Editor's Picks: East Village Spas and Salons

by Katie Heffernan - Citysearch Contributor - 8,892 Reviews - 25 Lists

Updated: April 01, 2009

Those East Village hipsters have to get their bed-head coiffed somewhere, right? These 10 spas and salons pander to the neighborhood's cool-conscious citizenry seeking the perfect tousled hair and dark-painted nails. The art of faux-grit turns out to require some high maintenance, indeed.

East Village Beauty Spots

  1. 1 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended The Little Hair Shoppe
    Read Reviews

    54 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    The space might appear small, but its stylists are knowledgeable and attentive to customers' demands. As an added bonus, students are entitled to discounts on cuts, making this a haven for nearby NYU-ers in need of a trim, or a whole new 'do.

  2. 2 Kino
    Write a review

    241 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    The Japanese immigrant who runs this salon is famous amongst downtown east-side fashionistas for his work with big-time designers, and his ability to transform boring locks into edgy styles. He works mostly by appointment, so call in advance to book.

  3. 3 4 Star Rating: Recommended Russian & Turkish Baths
    Read Reviews

    268 E 10th St, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    This traditional Russian bathhouse is unapologetic in its focus on "shvitzing," not aesthetics. Channel your Eastern European-ness by steaming and cooling. Then chow down on hearty food from the region while swigging beer.

  4. 4 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Astor Place Hair Designers
    Read Reviews

    2 Astor Pl, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    A no-frills (seriously, expect zero attention to details like decor) spa that's quick and easy. Walk in and get your hair cut and styled within an hour, as long as there's not a wait. This is a salon built for the on-the-go New Yorker. But don't think the casual environs mean you're above the place; many a celebrity has frequented it, and their mop shots are on the walls to prove it.

  5. 5 4 Star Rating: Recommended Neighborhood Barber
    Read Reviews

    439 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    Elements of a classic barbershop--like the spinning pole outside--blend with modern touches like vibrating gloves worn by staffers when giving neck massages. There are only four seats, and there's a walk-in only policy, but men wait their turn on the bench outside.

  6. 6 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Element Beauty Lounge
    Read Reviews

    48 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    The atmosphere is unusually bright and clean when compared to similar spots in the neighborhood. Typical treatments such as manis, pedis, facials and massages are done sans fuss and at a reasonable cost, so it's a natural go-to for locals.

  7. 7 4 Star Rating: Recommended Spa Ology
    Read Reviews

    241 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    If friendliness at a spa is important to you, this is the place. The staffers greet every customer with a seemingly practiced "hello" and bid all farewell in unison as well. The large flat-screen television is a nice alternative to outdated magazines; it also may be a testament to the fact that the salon doesn't just cater to women.

  8. 8 4 Star Rating: Recommended Great Jones Spa
    Read Reviews

    29 Great Jones St, New York, NY 10012 (map)

    Waterfalls are a rare sight in the city; all the more reason to check out the wet lounge here, where you'll be mesmerized by a three-story, indoor one. The only catch is that all the treatments ring in above $100. In exchange, you'll decompress at the hands of professionals who seem bred to nurture.

  9. 9 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Cutting Image
    Read Reviews

    122 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    This salon pulls out all the stops when it comes to homey ambience. The wine flows freely and a stream of movies play on the TV. All you have to do is zone out while your tresses get the attention they deserve.

  10. 10 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Shampoo Avenue B
    Read Reviews

    42 Ave B, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    Forget art at the bar; how about art at the salon. Gander at works from emerging artists as you get your hair relaxed, cut or styled in a sexy, street-savvy fashion. And do pick up some affordable art (it's all for sale) on your way out.