I hate when I tell my masseuse where my problem areas are and they massage you everywhere BUT where you want them to. Good thing this place hits the spot! I called in the morning and was lucky enough to be seen an hour later. My masseuse was Helen. She's a petite Asian woman but she is STRONG. She gets right to work - no small talk or chit chat (much appreciated since my back was really bothering me). This woman got on my back with her hands and knees, then used her elbows on key pressure points. OMG...if you have pretty bad knots and are looking for a hard massage, Helen is the way to go! The only issue I had was that the massage wasn't always consistent - she would work one side of my body differently than the other. But overall, it was a good experience and I would consider coming back. The prices here are very reasonable compared to other places. I paid $45 for a 60 minute full body massage. If you use a credit card, they charge $1 extra. There is a parking lot out front that is shared with the other stores in that complex. read more

I used to enjoy getting massage here for years and the fact that the spot is conveniently located across my yoga studio! Today, Lucy, one of their masseuses and a front desk personal, treated me poorly. She convinced me that she could do a strong massage but when I asked for a 30 min massage instead of 1 hour she refused it without giving a reason. Worse of all, Lucy asked me to use a bathroom at my yoga studio instead of using theirs for no reason provided. After she refused to give me her manager's contact info. I was insulted and told her that she left me no choice but to go to Yelp so that someone who runs this business can apologize on her behalf. She agreed. read more

I don't want to go into detail. The bottom line is you get what you pay for. When I was on the table I couldn't wait to leave, I felt worse than when I came in. read more

Mary was great! She used a good amount of pressure, some areas more than others because they seemed more tense and that was just what I needed. I'll be requesting her next time!! Best person I've had so far. read more

Yesterday was our second foot massage this month. Their 16 dollar special ends this month. It was a full house yesterday. Hubby had Sam and I saw Henry. We both saw the same therapists two weeks ago too. I really enjoyed my relaxing foot massage and the ten minutes of body massage fully clothed was very nice too. I highly recommend Sam and Henry. The only down side is when it's crowded, you can hear the other patrons talking and coughing. I think there were ten people in the room yesterday in recliners getting foot massages at the same time. Definitely recommended if you need some peaceful relaxation. read more

Seems fine to me. This place is not fancy. I'm a guy and never got a hint of anything untoward offered. I've been here at least four times. I'm a broke college student, so, this place is in my price range!! It works for me. I always get the full body massage. read more

On the upper level of the building. Nice little private lot parking. NOTE: $5 extra charge for credit card! Front Desk Service: The girl was nice, but spoke broken english. A little note that they do charged $5 extra if you're paying by credit card. I asked her for a price list, but she gave me a gift card... but I felt she was really pushing for sales since she kept asking me to buy a gift card for my friends. But overall, she was nice. Massage: The massage was good. I had a women who spoke barely any english, but it went fine. When I told her to press harder, she did just that. But I have to admit that this wasn't one of the better massages I've had. If you're an athlete looking a good massage, I cannot recommend this place. Although their massage is good, there are certain techniques that certified sport massages do that really help with relaxation and healing. Overall: I would definitely recommend this place. No appointment is needed and their prices are very reasonable. read more

I have gone there about 10 times. I have had different masseuses and very different experiences. First time I got a masseuse that did not speak english, very annoying. Don't remember the name and it was like couple years ago. Per my friend's recommendation I started to request Betty. She definitely knows what she is doing. Since she is small, she does ask the permission to use her legs, knees, which for me have worked perfectly for the pressure wise. It does hurt but in a level that I can accept. And you do walk out and feel like you have been beaten up but also the problematic areas are so much better and relaxed, and mainly pain free. If you just want someone to be somewhat gently massaging/petting you - David is the one. Not sure if he is capable of applying for more pressure and actually treating areas that are problematic. I just literally wanted someone giving me a relaxing massage because I had no problem areas going on at that time and he was perfect for that. The place it self is nothing fancy but considering the price: the place is relaxing, clean and smells good. I've experienced worse for the same price range. Customer service is so-so. Nothing super friendly or welcoming. You do have to pay up-front. read more

So I definitely don't understand the people who gave this place 5 stars. Actually, I don't know why anyone would even give them stars. First, I called to make a reservation. She asked if 6:30PM would work, but since I was going to dinner after I got off work, I asked if 7:30PM was available. She said no, and that I would have to come at 6:30PM tomorrow. When I asked if she had 7:30 tomorrow, she then told me to come at 7:30PM today. What?! You just told me you weren't available then. Anyways, when I get to the place, it is completely empty. Dinner ended early so I called to tell her I could come earlier if that worked better for them, and when I got it was literally just the reception later and the masseuses. In fact, the whole hour I was there was equally empty, which leads me to assume that she just wanted me to come early not because there were other reservations, but because there was no business that time. Then, when I arrive, they tell me to pay upfront, tip and all. I guess I wouldn't have minded this if I got what I paid for. I had never been asked me pay beforehand, so I tipped roughly 20% and was immediately taken to my room. From the moment I called them, I asked for a neck and shoulder massage. The receptionist even confirmed this when I made my payment, because this concentration on certain areas cost more. My masseuse did not speak English very well, but I pointed to my neck and shoulders, and he told me "OK OK OK" like he knew what I was talking about. I would say that 80% of the massage was focused on my back and butt area, even though I asked him twice during the massage to focus on my neck and shoulders. In fact, he touched my neck briefly at the beginning and then a few seconds at the end, but that was it. Although he did spend more time on my shoulders, it did not even feel that good, as he was just rubbing them instead of massaging them as he had done on my back. Now for the "massage." So first of all, forcing your elbow across my back and butt is not a massage. He used his elbows almost the entire time, which would be fine if it felt good, but it did not. In fact, when I left the massage place yesterday, I just told myself whatever, I'll just not go there anymore. But this morning, when I woke up, I had searing pains in certain spots on my upper back, and I could almost feel the elbows jabbing those areas every time I moved. I feel like some of these areas will bruise, because the pain is still here. Finally, as I am leaving, I see the receptionist and my masseuse talking to each other in Chinese, and I could tell they are talking about me because they were glancing over at me. When I left, there was no smile or goodbye or anything. Again, this would be fine if they were busy or something but it was really awkward because I knew they were talking about me all the while I walked out of the long hallway. Anyways, don't waste your money here. read more

Really bad massage and very poor customer service. I rarely leave bad reviews. This my story, happened today 6/24/22 Paid for one hour deep tissue. $65 Ambiance was good, room was clean. Masseuse came in asked where i hurt. So far so good. She started on my neck, almost zero pressure I asked for stronger, she said she cant on neck area, so i said ok. Goes to my left shoulder, does elbow from spine horizontally, very bad technique, hurting me at this poInt. She moves to my left hand n then goes back to neck area, she bounced back and forth aimlessly and inconsistently in areas i didnt want massage, i pointed my lower back and spine area twice, which was not addressed. She complained men are strong and her hands are hurting. Im 5'3 average build 120 lbs. go figure. She was nagging and not someone who enjoyed helping others feel better. 15 mins in she hasnt even touched my right side lower back. Then she moves to my legs. I wait a few minutes later. And she reaches all the way in my groin area from back, totally innaproriate and uncalled for but felt good, i stopped her at that point and asked is she done with my back, she replied 1 hour full body massage means full body and she cant go back to my back. At that point i said pls stop and i put my clothes on and went to front desk. 1st time I have complained about a massage ever. There was no spologies, No partial refund. No suggesting of another masseueist. Absolutely the worst experience ever. read more

On any given weekday, this is the best inexpensive massage for the highest-quality, hands down. Pun intended :-) This is my go-to place when I truly need a Chinese (pressure point based) deep tissue massage. The men who work here know how to remove muscle strain and stress without pain the next day, which is truly a skill. It is best practice to call ahead and make an appointment. A few times, I have had a female masseuse, but I have to admit they were never as good as the men. The parking lot is small and rather full of criminal activity, but you can always park on an adjacent side street for safety. read more

This was the worst spa experience I've ever had. I walked out feeling worse than I did when I came in. The massage therapist didn't speak English at all, so it was impossible to let him know my problem areas. Clerk at front desk was very rude, and the customer service was appalling. Will not consider going back. read more

If you want a lot of rubbing , this is your place. If you want wonderful, relaxing massage with good technique, find another place.

I had a male named Sam and he was very good and very strong. I have had many massages in Berkeley, all beyond disappointing, ....one in Oakland, they were all weak, NOT strong people, that do not know how to massage, or press hard, but claim that they can (nope). Finally found a place that can produce. Also, why is there such a shortage of massage places in Berkeley. What the heck? Anyways this place is great. Thank you for actually knowing how to do a good massage. So grateful I found this place. I'll be back. read more

Its not for the faint of heart, but the way I feel when I walk out of there is so worth it! They know what they are doing and it's not the fluffy kind of massage, but very effective! read more

For $40, I got a 60 minute full body massage. I see reviews on here with one star but I had a pretty good experience. My masseuse was good. She did the whole body and was very nice and quiet during the session. I didn't make a reservation, just walked in because I saw it when I was walking home. They were able to see the two of us right away. I think we got lucky because when I left there were a few people waiting in the reception area. I paid up front and gave cash tip at the end. I'd say bring cash for the tip. It was a good value and I felt great afterwards. Maybe the reviews vary depending on the masseuse you get. read more

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BETTY IS MY QUEEN!!! Wish I would have found this place sooner. They are so good! Foot Massage room is relaxing & massage itself is so so good. Private room for full body massage is private & beds are comfy. Front desk staff is great. Pay with cash if you can for a small discount! Nothing SUPER SPECIAL. But if you're looking for a good massage without paying a fortune, I'd go here over a "spaaaa" anyway. read more

They offer cheaper rates than most local places, but be aware that they also expect you to leave a $15-30 tip for a $50 massage. I've been here twice. I had a female massage therapist the first time and while the massage wasn't exactly relaxing, it released the knots in my back. Second time I had a man--he was able to exert very deep pressure, which I appreciated, but he spent almost the entire massage with very surface level strokes on my back, I think another review referred to it as "petting." No kneading or anything. I came because my hamstrings and calves were feeling tight. He maybe spent 3 minutes total on my lower body for the 1 hour massage. I left feeling exactly the same. I don't think I will be coming back unless every other massage place in Berkeley is full. read more

Love it here!!! I personally think you get more than what you pay for. It's a great massage for cheap. Once in a while it's nice to go to a fancy spa and get the whole package, but if you want to go regularly for the health benefits then it helps to have a place that's affordable. A few people have mentioned the language barrier, and for some of the folks working there it's harder than others, but I've had sessions with almost everyone and "hard, soft, here, not here" has worked every time. I've been going here for 5 years and never, ever have I felt uncomfortable, in fact just the opposite. I highly recommend Zen Day Spa if you're looking for a simple place for an amazing massage!!!! read more

Major pregnancy back pain. Needed a massage--quickstyle! Called Zen, and they were able to accommodate me within the hour. $45 for a full body oil massage. I requested a woman. My therapist was a youngish Chinese woman. She did not seem to speak English but knew the word "tight"-- to describe my muscles! She had fingers of steel! While it kind of hurt, I knew that she would work out the kinks. Parking was a bit hectic as the Core Yoga place in the same building had a class that was just letting out. They had relaxing spa music playing through most of my massage, but it seemed to fade away later in the hour. $1 extra if you use your credit card. It pays to use cash. I would likely return to this establishment for a quick, decent massage. read more

I love this place. Super simple, but it gets the job done without having to shell out a ton of money for a massage. It's in an interesting spot above an art supply store and parking can be a bit of a pain when it is crowded, but you can find parking on the streets behind it. Anytime I need a massage I can call this place and usually get in on same day. Very nice people. read more

This place sucks. Many of the "masseuses" there lack technique, customer service and personality. I used to frequent this place but gradually they became less and less interested in delivering a quality experience because I was a regular. The male masseuses are especially low energy and often rude. You get what you pay for, and sometimes you get even less than what you pay for here. After being disappointed on several occasions, I decided to find other massage options where they care about quality and the customer experience. read more

Had a great experience. 30 minute foot and leg massage followed by an intense 30 minute full body. You get more what you pay for. It's a cheap price and the place lacks the spa feeling. The guys didn't speak English. All of this didn't bother me. I left dazed and relaxed and felt really good. And the fact that I didn't have to spend 80+ $'s relaxed me even more. read more

This place is hands down the best place for a massage. I've been coming here for years and I should have reviewed them sooner because they are consistently amazing. You'll get the best massage here and their prices are so reasonable. Support this local business and treat yourself at the same time! read more

Haven't been here in a few months, and noticed a few recent negative reviews. My experience was just as good as ever! They fit me in on a busy day, and I walked out after a combo foot/body massage feeling great. This is not a fou-fou spot - and i'm not looking for that. I want a skilled, therapeutic massage to get the knots and tightness out. After a week of walking miles daily, running, and hitting the gym, along with the rest of life, this is the place to go! read more

I had a very positive first experience here. I called at 11:30 and made an 11:45 appointment. Arrived around 5 to noon and wasn't asked for more than the $35 special cash price. (I took longer than I thought to get out the door, and parking.) I felt the masseuse had very good massage technique, and she listened, both to the couple bits of verbal feedback and more importantly to the nonverbal feedback - listening to my body and breath - I wanted pressure just short of painful, and she did a great job providing that. She definitely spoke enough English to both communicate to and understand me. Much better than the last discount massage I got. She did fail to put her phone on silent or do not disturb mode before the session (I had done the latter), and apologized when it rang. Twice. The massage table was not comfortable: it put pressure on my Adam's apple, I think because (looking at the table after the massage) the foam under my shoulders was a bit worn out. After some futzing I figured out a placement of a towel on the headrest that was OK at relieving the pressure. It doesn't seem like they know a lot about customer service. Their google page listing isn't even owned. read more

Unfortunately you get what you pay for here, maybe even less. I really wanted to like this place as it was recommended by a friend. Who doesn't want a cheap massage place? --- - Apparently, me! Thankfully the place is clean and people are nice enough. I've been here twice when I've been desperate for a massage, I can't imagine trying a third time. If you like the typical aggressive style of Asian massage, then perhaps this is the place for you. I don't mind deep pressure but the last person that worked on me was clearly not in tune with my body and I had to tell her to let up on the pressure a number of times. There was also a language issue. I suspect that anyone who loves this place doesn't have experience with quality massage. I might come back to try a foot massage but will not be willing to try another full body massage. And if management is reading this: Please do not use styrofoam cups. They're terrible for the environment. Surprised to see them being used in eco-friendly Berkeley. read more

This place is the best. If you want to be fixed from anything that was wrong with you. However it's true that their services aren't well advertised, so... Do be aware: This is Chinese Reflexology massage. The massage itself may be incredibly painful. They use techniques to improve circulation and realign your body. It is also extremely effective. There is a language barrier. I know this can be terrifying for people who have never left their white American bubble. If you have a problem with this, it will probably be a bad experience. Your masseuse is likely very skilled (in my experience) and aware of your body. I haven't had the need to say anything but "thank you". If you do have an injury, let the receptionist know before your massage. There is also a CULTURE barrier. Please note that the receptionist asking you to tip is not rude but expected. The traditional amount is $10 for a $40 massage. Since you are getting an amazing deal ($40 for an hour- full body) tipping this amount is not unreasonable, and the receptionist mentions it so you will know. I don't know of any legal issues surrounding the place. But it can be hard as an immigrant or non-English speaker to find work and this is a place where skilled healers can practice regardless. If the business is shifty, then 5 stars for the people who work there. They deserve it. read more

If you're looking for a white robe facility with cucumber spa water and Enya playing in the background, then you're looking for the wrong place! Zen Day Spa is where you go if you want a STRONG deep tissue massage without the frills of those high end spas. My go to services are either of the following: 1) Combination Foot and Body Massage for 60 minutes: $35 2) Body Massage for 60 minutes: $45 *** Mon-Thurs from 10am-12pm, you can get this one hour massage for $35! *** 3) Combination Foot and Body Massage for 90 minutes: 30 minute foot reflexology and 60 minute body massage: $60 Most foot reflexology massage places will simply turn you over in the lazy boy recliner and work on your back, but Zen is different. After your foot reflexology massage, they take you to a private room and place you on a heated massage table for your back massage! The great part of this massage is that you get the full experience of a legit massage because you undress to your level of comfort and lay on the table to get your knots massaged, well in this case, kneaded out! Lily, Andy, and Henry are my go to masseuses! If you want a STRONG massage, then any of these three will get the job done! read more

Peter is amazing. He got all the right places ! I walked out feeling great! Thank you!

Clearly there is some confusion between the words: cheap, good, and Zen Day Spa. $40 for a massage does not justify why this place is anything but zen. Way too many WTF moments occurred during my 60 minute body massage: The masseuse tested the flexion capabilities of my knees, 10 times each knee, then proceeded to massage it. Yes, knee caps and all. She dragged her dry palms in rough circular motions on my face stretching the poor skin! Women, I am not trying to age 5 years in 60 minutes! Of course then she used oil on my body even though I asked her to massage me without oil through the sheet. When massaging my shoulder blade, she really did only massage the bone itself. Draping techniques were absent. Leaving my back completely bare while working on my legs was unacceptable. My boyfriend's masseuse used the bottom of his fist and quickly punched his head a few times. Had I known his experience was as horrible as mine, I would have cut it short 10 minutes in. I should also note that the room door had a small window covered by a see-through mesh. The chairs are positioned right in front so that the person can change and put their stuff down on it. If I didn't have to use the restroom first while my boyfriend went to get ready first, I would not have seen what all the workers could see: my boyfriend undressing down to his boxers. What if customers want to get naked for the massage!?! Sneaky sneaky!! I understand you get what you pay for but I have had several Chinese massages in the SF Bay Area, So Cal, Houston and plenty more in Taiwan, Guangzhou, and Zhongshan but this place just has it all wrong. None of the above incidents should occur in a Chinese massage. Saying that the folks here are untrained therapists without a slight clue about human anatomy is an understatement. Never again. read more

I loved the massage here -- it was great!! I got the special for $38. It was 30 min feet and 30 min back. For the back, they take you to a private room. Definitely recommend! I will be back~ read more

This is my secret FAVORITE place...and I want them to prosper and stay in business so I need to share it with you all, even if it makes it harder to get an appointment. I am pretty picky about massage having done it years ago for a living...this is the MOST amazing spot. The real deal. Yes, it will be painful at times but it is true healing. So, no, don't go if you're looking for a delicate little lady-massage or something ...But if you want your body to be completely released and refurbished, this place is one of those godsend finds that rarely arrive for a very very affordable price. Just Go!! read more

I got the foot and body combo... For $35 this was the best American massage I have ever had. The foot massage was amazing and so relaxing. The warm then dry towel massage made you legs feel relaxed as well as clean and fresh. Did I mention the this was an amazingly clean establishment and I didn't even feel weird using their flip flops? My masseuse, Ben, was was great! He did both the foot and back massage. While he spoke broken English, there was no lack of understanding and actually needed no direction as he found all of the hard knots by himself. I will be coming back and remember to bring cash because it's a five dollar discount. Also, a good tip gets a great massage (I tipped after the foot because I thought they were going to just hand you off to another person like they do at most places) and he really worked on the back. read more

Decided to come here for a massage since i work across the street. $40 for a full body massage? thats a deal! fyi - there isnt anymore $5 exgtra charge if you use credit card. like everyone reviewed -- asian massage parlor. its not as nice as the spa or hotel massage places but its clean and still has the peaceful vibe. who needs to pay over $200 for those fancy stuff? if you just need a massage for your aching back, neck or even legs this is the place to go. i felt very comfortable with Cindy. She spoke broken english but still super sweet and i was able to speak a little of my Cantonese with her. My neck was very stiff and she helped me relaxed it. at the end of the hour i felt great and i felt even a little bad that she did so much work for so little money?!! i have to say this was one of the best massage i ever had. tip: if you want a female massue - please tell the front desk when you make your reservation! read more

Nowadays, $20 might buy you: a pound of organic blueberries from Whole Foods, exactly .0002 of a square foot of an SF apartment, or 10 minutes of therapy, which you'll spend talking about how expensive everything is. But believe it or not, it will also buy you an awesome, 60 minute massage at Zen Day Spa. I usually get the one hour foot massage which includes a 40 minute foot rub, followed by 20 minutes of body work. The staff is skilled, professional and responsive to direction. * * * That said, while the place itself gets 5 stars, my fellow customers barely get 2. An truly happy ending to my massage would include you kindly refraining from... - making sex sounds in the chair next to me, - talking down to the staff, and - yelling from the lobby that you want to buy a gift certificate for your sister, who never gets massages so you want to surprise her. read more

I am really disappointed that the owner has raised the prices. What made them great was competitive prices compared to other massage places, but now they are more expensive than the places in the pacific east mall or china town. At first this place offered $16 foot massage. It became $20, and 6 months later it is $25. 70 min combo massage is now 60 min. $40 body massage is $45 now. Your massage business is great, but it's not THAT great. read more

Lack of communication, sick masseuse, and rude front desk. We won't be coming back. I had a rough week that left a great deal of tension in my shoulders and neck. I looked carefully for a place because of an already bad back and found this spa on Yelp. I was pleasantly surprised of all the great reviews and decided to give it a shot. Check in was quick, there was a $2 per massage transaction fee (I brought my BF as a treat) which was a surprise but fine as the massages were $40 each. We went in and were told to disrobe and get under the covers, not talking to either of the ladies who would be helping us beforehand. The room was dingy and bare, they had to turn on several space heaters to get a little bit of warmth. No music, no dimmed lights, nothing. The ambiance was pretty bad. The massage was intense, extremely rough on my sensitive back. If you like rough, deep massages this might be for you but nowhere was it stated this was a deep tissue massage. My bf yelped a few times because of the pressure and I had to remind the masseuse to be a little gentle on my back due to a prior injury. My bf's masseuse was sick, continually coughing through out the massage which was fine until she went out into the hallway at one point and hocked a lougie right outside the door. It was disgusting! She could've walked into the bathroom but right outside of a thin door? Come on! Afterwards, we walked up to the counter to tip and I leave a 15% for each of the ladies. The front desk girl takes the money, counts it in front of me and makes a face. Absolutely rude! When we got home, I found bruises all over my bf's back and a scrape under my chin that wasn't there before. I would only recommend this place to anyone looking for a $40 thorough beating. read more

Great massage for a great price! The staff was attentive, courteous, and were very skilled. The massage was firm and thorough. We got their daily foot + body special, 70 min for $35 a person - great deal! The facilities were really clean and neat; didn't feel sketchy or gross at all (I've had those experiences at massage places before). All in all, great service at a great price. read more

Well.. I really had HIGH hopes for this place. My parents go to Zen Day Spa all the time for a foot reflexology and rave about their experience. The reason why I'm giving this spa such a high rating is most definitely because of their spa techniques and cleanliness. I also want them to prosper because I know others can benefit from their massage styles. Most importantly though--their spa is spotless! In addition, their beds have electric blankets so you're not freezing when you're laying on top of it half naked under a thin sheet. Their foot reflexology was really nice. You sit in a nice big comfy leather chair and they soak your feet in this wooden bucket which has a plastic liner so you don't catch any koodies from the person who last used it. The foot reflexology was only $20 for 60 minutes of foot and leg massaging action. It's actually quite worth it. My only issue is I'm easy to be tickled so yeah, not that enjoyable there. My massuese's hands were very petite and her knuckles very thin so I felt ticklish quite a bit. The full body massage for $40 was very....umm.. different. Look, I've been to many spa's in my 24 years of life and I've left feeling like I'm floating on the pretty white fluffy clouds in the blue skies..but this time, the after-feeling was very different. I felt like complete crap. It was like I was beat up by a bunch of bullies in some dark alley after school. Ugh. The massage hurt and I left feeling sooo sore and in so much pain. I'm NOT saying these folks don't know how to massage. I just believe their deep tissue massage isn't for the pampered spa types like me. I will definitely try their hot stone massage but nothing more and if that doesn't go well then I'll stick to my $200 a session day spa's because trust me, I love the 'I'm flying and standing on a white, fluffy cloud' feeling any day! FYI--The staff hardly speak English so remember to talk the nail-shop language when you go. And if you pay cash, there's a $5 discount for any treatment or package. Happy Spa-ing to you all! read more

Zen Day Spa - Massage Near Me - Berkeley, California

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