I was hoping to discover a new Pain Stop.
(http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-pain-stop-massage-therapy-chicago)
For all intents and purposes, T-Pro has the makings of Pain Stop. It's a small, family-run, affordable massage practice.
I was dreaming of the wonderful experience I would have at this hidden (and newly opened) massage spot in the West Loop and how I could "discover it" and tell the world! I was delighted at the spontaneous nature of our appointment. I was ready to be impressed, despite knowing it was going to be "no-frills." Sometimes I just like a massage to be nitty gritty, a bit painful, sans stones and robes and all the extras. See again: Pain Stop.
I was not impressed. And then, I was very sad.
I called ahead a few hours, just to make sure they could take us. They seemed confused when I called, but given the language barrier...we pressed forward and figured it would be fine. We arrived at our appointment time, were shown to a room and that's where things went downhill.
1. Boyfriend was given the regular massage table, I was given a "stand-in" used as a backup. This had a hole for the face (instead of the standard face cradle) and my cheekbones were in massive pain the entire time she pressed on my back, head, neck or shoulders....smashing my face in. It was covered with a paper towel that was scratchy. Not relaxing.
2. It was cold in the room, coupled with peppermint lotion. Not relaxing.
3. Halfway through the massage, my boyfriend's massage therapist (a girl) had an appointment arrive. She left!? Then the dude came in and finished his massage. Said dude also answered his cell phone during the massage (which rang loudly) and was bickering with his wife in undetermined language all through massage. Not relaxing.
4. We were never asked to give our preferences, asked anything about the pending massage, communicated with at all.
5. We had to pay BEFORE the massage. Hmm. What? I held the tip for after, and rightfully so.
6. My massage was...boring. Not pain reducing. Not relaxing. Not anything. Lotion rubbing. I can do that at home.
It's only $60/hour (grand opening special), but even at this price I'd say it is not worth it. Unfortunately they do not have it together here, and the massage quality is lacking. I can forgive a few missteps if the massage is killer, but alas this place is lagging behind on many fronts. The woman is very friendly and I do think they mean well...so let's hope they can remedy some of the above.
Sorry friends, I wished to bring you a new spot to relax and enjoy on the cheap...but this one is a flop. T-NO.
*street parking free/easy. read more