I recently moved to Highland Park, so I'm branching out to various nearby neighborhoods, such as Chinatown. I tried another massage place about 4 months ago (see my previous review), but I felt adventurous, so here we go.
I called ahead to schedule my appointment. I was looking for a basic massage for an hour. The other place had a combo foot and body massage. This place (Panda) was slightly different. They had a price list of various options-- I chose the one that was $50 (with free hot stones). READ the entire list before you enter this place-- you'll see why later.
As they escort me to my room, they pass a room with bars coming from the ceiling. They seemed to be cleaning and disinfecting from a prior use. They asked if I wanted someone to walk on my back. I may be aging myself, but I had an instant flashback of George Jefferson walking on Mr. Bentley's back. Anyway, I digress.
The 'stepping back' procedure was decent, although a bit painful. I need to get massages more often! I toughed it out, mostly while letting out an occasional grunt or two. Next came the hot stones, which were interesting and... hot (but not too hot). Here's where things took a slight turn...
They 'suggested' cupping. I asked about pricing and they did not respond directly. I got the cupping procedure, because... I heard it helps with circulation, relieves muscle tension and improves/repairs blood and cells. And it was an adventure! Needless to say, it was hotter than the stones and it felt like a slow burn (for 10 minutes).
The next day, I had 12-15 burn circles on my back! I looked like I might have been abducted by other planetary life forms, but I was focused on the results. Again, I digress..
The issue was that I only brought $60 cash. I planned to tip $10 for my $50 massage (20% seemed fair). I did not appreciate that they did not disclose that the cupping costs $20 more while they suggested it, but I could have said no. When I went to pay, they pressed me for a tip.
I almost did not want to tip after the 'bait and switch' approach, but I decided to give my original $10 and pay the additional $20. The grand total was $80- actually $82- because they charged a fee for using my debit card. It seemed shady, but I was ready to leave. The Grand Total was $82, but as I was paying, the gentleman with the card reader made a comment that my tip was not enough. I told him he needed to be up front with charges and add ons, but he didn't not seem interested. I left, vowing to write this review that you just read. I doubt I will return here. On the other hand I will return to my previously published review. Hello again, JJ's Spa II!
And that is the end of my adventure. Thanks for reading! read more