What’s In Store: Melt

The story begins last October: Melanie Tringali has dreams of opening the most luxurious spa/salon the city has ever seen—and the money to make it happen. She pictures clients lounging in silk bathrobes on plush décor, while sipping champagne and nibbling on chocolates. She secures a prime Newbury Street location and sinks over $100K into renovations and equipment.

When Melt debuts six months later, we’re ready to be wowed. Then we walk in and realize not everyone’s idea of luxury is the same as ours. Cutesy painted furniture and inspirational mantras abound in the 1,850-square-foot space. Though hardly cosmopolitan, the staff is delightful and doting; the services—waxing, hair cut/color, four types of massage—above average. The exclusive $200 HydraFacial, which uses moisture to resurface the skin, leaves our face glowing with zero discomfort. At $50, our pedi is decent, if not mind-blowing. Afterward we feel relaxed and mothered. But more as if we’ve had a stay at a country inn than a suite at the Ritz.

172 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-1116, meltboston.com.