The Gendarmerie

It's funny that something supposedly trivial like a good day spa could do so much to define my LA experience thus far, and yet I find myself drawn to this place for so many reasons. My initial experiences with Gabe and Everardo were phenomenal. Between the two I've had massages, facials, and body scrubs, and without a doubt the best (and not the most expensive) I've had. More recently I've availed myself of the services of Jon Delaney, and again had such a good experience; it's starting to make me think that the owner, the ever-charming Topper Schroeder, must grab massage and aesthetician school valedictorians somewhere between their gown fittings and the stage. Bottom line: There's no weak link in the chain. The front desk is staffed by Noel and Nancy, each of whom have great personalities and welcoming energy. Michael and Topper, two of the owners who are most often present, know everyone by name by their second visit, and treat all like guests in their home. The services are provided by the best of the best. I came out of my facial appointment feeling aglow, only to see my friend coming out of his hair appointment with Chris looking outstanding. We then grabbed a glass of wine with a few other patrons on the back patio (practically a Gendarmerie tradition) and relaxed for two hours before going out into the nitty gritty city. I realized how awesome this place is the other day when I had a bad telephone interview, was in a foul mood, went for a walk, and ended up here. Didn't go to a friend's place, didn't grab a drink at a bar, and didn't call my therapist. I stopped in at the Gendarmerie, got a hug and a glass of Pinot Grigio, made an appointment for a much-needed massage, and left feeling better. Discovering this place literally caused me to renegotiate my feelings about living in LA. Go there. Get a massage. Tip well. And feel connected to a refuge in a city that makes you feel, frankly, like you need one. more

You WILL get a good cut weather you know what you want or not. She will hook it up. :) Pros: Good hair cuts more

Eva has been my hair stylist for years and she is by far the most amazing that I've been to...Not only is she a really great stylist, with the ability to just "get it" and give me a great cut, time and time again, she is just a cool chick to hang out with for an hour while it's being done. All in all, you just can't go wrong. Book your appointment. . .You'll be happy you did!! Pros: Friendly atmosphere with reasonably priced services Cons: You'll become addicted more

I must be honest, I'm a little bias in this review because I know friends of the owner. But regardless, the place is pretty chic and cool. It does have the homey feeling, as if you are getting your haircut/massage/etc at someone's home (cause there's like a kitchen and everything!). And if you need lotion from there, I recommend the mango hand lotion because it smells like your carrying the fruit around! The service is very friendly and it does feel like your going over to a friends house to get ready for a night on the town! more

I have had many facials in my life, and this is by far the best ever. They have such cool machines, things for anti aging, acne treatments. I have been to almost every facialist at The Gendarmerie, they are all good, but recently I went to David Williams, and he is by far the best. He is so warm and friendly, and does lots of extractions which I needed. David also does alot of neck and shoulder massage in his facials as well. I would definetly recomend this spa to anyone, parking is easy, friendly staff, and they have an amazing steamroom. Pros: Great Prices, Friendly Staff Cons: None more

David gave me the most amazing massage and facial ever. I will be definitely going back to this spa. Topper the owner is very friendly and accommodating. I want to come back with friends and make a day of it at this place. more

Today I had the new “Four Hands” massage at the Gendarmerie in West Hollywood. Their massage has always been the best in town. Now their new Four Hands massage takes it into the stratosphere. It is the ultimate in luxury, pampering and indulgence. Two masseuses work over every inch of you at the same time melting away all of your stress and tension. There is so much going on that your mind cannot wander to your next appointment or what headaches await you this week. You have no choice but to bask in the relaxation. By the end I felt like I had a new body. I particularly recommend this to people who are veterans on the massage table and want to take massage and relaxation to the next level. Finished off with a refresh in the Gendarmerie steam shower and then a glass of wine with Hollywood Legend (and regular customer) Billy Dee Williams…. It was an experience that will be tough to beat. Pros: Best massage ever! more

The Gendarmerie is a gem. The owner, Topper, makes everyone feel so welcome and the treatments are top-notch. I cannot go there enough! more

Wow, I just recieved the best facial and Massage by David. What I loved about the facial is that David is very detailed, does lots of extractions, and also incorporates alot of massage in his facial. I would defenetly recomend booking the Microdermabrasion Facial and a deep tissue massage with him, you won't be dissapointed. Pros: Free Valet Parking, Friendly Atmosphere, Great Service Cons: None more

The Gendarmerie is such a fantastic surprise in the heart of West Hollywood! Truly an oasis, the Gendarmerie is staffed with fun, friendly people. It really is a one-stop shop for all your grooming services. As soon as I sit in the styling chair, Topper (the owner!) welcomes me with a beverage and a pastry. Aya has been my hair stylist for over a year, and I'm so happy with the results! It's difficult to find stylists that are skilled with all hair types, especially Asian hair. Every experience at the Gendarmerie has been amazing. Highly recommended! Pros: Location, Staff, Asian Hair Expertise more

This little hidden spa tucked on a small street (Nemo) in West Hollywood is a delight! I remember reading about it several years ago in the LA Times when it first opened as one of the "metrosexual" all men's spas. I am happy to report it now is completely co-ed and they are wonderful. I felt completely comfortable the moment I stepped foot into the living room and everyone there was so warm, friendly and inviting. I booked a massage and they took me through a enchanted courtyard to another detached building in the back where I received an outstanding hot stone massage by Dean. My tension melted away while he worked his magic on me. Topper, the proprietor could not be more accommodating by offering me a bite to eat and a glass of wine before I floated out the door. Pros: Atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent massage more

For my boyfriend's birthday I decided he needed a really good massage (and naturally, the stress in planning a good birthday present warranted a massage for myself, as well). I called ahead and had everything pre-paid so all we had to do was walk in and get started. The manly atmosphere The Gendarmerie provided kept my guy at ease where most other spas are "too girly" for his liking. We were split up and given amazing 90 minute Gendarmerie Signature massages, which were a great mix of a sports massage and a relaxing swedish massage. I can honestly say it was the first time I had a masseuse who was able to work out some of the deep knots in my back and neck. For that, I am truly grateful! My one gripe about the experience was that my massage room was not totally soundproof. It was a bit distracting at times to hear voices outside in the foyer and occasionally there was a bit of rattling from the plumbing, but for the most part, the massage was so great I didn't notice much else. Would I go back? Absolutely! If my boyfriend is lucky he can come, too. more

This is a great guys spa/ hangout! I felt very comfortable, not like a do when hanging out at a chick spa. I definitely recommend this spa! more

I really should keep this place a secret so I can have it all to myself. The service here is excellent. The owner, Topper, really takes care of his customers. When you enter, you are offered your choice of beverage, including wine. I had a manicure and pedicure from Josette (incrdible), my hair cut by Bill (he is fabulous) and a facial and massage by Ever (great). I was totally pampered the whole time I was there (including home made cookies). I visited the steam room before my massage, it was so relaxing. I even purchase a shirt by the spa's resident designer. I will be going back soon. Pros: Best service in town Cons: Limited Parking more

I had never before experienced a high end salon and the accompanying service. I really enjoyed it. (In the past I have had the $15 haircut at a barber shop.) I had a color, highlights, and a cut and style. I gave the stylist, Tre, full freedom to do what he thought was best. The only restriction I gave him was daily styling could not exceed 2-3 minutes. The results were phenominal. Tre and the rest of the staff were great. I am throughly pleased. No more barber shop cuts for me. -Brian, the sceince/history from Long Beach. Pros: Great experience Cons: Street parking is tight but valet parking is available more