It takes a lot to impress me at a regular city or suburban spa — especially if there's a salon attached. I kind of feel like it embraces the jack of all trades, master of none theory. Don't get me wrong: I'm not a spa snob, but having worked and trained at one of the best spas in the city, I'm slightly biased. As my quest for the best facial continues, I was pleasantly surprised by my entire experience at the new Fuga Centro (8 S. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, 312-332-3842) that just opened up directly across from Millennium Park on the Mag Mile. (The first Fuga Salon and Spa is located in the Wrigleyville area on Southport.) To read all about my visit, .

 

  • First Impressions: Wow! Look at that view! Large picture windows make up the east side of the salon/spa, boasting killer views of Millennium Park while bathing the space in natural light. The front area is home to the salon, retail, reception desk, and an espresso bar. The space exuded a clean, modern feel but was by no means sterile or cold. It's tasteful like a fine Italian leather bag.

  • The Retail: A small boutique-like retail area is stocked with all things Italian, from the salon and spa products used in services (l fell in love with the Comfort Zone skin care line) to trendy hats and accessories.
  • The Staff: Not only was everyone uber friendly, but everyone was dressed to the nines in true Italian fashion. I actually went out of my way to tell about three of the staff members that they looked like they were ready for a hot night on the town after work. Not that everything should be based on superficial appearances, but it made me think: if this is how they take care of themselves, I feel as though I'm in good hands!
  • The Facial: My esthetician Katerina Kolokotronis (also dressed to kill) recently moved from Boston to the Windy City and has previously worked on celebs like Jennifer Garner, Natalie Cole, Eliza Dushku, and more — how lucky do I feel? The Amalfi Glow Facial ($180) involved multiple exfoliation steps in order to achieve the amaze glow that I walked out with — seriously. The alpha-hydroxy based peel was what really did the trick. This chemical (not manual like a scrub) exfoliation dissolved the accumulated dead skin cells and other matter that was preventing me from looking like my old self. The luxe treatment was completed with a collagen mask, which helped plump up any fine lines by pumping up the hydration level in my skin.   If I were to sum up my 90-minute experience in two words, I would say "perfect balance." Kolokotronis was the perfect balance of being informative while allowing me to relax, and the facial itself was results-oriented and pampering (think shoulder, arm, and foot massage) at the same time.
  • The Conclusion: My experience was enough to convince me to go back and try a hair service, and I  would most definitely go back for the Amalfi Glow Facial. With its proximity to shopping and dining, it's also a great desto for your next girl's day/night out!

Source: Kevin Tanaka for Fuga Centro