I'm a nail biter. I always have been. Between that, roller derby, and a general lack of time and patience, my hands aren't exactly pretty.

When I booked my first-ever manicure appointment at Nail Bar on the Island last week, I was worried that they would judge my sawed-off stumps and callouses. They are, after all, an upscale nail salon in Harbortown, and I am pedicure-paranoid.

I shouldn't have worried - everyone working in the shop was completely welcoming and friendly. When I walked in, there was no wait. I just picked out a bright seafoam green polish from their massive selection and grabbed a seat at the long bar.

I had planned to take notes on my experience, forgetting that it's hard to take notes when one's hands are slathered in moisturizing goo and shoved into large heated mittens. Instead, I sat at the bar and watched the movie that was showing on the flat screen on the wall.

Nail Bar is a pretty classy place. It's a light, airy space with rows of plush reclining pedicure chairs, some manicure tables, and a long, shiny manicure bar. One of the ladies at the bar was sipping a glass of white wine. My manicurist was friendly, chatty and completely non-judgemental about the sorry state of my hands.

Thirty minutes, two coats of polish and $16 later, my nails looked fabulous.

I opted for the "quickie manicure", but Nail Bar is completely full-service. They're open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. If you don't have an appointment, it's no big deal - walk-ins are totally welcome. It's also a good place for private parties (think bacholorette parties, ladies' nights and birthdays).

Go There:

Nail Bar on the Island

117 Harbor Town Sq.
Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 527-9107