1021 S. Gaylord St., 720-570-0971;
The treatment: Express manicure, $15, and pedicure, $30, about an hour for both treatments.
This spa is for: Boutique shoppers who like to support local, independent merchants.
First impressions: Pressed tin walls, a black and white tile floor, a line of chandeliers and Tiffany-blue paint combine for a retro-cool atmosphere. The shop is long, narrow and busy, with technicians sitting on stools across from clients at a nail bar for manicures in front, and pedicure stations in the back. Clients and technicians trade banter and talk about work, kids, relationships and travel plans.
The treatment was: Quick and clean. Tootsies prides itself on being sanitary — technicians use fresh peel-off files and buffers on each client so as not to transfer germs. The express treatment moved along efficiently, with the technician soaking, shaping, trimming cuticles and polishing fingernails. Next came the pedicure, from the same tech, who soaked feet in warm soapy water before filing calluses and getting rid of dry skin, attending to cuticles, trimming, shaping and polishing nails to get them sandal-ready. If you’re not a fan of all the pedicure extras — massaging hands and legs, paraffin dips — this is for you. (On the other hand, if you want pampering, this salon offers those services in the spa manicure and pedicure.)
Amenities: Tootsies doesn’t have the massage chairs and whirling foot baths common in many nail salons, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a seat that you can sink into more comfortably for a pedicure than the cushy black armchairs here.
Make the most of your visit: Be on time, as they run a tight ship, particularly on the weekends. (And don’t forget to grab a Tootsie Roll on your way out the door.)
Repeat visit planned? Yes, as the friendly atmosphere and efficient treatment make the spot a perfect retreat for time-pressed customers.
Know before you go: Speaking of time, give yourself a few extra minutes to find parking along the busy South Gaylord Street business district. Check out other Tootsies locations at 1111 S. Pearl St., 303-722-1450; and 4230 Tennyson St., 303-433-0898. Suzanne S. Brown
