A spa day is always a treat in my book, but I don’t usually bring my kids along for the pampering. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to play a little role reversal, and that’s where Milk & Cookies Kids Spa comes in. The longtime Upper East Side pamper spot recently relocated to Kips Bay, bringing all its spa treatments for Cool Gals and Cool Dudes, plus its trademark post-pampering namesake treat, and even a supersized party room and padded toddler play area.
Following a recent visit with my lucky daughters, we’ve got the scoop on all the fabulous fun at one of our favorite local Black-owned small businesses.
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Brightly colored manicured stations are decorated with fun, inspirational messages.
Standout Services at Milk & Cookies Kids Spa
Longtime Milk & Cookies customers will be happy to know that the service options offered at its old spot can all be found here. We opted for basic mani-pedis during our visit, and my girls loved choosing the sweet-inspired souffle body butter that was slathered on with their massages—think choices like lemon drop, vanilla, cotton candy, mint chocolate chip, and more.
Cool Dudes can opt for their spa treatment to take on a decidedly less sugary scent with Gummy Worm Mud Pie or Slimy Booger Invasion!
If you’re looking for hair services, Milk & Cookies has you covered there, too, with four styling stations where kids can indulge in everything from a simple bang trim to special occasion up-dos and even braiding services. Cool extras like glam strands, hair sparkles, and temporary color take these salon services to next-level cool.
No matter your service, one thing is certain: The staff here are not only expert technicians but they up the fun factor. It’s clear they love kids and what they do. They’re friendly, welcoming, and playful in a way that befits the business—just ask my girls about the bubble fight. We had so much fun during our visit and left feeling like we were part of the family!
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There’s plenty of room for a wide variety of services at the brightly colored Milk & Cookies Kids Spa.
What’s New at Milk & Cookies Kids Spa
While Milk & Cookies maximized the use of space at its Upper East Side location, the new Kips Bay outpost is huge by comparison! The 2,100 square foot storefront includes an expanded area for manicures and pedicures, with five stations for each, plus a party room, and a soft-play room for toddlers. With winter upon us, we’re particularly excited about the toddler play space, which can be booked as an add-on to a spa service or a separate experience. It’s a great option if you’ve got to bring a little sibling along for a salon visit!
The expansive party room is the stuff pampering party dreams are made of, with plenty of room for party guests to lounge and relax—in branded robes, natch—while they await their spa treatments. A variety of party packages is offered, including a mani-pedi-facial package and a unisex Rock the Mic package, complete with glitter tattoos and a rocking dance party. Even the play space can be rented for a toddler fete.
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You’re never too old for milk and cookies and every service ends here with a freshly baked cookie and a cold cup of milk.
Sweet Endings at Milk & Cookies Kids Spa
No matter what services you opt for—and there are really too many to list—you’ll take a seat at the cookie cafe before you exit to nosh on a warm cookie with a side of milk (chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry!). And, take note: There are plenty of packages that allow parents to get in on the action, too, with mommy-or-daddy-and-me packages for purchasing.
Photos by the author