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East meets West at this exquisitely designed, subterranean day spa. At street level, the Silk Store offers body creams, candles, eye pillows and slippers. Beyond this, a bamboo-lined staircase leads to the spa, where gleaming wood floors, stone tiles, and flickering candles create a rich, earthy atmosphere. Founded by master therapist Hwa Lee, Silk offers services and treatments that combine the philosophy and traditions of Lee’s native Korea (and other Eastern healing therapies) with Western practices. The invigorating Silk Supreme Eastern Indulgence uses a textured glove and rigorous massage to exfoliate the entire body, followed by a cooling wrap of fresh mashed fruit, a full body massage, and a milk rinse. The entire treatment takes place in a special wet scrub room and ends with a scalp rub and shampoo. Other indulgences include pedicures, Shiatsu Ki and hot stone massages, and the Imperial Cool Jade Facial, which uses chilled jade stones to detoxify the skin. Luscious Lashes are another house specialty: Semi-permanent, natural-looking lashes are attached individually to your own for a fuller look that lasts about four weeks. The spa also has multiple rooms designed for two, so couples can relax in tandem. — Amanda Theunissen

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Best of New York Awards

• Best of New York: Best Shiatsu Massage (2005)
• Best of New York: Best New Spa (2004)

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• Scour Power (5/20/05)