AKIKO Nails

AKIKO Nails is a creative and distinctive Japanese nail art studio located at 135 Eldridge Street on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Founded by Japanese-born, London-trained nail artist Akiko — who won First Prize in Toni & Guy’s worldwide Free Style competition in 2007 before moving to New York in 2008 — the salon is built around the specialist craft of Japanese nail art, a technique known for its exceptional precision, layering of colour, and intricate embellishments. All nail technicians are highly trained in Japanese nail techniques and work with high-quality Japanese gel polishes alongside an impressive array of gems, studs, foils, and custom decorative elements. Services include solid colour gel manicures, nail art across multiple design tiers, hard gel and acrylic nail extensions and refills, extension removal, gel pedicures, spa pedicures (including the New York Deluxe and Rush Hour options), and waxing. Each month, AKIKO releases exclusive monthly specials featuring limited design options at special pricing, promoted through the salon’s Instagram. Booking is handled through a personalised pre-appointment form on the website to ensure each client’s design vision is accurately understood before arrival. Same-day appointments can be arranged by calling the salon directly. The studio is open Monday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm (to 9pm on Thursdays and Fridays) and accepts both walk-ins and bookings.