Lilly & Raul

I’ve been to Lily & Raul numerous times and almost every time had a great experience however when my GF and I went in for a 90 minute massage — it was way under expectations… Usually when we go they do a great job, focus on working through knots and spend time on the whole body — during the 90 minute visit, both my and my gf’s masseuse did not use any pressure, barely spent any time on my legs and spent too much time on my feet… What was most disappointing was that after the massage — we expressed our dissatisfaction to the reception, she basically indifferent told us that was what the massage is — which having been there multiple times we know it is not.
I did decide to give the benefit of the doubt and before beginning I expressed again my dissatisfaction with the same receptionist — and was explicit about what was wrong the previous, and again indifferently told me that’s how the massage is — and I reminded her again that I had been there many times and that every other time I had a good experience and understood the expectation. Anyway, I told her again my expectations and this time spoke to the masseuse… and the masseuse, Vivi did a great job — focused on my knots but gave attention the rest of my body.
So, while the 90 minute experience brought my rating down to a 3, the last time made up for it some bit — although I was still disappointed with how they handled it.

Had an amazing spa experience here! Bought a couples massage off Groupon & everything went smooth with receptionist. My boyfriend and I got Lisa & Katy. I enjoyed Katy she was super sweet and wasn’t rough. For my first body massage ever I have no bad complaints. Would recommend to everyone!

This place is a gem. As other reviewers have said, it does not look like a luxurious spa, but in a way I prefer it that way: it’s low key, but clean, cute, and with good service. But most of all, the masseuses (I think I’ve gotten a massage from each of them, by now) are really good. Their English may not be the best, so as noted by someone, sometimes they don’t immediately catch what you’re saying, but they definitely know what they’re doing. If you often get out of Swedish massages feeling like the masseuse merely gently stroked you, try a Tui Na massage! It really focuses on tension points and circulation. The masseuses will also ask you if the level of pressure suits you or if you would like it stronger/​lighter. And, last but not least, it’s very affordable, especially given the location.

This is a great place, as others have said it is not a fancy spa. However, the service is amazing and they have great costumer service. Would recommend to anyone that needs to relax and get a well done massage.

Finally made it to the new location! I’ve been following these guys for years — 3^rd location I’ve visited and must say the space is nice.
Like many reviewers have said, it’s not a fancy spa but if you want the best massage in a clean and relaxing environment and dirt cheap; in my opinion this is the best deal in NYC.
I’ve paid much more for massage in fancier places and not felt as good as I do when I leave Lilly & Raul. Several years ago at the former Grand Central location I met Raul. Great guy!

It’s a very small office, but the service was great. I highly recommend Vivi as a massage therapist.
(Oh, one other thing — there is no restroom inside the office. You have to go out to the hallway.)

Great place for a good massage! The last time I was here I got so relaxed I ended up nodding off for a bit on the table. My only issue is that it’s a little difficult to find.

Run, do not walk, to Lily and Raul’s! I had an amazing massage there today. Not only was it one of the best massages I’ve ever had, it was only $ 47 for an hour. I had Judy and she was amazing; the pressure was perfect and she instantly zeroed in on an are that had been bothering me without my having to tell her.
I’m so glad that they relocated and reopened. I will be back ASAP!

I get massages often enough, and I just had the most amazing massage here with Judy. I found the place on groupon so I got a great deal, and I highly recommend this place. I feel like a new person. A few notes on my experience:
Her massages are strong. I did have to ask her to ease up a few times, but I didn’t mind because she did a great job and listened when I asked.
She speaks English, but not very well. Enough to understand what you are saying.
I was well-​oiled, but I loved it. She took off the excess oil with a hot towel after, and it felt amazing.
Seriously, for the price I paid too, this is where you should go for a massage. I would pay regular price in the future.

Finally a really good massage in a place with good ambience at an affordable price! In my experience it’s really hard to excel in these 3 areas when it comes to getting a massage but this place is really good. My hour massage felt like forever. The masseuse was great at applying pressure right where I needed it. I came in with ALOT of tension in my back and feel soo much better now. The place is clean and yes you can hear some background noise but it’s not something that could be considered overly intrusive or distracting. I’m definitely coming back and treating myself to more.

My masseuse was Katy and I paid about $ 54 after tax for an hour massage (before tip). They have a lunchtime deal but it was fully booked when I called, but ladies get 10% off the list price so it was still a pretty good deal. They don’t charge extra for paying by credit card.
Disclaimer: it’s been ages since I had a tuina session so I’m no expert. Decided to go today as my shoulders and calves were aching. I liked the ambience of the place — dim lights, relaxing music and seemed pretty clean. I could hear people talking occasionally but nothing too loud. My masseuse did not attempt to make conversation which I appreciated very much. I enjoyed the entire massage experience, although there were some kneading actions that hurt but I guess that’s part and parcel of tuina. I walked out feeling very relaxed and floaty and my aches seemed to be gone.

I’ve been going to Lilly & Raul for years! It’s truly one of Manhattan’s best kept secrets. I’ve referred several friends and all have come away incredibly happy and relaxed.
The new facilities are lovely, calming, and simple. This is not a «luxury» experience, per se, but it is incredible for anyone needing a clean, friendly place for a fabulous massage. I’ve paid triple at the high-​end spas and truly never received a better massage then I have at Lilly & Raul. It’s one of my favorite little indulgences.
The rooms are mostly separated by thick drapes and are sparsely decorated. There’s no incense or plush robes. It really is simplicity at its finest! But they give an amazzzzzing massage! They work out the knots, listen to your needs, and really ensure you are perfectly relaxed.
With taxes and tip, my massages usually cost about $ 1/​minute — very affordable, especially for such a great experience.

The new space is great. Staff is friendly and responsive to your needs. Love the extra little sweets and treats avaialble post-​massage. I would definitely go back.

They did a good job! The ladies I had were very nice. They used oil, and warm towels. The place was a bit weird to find. It took a while to find it because there isn’t a sign anywhere. Then I had to wait for someone to open the door for me.

My massage was excellent as always. I really like the new location. The old location was fine, but this is a little more spacious and nicer. I had no problem getting an appointment for the same day and very much appreciated the lunch special discount!

Came here with my boyfriend. Used groupon for a couples massage. I had Sherry and she did a good job, though my left shoulder blade hurts a bit but I’m hoping it goes away soon. She was very attentive and asked me whether the pressure was too much. My boyfriend had Judy and he thoroughly enjoyed the massage. The room was very clean and had a relaxing feel to it. Would definitely recommend this place. Just an FYI, if you use groupon, they don’t charge sales tax at the time of the online purchase so you will have to pay this in person.

Wanting to fix this kink out my back from forever I finally looked into massage options.
Coming across them on groupon and it being sold out, I called if they could honor the price and they did, score!
It was weird trying to get into the building as it is an office building with a small doorway but inside was serene and clean!
We waited 5 min or so and got started on a couples massage.
It was a very relaxing massage, I felt relieved after. My friend not so much liking her masseuse. I do wish I could have stated where my problem areas were but that’s just something I would explain next time.
It was worth the massage with Groupon in my opinion. Would return If I found another one!

I was so excited to go to this place because of such great reviews. I purchased a Groupon and went, but it was underwhelming. My masseuse was fairly mediocre. She spent/​wasted a lot of time moving around the room to get to the massage oil or to go get the heated washcloths. Everyone was very nice and it was very clean, but I would not return because I was not impressed by the massage.

I’m in love with this massage place.
Used a lifebooker voucher for this spot.
Honestly though, their prices for massages for ladies are reasonable without the deal.
My massage was amazing. The lady I had worked my kinks out. She didn’t skimp at all. There were times during my massage that I wanted to yell ‘Mercy!’ but didn’t because I knew the pain would be well worth it.
Sure was.
Great atmosphere. The massage table is warmed and stays that way through the entire massage session.
Soft music in the background.
Comfy.
A winner.

I’ve been to Lilly & Raul about five or six times throughout the past few years (at their old location and new) and for the price point, the service is very satisfactory.
The ladies are professional and thorough. The place is not fancy but the ambience is conducive to lulling you into relaxation and sleep with its dimmed lights and faint nature sounds, and more importantly, it looks clean. (At least, under those lights!)
Each time, I’ve had their one hour massage. It starts off with the therapist kneading you over a towel to warm up and then massaging with oil directly on the skin. They do front work, too!
For an affordable, regular massage, Lilly & Raul is my top choice in New York.