Since 1996, the ladies of Brookline have turned to Awesome Ten to prettify their fingertips. Though the salon also offers pedicures, tanning, facials, and waxing, it's the fine manicures that have made its name. Ten dollars get you a half-hour treatment that restores the beauty and health of your nails, and, if you like, the staff will go a step further to polish or tip them.

In Davis Square, nails must be a serious concern, with at least three salons within walking distance. Phoenix readers threw their support behind Square Nails Studio. Kept busy with walk-in hours five days a week and appointments on the other two, Square Nails emphasizes natural-looking nails, and focuses less on adornment than on quality products by Burt's Bees and Siren Bath.

Awesome Ten, 1412 Beacon Street, Brookline, (617) 277-8822; Square Nail Studio, 11 Holland Street, Somerville, (617) 625-1118.