Russian & Turkish Baths

Pros: Cool spot with a historic vibe. A bit old but adds to the history. We went on a holiday so it was less busy which was great. Cons: The mandatory tip fee was absurd. They kind of snuck at the end, when I asked to clarify the lady at the front just shooed us away and didn't want to explain. The mandatory tip was sometimes over 30% per treatment which is ridiculous. We were obviously willing to give a tip but to give 30% tip per treatment (especially without any warning in advance) is not right. I don't want to speak ill of the place because we definitely enjoyed, but our experience was marred by the unfair and sneaky mandatory tips that they force you to pay at the end and the blonde receptionist who didn't want to explain what our unexpectedly high bill was due to.

I was in NYC for a week and went three times! I’ve been to countless saunas and bathhouses across the U.S., Iceland, and Europe, and this one truly stands out. Yes, it’s old, but the heat is unmatched. The sauna’s cistern with continuously flowing cold water means staying in the sauna much longer - you can raise your core temperature, cool down by dumping refreshing cold water on your head, and repeat. You will walk out feeling absolutely transformed. The cold plunge is brisk, the lighter-heat rooms are great options, and the whole experience is just magical. I love this place!

My boyfriend and I went to this banya and absolutely loved it. The owner, Leon, cooks the food himself for his guests, and it tastes just like homemade food — truly delicious. The tea is amazing as well. The banyas are very hot, and the water is ice-cold — it literally burns your skin, but that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be! Everything is done in the best traditions of a real Russian banya. Celebrities have visited this banya too, like the actor who played Mr. Big and Uma Thurman — they clearly know where to go, right?

This is an institution, and totally function over form. The Platza oak leaf treatment and mud scrub were enjoyable. The Russian room is by far the hottest and is made up of granite and has fresh water flowing from spigots filling up bucks to pour on yourself and the benches. The cold pool is a nice 39 degrees Fahrenheit. They have multiple dry and wet saunas of varying humidities. Think brass, and tile and endless towels. Just what I needed after a long day of traveling. Super clean, too!

Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish! The atmosphere, the people, and the energy were all amazing, truly one of those “only in New York” moments you can’t miss. The entire team made us feel so welcome, and a special shout-out to Zuzzia at the reception, she was phenomenal! Super friendly, gave us a great introduction, and honestly sold us on the place the moment we walked in. If you’re in NYC, this is definitely something you need to try at least once!