use to for dip polish. After 1 week, my nails are still going strong + no chips. For $45 ($45 for dip + $5 for removal + 10% discount with cash) I will definitely come back! read more

I just had the loveliest powder dip manicure (by Lily) and pedicure (by a gentleman whose name I did not get unfortunately)! There was so much attention to detail from both technici. This is hands down the best powder dip mani I've had! Unlike other nail salons, New Zen actually includes the manicure portion with soaking and cuticle trimming. Amazing work, I am so happy and will definitely be back!! Thanks Lily!! Keep up the good work, Zen Spa! read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've been a regular at this nail salon for over two and a half years now, and it's become my go-to spot for consistently excellent service. The have water and or tea available for customers. Typically I get a dip manicure which always turns out great. Vivian or Lily usually do my nails and the dip is never too thick. They check the shape, length, and color with me before moving on to the next step. I've had a handful of pedicures over the years both regular and gel there too. The pedicure chairs are massagers which is a bonus. They take walk-ins but on busier times I will call and check in if there is availability for me to come in. I've never been in the salon more than 1 hr 40mins and that was doing both mani and pedi. My roommate and my best friend now exclusively go here as well. read more

Honestly my dip powder manicure came out great, the woman who did my nails was very detailed and did everything perfectly in my opinion. The reason for only 3 stars is that she basically lied to me! I came in with a picture of ombré nails and she said she could do it, but then instead of doing it with the dip powder (which I know you can do, and she said she could) she started painting with the gel like light stokes with a brush!! I wish I took a picture y'all it look HORRIBLE I was very upset but she was nice about it and we ended up just doing a solid color. But damn, it took an extra 40 mins and like wtf? Why say you can do it if it's not going to look anything like the picture?! In conclusion, don't go there for ombré or designs unless the girl has some proof she can do what your asking for! read more

GREAT service and quality here. Walked in pretty easily and was greeted with a water bottle, tea, candy, and a madeleine. Ladies working are so sweet and service/experience was super! I got a regular mani pedi for the cash price of $50 (non cash is $55 so remember to bring cash!) and the polish lasted for much longer than usual - probably 2.5 weeks with no cracks. One of my friends even thought I had gotten gel because of how great they looked :) I think the mani pedi pricing is slightly on the higher end (I usually get a normal mani pedi in NYC for $36 from my regular salon) but I would definitely go back for the service and quality! Can't wait to come back when I'm in the area. read more

Always do a great dip manicure and pedicure! Comfortable, clean environment. A little on the expensive side for dip but I always love them, they last about 4 weeks and there is a discount if you pay in cash! My go to nail spot around Pac Heights/Cow Hollow. read more

Had dip powder nails done here for the first time. The wait to be seen was kind of long but it was pretty busy & it was well worth the wait. The nail tech paid close attention to detail, was gentle and friendly. I can't wait to go back. read more

New Zen Spa - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

This was my second time at New Zen Spa. I am extremely, extremely disappointed, given the price. I knew this spa was more expensive than most (almost $65 for a gel manicure and a regular non-gel pedicure). But, I was leaving for Bali for 2 months, and wanted to start off with a long lasting mani pedi. I was shocked if the price to begin with - I don't remember it being that expensive the first time. Then, 10 days in Bali, my pedicure is almost fully chipped off, and 3 fingers of my gel manicure have chipped off. Extremely disappointed. Not worth the money. read more

If you're looking for a natural dip with tip look, Lee is amazing. It is on the more expensive side of what I would typically pay, but she did a great job. Not too thick and evenly shaped. read more

New Zen Spa - Dip with tip - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

The dip was way too thick which means the bottom of the nails were peeling up within the first week. When I went in to ask if they could fix it, the lady was really defensive and told me my nails were too thin and that I "do dip too often" which is why they were coming off....which just isn't true because I've never faced the issue. They were nice about getting me in to fix it, but it is hard to find time to get back in when you're busy. Had they been more apologetic about it in the first place, I would've had a better experience. Hoping they work on their quality of dip because they do have awesome colors read more

The ladies here are so nice and meticulous! I got a gel mani and regular pedicure which were perfect. I will definitely come back here again! read more

New Zen Spa - Gel manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

So I walked in for a service during my lunch. They took me right away. When they took me for my service, the owner was telling me I can't tip with my credit card, because it's a illegal. Ummm no it's not illegal. I'm a hairstylist, and I get tipped on card all the time. Other than this, the service was great no complaints. But please, if you PREFER cash that's fine. But don't make things up, and say it's illegal to tip in cash. I'm in the industry. I know. read more

Highly recommend I've gotten a dip manicure here twice and they did an amazing job both times. A dip manicure from here lasts 3 weeks, probably more if I didn't get tired of a color ;-) They greet you with a water bottle and snack. Polite and professional. They give a 5% discount if you pay with cash and another bonus is they have an ATM so it's easy to tip in cash. I'd recommend making an appointment unless you're okay with waiting an hour. read more

New Zen Spa - Once you're seated they give you treats and a water. What a nice touch and already earned a tip - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Post covid this place is still awesome. It was so easy to book an appointment and they were so flexible. Lee did my manicure and she was so detailed oriented. Quan did my pedicure and sent a good amount of time massaging me. Overall great experience!! read more

I've been coming here for about a year for the dip manicures and I've never had a bad experience. While they do take walk-ins, it's very easy to make an appointment ahead of time. Everyone is incredibly friendly and very efficient. I've had dip powder manicures at other places, and this is by far the most professional and highest quality work I've encountered (usually lasts 3+ weeks). Some things to keep in mind: (1) all tips must be paid in cash, (2) they do offer a discount if you pay for your services with cash, and (3) they have an ATM in the salon. read more

See all

I had a great experience here. Super clean (my top priority) and they do a great job. One week out and my pedi still looks great. I got a pedi + 15 min massage for $40, worth it! They put flower petals and citrus in the water. Really good. I had Lynn as my technician, came as a walk in and they took me pretty quickly. I will definitely be back! read more

New Zen Spa - My pedi after a week! So good. - Nail Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California