When I was a teenager, my stepmother took me to a fancy-pants, expensive salon to get our nails done. This gave me a high bar against which to measure all future manicures, but I think I might have actually found a place that measures up rather well.
The location is rather small, and as expected, difficult to ventilate well. Especially since it was January, and they couldn't exactly open windows! That didn't stop them from having plenty of good smelling candles that managed to cover the expected chemical odors. Even though one couldn't escape the smell, I was quite pleased that it wasn't as all-encompassing as it has been in other nail salons.
Also, I was quite pleased in the treatment that my hands and nails got. I've been to several nail salons in the last few years, looking for a new "home" for my occasional treats. I had no need to argue that I like my nails shaped differently than the current trend. I received much better cuticle care at this salon than I have at the last few places. They were quite professional and efficient, while having very reasonable prices.
I can't wait until it's time to return to New York Nails. I only had a manicure so far. Next visit, I'll get a pedicure, too!