Cozy - that's the proper word for Forest Hills Spa.
A beautiful large pool dominates the main Forest Hills Spa area. A whirlpool and a cold plunge are next to it. A wooden corridor with benches for relaxation leads from the pool to steam rooms. The Russian steam room is exactly what one would expect from a Russian bath: stone walls, wooden benches and stove in the center. A room and stove may be a little too small (cozy), but otherwise perfect. A dry sauna and a Turkish room are clean and pleasant - though nothing special. See video on the home page of ForestHillsSpa dot com - it will give you a good idea of the place.
Dining area is neatly separated from the pool by a glass wall. The area is positioned slightly above the pool, giving it a VIP lounge-like view. The restaurant is all wood brightly lit from the ceiling windows - very cozy. Tasty Russian food is great and big glasses of Russian bear will immediately put you in right mood.
The staff is fantastic. Don't expect a spa service here - you may hardly get a smile. But every tiny birch leave is immediately taken off the pool, steam room is regularly cleaned, towels are fresh, food delicious - I love these guys.
Nobody's perfect of course: there's a patched split on the stove, some misaligned tiles in a shower, sometimes loud and not-so-delicate people. But if you come here with a right mindset, not for a service and spa, but for authentic Russian Banya experience - you will enjoy it like nowhere else in Queens.
Pros: Cozy, authentic, family - friendly
Cons: Simple, small, certainly not a spa, croud
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