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While J’aime Adore offers a full menu of services—Guinot facials, mani-pedis, just-beyond-basic massages—it’s the spa’s four bikini waxes, on offer since 2005, that keep twenty- to fortysomethings steadily streaming into its first-floor space. From the palm-shaped chairs to the pedicure station’s bolstered banquette, the waiting area is decorated in sumptuous blue velvet, a direct contrast to the nine treatment rooms’ stark white finish. But most clients barely have time to take in the boutique-style decor, since silky smoothness is promised in T minus fifteen minutes. The strictly enforced promptness policy is legendary amongst J’aime Adore’s lunch-hour regulars, who depend on the spa’s eight estheticians to run a tight ship. Natasha, the thick-accented Ukranian owner and a former nurse, gloats that her nearly painless waxing technique is based on Lamaze breathing principles and self-waxing trails. She dramatically coaches inhalations and exhalations, complete with thigh pats and encouragement. Another unique touch: Baring all is not required for the French and Brazilian jobs, which can instead be done with a thong and some leg splaying that’s beyond modest, but not Penthouse pose-worthy. At the end, first-timers are matter-of-factly told that their significant others will love them, but they’ll “reeaaaallly love Natasha”—which may account for the spa’s 800-plus regular customers. — Chanize Thorpe

Appointments at J’aime Adore are often an exercise in patience, as popular estheticians are booked well in advance. Walk-ins are not the norm and not encouraged, so it’s best plan accordingly.

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