We moved to the area in the fall of 2011 and at the time, I insisted I would never leave my nail tech, Simon, in Old Town Alexandria. After all, an hour was NOT too far to drive for great nails, righ... Read More
We moved to the area in the fall of 2011 and at the time, I insisted I would never leave my nail tech, Simon, in Old Town Alexandria. After all, an hour was NOT too far to drive for great nails, right, girls? Well, it did not take long for the novelty of making that trek every two weeks wore off, despite how talented Simon (at Royal Nails on Royal St, just off King St) was. I was apprehensive, though, about starting over with someone I did not know. I hit the jackpot, though, with the first place I tried, which was Downtown Hair and Nail Salon on Sophia Street. Oh, yeah, and for those from outside area who just KNOW the correct pronunciation is So-FEE-ah, well, it's not. It is, curiously enough, So-FI-ah (rhymes with High-a). Go figure. Anyway, I was fortunate enough to find Rachel, who owns the salon and who is the queen of pink and whites. I am not exaggerating. Not only is she warm and friendly, she is freaking fabulous with nails. I already have my appointments set for the next six months - and for me, that's a huge commitment. She mentioned planning for retirement in passing one day and I thought I would need therapy. That is a long way off, she assures me, so I'm trying not to think about it. In the meantime, if you are looking for great, long lasting nails, this is your place. Oh, walk ins? Not gonna happen unless all the stars align. As I mentioned, my appointments are booked 6 months out, so if you want to get on the schedule, plan ahead. It is a welcoming place and the services are outstanding. Give them a try. Read Less