Image: Joyride
Newsflash: Joyride, the new spot that just opened on West 4th and Burrard, nestled in between bike shops and skate shops, is neither of those things. Named for the owner, Claire Mandell’s, father’s and brother’s love of joyriding, it is, in fact, a beautiful new nail salon.
With black and white photos of racing adventures on the walls and white marble skateboards mounted above the tables, riding culture seeps into the space in the most elegant manner imaginable. The room is overpowered by white with hints of pale purple and lots of floral accents, and somehow manages to feel crisp and sterile while also being cozy and feminine.
This attention to detail is a constant throughout the experience. Every nail technician is not only professional and talented, but also actually friendly and warm (a rarity in your typical nail salon where most employees talk to each other without ever getting your name).
There are iPads, with dozens of magazines uploaded on them, so that you can get your reading done without smudging your wet nails as you flip the page (plus this paper-free practice is eco-friendly).
There is a drink menu, with specialty coffees, green teas, and fresh Glory Juice juices. On your first visit, they will ask you to fill out a questionnaire with your favourites from nail polish brand to magazine to hot beverage, so that everything you love will be available for you next time.
In addition to a wonderful ambiance, the treatments themselves are impeccable. The nail technicians are experienced and will paint and pamper you. With all this on hand, you’d expect the prices to be through the roof. But manicures are $30, pedicures are $45, and there are various packages that slow down or speed up the process to fit your schedule and spoil you as much as possible.
We popped in last week and left with royal blue nails, a belly full of decadent macarons, and some lingering giggles from the friendly conversation. Joyride offers a wonderful experience and is a welcome addition to our neighbourhood. Stop by next time you need a pick-me-up or a pause in a hectic week.
Joyride, 1758 West 4th Avenue, 778-379-7433, www.joyridevancouver.com
Last modified: September 22, 2015
