I recently moved downtown from my parents basement in North Toronto. I’m really enjoying the full sunlight, and I can’t say I miss the 45 minute commute. However, in true first world problems fashion, I’ve discovered that moving has created a void I’ve been having a hard time trying to fill: a cheap and clean nails and waxing place within a five minute walk from my place. North Toronto, being the land of ladies who lunch, has a plethora of competing nail, wax and hair salons all trying to be the cheapest, yet cleanest place on the block. At first glance, the area around the school looked pretty bleak. There were a ton of tiny salons with “CHEAP TUESDAY PEDICURE!!!” signs, but which one was I to try? I needed recommendations, STAT. So, I figured the fastest way to get my nails done stress free was to conduct a UV survey. Here we are ladies and gentleman, the results of my poll:
For the Gentlemen:
MPG suggests getting your hair cut at Hart House, “The Hair Place”, $19 plus tip.
Aruna suggests Maryia at Salon Escape, which is on Cumberland.
Bruce and Justin both suggest Terminal Barbershop (Dundas and Bloor)
“Quick and dirty, they know how to do a trim without it being a cut. That’s worth every penny.”
“Terminal finishes off the neck and sides with a straight razor”
Peter: La Perla – 112 Elizabeth St (just south of Dundas) – Ask for Vince
Jordan and Adam highly recommend Monsieur Barbershop on Bloor just west of the JCC. “Not Topcuts-level cheap, but high quality + convenience.” Conversely, Luke Gill has stated that his only experience with Monsieur was horrible.
Luke suggests instead you go to Gus the other Barber just past Bathurst on Bloor… that is a solid $21 hair cut.
For the Ladies:
In my personal waxing adventure I found Aroma wellness at Bathurst and Bloor. It’s a gem. Google it. Do it now! You can book online, its super clean and discrete and a Brazilian is only $35! Ask for Karla, she likes Metallica and doesn’t make awkward conversation. Gentlemen, they have fabulous deals for all your manscaping needs as well.
In the nail department I tried and would endorse Venus Nails at Bay and Wellesley. They have an awesome walk in policy and a loyalty card! (I’m such a sucker for loyalty programs…) Six stamps and you get something free! (Not sure what yet, I only have one stamp.)The place is clean and they have great midweek specials.
An anonymous suggestion came in that highly recommends MyTouch, which is on Bay and Wellesley, and they have a student discount. Brazilians here are also only $35. “The service is excellent and people are nice.”
Daniella Murynka suggests Sugar Moon at College and Yonge, describing it as “ah-mazing for sugaring!” She also suggests Flaunt boutique: “it’s reasonable and they give you wine/are open late (for hair).”
Becky Crangle suggests Spring Nails in Koreatown for mani-pedi’s.
Sabrina Radia-Bramwell likes Haartek Salon in Yorkville for haircuts. “They give students something like a 30-40% discount (except not on Saturdays as I learned the hard way)”
Victoria suggests Novo Spa on University Ave. “Good RMT, good relaxation massages, good regular waxing and good couples sessions and surprisingly affordable!”
