Respite Spa

Respite is easy to find — there’s a sign above the first floor level– and while the walk up is a tiny bit taxing, it’s well worth it for the excellent massage. They advertise a variety of techniques, but really it’s the same style you get at any good Chinese massage place, kind of a shiatsu/​tui na/​accupressure/​Swedish combo. I’ve tried a lot of massage places and spas in New York, and this is my favorite. The only place I’ve had a better massage is on Wellington in Hong Kong. The rooms are clean and private, with actual floor to ceiling walls and doors that close. You can turn up the lights when you’re done, and there’s a mirror, ladies, so you don’t walk out looking for the bathroom with your makeup smeared and your hair akimbo. The masseuses here are careful to give you the level of massage you ask for, where you ask for it; for example, I like it harder on the back and girlie on my legs and feet. They don’t try to skimp on the time limit, and they do know how to identify and correct your trouble spots without you having to explain it a bunch of times. The prices are crazy cheap, as with most Chinese massage places. Expect to pay a 20% tip, that’s how the masseuses get most of their income. They offer a discount card: after 10 visits, get one free. If you’re in the neighborhood, definitely go here. If you’re not nearby, it’s worth the trip. Caution: I have no idea what goes on there after 6 pm, but they seem to be open till 1 am.