Eastward Ho!

Tucked into a strip mall in Hollywood's Thai Town, and surrounded by enticing eateries, the new Thai Sabai (there is another location in Westwood) offers invigorating massage, following the traditional Thai art.

Thai Sabai's simple white rooms are elegantly embellished with purple orchids. We changed into flowered cotton shorts and a matching halter top, and then lay down on a mat on the floor. This position enabled the massage therapist to channel all of the amazing strength of her hands, knees, elbows, arms, legs and feet into unwinding our tired body and unblocking clogged energy lines. Working quietly and comprehensively from head to toes, she pressed, rubbed, twisted, stretched and cracked (ahhh!) until we felt like putty, and not just in her hands. Our 90-minute massage was both relaxing and tonic. We left at 10 PM (Thai Sabai has wonderfully accommodating hours) raring with uncharacteristic energy.

In addition to private rooms, Thai Sabai has a larger communal space for friends or groups, where you can spend some quality time together while the therapists work their wonders. It's the perfect venue for an intimate birthday or bachelorette party, especially considering it's within whiffing distance of delectable and affordable Thai food.

Thai massage follows a traditional rhythm that normally extends for at least 90 minutes. Thai Sabai offers old-fashioned prices as well. At $45 (one hour), $65 (one and a half hours) and $85 (two hours), these massages are an excellent deal.

Review originally published 11/18/2006.