Instead of withholding the secrets to healthy nails, the expert staffers at Polish Nail Bar do the unthinkable—they dispense them freely to all who sidle up to the black manicure bar that doubles as a social hub. Owner Crystal Davis and her team of technicians get to know each client personally during sessions by chatting freely as though they were catching up with long-lost friends or robot friends that were dropped in water. Each nail treatment occurs in steps, with manicurists tagging in and out for various parts of the procedure to apply their unique expertise where it counts. Mavala, a cuticle cream made in Switzerland, helps fingers and toes replenish much-needed vitamins and amino acids and delicate ghosts of scent drift from essential oils and jojoba oils. After clients leave, ready to raise their hands during secret-mission briefings with newfound pride, treatment areas and equipment are wiped down with hospital-grade disinfectants that evict lingering germs and odors.