Minh Huynh is living the American Dream. A decade ago, he came to Houston from Vietnam and, like many of his countrymen and women before him, went to work at a nail salon.
The salon in question was Milano Nail Spa, a company founded by Thai "Tom" Tran, that was known for being spotlessly clean, super-luxe, and sometimes supersized. Exhibit A: the 10,000-square-foot Lower Heights District Location — the biggest in Texas.
Huynh began his career at Milano, which also owns and operates Nails of America, in 2022, and he's worked in every capacity at the salon. He's covered janitorial services, staffed the reception desk, been a cashier, and most recently, was the assistant manager of the Sugar Land location.
His hard work was recognized and Huynh found himself shortlisted for an operating partner position. On Sunday, June 9, he will open Milano Nail Spa's newest location, in the upscale Centre at Post Oak at 5000 Westheimer, where he'll be part owner. He's the company's youngest operator and will be assisted by co-manager Phan Phuong.
The Sunday grand opening celebration begins with a traditional Vietnamese lion dance at 9:30 am; guests can get a 30 percent discount on all spa services. They can also enroll in Milano Nail Spa's loyalty program, entitling them to 3 percent off spa services.
"I’m incredibly excited about this opportunity and honored to be in this wonderful Uptown location that will not only draw from the area’s large residential base of apartments, condos and homes, but also visitors from around the city and world who come to shop and dine in The Galleria and nearby retail centers," Huynh said in a press release announcing the opening. "No matter where you’re from, our goal is to treat you like family and offer a luxurious escape from the bustle of your day.”
Continuing Milano Nail Spa's own tradition of super-luxe services, the new 5,200-square-foot location will offer a vibrant and festive ambience with customized i-Lux massage chairs, handbag and attaché storage, TV monitors, specialty seasonal décor, plus complimentary beverages ranging from sparkling water and sodas to margaritas and mimosas.
A variety of manicure and pedicure options, utilizing upwards of 1,000 polish selections – including the new OPI Barbie line – will span from express services and seasonal offerings to more spa-like experiences such as a 10-step pedicure utilizing a volcanic, CBD-infused scrub. Intricate nail art and full-body waxing are also on the menu, and eye lash services will be introduced soon after opening.
The location features a lotus flower ceiling installation and Italian-inspired aesthetic. The space is designed in-the-round and flanked by a reception area, waxing room and two, semi-private spaces that will be used for overflow and mani-pedi parties for groups of up to 10 each. The circular, main area incorporates 35 pedicure and 20 manicure stations, accommodating 35 nail techs initially – a number expected to climb to 70 as traffic grows.
Regular hours are 9 am until 7 pm Monday through Saturday and 10 am until 5:30 pm on Sundays. Appointments are recommended.
